Europe is one of the hottest travel destinations on the entire globe with many varying communities and cultures. Most people who travel to Europe think of Paris, Rome or Barcelona but there are many hidden gems that will leave you speechless. Europe is home to 44 different countries and so many of these are left unexplored mostly because they have much less popularity.1 Read on to discover more about unchartered and unpopular destinations that may explode in the coming years.
Montreux, Switzerland
Switzerland is a land known for the rolling green pastures and amazing cheese selections. Most people like a quick stopover in Zurich and complain about the expensive lifestyle to live in this country. However an absolutely stunning part of this country is Montreux. Montreux is situated on the edge of Lake Geneva and surrounded by Alps. This gives it a breathtaking backdrop that can be enjoyed by taking a stroll around the boardwalk or checking out one of the many open-air concerts in the summertime. The Christmas markets are also a top attraction for those who love getting into the festive spirit early.2 You must try the local fondue while you are here as it is world-renowned!
Riga, Latvia
This picturesque town is the capital of Latvia and is one of the largest cities in the Baltics. Riga is a city with a long and varied history, dating back to the 13th century. It has been under the rule of many different empires and countries, which has resulted in a unique blend of cultures and architecture. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is definitely worth exploring. Be sure to try some of the local cuisine while you are here, as it is delicious!
Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany
This hidden gem is located in the Bavarian Alps and is a popular destination for winter sports. This was actually the site of the 1936 Winter Olympics!3 The town is picturesque and has many different activities to keep you entertained, no matter what time of year you visit. In the winter, you can go skiing or snowboarding on the nearby Zugspitze, which is the tallest mountain in Germany. In the summer, you can go hiking or mountain biking in the stunning scenery. There are also many festivals throughout the year, so there is always something going on in Garmisch-Partenk. Bavaria is also one of the most popular destinations for German beers , so make sure to try some while you are here!
Reine, Norway
If you are looking for a truly breathtaking experience, then you must add Reine to your list of places to visit in Europe. This small town is a fishing village located in the Lofoten Islands in Norway. The scenery here is like something out of a postcard, with the towering mountains and bright blue waters. There are roughly 300 people that live here, so it is a very small and intimate community. If you love nature, then you will feel right at home in Reine. There are many hiking trails in the area, as well as opportunities to go kayaking and fishing. The best fish to catch in this area include cod, halibut, and salmon.
Portmagee, Ireland
Ireland is home to some stunning towns but one that is super amazing is Portmagee. It is located on the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry and has a population of just over 200 people. This small town is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and relax in nature. The town is situated on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, so there are plenty of opportunities to go swimming, fishing, or sailing. There are also many hiking trails in the area that offer stunning views of the coast. Be sure to try some of the local seafood while you are here, as it is fresh and delicious! Skelligs Rock is also a short boat ride away and is definitely worth a visit.
Hallstatt, Austria
Another green pastured beauty is the lands of Austria and the original home of European settlers. Hallstatt is a small village situated on the edge of a lake in the Salzkammergut region of Austria. This is a very popular tourist destination, due to its stunning scenery and well-preserved historic buildings. The village is home to a salt mine that has been in operation since the Bronze Age!4 You can take a tour of the mine to learn about its history. There are also many hiking trails in the area that offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Lake Hallstatt is a great place to go swimming in the summer and is also very popular for ice skating in the winter.
So There You Have It!
As you can see Europe is home to some amazing small towns that miss out on all the spotlight of travellers. If you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature, then one of these towns would be perfect for you. So what are you waiting for book a ticket today online and get travelling!
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