Do you ever feel like you’ve seen everything Europe has to offer? Have you visited all the popular tourist destinations and have nothing left to explore? Well, think again! There are plenty of Hidden Gems in Europe waiting to be discovered across the continent. From secluded villages nestled in the mountains, to unexplored islands off the coast, from historic castles to contemporary art – there’s something for everyone. So, if you’re looking for somewhere new to add to your travel list, look at these Hidden Gems in Europe.
Top 5 Hidden Gems in Europe You Must See
SPAIN’S ICONIC CAMINO DE SANTIAGO
The Camino de Santiago dates back to the 9th century, when the remains of Saint James, one of Jesus’s twelve apostles, are said to have been discovered in Santiago de Compostela. Whether you’re looking for a religious experience or simply want to explore Spain’s stunning countryside, The Way of Saint James is sure to offer something for everyone.
If you love spending time outdoors and enjoy exploring new places, then The Way of Saint James is definitely for you. The trail passes through some of Spain’s most beautiful scenery, including lush forests, green valleys, picture-perfect villages, and rolling hills. You’ll also get a chance to experience Spanish culture and cuisine firsthand as you walk from town to town.
THE LESSER-KNOWN GREEK ISLANDS
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more mainstream Greek island locales, consider venturing to one of the lesser-known Hidden Gems in Europe for a truly blissful getaway.
One such Greek island is Kousalion, located in the northeastern Aegean Sea, which is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling. There are plenty of hiking trails dotted around for exploring.
You can also try your hand at windsurfing on Kitriani. This small island near Athens is known for its strong winds, making it a mecca for windsurfing enthusiasts from all over Europe.
Another great option is Paxoi. This group of isles boasts some of Greece’s most unspoiled landscapes.
ZERMATT, SWITZERLAND
Zermatt is nestled at the base of the Matterhorn in the Swiss Alps and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Switzerland. The village is car-free, so visitors must take a train or walk to get around.
There are plenty of things to do in Zermatt, from hiking and mountain biking in the summer to skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Many day trips can be taken from Zermatt, such as visiting the Gornergrat Observation Deck for views of the Matterhorn, taking a ride on the Glacier Express train, or visiting the nearby town of Saas-Fee.
AZORES, PORTUGAL
The Azores are a group of Portuguese islands located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The archipelago comprises nine volcanic islands and is a popular tourist destination for its stunning scenery, hiking opportunities, and whale watching.
Besides whale watching, visitors to the Azores can enjoy hiking through lush forests and up volcanoes, exploring picturesque towns and villages, and relaxing on black sand beaches. The islands are also home to many museums and wooden churches worth visiting.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, the Azores have something for everyone. So why not add these beautiful Hidden Gems in Europe to your travel list?
CHATEAUS IN FRENCH TOWNS
In France, more than 10,000 chateaus dot the picturesque countryside. These historic homes are one of the most beautiful Hidden Gems in Europe, many of which date back centuries and offer travellers a glimpse into the country’s storied past.
Today, many of these chateaus are open to the public and welcome visitors from around the world. Chateau De Valencay is one of the most beautiful French Chateaus you can visit. Whether you’re interested in exploring the grand architecture or learning about the fascinating people who once called these residences home, a trip to one (or several!) France’s chateau is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Conclusion
To help you plan your next European vacation, we’ve put together this list of five hidden gems that are definitely worth a visit. So whether you’re looking for stunning scenery, fascinating history, or just a place to relax and enjoy the good life, be sure to add these Hidden Gems in Europe to your travel list.