Planning a European holiday often means looking at the same few cities. Paris, Rome, and London are brilliant. They also happen to be crowded, expensive, and sometimes a bit overwhelming. If you want a trip that feels a bit more special, you might want to look past the usual tourist hotspots.
Europe is full of incredible places that fly right under the radar. These smaller towns and quieter cities offer amazing food, deep history, and beautiful sights. You can enjoy a quiet coffee in a local square without elbowing past big tour groups. You also get to keep a bit more money in your pocket.
We have put together a list of five wonderful European destinations that offer a perfect getaway. These spots are safe, easy to navigate, and full of charm. Before you go, make sure you review our safety tips for solo travellers to ensure your trip goes smoothly from start to finish.
Plovdiv, Bulgaria: A Walk Through Ancient History
When people think of ancient European cities, they usually think of Athens or Rome. Plovdiv is actually one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It has over 8,000 years of history built right into its streets.
Things to see in Plovdiv
The most famous site in Plovdiv is the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. The Romans built it in the first century. Today, you can still sit on the stone steps and watch live shows. The old town area features winding cobbled streets and colourful 19th-century houses. It is a fantastic place to spend an afternoon getting wonderfully lost.
What makes it special
Plovdiv is incredibly affordable. You can enjoy a massive meal of fresh local salads and grilled meats for the price of a small sandwich in London. The city also has a lovely arts area called Kapana. The name translates to “The Trap” because the streets are so confusing. It is full of little cafes, craft beer pubs, and street art.
Matera, Italy: The City of Stone
Italy has endless famous cities, but Matera is something completely different. Located in the southern Basilicata region, Matera is famous for its “Sassi”. These are ancient cave dwellings carved directly into the rocky hillsides.
Exploring the Sassi
For a long time, Matera was very poor. Today, it is a protected UNESCO World Heritage site. The old caves have been turned into stunning boutique hotels, restaurants, and art galleries. Walking through Matera feels like stepping onto a film set. The streets go up and down the hills, offering spectacular views of the valley below.
Local food to try
The food here is simple but incredibly tasty. You must try the local bread. It is famous all over Italy for its thick crust and soft middle. Pair it with some local olive oil, fresh tomatoes, and a glass of regional wine. If you plan to visit Italy or anywhere else in Europe, having a solid packing plan is essential. You can read up on essential gear in our guide on things to pack for a trip.
Ghent, Belgium: A Quieter Alternative to Bruges
Bruges is stunning, but it gets incredibly busy. Ghent sits right between Brussels and Bruges, offering the same gorgeous canals and medieval buildings with a fraction of the crowds.
Top sights in Ghent
The Gravensteen is a massive stone castle sitting right in the middle of the city. It comes complete with a moat and a very slightly creepy torture museum. You should also take a walk along the Graslei and Korenlei. These two streets sit on opposite sides of the main canal. The buildings here date back to the Middle Ages and look beautiful lit up at night.
Getting around
Ghent has one of the largest pedestrian areas in Europe. You do not have to worry about dodging cars while you admire the sights. You can easily rent a bicycle or take a quiet boat tour down the canals. It is the perfect city for adults who just want to relax, drink some famous Belgian beer, and eat far too many waffles.
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina: A Bridge Between Cultures
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country with a complex past and a very bright future. Mostar is a small city that perfectly captures the beauty of the Balkan region.
The story of the Stari Most
The absolute highlight of Mostar is the Stari Most. This is a beautiful stone bridge that arches over the turquoise Neretva river. It was originally built in the 16th century. It was destroyed in the 1990s but has since been carefully rebuilt. You might even see members of the local diving club jumping from the top of the bridge into the freezing water below. It is a terrifying and thrilling tradition.
What to do nearby
The old bazaar surrounds the bridge on both sides. You can find tiny shops selling copper coffee sets, colourful lamps, and handmade rugs. The coffee culture here is very strong. Sit down at a riverside cafe and order a traditional Bosnian coffee. It is strong, sweet, and perfect for sipping slowly while you watch the river flow by.
Rovinj, Croatia: Coastal Charm Without the Crowds
Dubrovnik and Split get most of the attention in Croatia. If you want a more relaxing seaside holiday, look towards Rovinj on the Istrian peninsula.
Wandering the old town
Rovinj is an old fishing port that feels a lot like Italy. The houses are painted in bright pastel colours. The old town sits on a small hill that juts out into the Adriatic Sea. At the very top of the hill, you will find the Church of St. Euphemia. The bell tower offers amazing views over the red roofs and out to the ocean.
Seafood and sunsets
Because it is a fishing town, the seafood in Rovinj is spectacular. You can sit at a restaurant right on the water and eat fish that was caught that same morning. Make sure you find a spot facing west in the evening. The sunsets in Rovinj are legendary, turning the sky incredible shades of pink and orange.
Frequently Asked Questions About European Travel
What is the best time of year to visit these hidden gems?
The shoulder seasons are usually the best choice. May, June, September, and October offer lovely weather. The summer months can get very hot, especially in places like Italy and Bulgaria. Travelling outside of July and August also keeps your costs down.
Do I need to speak the local language?
English is widely spoken in most European tourist areas. You will easily get by speaking English in hotels and restaurants. However, learning a simple “hello” and “thank you” in the local language is always a good idea. The locals really appreciate the effort.
Are these destinations safe for older adults and solo travellers?
Yes. These cities are generally very safe with low crime rates. You should always use basic common sense, like keeping an eye on your bags in busy markets. The smaller crowds in these towns actually make them much less stressful than major capital cities.
Your Next Great Adventure Awaits
Europe has so much more to offer than just the famous capitals. Exploring smaller cities like Plovdiv, Matera, or Mostar gives you a deeper look at different cultures. You get better food, friendlier faces, and a much more relaxing holiday.
Next time you sit down to plan a trip, skip the usual spots. Pick a place you know very little about. Book a small local hotel, pack your most comfortable walking shoes, and go see something new. You might just find your new favourite place in the world.