14 Lesser-Known European Cities You Are Missing Out on

There is much more to Europe than the mainstream cities we see and hear about online. If you’re planning to visit the off-the-beaten destinations in Europe, away from the crowds, this list is for you. Here are 14 of the most surprising European cities that most have probably never heard of:

Verona, Italy

The infamous city featured in Romeo and Juliet, Verona, boasts rolling hills and a picturesque landscape. The city’s incredible architecture is proven by the intact coliseum, which still hosts operas today and is a must-do for every tourist.

Zamora, Spain

Situated on the bank of the Duero River, Zamora offers 24 marvelous churches dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries, some of which are living examples of the Roman empire. Zamora also offers exemplary food and wine and is tucked away from Spain’s everyday hustle and bustle.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

One of Europe’s greenest cities, Ljubljana is adorned with elements of traditional European architecture and offers a vibrant culture. You can take a funicular ride to Ljubljana Castle, stroll Tivoli Park, and boat along the river.

Narbonne, France

Forget Toulouse and head to Narbonne, a small city rich in history and cuisine. This Mediterranean delight boasts a Gothic cathedral, the archeological and maritime Narbo Via Museum and Roman Hureum dating back to the first century BC, making it a perfect spot for history buffs.

Gdańsk, Poland

Once battling WW2, Gdansk now blooms with color and offers a mix of history and outdoor activities. Tourists can climb atop St. Mary’s Church for breathtaking views or head to Mariacka Street, which is lined with amber galleries and small cafes. The National Maritime Museum, Neptune’s Fountain, and the Museum of Gdansk are also worth a visit.

Visby, Sweden

Dating back to the 12th century, don’t let Visby’s small size fool you. This magical walled town offers an alluring Baltic Sea backdrop and lush green vegetation. You can walk the medieval city, explore Almedalen Park’s gardens and deep-dive into history at Gotland Museum.

Innsbruck, Austria

Imagine brightly colored buildings with cobblestone streets and a beautiful mountain in the backdrop. This sight becomes a reality in Innsbruck, where tourists can hike along rugged landscapes, explore the Imperial Palace, and take a cable car to the alpine Nordkette.

Alesund, Norway

Rebuilt after a tragic fire in 1904, Alesund surprises tourists with its Art Nouveau architecture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant marine life. Tourists can sightsee fjords from atop Mount Aksla and take a boat trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Geirangerfjord.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi, Georgia, offers a unique mix of historical and modern attractions. Visitors can stroll through the Old Town and explore its centuries-old churches, houses, and sulfur bathhouses. They can also enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Narikala Fortress.

Heidelberg, Germany

Heidelberg, Germany, is popular for its picturesque Old Town, Heidelberg Castle ruins, and the Heidelberg University, the oldest educational institute in Germany. Tourists shouldn’t also miss out on the city’s numerous festivals, theaters, and museums, such as the Pharmacy Museum and Heidelberger Kunstverein.

Appingedam, Netherlands

Appingedam, Netherlands, is a beautiful small town known for its picturesque canals and historic buildings, including the famous “hanging kitchens.” You can also visit the town’s medieval center, which features narrow streets and unique architecture, perfect for history buffs.

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mostar, situated in Bosnia and Herzegovina, captivates the visitors with its Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman architectures, around the beautiful Stari Most bridge. The city has many restaurants offering traditional dishes like dolma and sarma. You can stroll around Mostar, while sipping rakija – a fruit brandy popular in Balkans.

Ghent, Belgium

You’re not alone if you haven’t heard about Ghent in Belgium. This enchanting city has so many interesting things to do that you’ll be surprised on your visit here. You need to spare at least two nights to explore the city’s famous landmarks, such as St Michael Bridge, the Ghent City Hall, the Gravensteen Castle, and the charming neighborhood of Patershol.

Coimbra, Portugal

Coimbra, Portugal, is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, the University of Coimbra, which was moved permanently to the city in 1537. The historic university offers stunning views of the city. In addition, the botanical gardens and ancient cathedrals of the city are worth a visit.