Sometimes there is a feeling that there are no more places in Europe that have not been explored far and wide by tourists - such where there are no queues to take pictures at the monument to the well-known tsar, poet or hero, where there is no need to fight for a table in a café or wait for hours until a sun lounger is free.
However, such places do exist, and we have prepared a list for you: in this article, you can easily find something interesting just for yourself.
Colmar
Colmar is a paradise for romantics and aesthetes who appreciate art and architecture. Here you can enjoy magnificent examples of medieval and Renaissance architecture: they are literally at every step. Here you can also taste the best French cuisine, masterfully prepared with love.
While in Colmar, you can't miss visiting the charming village of Egisheim. Voted the most beautiful village in France in 2013, this place is a true gem of the region. It is quite small, only a couple of streets, but captivates with the mood in the air and ancient architecture. It seems as if time has stopped here, and you have been transported to another century, where you can forget about everyday worries and enjoy the tranquility.
Manarola
Let's move to Italy, where it is necessary to mention one of the most amazing ancient towns, as if it came out of a fairy tale. Founded centuries ago on the cliffs off the coast of the Ligurian Sea, Manarola has retained its charm to this day.
Manarola is ideal for short trips and weekends, as the town is small and cozy. Walking through the narrow streets, you can enjoy the view of colorful houses hanging from the cliffs and reflected in the clear water of the sea. Here you can find extraordinary landscapes and magnificent sunsets that will leave a lasting impression.
Rothenburg
The next destination of our journey will be Germany, or rather, charming Bavaria and its fabulous city of Rothenburg. This ancient town, located on the banks of the Tauber River, impresses with its atmosphere and charm.
One of the main attractions is the Christmas market, which has become famous all over the world. Even in summer, you can feel the Christmas spirit here!
In the evenings, the city comes alive, and city guards in ancient costumes take to the streets, keeping order and safety, creating a special atmosphere in which you feel like the hero of a medieval novel.
Valletta
Valletta was founded in 1566 by the Knights of Malta: the city has preserved many monuments of that time. Walking along the streets, you will find yourself in another time, where at every step you are greeted by ancient castles and palaces, majestic cathedrals and cozy chapels. Valletta's architectural heritage is so diverse and rich that there is something for everyone, from baroque churches to magnificent knightly fortresses.
The first attraction here is St. John's Cathedral: it not only impresses with its appearance, but also keeps masterpieces of art within its walls, such as the famous painting by Caravaggio "The Beheading of John the Baptist".
The central streets of the city are narrow and winding, making it an ideal place for hiking. Here you can enjoy the spirit of the city, relax in cozy cafes and taste local dishes that will delight you with sophistication and variety. If you get tired, you can always go on a boat trip along the bay on a yacht or boat to see the city from the water and enjoy panoramic views: Valletta is as if woven from stone and light - it is a living picture which amazes with its charm and atmosphere.
Mostar
In the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina a city is located that has become a symbol of rebirth and hope: Mostar. Despite the difficult times, which were faced by the region in the 1990s, the locals have managed to restore the city to its former beauty and charm, and now Mostar is once again welcoming tourists from all over the world with picturesque landscapes and rich culture.
Mostar is where East meets West; the city is filled with ancient bridges, the most famous of which is the Stari Bridge, which spans the Neretva River. This bridge, a true symbol of the city, was destroyed during the Bosnian War, but has since been rebuilt and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Old Town is full of cozy cafes where you can try traditional Bosnian dishes such as ćevapčići and burek. The taste of the local cuisine, which combines Eastern and Western traditions, will pleasantly surprise you with aromas and flavors.
Innsbruck
Located in the heart of the Austrian Alps, Innsbruck captivates with its beauty and diversity at any time of the year. Everyone considers it a ski resort, but even in the summer, Innsbruck offers many options for outdoor activities. There are scenic alpine trails for hiking and cycling trails, waterfalls, forests and lakes. Also the true pearl of Austria is the Alpine Botanical Garden, where unique plants and flowers from all over the world are collected.
The place of power in Innsbruck is the Swarovski Museum, dedicated to the famous "brilliant" brand: not just an exhibition of crystal products, but a real journey into the world of art and fantasy, where each exhibit surprises with originality and elegance.
Pučišća
Pučišća is a picturesque village located on the island of Brač in Croatia. Here you will find a harmonious combination of the green of the mountains, white limestone cliffs and the azure waters of a magnificent bay – the cleanest and clearest waters on the entire Adriatic coast. The water here is crystal clear: swimming in it is a real pleasure. The soft sandy shore and light sea breeze create an atmosphere of comfort and tranquility, allowing you to completely relax and enjoy every moment of your vacation. Unlike popular tourist cities, it has a quiet and peaceful environment, making Pučišca an ideal place for those looking for solitude and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle.
The local cuisine is a different story. Gourmets who come here never tire of admiring the exquisite dishes of fresh seafood, aromatic herbs and the local olive oil, which is considered the best in the world: it has a rich taste and aroma, making it the perfect addition to any dish.
Pučišća is also famous for the white stone that is mined on the island. This stone has been used in the construction of famous buildings around the world, including the White House in Washington and Diocletian's Palace in Split, and local artisans create amazing sculptures and decorative elements from it - great souvenirs.
Annecy
Annecy is a tiny French village located on the shores of a picturesque lake surrounded by the Alpine mountains. Known as the "little Venice of France", this town beckons with canals, narrow cobbled streets and numerous bridges, giving a special charm and romantic atmosphere.
The journey to Annecy begins with a walk through the ancient streets that take us back in time. One of the main attractions is the Palace on the Island, built in the XIII century. Located right in the middle of the river, this building served as both a prison and an administrative center over the years, and today it is a museum where you can learn a lot about the history of the region. St. Clair Street is another place to see, as its old houses with arcades and shops create an atmosphere, making you want to stay longer.
Gothenburg
Gothenburg, Sweden's second-largest city, is a dynamic and modern metropolis with its identity and atmosphere. While not as well-known among tourists as Stockholm, it is becoming an increasingly popular travel destination due to its rich ancient heritage and numerous leisure options.
It is also the culinary capital of Sweden: local establishments offer a huge variety of dishes that will delight even the most discerning gourmets. Here you will find many restaurants offering both traditional Swedish cuisine and international dishes. The Feskarka Market, located in the city center, is a true paradise for seafood lovers. Here you can try fresh shrimp, oysters and other seafood cooked according to original recipes.
Torun
Toruń, a city in northern Poland, is a treasure trove of history and culture. Here, on the banks of the Vistula River, every house, every street breathes antiquity and keeps many legends and traditions.
The historic center of Toruń is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, and this is not surprising, because the city impresses with its architecture, which has been preserved almost unchanged since the Middle Ages. It is home to one of the oldest universities in Poland, an important cultural center of the region, but the famous Toruń Town Hall, built in the 13th century and one of the most outstanding examples of Gothic architecture in Europe, attracting special attention. At night, the city center comes alive and the buildings are lit up with bright lights – magical! Walking along these streets in the evening, you will feel how history comes to life around you and you will be able to enjoy amazing views of the city with centuries of history at night.
