I spend about two months each year wandering through Europe, and even after visiting 38 countries, the continent still finds ways to surprise me. Everyone knows about Paris, Rome, and Barcelona, but the places that stick with me are the ones I stumbled into by accident. A medieval village tucked into the cliffs of southern Italy. A turquoise lake in the Balkans that felt like it belonged in the Caribbean. A fairytale town in Germany where I was the only tourist walking its cobblestone streets at sunset.
Europe has a way of hiding its most jaw-dropping spots in plain sight, far from the crowded guidebook itineraries. These are the places that made me stop, look around, and think: how is it possible I’ve never heard of this before?
1. Meteora, Greece
Meteora is honestly one of the most jaw-dropping places I’ve ever visited. These massive rock towers with ancient monasteries perched on top look like something straight out of a fantasy movie. Getting here takes some planning – you’ll fly into Thessaloniki (about 3 hours by car) or take the train from Athens (around 4 hours, departing at 7:57 AM for €36 one-way).
The monasteries charge €3 each to enter, so if you want to hit all six active ones, you’re looking at €18 total. I’d recommend starting with Great Meteoron and Varlaam – they’re the most impressive and have the best artifacts. Just heads up, there’s a strict dress code: long pants for guys, and women need covered shoulders and long skirts or pants.
The best months to visit are definitely April through October when all the monasteries are open longer hours. I went in late spring and the weather was perfect – not too hot, not too crowded. The hiking trails around here are incredible too, and honestly, the sunrise views from up there will make you question why you ever sleep in. Pro tip: rent a scooter in Kalambaka for about €20-30 per day to get around easily, or just drive yourself since parking is available at each monastery.
- Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Greece
2. Cudillero, Spain
Cudillero is this ridiculously photogenic fishing village that looks like someone painted it into existence. The colorful houses literally cascade down the hillside to the harbor, and it’s becoming pretty popular among travelers who know Spain beyond the typical tourist spots. You can fly into Asturias Airport (it’s only about 30 minutes away) or drive from Oviedo in about 30 minutes.
I loved walking through those narrow cobblestone streets that curve up the hillside – every turn gives you a new Instagram-worthy view. The lighthouse is definitely worth the short hike for panoramic views over the Bay of Biscay. And can we talk about the seafood? It’s caught daily and served right by the water – I had some of the best fish of my life here.
If you’re planning to visit, late spring through early fall is your best bet for weather. July and August can get pretty crowded with Spanish tourists escaping the heat in Madrid, so May, June, or September might be better if you want a more chill experience. The village isn’t huge, so you can easily explore it in a day, but I’d recommend staying overnight if you can – the sunset views from the harbor are absolutely worth it.
- Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Spain
3. Motovun, Croatia
Motovun sits on this steep hill in Istria like a medieval crown, surrounded by forests and vineyards as far as you can see. You can fly into Pula Airport (about an hour’s drive) and the roads are actually pretty good – nothing too scary if you’re not used to European driving.
What makes this place special is the truffle scene. We’re talking about some of the world’s best truffles growing in the Motovun Forest below. I did a truffle hunting tour with local hunter Nikola (you can reach him at +385 91 569 6835) for about €60 total, and watching those dogs work was incredible. The white truffle season runs from September through December, and honestly, tasting fresh truffle pasta right where it was found is a game-changer.
The medieval walls give you killer views over the Mirna Valley, especially in the morning when there’s still mist rolling through. I went in October during truffle season and it was perfect – crisp air, beautiful fall colors, and not too many tourists. The cobblestone streets can get slippery when wet, so wear good shoes. Most restaurants here focus on truffle dishes, and Restaurant Kaštel has great terrace seating with those valley views.
- Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Croatia
4. Procida, Italy
Procida is hands down the best-kept secret in the Bay of Naples. While everyone’s fighting crowds in Capri, this tiny island gives you that authentic Italian island experience without the chaos. Getting here is easy – ferries run year-round from Naples (about €20, takes 40-60 minutes) or Pozzuoli (cheaper and faster at 30 minutes).
The island’s small enough that you can walk or bike everywhere, and those pastel-colored houses stacked along the marina are seriously photogenic. Terra Murata is the old fortified area with crazy good cliffside views, and Chiaia Beach is perfect for a few hours of sun. I ate at La Lampara which overlooks the water – their seafood is incredible and the prices are way more reasonable than you’d find on the bigger islands.
From April to October, cars aren’t allowed on the island for non-residents, which keeps it peaceful but means you need to plan accordingly. The ferries run frequently during summer but less so in winter, so check schedules ahead of time. Late spring and early fall are sweet spots – great weather, fewer crowds, and you can still get around easily. Just bring a jacket for the ferry ride since it can get windy out there.
- Read next: Beautiful Places in Italy to Visit
5. Počitelj, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Počitelj is this hidden gem that feels like it’s been frozen in time since the Ottoman era. It’s only about 30 minutes from Mostar, so you can easily do both in a day trip if you’re exploring Bosnia. The drive there is beautiful, following the Neretva River through some seriously dramatic landscapes.
What I loved about this place is how authentic it feels – no souvenir shops, no tourist crowds, just this medieval village perched above the river. The fortress hike is totally worth it for the views over the valley and those ancient stone houses below. The Ottoman-era architecture is remarkably preserved, and wandering through those narrow streets feels like stepping back centuries.
I visited in late October and the light was perfect for photos – that golden hour hits the limestone buildings just right. The cooler months are actually ideal here since summers can get pretty hot and there’s not much shade. It’s not a huge place, so you can explore it thoroughly in a few hours, but I found myself just sitting and soaking in the atmosphere. If you’re into history and architecture, this place will blow you away.
- Read next: Beautiful Places in Bosnia and Herzegovina
6. Trolltunga, Norway
Trolltunga isn’t for everyone, but if you love epic hikes and insane views, this rock formation jutting out 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet is absolutely worth the effort. You’ll base yourself in Odda and start the hike from Skjeggedal – it’s a serious 28-kilometer round trip that takes most people 10-12 hours.
I’m not going to lie – this hike is tough. You’re climbing through some of Norway’s most beautiful but demanding terrain. But standing on that rock tongue with the fjord stretching out below you? It’s one of those moments that makes you feel alive in a way that Instagram photos can’t capture.
June through September is really your only window unless you’re an experienced winter hiker with proper gear. I went in July and the weather was perfect, but even in summer you need layers since it gets cold and windy up there. Book accommodation in Odda well ahead of time – it’s a small town and fills up with hikers. Start early (like 6 AM early) to avoid crowds and make sure you have the whole day. The trail is well-marked, but bring plenty of food, water, and be prepared for changeable weather.
- Read next: Beautiful Places in Norway to Visit
7. Soglio, Switzerland
Soglio sits in Switzerland’s Bregaglia Valley like something out of a storybook – old stone houses, wildflower meadows, and the Alps towering all around. It’s about an hour’s drive from St. Moritz through some of the most beautiful mountain scenery you’ll ever see.
This village is pure peace and quiet. I spent hours just walking the quiet lanes, photographing those weathered buildings against the mountain backdrop. The contrast between the ancient stone architecture and the vibrant alpine landscape is incredible. There are some great hiking trails that start right from the village if you want to get out into those meadows and forests.
Late spring through early fall is your best bet for visiting – winter can be pretty harsh up here, and some of the mountain passes might be closed. I went in September and the fall colors were amazing, plus the weather was perfect for hiking. It’s not a party destination or even a place with tons of activities – Soglio is about slowing down and appreciating natural beauty and traditional Swiss mountain life. If you need constant stimulation, this isn’t your place, but if you want to unwind completely, it’s perfect.
- Read next: Beautiful Places in Switzerland to Explore
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- For more reading: Hidden Gems in Europe to Visit
8. Folegandros, Greece
Folegandros is what the Greek islands used to be like before tourism took over everywhere else. No airport means you have to take a ferry from Athens (about 4-5 hours depending on the boat), which keeps the crowds down and makes it feel like a real discovery.
The island’s got these dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear water, and Chora, the main village, is all white-washed buildings and narrow streets without a single chain store in sight. The beaches here are gorgeous and usually pretty empty – you can actually find a spot to yourself, which is rare in Greece these days. I rented a scooter and spent days just exploring different coves and swimming spots.
What makes Folegandros special is how authentic it still feels. Locals actually live here year-round, restaurants serve food they’d eat themselves, and prices are reasonable. The hiking is fantastic too – there are trails along the cliffs with views that’ll make you dizzy. May through October is the best time, with July and August being warmest but also busiest. I preferred early June when everything was green and the weather was perfect but the crowds hadn’t hit yet.
- Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Greece
9. Isle of Harris, Scotland
Harris blew my mind with landscapes that look more like the Caribbean than Scotland. You fly into Stornoway on Lewis (daily flights from Glasgow, Inverness, and Edinburgh) then drive about 30 minutes over to Harris. The whole Outer Hebrides chain is connected by causeways, which makes getting around easier than you’d expect.
Luskentyre Beach is the real showstopper – white sand, turquoise water, and usually almost empty. I couldn’t believe I was in Scotland when I first saw it. The hiking here is incredible too, with trails that take you through moonlike landscapes and along dramatic coastlines. And you absolutely have to check out the Harris Tweed shops where they’re still weaving this world-famous fabric the traditional way.
Summer (June-August) gives you the longest days and warmest weather, but it’s also peak tourist season. I went in late September and still had great weather plus way fewer people. The weather can change fast up here, so pack layers even if it looks sunny. Harris is about disconnecting from everything and getting out into some of the wildest, most beautiful landscapes in Europe. Just don’t expect nightlife or fancy restaurants – this is raw nature at its best.
- Read next: Beautiful Places in Scotland to Visit
10. Civita di Bagnoregio, Italy
Civita di Bagnoregio is literally called the “dying city” because it’s slowly eroding away, which sounds depressing but actually makes it incredibly romantic and atmospheric. It’s about 90 minutes north of Rome by car, and you park in Bagnoregio then walk across this dramatic footbridge to enter the ancient town.
Once you’re across that bridge, it’s like entering another world. Medieval streets, ancient churches, and views over the valley that’ll make you want to move here immediately. The whole place is tiny – maybe 10 residents live here year-round – so you can explore it in a couple of hours, but I found myself staying much longer just soaking in the atmosphere.
Winter is actually my favorite time to visit Civita. There are no tourists, the mist rolls through the valley creating this ethereal mood, and you’ll basically have the whole place to yourself. Summer can get pretty crowded with day-trippers from Rome, and it gets hot with limited shade. The walk across the bridge is beautiful any time of year, but in winter it feels like you’re crossing into a fairy tale.
- Read next: Beautiful Places in Italy to Visit
- You may also like: Fairytale Places in Lazio, Italy
11. Kihnu, Estonia
Kihnu is this tiny island in the Baltic Sea where traditional life isn’t a tourist show – it’s just how people actually live. You take a ferry from Munalaid Harbour (runs daily year-round, about 45 minutes) to reach what’s basically a living UNESCO cultural heritage site.
What makes Kihnu incredible is how authentic it is. The women here still wear traditional striped skirts daily, they speak their own dialect, and the island runs on traditions passed down through generations. You can bike around the whole island in a day, visiting the museum and watching locals weave those famous woolen handicrafts. It’s not trying to be Instagram-worthy – it’s just genuinely fascinating.
Summer is when you’ll catch their festivals, which are explosions of traditional music, dance, and color that feel like stepping into another century. The whole community participates, and as a visitor, you’re welcomed right in. May through September gives you the best weather and longest days. Just don’t come expecting resort amenities – Kihnu is about experiencing a way of life that’s survived everything the modern world has thrown at it.
- Read next: Beautiful Places in Estonia to Visit
12. Giethoorn, Netherlands
Giethoorn gets called the “Venice of the North,” and while that’s a bit touristy, it’s honestly pretty accurate. These thatched-roof cottages connected by canals instead of roads create this fairy-tale atmosphere that’s about 90 minutes from Amsterdam – perfect for a day trip.
The whole village is designed around water, so you’ll either rent a boat or walk along the footpaths to explore. I loved how quiet it is – no car engines, just the sound of water and maybe some ducks. The architecture is incredible, with those traditional Dutch farmhouses that look like they’ve been there forever (many actually have been).
Late spring or early autumn is your best bet for visiting. Summer gets pretty crowded with tour buses, which kind of kills the peaceful vibe that makes Giethoorn special. In shoulder season, you get nice weather but fewer crowds, so you can actually feel like you’re discovering this hidden corner of the Netherlands. The boat rentals are fun, but honestly, I enjoyed walking the pathways just as much – you get better views of those amazing houses and gardens.
- Read next: Beautiful Places in Netherlands to Visit
13. Jajce, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Jajce is where I’m ending this list because it combines everything that makes Bosnia incredible – history, natural beauty, and that authentic feel you can’t find in over-touristed places. The drive from Sarajevo or Banja Luka takes about two hours through some seriously beautiful Bosnian countryside.
The town’s famous for this massive waterfall right in the center where the Pliva River meets the Vrbas – it’s one of the few waterfalls I’ve seen that’s actually inside a town. The old fortress gives you incredible views, and the catacombs are genuinely eerie in the best way. Just outside town, the Pliva Lakes with those old wooden watermills scattered around create this perfect postcard scene.
May through September is ideal for visiting Jajce – the weather’s fantastic, everything’s green and lush, and the waterfall is at its most impressive. I went in June and it was perfect – warm enough for swimming in the lakes, great light for photos, and the tourist season hadn’t really kicked in yet. The town has that authentic Balkan feel where you’re experiencing real local life, not some sanitized version created for tourists.
- Read next: Beautiful Places in Bosnia and Herzegovina
FAQs about my favorite hidden destinations in Europe
Still undecided about where to go in Europe off-the-beaten-path? Fly business class to Europe and hop on over to one of these lesser known destinations. Here are some questions I get asked a lot that will help you plan your trip.
Where in Europe is not touristy?
The least touristy places in Europe include the Albanian Riviera, the Bieszczady Mountains in Poland, or the region of Alentejo in Portugal. They’re beautiful spots, and much less crowded than more popular destinations.
What is the most magical place in Europe?
In my opinion, the most magical place in Europe is Hallstatt in Austria. This charming lakeside village, with its picturesque buildings and stunning alpine backdrop, looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale.
What is the most interesting country to visit in Europe?
Italy is frequently cited as one of the most interesting countries to visit in Europe. It offers a bit of everything: historical sites in Rome, incredible art in Florence, and unique cityscapes like Venice. Plus, the food is delicious!
What is the most underrated country in Europe?
I’d say that Slovenia is one of the most underrated places to visit in Europe. It boasts incredible natural beauty including lakes, mountains, and forests, all relatively unspoiled by tourism compared to its neighbors. The capital, Ljubljana, is vibrant and friendly.
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