A European holiday typically involves exploring popular destinations like France, Italy, Germany, and Spain, all packed with seas of tourists. Well, trippers, there are more than 40 countries forming the European continent where each offers something unique in terms of culture, history, natural characteristics, and overall experience to visitors. Many of these offbeat destinations in Europe having started promoting tourism rigorously and are friendly to tourists from across the world. It is the right time to visit these offbeat places and enjoy them without the high prices or surging crowds!
15 Offbeat Destinations In Europe
We have listed out the 15 best spectacular and offbeat European destinations where you’ll never have a dearth of fascinating experiences to indulge in.
- Ammochostos, Cyprus – The Quintessential Beach Vacation
- Malta, Republic Of Malta – Good Surprises Come In Small Packages
- Tallinn, Estonia – For Medieval History And Iconic Churches
- Zadar, Croatia – For A Laidback Holiday Soaked In History
- Riga, Latvia – Of Castles, Churches And Hikes
- Abisko, Sweden – To Observe The Northern Lights
- Slovakia – Of Castles, Cathedrals, Caves And National Parks
- Transylvania, Romania – For A Meeting With The Dracula
- Slovenia – For The Perfect Summer Getaway
- Sofia, Bulgaria – For A Peek Into The Bulgarian Culture
- Rauma, Finland – One Of The Oldest Port In Finland
- Monsanto, Portugal – Of Historical Villages & Granite Houses
- Cortona, Italy – A Laidback Vibe
- Borovets, Bulgaria – Enjoy The Summer Break
- Gutach, Germany – Get That Perfect Village Vibe
1. Ammochostos, Cyprus – The Quintessential Beach Vacation
Image Credit: dronepicr for Wikimedia Commons
Cyprus is an island nation that is often overshadowed by its famous neighbour, Greece. However, located in the same region, it offers the same idyllic climate and exotic beaches. It continues to be one of the best hidden gems in Europe. Its Ammochostos region is spectacular and dotted with resort towns that have golden sands and blue skies. The region’s focal point is the Famagusta city, which is best known for its 15th century Venetian Walls and a 14th-century Mosque. The area is the perfect mix of history, culture, and beaches.
Places to visit: Ayia Napa Beach, Protaras Beach, Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, Famagusta City Walls
Must Read: Places To Visit In Croatia
Europe Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle
2. Malta, Republic Of Malta – Good Surprises Come In Small Packages
Image Credit: John Haslam for Wikimedia Commons
Malta is one of the world’s smallest countries but also ranks among the most interesting places to visit in Europe. The small island nation is only 315 sq km but has so much packed in it that it is coming up as a favourite destination of the world’s avid travelers. The island has a history dating back to 5,200 BC, and it is reflected in its monuments from all ages including Stone Age and invasions from Greeks, Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and even the French. Not just monuments, but Malta also has beautiful beaches and scenic hills and countryside.
Places to visit: Valletta, Gozo, Mdina, Rabat, Victoria, Dingli, Qala
3. Tallinn, Estonia – For Medieval History And Iconic Churches
Image Credit: Adbar for Wikimedia Commons
Tallinn is one of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe and the entire town has even been accorded a UNESCO Heritage Status! Yet, it remains one of the most unexplored places in Europe in terms of tourism. Tallinn is the capital city of Estonia, located in Northeastern Europe and can be easily accessed from all parts of Europe. Estonia has more than 2,000 islands which makes island culture an integral part of the country. You can explore some of these islands from Tallinn including Aegna, Kumbli, and Krasuli. It’s perfect for families who are looking for a fun vacation with a mix of things to do.
Places to visit: Vanalinn, Toompea, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Raekoja plats
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Helsinki
4. Zadar, Croatia – For A Laidback Holiday Soaked In History
Dubrovnik is extremely popular on many tourist circuits thanks to the Game of Thrones Series connection with the city. But Croatia is more than just Dubrovnik; Zadar is an upcoming tourist destination that is still among the least touristy places in Europe. Zadar has a laid-back vibe that is ideal for a relaxing vacation. The old town streets are ideal for walking and transport travelers to a bygone era. It has Roman and Venetian ruins that beg to be explored along with the 12th century St. Anastasia’s Cathedral and the 9th century Church of St. Donatus.
Places to visit: Zadar Cathedral, Church of St. Donatus, Sea Organ
5. Riga, Latvia – Of Castles, Churches And Hikes
One look at Riga and you will find it has the classic European charm with the entire city set along the River Daugava and dotted by wooden buildings and art nouveau architecture. Riga is the capital of Latvia, which is known as one of the greenest countries in the world thanks to its immense natural wealth. Travelers can head to the Gauja National Park which has stunning rock formations dating back to 350 million years ago, and a multitude of castles and churches tucked away in the dense forests. Riga and its nearby attractions are the most beautiful yet undiscovered places in Europe.
Places to visit: Gauja National Park, Jurmala, Riga Cathedral, Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Denmark
6. Abisko, Sweden – To Observe The Northern Lights
Image Source Abisko is a small village in Sweden set in the Swedish Lapland and one of the most offbeat destinations in Europe. Tourists visit Abisko with a specific goal in mind, and that is to see the magnificent Northern Lights! Abisko is probably among the best places in Europe to sight the Northern Lights as one can view them from late-September to March almost every day. It is one of the unique destinations in Europe. During the day, the region is marked by remarkable Arctic landscape with still lakes, gushing rivers, and moors. It’s a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts!
Places to visit: Abisko National Park, Abisko Jokk, Silverfallet
7. Slovakia – Of Castles, Cathedrals, Caves And National Parks
Slovakia is right on the off beaten path in Europe! Located in Central Europe, the country has dreamy woodlands, beautiful national parks with thick forests, as well as a wealth of architecture. Its capital city Bratislava is on the River Danube and peppered with red top houses and overlooked by a medieval castle. There are also UNESCO Heritage Sites and plenty of quaint castles to explore. Thesse offbeat places in Europe are ideal for couples who love adventure and culture; it also is a great winter destination with its many ski resorts including Tatranska Lomnica and Jasna.
Places to visit: High Tatras, Spis Castle, Slovak Paradise National Park, Bratislava, Demanovska Cave of Liberty
Suggested Read: Madrid Nightlife
8. Transylvania, Romania – For A Meeting With The Dracula
Image Credit: MarculescuEugenIancuD60Alaska for Wikimedia Commons
Prepared to be spooked in the Romanian region of Transylvania, the home of the Dracula? Famous in the fictional world for vampires and monsters, Transylvania is one of the best-preserved bastions of medieval Europe. In recent times, it is being promoted for its vampire tourism and is one of the must-visit offbeat travel destinations in Europe. The region also has picturesque villages with Saxon churches built in the 12th century that are now UNESCO Sites. The forests in the Apuseni Mountains also offer great trails for hiking and a getaway from the hustle bustle of the towns. It is one of the hidden gems in Europe.
Places to visit: Bran Castle, Rasnov Fortress, Saxon Fortified Churches, Apuseni Mountains
9. Slovenia – For The Perfect Summer Getaway
Image Credit: Leonhard_Niederwimmer for Pixabay
European summers are legendary, the skies are a bright blue, and the earth awakens with flowers, and everything seems magical! While it is impossible to experience the true joys of summer in tourist-heavy countries like France and Italy, many travelers now choose to go to Slovenia, one of the most beautiful offbeat destinations in Europe. The country has several landscapes that look straight out of a fairytale – the lake region of Bled, the underground caves of Postojna, and the medieval wonders of the capital city of Ljubljana. Nature lovers can rejoice as Slovenia has been accorded as the first country in the world as a ‘Green Destination’!
Places to visit: Bled, Ljubljana, Postojna Cave
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Helsinki
10. Sofia, Bulgaria – For A Peek Into The Bulgarian Culture
Image Credit: Pexels Like most countries in Europe, Bulgaria has seen a lot of occupation through the ages, and they have all left a mark on its landscape. Right from the Greek, Roman, and Ottoman occupation to the Soviets, Bulgaria has seen an intermingling of cultures and architectural styles. Sofia is the capital city of Bulgaria and is one of the best offbeat destinations in Europe. Travelers can enjoy the beautiful summer weather in the city and its nearby attractions of Vitosha National Park known for its hiking, mountain biking, and camping options.
Places to visit: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Boyana Church, Church of St. George, National Historical Museum
11. Rauma, Finland – One Of The Oldest Port In Finland
Image Credit: aiko99ann for Wikimedia Commons
Announced as UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rauma is the oldest town in Finland with much historical importance. As soon as you arrive here, the old medieval cobbled streets of Rauma will charm your pants off. During the time of World War, this town was used for paper, pulp, and shipbuilding. Here is an interesting trivia about this Finnish town: lace was first produced by unmarried women of Rauma. So, you will find a lot of shops selling high-quality lace. It is on of the peaceful and quiet holiday destinations in Europe.
Places to visit: Old Rauma, Maritime Museum, Kylmapihlaja Lighthouse Island, Lake Ayhonjarvi
Suggested Read: Shopping In Denmark
12. Monsanto, Portugal – Of Historical Villages & Granite Houses
Image Source
There still exists a lace on earth where you will find charming granite houses that you may only have seen in fairy tale books and novels. Recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site, Monsanto is a unique village built from boulders. It one of the 12 historical villages in Portugal hidden amidst mountains. Find beaches in Monsanto with best waves o surf and there’s also delicious local cuisine you ought to try on your visit. If you are looking for seclusion and peace, Monsanto is a part of undiscovered Europe that will make you feel just right at home.
Places to visit: Castle of Monsanto, Blacksmith Fountain, Poco da Broco Falls
13. Cortona, Italy – A Laidback Vibe
Cortona is a completely magical place which is located between Rome and Florence. This small town is considered as one of the offbeat places in Europe which is resting on a hillside which overlooks the Tuscan Valley. This place has its mentions in Francis Maye’s novel “Under the Tuscan Sun”, which entices the travelers more than before. One of the main highlights of this small town is the Piazza Signorelli where the weekend market takes place which can beat any other European city.
Places To Visit: Diocesan Museum, Villa Bramasole, Accademia Etrusca
Suggested Read: Most Popular Europe Trips
14. Borovets, Bulgaria – Enjoy The Summer Break
This place is perfect for a summer or winter break when it comes to exploring the exotic destinations in Europe. The small town of Borovets in Bulgaria is an ideal place for the travelers to enjoy an outdoorsy adventure. From skiing down to the mountains to snow-shoeing there is a lot to do around this place. In the summer season there are activities like bear watching excursions and exploring the mountain lakes.
Places To Visit: Tsarska Bistritsa, Sitnyakovo, Borosport
15. Gutach, Germany – Get That Perfect Village Vibe
This is a small town which is located in the middle of a Black Forest region of Germany. Known to be one of the best unexplored places in Europe which is ideal to explore Black Forest on a budget. Home to some of the best sceneries which includes tree covered hills and green valleys which includes small villages, inviting beer gardens and also the traditional christmas markets.
Places To Visit: Black Forest Open Air Museum, Sommerrodelbahn Gutach
Further Read: Villages In Norway
Europe is so vast and vibrant that you cannot cover it in one go. It is best if you pick two or three countries at a time and explore them to the fullest. If you are bored with the famous counterparts, these pick these offbeat places to visit in Europe mentioned above. The list has opened up a whole lot of destinations you didn’t even know about, hasn’t it? Plan an offbeat trip to Europe trip with TravelTriangle and create unique memories to last you a lifetime!
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Source: Shutterstock
Frequently Asked Questions About Offbeat Places to Visit In Europe
What are some of the popular destinations one should visit in Europe?
Europe is one of the most visited continents in the world. There are several attractive countries and cities in Europe where you must go. These destinations are Estonia, Romania, Riga (Lavia), Abisko (Sweden) and Sofia (Bulgaria).
What are some of the best hill stations in Europe?
All over Europe, you can hundreds of beautiful hill stations. Some of the best among all are Innsbruck (Austria), Interlaken (Switzerland), Barcelona (Spain), Brasov (Romania), and Vysoke Tatry (Slovakia).
Which countries in Europe have some top tourist destinations?
Countries like France, Spain, Italy, United Kingdom, Turkey, and Germany are most visited and popular in Europe where you would find several beautiful and amazing tourist destinations like the Eiffel Tower, Colosseum, and The Cologne Cathedral.
What are the places to visit in Bulgaria?
Bulgaria is one of the most visited countries in Europe. The main attractions of Bulgaria are Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Boyana Church, Church of St. George and National Historical Museum.
What is Finland famous for?
Finland is one of the most beautiful countries of Europe surrounded by several islands and seas. Finland is mostly known for its UNESCO world heritage site Rauma. Moreover, places like Maritime Museum, Lake Pyhajarvi, and Kyla Pihlaja are best to visit in Finland.
Where can I find some of the best trekking spots in Europe?
Europe comprises more than 50 countries and, in these countries, one can get several trekking spots. Some of the popular among them are Tour du Mont Blanc, Walker’s Haute Route, Tour de Monte Rosa, West Highland Way and Kungsleden Trail.
What are some of the top accommodations in Malta?
Malta comprises a huge number of accommodations all around the country. Some of the top accommodations of Malta are Hotel Phoenicia Malta, Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, The Westin Dragonara Resort and Grand Hotel Excelsior.
Which countries in Europe are less expensive?
In the list of some of the cheapest countries in Europe, countries like Hungary, Romania, Czech Republic, Poland, Iceland, and Italy are included.
People Also Read:
Things To Do In Europe Best Places To Visit In Europe Hidden Gems In Portugal
Looking To Book An International Holiday?
A writer by choice, a photographer by passion, a seasonal sailor preferably monsoons and a pilot when the wind is just right! When not in the city, I’m often found chasing sunrises in the mountains or sunsets at the beaches!
