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Planning a weekend escape? I’ve compiled an inventory of 12 hidden gem getaways in Europe in your subsequent journey.
Touring by Europe is all the time an journey, however the true magic occurs whenever you uncover the hidden gems. I’ve spent years exploring off-the-beaten-path locations and discovering these particular locations that make for unforgettable weekend getaways. Belief me, these spots are price your time!
On this information, I’ll share my prime 12 hidden gem weekend getaways in Europe. Every location is exclusive, full of appeal, and excellent for a fast escape. You’ll discover locations which can be much less crowded, stuffed with native tradition, and brimming with pure magnificence. Let’s dive into these superb locations collectively. These are my favourite secret spots in Europe that you just’ll completely love. Able to discover?
Distinctive weekend breaks in Europe
Earlier than we soar into the small print, listed here are a number of of my prime picks to get you excited:
- Most romantic: Ravello, Italy
- Greatest for journey: Rila Mountains, Bulgaria
- Prettiest coastal city: St. Ives, England
- Prime historic gem: Sighișoara, Romania
- Greatest for rest: Comporta, Portugal
- Most picturesque metropolis: Annecy, France
Able to discover? Let’s begin with the primary gem on our record: Kotor, Montenegro.
1. Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor is a type of hidden gems in Europe that it’s good to see to imagine. Located between mountains and the Bay of Kotor, this city provides beautiful views and wealthy historical past. Strolling by its slender streets, you’ll discover medieval structure, charming squares, and centuries-old church buildings.
One of many highlights is climbing town partitions to St. John’s Fortress. It’s a little bit of a hike, however the panoramic view from the highest is price it. I like to recommend doing this early within the morning to keep away from the crowds and the warmth.
Don’t miss the prospect to discover the native markets. They’re good for choosing up contemporary produce, handmade crafts, and scrumptious native treats. The folks listed here are pleasant and all the time able to share their tradition with you.
If you happen to love being by the water, take a ship tour across the bay. It’s a good way to see the fantastic thing about Kotor from a special angle. You may as well go to the close by islands of Our Girl of the Rocks and St. George.
Kotor is a incredible spot in Montenegro for a weekend getaway. It’s straightforward to get round on foot, and there are many cozy cafes and eating places to loosen up in. Belief me, this place is a real gem!
2. Ronda, Spain
Situated within the Andalusian hills, the charming city of Ronda will take your breath away with its beautiful views and historical past. The long-lasting Puente Nuevo bridge is a must-see, providing unimaginable sights because it spans a dramatic gorge.
Exploring the previous city is pure pleasure. The slender, cobblestone streets and whitewashed buildings are stuffed with character. The Mondragon Palace, with its stunning gardens and attention-grabbing museum, is a spotlight you gained’t need to miss.
One in every of my favourite issues to do in Ronda is go to the Plaza de Toros. As one among Spain’s oldest bullrings, it provides an enchanting peek into native traditions. It’s an expertise that actually brings the tradition of Ronda to life.
If you happen to’re feeling adventurous, the Caminito del Rey path is close by. This thrilling stroll alongside the cliffs supplies beautiful views and a little bit of an adrenaline rush. It’s difficult however completely rewarding.
After all of the exploring, stress-free at one of many native cafes or eating places is ideal. I extremely advocate making an attempt tapas at Casa María. The tapas listed here are a number of the finest I’ve ever had, and the pleasant environment makes you’re feeling proper at dwelling.
Ronda is the right spot for a weekend break in Spain. Its mixture of historical past, tradition, and pure magnificence is just unbeatable. You’ll fall in love with this place, similar to I did!
3. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
For sure, Český Krumlov is one among Europe’s most underrated locations that extra folks want to find. This charming city, with its beautiful fort and winding river, seems like stepping right into a fairy story. Good for a weekend escape, it’s surprisingly straightforward to succeed in, simply a few hours’ drive from Prague.
One in every of my favourite spots is the Český Krumlov Citadel. The panoramic views from the tower are completely breathtaking. Don’t miss a stroll by the fort’s stunning gardens, both. They’re stunning and excellent for a stroll.
The city’s historic heart is a delight to discover. The cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and quaint outlets create a magical environment. Be sure that to go to the Egon Schiele Artwork Centrum in the event you’re into artwork.
For a little bit of journey, strive a raft experience on the Vltava River. It’s a enjoyable and distinctive method to see the city from a special perspective.
When starvation strikes, head to Papa’s Dwelling Restaurant. The standard Czech dishes are incredible, and the riverside setting is ideal for a soothing meal.
Český Krumlov has a particular appeal that makes it good for a fast getaway. Its mixture of historical past, tradition, and pure magnificence will go away you questioning why it took you so lengthy to go to. If you happen to’re searching for hidden gem weekend breaks within the Czech Republic, this place needs to be on the prime of your record!
4. Sighișoara, Romania
Searching for a weekend getaway that seems like stepping right into a storybook? Sighișoara, tucked away in Transylvania, is your good escape. This medieval city, often known as the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (sure, Dracula!), is brimming with historical past and appeal.
Getting right here is easy, with a number of hours’ practice or automobile experience from Bucharest. The city’s iconic Clock Tower provides beautiful views and homes an enchanting historical past museum. The climb up the lined staircase to the Church on the Hill is an journey in itself, rewarding you with peaceable environment and beautiful structure.
One of many distinctive elements of Sighișoara is its vibrant Medieval Competition in July. The city transforms right into a vigorous celebration with music, costumes, and performances. It’s an expertise that actually brings the city’s historical past to life.
Sighișoara is legendary for its hearty Transylvanian delicacies. Be sure you strive the native dish, “sarmale,” that are scrumptious cabbage rolls full of minced meat and rice. One other must-try is “mici,” grilled minced meat rolls which can be extremely tasty!
Sighișoara seems like strolling by a dwelling museum, however with all the fashionable comforts you want. If you happen to’re in search of hidden gem locations in Europe, Sighișoara will captivate you with its distinctive aptitude. Imagine me, this city is a treasure ready to be found.
5. Ravello, Italy
If you happen to’re dreaming of a weekend escape in Europe that seems like paradise, Ravello is the place for you. Perched excessive above the Amalfi Coast, this charming city provides jaw-dropping views, beautiful gardens, and a soothing vibe that’s good for unwinding.
Ravello is a perfect spot for {couples} searching for a romantic getaway or anybody in want of a peaceable retreat. The views from Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone are merely spectacular. Belief me, there’s nothing fairly like strolling by these gardens and absorbing the sweetness.
For music lovers, the Ravello Competition is a should. Held from July to late August, this famend occasion options concert events within the gardens of Villa Rufolo. It’s an unforgettable expertise in the event you’re visiting throughout these months.
The Amalfi Coast is legendary for its contemporary seafood, and Ravello’s eating places serve up scrumptious dishes. I extremely advocate making an attempt “scialatielli ai frutti di mare,” a pasta dish full of contemporary seafood flavors. Pair it with a glass of native wine and also you’re in for a deal with.
Attending to Ravello is straightforward with a scenic drive from Naples or Salerno. When you’re there, you’ll really feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle.
6. Piran, Slovenia
Craving a enjoyable and refreshing weekend escape? Piran is your go-to vacation spot! This coastal gem on the Adriatic Sea is ideal for anybody craving solar, sea, and a little bit of historical past. It’s like a mini Venice, however far more relaxed and charming.
Why is Piran splendid for a weekend? For starters, it’s tremendous walkable. You may discover your entire city on foot, from the beautiful Tartini Sq. to the traditional partitions that supply breathtaking views of the shoreline. Belief me, the sundown from these partitions is one thing you gained’t neglect.
If you happen to love contemporary seafood, Piran is a dream come true. The native dish, “fritaja” (a seafood omelet), is a must-try. Seize a seat at a seaside restaurant and benefit from the relaxed vibes whilst you feast. I personally advocate Restaurant Pavel.
Piran can be nice for historical past and seashore lovers. Spend your mornings exploring the medieval structure and your afternoons lounging by the ocean or swimming within the crystal-clear water. Don’t miss the prospect to go to St. George’s Parish Church for a little bit of tradition and a incredible view of the city.
Piran’s mix of solar, sea, and historical past makes it an unforgettable weekend vacation spot. You’ll go away with a tan, a smile, and a bunch of nice recollections. It’s the good spot in Slovenia for anybody seeking to unwind and take in some European appeal!
7. Annecy, France
Annecy is a type of hidden gems in Europe to go to for a magical retreat. Usually known as the “Venice of the Alps,” this city is nestled by a crystal-clear lake and surrounded by mountains. It’s a fairytale setting that seems like a slice of paradise.
Annecy is incredible for {couples} in search of romance, households wanting journey, or anybody craving contemporary air and beautiful views. The charming canals, quaint pastel-colored homes, and the attractive lake make it a photographer’s dream. Stroll alongside the Thiou River, and also you’ll really feel such as you’re strolling by a postcard.
One in every of my favourite issues to do in Annecy is renting a motorbike and driving round Lake Annecy. The surroundings is breathtaking, and it’s a enjoyable, lively method to see the realm. If you happen to’re into water sports activities, you can too lease paddleboards or go for a swim.
Annecy is straightforward to succeed in by practice from Geneva or Lyon. The city’s combine of out of doors actions, stunning surroundings, and charming streets will go away you refreshed and smiling.
Annecy’s distinctive appeal and pure magnificence make it a perfect weekend vacation spot. You’ll go away with unforgettable recollections and a newfound love for this picturesque gem in France.
8. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Mostar is a weekend getaway that actually captivates the center. Good for {couples}, mates, or solo vacationers, this metropolis in Bosnia and Herzegovina provides a mixture of historical past, tradition, and beautiful surroundings.
The long-lasting Stari Most, or Previous Bridge, is an absolute must-see. Watching native divers leap off the bridge into the river beneath is thrilling and a bit nerve-wracking!
Strolling by the cobbled streets of the Previous Bazaar, I felt like I used to be stepping again in time. The colourful stalls are stuffed with handcrafted treasures and conventional Bosnian espresso. It’s the right place to seek out distinctive souvenirs and take in the colourful environment.
One in every of my favourite spots is the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque. Climbing the minaret could be a little bit of a exercise, however the panoramic views of Mostar are past price it. For a dose of historical past, go to the Museum of Battle and Genocide Victims. It’s a sobering expertise however provides essential insights into town’s previous.
Mostar is tremendous straightforward to get to, with common trains and buses from Sarajevo. When you’re there, the whole lot is walkable, which makes exploring a breeze.
And oh, the meals! You need to strive cevapi, the native grilled sausages. They’re served with contemporary bread and are completely mouthwatering.
9. Comporta, Portugal
Dreaming of a seashore paradise that seems like a secret escape? Comporta in Portugal is strictly the place you need to be! This laid-back coastal village is ideal for anybody seeking to unwind, take in the solar, and revel in pristine, untouched seashores.
The white sandy seashores stretch for miles, and also you’ll typically discover you have got them nearly to your self. It’s a refreshing change from the crowded vacationer spots. My favourite seashore is Praia da Comporta. It’s good for a protracted, stress-free day by the ocean.
For nature lovers, the close by rice fields and cork forests are beautiful. Renting a motorbike and driving by these scenic areas is a should. You’ll really feel such as you’re a part of the panorama, with the contemporary air and exquisite vistas throughout.
One distinctive facet of Comporta is its relaxed vibe. The city itself is charming, with whitewashed homes and native markets. Seize a drink at a beachside bar and watch the sundown – it’s the right method to finish the day.
Comporta is definitely accessible from Lisbon, just a bit over an hour’s drive. This makes it tremendous handy for a fast escape.
If you happen to’re searching for a serene, stunning spot to recharge and revel in nature, Comporta needs to be on the prime of your record. It’s actually one of many finest locations to go to in Europe for a weekend getaway, providing an unforgettable mix of rest and pure magnificence.
10. Rila Mountains, Bulgaria
One in every of my favourite locations in Europe for a panoramic mountain escape is the Rila Mountains in Bulgaria. Good for journey lovers and nature fans, this beautiful vacation spot provides the whole lot from mountain climbing to serene lakes.
With lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and majestic peaks, it’s a hiker’s dream. One of many highlights is the Seven Rila Lakes hike. It’s a bit difficult, however the views are completely price it. Plus, the contemporary mountain air is invigorating!
Attending to the Rila Mountains is fairly simple. It’s simply a few hours’ drive from Sofia. When you’re there, you may simply discover cozy lodges and guesthouses that supply a heat and welcoming keep.
The most effective instances to go to the Rila Mountains are late spring to early autumn (Might to October). Throughout this era, the climate is nice for mountain climbing and out of doors actions, and the surroundings is at its most stunning.
The Rila Mountains are good for anybody seeking to reconnect with nature, get some contemporary air, and expertise a little bit of Bulgarian tradition. If you happen to’re searching for fast getaways in Europe, this place ought to undoubtedly be in your record. You’ll go away feeling refreshed, impressed, and completely in awe of the pure magnificence round you!
11. St. Ives, England
St Ives is fingers down my favourite place in Cornwall! This charming seaside city is ideal for a enjoyable and stress-free weekend break in England. The golden seashores, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant artwork scene make it a incredible spot for households, {couples}, or solo adventurers.
What makes St Ives so particular? For one, the seashores are completely beautiful. Porthmeor Seashore is ideal for browsing, whereas Porthminster Seashore is nice for a extra laid-back vibe. I really like taking lengthy walks alongside the coast, absorbing the solar and the contemporary sea breeze.
The Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum are must-visits, showcasing unimaginable artwork in stunning settings. The native galleries and studios are additionally price exploring – you by no means know what hidden gems you may discover!
For a very distinctive expertise, hop on a ship tour to identify seals and dolphins. It’s a magical method to see the shoreline and its wildlife. And don’t neglect to wander by the slender, cobbled streets of the city, stuffed with quirky outlets, cafes, and charming cottages.
St Ives is ideal for anybody seeking to unwind, discover, and revel in the great thing about Cornwall. Whether or not you’re into seashore actions, artwork, or simply absorbing the environment, this place has one thing for everybody. Belief me, you’ll fall in love with St Ives similar to I did!
12. Trogir, Croatia
I’ve saved one of the best for final! Trogir is a surprising coastal city that’s good for anybody questioning the place to go in Europe for a weekend break. This charming medieval city is full of historical past, tradition, and exquisite views.
Trogir is good for a fast getaway in Croatia. Your entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage web site, and the slender, cobbled streets are a pleasure to discover. The Cathedral of St. Lawrence is a spotlight with its unimaginable structure and breathtaking views from the bell tower.
For a soothing day, head to Okrug Seashore. Only a brief stroll from the city heart, this pebbly seashore has crystal-clear waters good for swimming and snorkeling. It’s an ideal spot to unwind and take in the solar.
The native seafood is a must-try. The contemporary catch of the day at any seaside restaurant is all the time scrumptious, and eating with a view of the Adriatic Sea makes it even higher.
Attending to Trogir is a breeze. It’s only a brief drive from Cut up Airport, which makes it tremendous handy for a weekend escape. When you’re there, the whole lot is inside strolling distance, including to the city’s laid-back vibe.
Trogir is ideal for {couples}, mates, or solo vacationers searching for a mix of tradition, rest, and journey. If you happen to’re planning a weekend break, Trogir ought to undoubtedly be in your record.
Incessantly requested questions (FAQs) about hidden gem getaways in europe
Dreaming of a singular European journey? Our FAQs have all of the solutions! Discover hidden gem getaways, uncover native treasures, and plan your good journey.
What’s the most underrated place in Europe?
Sighișoara, Romania, is likely one of the most underrated locations in Europe. This charming medieval city provides wealthy historical past, vibrant festivals, and beautiful structure, all with out the crowds.
The place in Europe will not be touristy?
Comporta, Portugal, is a hidden gem that’s not touristy. With pristine seashores, peaceable rice fields, and a relaxed vibe, it’s good for a tranquil getaway.
What’s the prettiest a part of Europe?
The Amalfi Coast in Italy is commonly thought-about the prettiest a part of Europe. With its dramatic cliffs, colourful villages, and glowing blue waters, it’s a paradise!
What’s the most picturesque metropolis in Europe?
Annecy, France, is essentially the most picturesque metropolis in Europe. Referred to as the “Venice of the Alps,” its canals, lakeside views, and charming streets make it a photographer’s dream.
