The new year is just around the corner. It is time to make new travel plans! If you’re looking for unique destinations in Europe that aren’t yet overcrowded with tourists, you’ve come to the right place. These 10 hidden gems in Europe give you insight into Europe’s diverse landscape and culture.
Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast looking for an hidden gem or cultural geek who want to take in the history of charming European towns. These underrated destinations offer a wide variety of activities to choose from.
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If there’s one destination in Europe that still feels like a hidden gem, it’s the Azores, a Portuguese archipelago in the North Atlantic. With nine islands of volcanic origin, the Azores offer stunning natural beauty, authentic charm, and a tranquil atmosphere far from Europe’s crowded tourist hotspots.
The largest island, São Miguel, stands out with its breathtaking landscapes. Volcanic craters like Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo are postcard-perfect, while the hot springs of Furnas provide a relaxing escape in the heart of nature. For outdoor lovers, hiking trails wind through lush forests and along rugged coastlines, leading to waterfalls and panoramic views. Whale watching is also a must here, as the Azores rank among the best places worldwide to spot these majestic creatures.
Pico Island, home to Portugal’s highest peak, is another highlight. Its unique vineyards, cultivated in volcanic soil by the ocean, produce some of Portugal’s most intriguing wines — light, flavorful, and unmistakably Azorean.
Terceira Island boasts the charming town of Angra do Heroismo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its well-preserved architecture and historic significance. Once an essential port in the Age of Discovery, Angra played a vital role in transatlantic navigation. Today, its colorful streets, 16th-century fortifications, and serene marina reflect a rich maritime heritage, making it a must-visit destination.
The best time to visit the Azores is from late spring to early fall (April through October), when the islands offer mild weather and calmer seas. However, the weather can be unpredictable, so layers and rain gear are essential.
Direct flights from mainland Europe frequently land on São Miguel and Terceira, making them ideal entry points. Once there, renting a car is the best way to explore each islands’ diverse attractions.
Recommended by Danae from Danae Explores
2. Berlengas Islands, Portugal
Most people travel to Lisbon, Porto or the Algarve region in Portugal, but there are many hidden gems to discover, such as the Berlengas Islands! This archipelago is located just off the coast of Peniche, just over an hour north of Lisbon. You can drive to Peniche, but there are also regular buses to the coastal town.
Once you arrive in Peniche, you can take a 45 minute ferry ride to Berlenga Grande, the main island. The Berlenga Nature Reserve is located in the Atlantic Ocean, and the island has no natural resources. It’s heaven on earth for nature lovers, though, as you can find thousands of birds! Especially in the breeding season, you’ll be surrounded by seagulls, black redstarts and the common guillemot.
Berlenga Grande is pretty small, and some lovely hiking trails are on the island. From the tiny harbour, you can discover the lighthouse and the Fort of São João Baptista. The fortress is open to the public, and in summer, you can book a room in the hostel. Next to the harbour is a restaurant, and they have rooms at the only B&B on the island.
After your hike, you can enjoy a swim in the sea, or join a boat tour along the shores. You’ll venture out to the fortress and see many caves along the way. Alternatively, you can join a dolphin watching excursion or go diving if you’re curious about underwater life.
The Berlenga Nature Reserve is a fantastic day trip from Lisbon, but if you can stay the night, even better. Only a select number of people can visit during the day, and at night, there are only a few beds available. Visiting the Berlengas Islands is a true adventure!
Recommended by Marga from Discover Portugal
3. Copenhagen, Denmark
Exploring the Forgotten Giants by Danish artist Thomas Dambo is an offbeat adventure in Copenhagen! These stunning wooden sculptures are scattered across the greater Copenhagen area, offering a unique treasure hunt experience.
Created entirely from scrap wood and recycled materials, the giants were brought to life with the help of local volunteers. They are art installations and a testament to community and sustainability.
The Forgotten Giants are located in natural, scenic spots, encouraging you to step off the beaten path. Each giant is hidden in forests, meadows, and hills, adding an element of mystery and discovery to your journey. Some are tucked away in lesser-known locations, requiring you to hike or cycle to find them, as most aren’t directly accessible by public transport.
In addition to the Forgotten Giants, Dambo has also created six Copenhagen trolls, situated closer to the city center. Each sculpture has been given a unique name too.
If you’re in Copenhagen for a weekend, you could combine hiking and cycling to discover all the sculptures and the trolls. It is a great mix of nature, art, and exploration.
For the best experience, visit during the summer months from June to August, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Grab a map, wear comfortable shoes, and set out for a day of discovery and fun!
Recommended by Agalya from Your Denmark Guide
4. Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia
You are on the hunt for a hidden gem in Europe that has not yet been overrun by tourists or exorbitant summer prices? Then you need to visit Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia. Lake Ohrid is one of the oldest lakes in the world, earning it UNESCO status. Its crystal-clear waters surrounded by mountains and the charming town of Ohrid, make it the perfect European holiday destination.
You can spend your days exploring the Old Town, visiting the stunning, cliffside Church of St. John at Kaneo, or taking a boat to St. Naum Monastery, where you’ll find natural springs and peacocks wandering the grounds. The water of Lake Ohrid is so clear you will want to dive right in, and there are many beautiful spots around the lake where you can! If you are up for a hike, Galicica National Park offers stunning views over the lake.
The best time to visit Lake Ohrid is in late spring or early autumn when it is warm but still quiet. Summer is another great time to visit as the lake is warm enough for swimming. There are more crowds in summer but it is never as crowded as other European lakes.
Getting to Lake Ohrid is easy. It is possible to fly directly to Ohrid from some major European cities. Alternatively, you can fly to Skopje and take the bus to get to Lake Ohrid. North Macedonia is a country filled with natural beauty and fascinating history, so another great option is to take a North Macedonia road trip
Recommended by Liza of Atlas Rambler Travel Guides
5. Lecce – Puglia, Italy
Lecce is a small Baroque city in the Puglia region in South Italy, often called the “Florence of the South” and true hidden gem. Due to the historic facades that date back to the Baroque era. The Italian city is very accessible to get to. Two main airports in Puglia connect well to Lecce. The first one is Brindisi Airport, only a 30-minute drive. The second one is Bari International Airport, which is under 2 hours drive. The Italian train and bus network connects Lecce to southern Italy and the main hubs in the north.
The question now is, why should you add Lecce to your travel bucket list? Other than the rich history of this charming town, there is so much to Do, to See and Eat!
If you enjoy a touch of history, start your visit by visiting the key attractions of Lecce. These are Piazza il Duomo, La Croce Cathedral, Piazza Sant’Oronzo, Roman amphitheater, Porta Rudie, Porta Napoli, and Porta San Biagio.
While strolling through the marbled streets of Lecce, do not forget to stop at one of the cute cafes or trattorias. There you can enjoy the fresh local products of Lecce. For example, the cheeses (Burrata and Mozzarella) accompanied by the delicious local wines, the Negroamaro and the Primitivo.
If you are a beach lover you also come to your cost. Lecce’s unique location on the heel of Italy makes it to the perfect spot to explore different scenic beaches. The top beaches to explore are Torre Del’Orso on the Adriatic side and Porto Cesareo on the Ionian side.
Once you visit Lecce, do not miss out on visiting nearby cute Pugliese towns, like Alberobello, Ostuni, Galatina, Otranto, and much more!
Recommended by Ruba from Travel with Ruba
6. Madeira, Portugal
You are looking for a unique destination in Europe that is still slightly under the radar of mainstream tourism? Check out the Portuguese island Madeira, located in the North Atlantic Ocean, approximately 1,000 kilometres southwest of mainland Portugal.
Thanks to its volcanic origins, Madeira is home to some of the world’s most dramatic and diverse landscapes. From lush forests to towering cliffs and rugged coastlines, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Since public transport is a little limited, renting a car in Madeira is the most convenient way to see the island’s wonders and countless viewpoints known as miradouros. If you’re an adventure seeker, make sure to do the Pico to Pico hike. This hike is the most epic trail on the island, offering breathtaking views at sunrise. Next, head to Ponta do Sol, a pretty coastal town lined with colourful houses. Ponta de Sol has the best weather in Madeira.
The best place to base yourself on the island is its lively capital, Funchal. In addition to its central location, Funchal is also home to the São Tiago Fortress and Doca do Cavacas. These are natural pools perfect for a relaxing afternoon in the sun. When visiting Madeira, be sure to try the local wine called “Madeira”. As well as the various tropical fruits, such as dragon fruit, that grow locally.
Thanks to its mild climate and temperature rarely dropping below 15 degrees Celsius, Madeira is perfect to visit all year round. However, spring and fall stand out as the best times to explore. They offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and still the opportunity to enjoy the island’s beautiful beaches.
Recommended by Robin of Renting a car in Europe 101
7. Rovaniemi, Finland
Rovaniemi is a charming town in Finland located on the Arctic Circle. In fact, one of the town’s most unique attractions is a monument marking the Arctic Circle, which you can physically cross!
Rovaniemi is best known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, where the Christmas spirit lasts all year long.
Visiting Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is a must, as there you can meet Santa himself, visit his toy factory, and mail Christmas postcards from the Arctic Circle post office. You can even take a ride on Santa’s magical reindeer sled! The Santa Claus Village feels like a cozier, snow-covered Disneyland, and is the perfect destination for families with kids.
Beyond the Christmas charm, Rovaniemi offers countless winter activities. There, you can watch the northern lights, rent a snowmobile, go snowshoeing, and much more!
This hidden gem is also home to very interesting museums, in particular the Arktikum. There, you can learn about the unique characteristics of the Arctic as well as the rich history of the region.
The best time to visit Rovaniemi is from November to March although Santa Claus Village is open year-round. During those months, the snow-covered town is lively with winter sports, and northern lights often shine through the night sky.
Rovaniemi is very accessible for travelers, as flights coming from Helsinki and other large towns are frequent. Once in Rovaniemi, getting around is simple thanks to the town’s reliable bus system. For added convenience, Uber also works well there!
Recommended by Lo Lee from Carry Oner
8. San Marino, Italy
San Marino, a underrated micro-country within Italy. It offers a unique off-the-beaten-track experience for travelers seeking history, stunning views, and an escape from crowded tourist hubs. As one of the world’s smallest and oldest countries, San Marino boasts a rich history, medieval architecture, and a distinctly independent charm that sets it apart from its surroundings. Its UNESCO-listed old town is perched atop Mount Titano, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Emilia-Romagna and Marche regions.
Exploration in San Marino centers around its trio of medieval towers: Guaita, Cesta, and Montale. These towers, connected by a scenic path, make for a perfect hike combining history and nature. Visitors can also wander the cobbled streets of the historic center, enjoy local cuisine such as piadina (flatbread) or the region’s wines, and shop tax-free for souvenirs. For a unique activity, visit the Museum of Torture or the Museum of Ancient Arms to delve into the country’s intriguing past. No matter what you decide to do, bring comfortable walking shoes. San Marino is on a mountain with a lot of cobblestone walkways.
The best time to visit San Marino is spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and crowds are minimal. San Marino is accessible by public transport from nearby Italian cities. A direct bus runs regularly from Rimini, making it easy to incorporate into a broader Italian itinerary. It’s about a 3-hour drive from Venice and 90 minutes from Bologna. Despite its small size, San Marino rewards visitors with an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and stunning vistas, making it an off-the-beaten-track destination in Europe for 2025.
Recommended by Pam from directionally challenged traveler
9. Tromsø, Norway
Tromsø is tucked away deep inside the arctic circle. Known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” it’s surrounded by fjords, rugged mountains, and stunning landscapes that are appealing in both the summer and winter. Tromsø offers a host of unique experiences you won’t find elsewhere, with a big focus on nature and the outdoors.
Tromsø is renowned for its connection to Arctic nature and easily accessible wilderness. It’s one of the best spots in the world for viewing the northern lights. Add to that its charming wooden architecture, excellent infrastructure, historic indigenous Sami culture, and a surprisingly good food scene, focusing on fresh, local ingredients, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a bit of a hidden gem.
The northern lights are a major draw, but there’s more to Tromsø than just the aurora. You can join a husky sledding adventure, try snowmobiling, sleeping wild in huts and glass cabins or even go whale watching in the fjords. If you’re feeling Christmassy there are also reindeer slay rides and feeding opportunities. For something a bit different, visit the Arctic Cathedral or take a cable car up Mount Storsteinen for panoramic views. In summer, you can hike, kayak, and enjoy the midnight sun.
If the northern lights are your goal, visit between late September and March. For outdoor summer activities and long days, head there between June and August.
Tromsø is accessible by plane, with regular flights from Oslo. When you land, public buses are excellent, well maintained and good value for money. Buses and ferries connect Tromsø to nearby towns and nature spots. The majority of activities in the area offer transfers from a meeting point in the centre of town. So you don’t need to add challenging Arctic driving to your itinerary!
Recommended by Chris from Global trip diaries
10. Zadar, Croatia
Along the Adriatic coastline in Croatia lies the small trendy city of Zadar. With ancient history and modern quirks in equal measure, Zadar is an underrated destination in Europe, which takes some fun exploration to uncover its best kept secrets. The rich history of the city dates back 3000 years. It is no surprise that its Old Town features famous relics, such as the Roman Forum, Venetian Walls, and its iconic Bell Tower, which is the symbol of the city.
Zadar is also famous for its natural beauty, which manifests through the city’s many famous beaches, and its archipelago, comprising hundreds of islands.
The main highlight and unique activity which Zadar offers visitors is its famous Sea Organ. Located at the edge of the Old Town, the Sea instrument is orchestrated through the Adriatic Waves crashing against the musical steps. It makes for a very beautiful setting in the evenings, where locals and visitors like to sit and enjoy the sunset to the sound of the melodic waves.
If you want a different perspective of the Adriatic, along with birds eye views of the Old Town, then you should climb the Bell Tower. Tackling the 180 steps will offer you spectacular views as a reward. This is another great spot to enjoy a Croatian sunset, if you time your visit right.
A September visit to Zadar offers the best of both worlds, with fewer tourists, but nice long sunny days. Direct flights are available from many European airports, or you can enjoy a trip to Zadar from more southern cities in Croatia, such as Dubrovnik, via a ferry cruise or road trip!
Recommended by Tom from Tom Henty’s Travel
