One of the most amazing aspects of traveling the world is discovering awesome destinations that we never knew existed. Exploring European hidden gems is something that we enjoy so we are always excited to discover new locations and add them to our list of must-see places.
When Neale Donald Walsch spoke the following words about life, I truly believe he was referring to experiencing new places around the world that you probably wouldn’t think about visiting. Traveling the world and appreciating what is around us is not just about visiting London or New York City instead, it’s about getting ‘out of your comfort zone’ and experiencing the real towns and cities within a nation that may not be advertised on tourism brochures.
Life begins at the end of your comfort zone
If you read or should I say drooled over our recent post on Instagram pictures of top European destinations, you will know that this form of social media is a great way to depict beautiful places around the world. We are delighted to share another collaboration including some of our fellow travel blogging friends who shared a few of their favorite hidden spots across Europe.
Edinburgh, Scotland
If you are planning a trip to London, why not hop on the train and take an impromptu journey north across the border to Scotland to explore the beautiful city of Edinburgh. Whether it’s to sample some of the local haggis or perhaps experience the medieval history surrounding Edinburgh Castle, it’s well worth visiting.
“The best place to taken in views over the incredible city of Edinburgh, Scotland is from atop Arthur’s Seat. Located in Holyrood Park, Arthur’s Seat is a dormant volcano and a hike up to its peak of over 800′ will reward you with astounding views of Edinburgh and beyond and is certainly one of Europe’s hidden gems.” – Stephanie Mayo from The World As I See It
Hallstatt, Austria
“Hallstatt is easily one of the most picturesque towns I’ve ever been to around Europe, with a lake so calm, a backdrop of mountains and the freshest air!” – Isabel Leong from Bel Around The World
Salzburg, Austria
Following on with the Austrian theme, if you are sold on Hallstatt, perhaps you would like to combine this with a trip to another gorgeous part of the country. Salzburg is famous for being the city where Mozart was born, but what about everything else this city has to offer!
“Salzburg, the city where Mozart was born, and more recently, the filming location of The Sound of Music took my breath away. Its historic city center with its narrow streets, spacious squares, and baroque architecture are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, and rightly so.” – Christabel Lobo from Where’s Bel
Bruges, Belgium
Having recently spent 24 hours exploring the beautiful Belgian capital of Brussels, we are excited about returning to Belgium to experience more of the country. Frequently in the shadow of Brussels, Bruges is a short distance from the capital city but offers a myriad of attractions and stunning landscapes that should entice you. Take a look at the following picture if you need more convincing!
“Bruges is one of the most picturesque destinations in Europe. Charming squares, characteristic narrow streets, and quaint medieval houses give Bruges a lovely romantic setting. Beautiful narrow canals meander as a maze through the old city centre.” – Sabine De Gaspari from The Travelling Chilli
“One of the most beautiful cities in Belgium, is often one of the most overlooked. Bruges had been caught in a time-warp of sort for a few centuries, but is one of the most enjoyable cities to visit in Belgium.” – Arnie and Jo from Arnie and Jo Are On The Go
Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany
Germany is an attractive nation for many reasons, but perhaps visiting a place like Rüdesheim am Rhein is not the first location on your bucket list of German destinations…at least not yet!
“Rüdesheim am Rhein is a quaint town on the banks of river Rhine near Frankfurt in Germany. This wine making town is a part of UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the biggest tourist attractions of Germany.
Rüdesheim has a beautiful landscape that comprises of Riesling vineyards, castles and the river Rhine (or Rhein in German). The view from the top is spectacular and can be reached by a gondola lift.” – Sonal and Sandro from Drifter Planet
Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
“A short drive south from Prague finds the delightful little town of Cesky Krumlov. Tucked away in the curve of a river this fairytale town is sure to capture your heart, and the huge selection of quaint restaurants sure to capture your stomach.” – Dean Williamson from Living La Vida Global
“The town, located in the Southern Bohemian region of the Czech Republic is an exceptional architectural treasure, with records of its existence dating back to 1309. The easiest way to be taken back through time is to walk through the city – the narrow, crooked lanes and walls of historical houses have not been changed through the years.” – Christabel Lobo from Two Nomads One World
“The Český Krumlov Castle and Chateau dominates the town and is one of the largest castle complexes in Europe. Walk up the Castle tower to get breathtaking views of the Vltava River meandering through the town below.” – Christabel Lobo from Two Nomads One World
Burano, Italy
“Colored houses, bougainvillea flowers and a peaceful atmosphere. Burano is special, the architecture is vibrant and it has a completely different vibe from Venice, the famous neighbor island. While all the tourists flock to the streets and canals of Venice, only a few take the half an hour boat to explore Burano. This small island stole our heart, there is nothing more Italian than explore the alleys and canals while savoring a gelato.” – Natalie Deduck from Love and Road
Colmar, France
“The city of Colmar is one of the most picturesque in all of France. Along with a number of small villages that are part of the Route du Vin, Colmar immerses you in a time when fishmongers and tanners lined the now flower bedecked River.” – Arnie and Jo from Arnie and Jo Are On The Go
Lecce, Italy
“Lecce is located almost at the end of Italian “heel”, in the Puglia region. The city is often called “Florence of the South” and it surely got this name for a reason. It’s just the prettiest with narrow lanes perfect to get lost in, spectacular churches and the ruins of an amphitheater right in the center. But the best thing is that there are hardly any tourists around so you can easily enjoy the place!” – Kamila Napora from Kami and The Rest of the World
Monopoli, Italy
“I hadn’t heard of Monopoli until a few weeks ago. I went to Puglia, based myself in Bari and when I was looking for nearby places for a day trip by train, Monopoli came up. Beautiful architecture, narrow streets with laundry hanging high above and the clearest water I have ever seen! How come people don’t know about this town?” – Kamila Napora from Kami and The Rest of the World
Perugia, Italy
“Perugia is slightly off the beaten path of top destinations in Italy, although it should seriously be considered for your next Italian road trip. Nestled between Florence and Rome, Perugia is a town high up on the hills in Italy’s Umbria region. The city is known for being home to a few universities, so there are many cafes, bars, and shops to hang out in. But the real charm comes from roaming the quiet streets and enjoying a cappuccino while overlooking life under the clouds.” – Natasha and Cameron from The World Pursuit
Krakow, Poland
https://www.instagram.com/p/8rSYg8pX6b/
“Krakow is probably on your travel radar by now. It is a city not to be missed as it is a lively, vibrant, and affordable city situated in southern Poland. Asides from some of the dark history of WWII there are many cafes, restaurants, chocolate shops, and monuments to fill many days.
It’s hard to miss one of the nation’s most important sites – Wawel Castle. The architecture of the castle and its surroundings are culturally and historical area that must be viewed on any Polish tour.” – Natasha and Cameron from The World Pursuit
Lake Bled, Slovenia
“The church on Bled Island is a popular spot for weddings. Aside from the obvious beauty of the location, if the groom carries his new bride up the 99 stairs to the bell tower, they will receive good luck and fortune for their marriage. Often engaged couples will come in the days before their wedding to practice this stunt in order to avoid embarrassment on the actual wedding day.” – John Widmer from Roaming Around The World
Summary
What an amazing collection of European hidden gems waiting to be discovered! I know that we are excited about experiencing many of these locations in the near future. Whether you are looking for a cultural and historical hotspot, or perhaps somewhere with stunning panoramic landscapes, Europe is blessed to have many regions that have it all.
We want to yet again thank all of our amazing travel blogging friends for contributing their Instagram pictures. Please be sure to follow all of them as they continue their travels around the world and the next hidden gem will be right around the corner waiting for you to explore.
Wow, so many stunning images of amazing places! I’ve had the great joy to explore some and as for the others thanks to this list have now risen to the top of my list the next time I’m in Europe! Thanks so much for letting me contribute with one of my favourite places!!
I love this list of fabulous hidden gems, it gives me some real travel inspiration. I’d particularly like to visit Lake Bled
Thank you for allowing me to contribute to this collection of beautiful little towns. I have a few new places I need to visit now.