As the landscape of travel develops and more tourists look for unique destinations, Europe has a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
We have put together a list of nine hidden gems in Europe for travellers in 2024, packed with stunning landscapes, rich history, and excellent hiking, skiing, and wine tasting.
These hidden treasures will create unique experiences for every kind of traveller, from thrifty backpackers to families seeking adventure and couples in search of romance.
Why Explore Hidden Gems in Europe?
As mass tourism surges, cities like Paris, Rome, and Barcelona are usually overburdened with crowds and costly. Travelling to lesser-known locations can offer:
- Authentic experiences: Hidden gems afford a greater engagement with culture without the excesses of commercialization.
- Lower costs: A lot of these locations cost less than large tourism hot spots.
- Serenity: Find escape from the crowds and enjoy serene beauty along with unspoiled nature.
- Unique adventures: These places can boast of unexpected delights that frequently shock those who visit.
1. Ohrid, North Macedonia/Albania: Affordable, Relaxing Hidden Gem in Europe
Why Visit Ohrid?
As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Ohrid is one of Europe’s most serene and lovely lake getaways, found between North Macedonia and Albania. Often called the ‘Jerusalem of the Balkans,’ Ohrid supplies an exciting combination of history, leisure, and nature.
Top Highlights:
- Lake Ohrid: Considered one of Europe’s most antiquated and profound lakes, for its brilliantly clear waters. Either you can paddle, navigate a boat, or simply take it easy along the shore.
- Historic Churches: More than 365 churches in Ohrid go back to the Middle Ages. Go to the renowned Church of St. John at Kaneo for views that are incredible across the lake.
- Lively Nightlife: Despite its calm surroundings, Ohrid has an active nightlife that includes beachfront bars and clubs.
- Local Wine: Wines are reputable in North Macedonia. You don’t want to miss the opportunity to try local sorts, like Vranec and Stanushina.
Go If You Like:
- Relaxing by a lake
- Inexpensive vacation spots in Europe
- Greek and Balkan culture
- Outdoor pursuits including swimming, boating, and hiking
- Looking into places that aren’t popular with tourists
Top Things to Do in Ohrid:
- Explore the Old Town: Take a stroll along the cobblestones and see sights including Samuil’s Fortress and the Ancient Theatre of Ohrid.
- Boat Tour of Lake Ohrid: Get a beautiful view of the lake from a scenic boat ride.
- Visit the Monastery of Saint Naum: Located on the south shore of the lake, this lovely monastery draws many pilgrims.
More Things to Do in Ohrid:
- For the beautiful scenery of both Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa, make your way to Galicica National Park by hiking up.
- Experience wine tasting at local wineries around the vicinity.
- Visit Bay of Bones: an archaeological locality that uncovers the prehistoric villages that lived near the water.
2. Gavarnie, France: Hidden Gem in France — Beautiful Hiking & Gourmet Dining
Why Visit Gavarnie?
Located in the French Pyrenees, Gavarnie is a retreat for hikers, those who appreciate nature, and food fans. Cirque de Gavarnie is famous for being a dramatic glacial amphitheatre and for being near many of the finest hiking trails in Europe.
Top Highlights:
- Cirque de Gavarnie: Being a UNESCO World Heritage site, this natural attraction is a marvellous view with its huge cliffs and falling waterfalls.
- Gourmet Dining: Experience some of the best French cuisine while enjoying Michelin-starred restaurants that dish out popular local fare such as duck confit and cassoulet.
- Winter Sports: Winter brings fantastic skiing chances to Gavarnie, great for both families and fans of winter sports.
Go If You Like:
- Mountain hiking and climbing
- French food and exquisite dining
- Scenic vistas combined with outdoor activities
- Family-friendly travel
- Participating in genuine rural France
Top Things to Do in Gavarnie:
- Hike to the Cirque de Gavarnie: A key experience for any visitor, the hike to this natural landmark is simple enough for a majority of hikers and gives stunning views.
- Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant: Discover the flavours of French gourmet cuisine at restaurants like Le Viscos that specialize in local dishes with a new twist.
- Visit the Pont d’Espagne: A beautiful natural arch and waterfalls not too far away in the Pyrenees.
More Things to Do in Gavarnie:
- Have a scenic horseback ride on these trails.
- See Luz-Saint-Sauveur, an attractive nearby village which features thermal baths.
- In winter, make the most of skiing or snowboarding at the Gavarnie-Gèdre ski resort.
3. Montenegro: Croatia Without the Crowds, One of Europe’s Hidden Gems
Why Visit Montenegro?
Montenegro’s unspoiled beauty, along with fewer tourists, makes it a great substitute for Croatia. In a tiny space, it gives travellers an array of experiences, thanks to its rugged coastline and medieval towns surrounded by brilliant national parks.
Top Highlights:
- Bay of Kotor: One of the most lovely bays in Europe, accompanied by magnificent mountains and traditional towns.
- Durmitor National Park: Famous for its lakes covered in glaciers, striking cliffs, and activities like rafting on the Tara River in the great outdoors.
- Budva Riviera: Sensational sandy beaches complemented by a vibrant nightlife make this place great for beach lovers.
Go If You Like:
- Coastal villages and untouched beaches
- National parks and hiking
- The architecture of the Middle Ages and history.
- Family-friendly destinations
- Cheap travel alternatives in Europe
Top Things to Do in Montenegro:
- Visit Kotor: The narrow streets, historic landmarks, and amazing vistas of this medieval town make it a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Explore Durmitor National Park: For an unforgettable experience of Montenegro’s natural beauty, take a hike or go rafting.
- Relax in Budva: Soak up the sun on the shore or experience the engaging nightlife.
More Things to Do in Montenegro:
- Explore the beautiful Bay of Kotor by driving.
- See Perast, a small town featuring breathtaking vistas and open seascapes.
- Sail to Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island featuring a lovely church.
4. Northern Finland: Hidden Gem in Northern Europe — The “World’s Happiest Country”
Why Visit Northern Finland?
Famous for its remarkable wilderness and the Northern Lights, Northern Finland presents a soothing retreat into nature. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway, this unsung gem is just what you need whether you’re after the Aurora Borealis, participating in dog sledding, or just relaxing in a sauna.
Top Highlights:
- Northern Lights: You can find one of the top locations in the world to witness the Aurora Borealis, particularly in winter months.
- Sauna Experiences: Finland features more than 3 million saunas, which Northern Finland showcases in peaceful surroundings.
- Outdoor Winter Activities: Give dog sledging, snowmobiling, reindeer sleigh rides, and cross-country skiing a try.
Go If You Like:
- Night-sky photography along with Northern Lights
- Activities that happen outdoors during winter
- Wellness and saunas
- Places that are serene and free from grid systems
- Family-friendly winter escapades
Top Things to Do in Northern Finland:
- Chase the Northern Lights: Stay in either glass igloos or aurora cabins for the opportunity to see the breathtaking lights in luxury.
- Dog Sledding and Snowmobiling: Enjoy thrilling activities throughout winter that everyone in the family will love.
- Reindeer Safari: Take a delightful trip through snowy woodlands on a reindeer sleigh.
More Things to Do in Finland:
- Enjoy a unique Arctic adventure by staying at an ice hotel.
- Cross-country skiing on a few of Europe’s best routes.
- Take it easy in a sauna beside a lake and then leap into icy water after, the beloved Finnish custom.
5. Rhône Valley & Provence, France: Hidden Gem in France — Wineries & Charming Towns
Why Visit Rhône Valley & Provence?
Wine enthusiasts and those wanting a slower way of life will find charming scenery, excellent vineyards, and delightful towns in the Rhône Valley and Provence. Examine medieval castles, ruins from Rome, and an endless array of lavender fields.
Top Highlights:
- World-Class Vineyards: The wine region of the Rhône Valley is known for producing the celebrated Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
- Charming Villages: Find out more about the cobbled pathways of places such as Gordes, Roussillon, and Vaison-la-Romaine.
- Roman Ruins: Provence is one of the best-preserved locations of Roman ruins in all of Europe.
Go If You Like:
- Wine tasting along with vineyard tours
- Relaxing countryside retreats
- Visiting historic towns and their ruins
- Amazing drives and beautiful scenery
- Romantic getaways
Top Things to Do in the Rhône Valley & Provence:
- Tour a Vineyard: Experience standout wineries and sample a few of the best wines worldwide.
- Explore Roman Ruins: See the aqueduct at Pont du Gard, the Orange Theatre, and several other significant ancient Roman venues.
- Drive through Lavender Fields: In the summertime, you can’t miss the beautiful lavender fields of Provence.
More Things to Do in Provence:
- Make a trip to Avignon, which features the medieval Palais des Papes.
- See the stunning vistas by taking a hike in the Alpilles mountains.
- Walk through the delightful markets of Aix-en-Provence.
6. Faroe Islands, Denmark: Hidden Gem for Adventure Seekers — Rugged Landscapes & Puffins
Why Visit the Faroe Islands?
Between Iceland and Norway, the Faroe Islands are a remote and untouched haven for people who love nature. Particularly known for its sharp cliffs, dramatic fjords, and varied birdlife, this overlooked treasure gives hikers incredible experiences and stunning vistas.
Top Highlights:
- Dramatic Landscapes: The Faroe Islands feature dramatic cliffs, profound fjords, and broad coastal scenery.
- Birdwatching: Over a million seabirds, including puffins, are living on the islands.
- Hiking: An abundance of trails directs you to concealed waterfalls, seaside stacks, and scenic vistas.
Go If You Like:
- Out of the way, remote locations
- Hiking and nature photography
- Watching birds and finding puffins
- Adventure travel
- Untouched landscapes of a dramatic kind
Top Things to Do in the Faroe Islands:
- Hike to Múlafossur Waterfall: This beautiful waterfall fans out into the ocean, supplying one of the most memorable vistas in the Faroes.
- Spot Puffins at Mykines: Being the ‘puffin capital of the world, ‘ Mykines Island is the dream destination for birdwatchers.
- Visit Tórshavn: Investigate the lovely capital of the Faroe Islands, complete with its bright houses and warm cafes.
More Things to Do in the Faroe Islands:
- Experience the fjords and cliffs aboard a boat tour.
- Explore Saksun village, celebrated for its houses with turf roofs and gorgeous location.
- Take a hike on Kalsoy Island for remarkable observations of the ocean and surrounding islands.
7. Puglia, Italy: Hidden Gem in Italy — Beaches, Olive Groves & Ancient Towns
Why Visit Puglia?
Situated at the end of Italy’s boot, Puglia is a sunlit area famous for its sparkling waters, ancient olive groves, and towns washed in white. It provides a more calm alternative to the crowded spots for tourists like the Amalfi Coast and Tuscany.
Top Highlights:
- Trulli Houses: Discover the unusual, cone-shaped houses in the heritage site, Alberobello, recognized by UNESCO.
- Pristine Beaches: Home to Italy’s beautiful beaches, Puglia includes Baia dei Turchi and Punta Prosciutto.
- Rich Culinary Traditions: Based on fresh, local ingredients, the region’s cuisine offers everything from handmade pasta to olive oil and seafood.
Go If You Like:
- Italy’s culture, food, and the narrative of its history
- Breaks at the beach with exceptionally clear waters
- Ancient towns along with their historical landmarks
- Understated, out-of-the-way locations
- Great value and bespoke travel.
Top Things to Do in Puglia:
- Visit Alberobello: Examine the renowned trulli houses while exploring their history.
- Relax on Puglia’s Beaches: Dip in the clear turquoise waters and catch the sun at one of Puglia’s plentiful beaches.
- Taste Local Olive Oil: Italy ranks Puglia as one of its prime producers of olive oil, and tasting excursions are quite popular.
More Things to Do in Puglia:
- Check out the cleaned-up town of Ostuni and its ancient streets.
- See the Castellana Caves, an exceptional underground cave network.
- Taste the authentic flavours of orecchiette pasta along with burrata cheese.
8. Matera, Italy: Europe’s Most Unique Hidden Gem — Stone City of Caves
Why Visit Matera?
In Italy’s southern region, Matera is renowned for its old cave abodes, called Sassi. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is one of the world’s oldest cities that maintains continuous habitation, delivering a singular combination of history, design, and current culture.
Top Highlights:
- Sassi di Matera: Discover the rock dwellings, as well as the churches and monasteries hewn from the rock.
- Modern Boutique Hotels: Stay in one of the many upscale accommodations that come from converted cave homes.
- Cultural Events: In 2019, Matera was the European Capital of Culture, and the city keeps entertaining an array of cultural events and festivals.
Go If You Like:
- The relationship between ancient history and architecture.
- Exclusive and unusual places for travelling
- Italian culture and food
- Researching caves and cities below ground
- Travelling for love to locations steeped in history
Top Things to Do in Matera:
- Explore the Sassi: The labyrinth of cave dwellings hides the history of this city that you should learn about.
- Stay in a Cave Hotel: Appreciate the opulence of staying inside a beautifully brought-back cave house.
- Visit the Rock Churches: Countless rock-cut churches in Matera display many ancient frescoes.
More Things to Do in Matera:
- Participate in the Matera Film Festival or take part in other cultural events.
- Explore the Museo Laboratorio della Civiltà Contadina, which presents traditional life in the country.
- Take a guided journey to uncover the rich history and transformation of Matera.
9. Ljubljana, Slovenia: Europe’s Green Capital — Perfect for Eco-Friendly Travel
Why Visit Ljubljana?
Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, ranks among the continent’s most sustainable and green cities. Ideal for travellers wanting to combine urban enchantment with natural beauty, this destination features a pedestrian-friendly old town and a concentration on green living.
Top Highlights:
- Ljubljana Castle: Looking down on the city from its hillside position, the castle showcases gorgeous views and reveals Slovenia’s heritage.
- Tivoli Park: The city’s largest park is well suited for an easy stroll or a picnic.
- Eco-Friendly Initiatives: Ljubljana has collected many honours for its sustainability actions, particularly the European Green Capital Award.
Go If You Like:
- Travel that is good for the environment and sustainable.
- Investigating energetic European cities.
- Cities that appeal to pedestrians
- An aggregate of city living with the natural environment
- Architecture and history
Top Things to Do in Ljubljana:
- Visit Ljubljana Castle: Head up to the castle by funicular and experience wide views of the city.
- Stroll Along the Ljubljanica River: The lineup on the riverfront includes cafes, shops, and various art installations.
- Explore the Old Town: Walk along the wonderful streets of Ljubljana’s old quarter and enjoy seeing the bright architecture.
More Things to Do in Ljubljana:
- Visit the Central Market to enjoy both local produce and classic Slovenian food.
- Visit the renowned natural attraction, Lake Bled, on a day trip from Slovenia.
- Take a pleasure cruise along the Ljubljanica River.
Conclusion
Finding Europe’s unseen treasures in 2024 will give travellers countless opportunities for unique experiences aimed at those yearning for undiscovered, remote locales.
Looking at the rugged beauty of the Faroe Islands alongside the historical appeal of Matera, all these nine sites promise extraordinary memories. If you’re after adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, these concealed treasures are great for your next holiday in Europe.