Europe is full of beautiful locations to visit and explore. However, several lesser-known European destinations are equally beautiful and will offer unique cultural experiences. Here is a list of 6 offbeat travel destinations in Europe that will be next on your travel list.
Going to the popular tourist places in Europe is something every traveller has in mind. But visiting the lesser-known local places in Europe can be a more rewarding and memorable experience.
There, you won’t come across groups of visitors who are lining up to take the same selfies along the Eiffel Tower, Mediaeval era places, Stonehenge, Acropolis or Colosseum, etc.
Instead, you can take a slip and gain insight into the people’s local lives. You can stroll through the tiny villages, away from the menace of commercialization. You can try unknown recipes and make new friends there for a more fulfilling trip. If you are interested in this concept of visiting the less-explored places in Europe, you are at the right place.
6 Offbeat Travel Destinations In Europe
1. Rila Mountains, Bulgaria
Europe is full of gorgeous mountain landscapes. One of them is the Rila Mountain range, located in south-western Bulgaria. It is nestled between five valleys – Dupnitsa Valley, Samokov Valley, Konstenets-Dolna Banya Valley, Razlog Valley, and Blagoevgrad Valley.
This location gives it an exotic beauty worth visiting. It has beautiful hiking trails that would give you a peek at stunning views. Also, many secluded monasteries in this towering range are important spiritual and literary centres in the country that you can’t afford to miss.
2. Korčula Island, Croatia
Several monuments from the ancient and mediaeval eras are well preserved in Europe. Despite many of them being popular tourist sites, places like Korčula Island in Croatia are off-beat locations.
You can travel car-free on foot through the mediaeval villages on the island. They have picturesque beauty with a serene ambience straight out of a fairytale.
Also, there are dripping vineyards and olive groves that will give you an authentic glimpse of Europe. Moreover, the place is home to a wealth of world-class wines that would make you return to have their relishing taste.
3. The Dolomites, Italy
Another hidden gem in Europe is the Dolomites in Italy. They are sublime, monumental, and colourful landscapes that seem enchanting, attracting tourists who seek something different to explore.
Over the years, several scientific and artistic interpretations of the place have been made. Irrespective of that, it is considered one of the most attractive mountain landscapes in the world that you must see and cherish with your eyes.
4. Salema, Portugal
Portugal has an off-beat location- Salema. It is an ideal exotic location with stunning beaches and several adventurous activities to pursue. Moreover, the place has a traditional vibe that would transport you to a new world.
It has something for everyone, from good food to beautiful views and a unique atmosphere. You must not miss having fresh grilled sardines in this tranquil fishing village near Portugal’s gorgeous southern coast.
5. Scottish Highlands
Europe is filled with stunning landscapes. Some of them host flocks of tourists, while others, like the Scottish Highlands, are less explored. So, you can get a proper opportunity to visit and explore the place.
They have Heather-clad hillsides that have a mesmerising charm sure to steal your attention for a long time. Alongside, you will get to have the classic whiskey of Scotland, which is perfect to complement the atmosphere.
They have a dramatic landscape surrounded by several freshwater lakes in Scotland, giving it an authentic and regal look.
6. Paris’s Belleville Neighborhood
Paris is undoubtedly one of the most visited destinations in Europe, mainly for housing the Eiffel Tower. But the city has a long history of struggle as well. One of the places that properly bears that history is Paris’s Belleville neighbourhood.
Apart from its historical significance, it is suitable for tourists to sip exotically made coffee and explore vibrant street art in this part of the city.
Overall, it’s a gritty, chaotic, and unpretentious neighbourhood. But this is precisely the authentic and energetic glimpse of Paris nestled in its streets.
Final Words
When you travel beyond the popular places, you have more authentic, fulfilling, and soulful encounters. Whether it’s about hiking alpine trails alone or stumbling upon tiny locals laughing with the kids, your soul will be uplifted like nothing else. So, take a deep look at the map of Europe and set off to visit these offbeat travel destinations in Europe soon.
Also Checkout – 7 Tips for Budget Travel in Europe