Europe is filled with grand, famous cities like Paris, Rome, and London. They’re the ones we see in movies and on countless travel blogs. But hidden among the famous capitals are dozens of smaller towns and cities that most travelers have never heard of. If you’re itching for something different—places not swarming with tourists, but still packed with history, charm, and delicious local food—then read on. Below are six of Europe’s most overlooked destinations. They might not be on your radar yet, but they should be.
1. Gjirokastër, Albania
Tucked away in southern Albania, Gjirokastër is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that you’ll almost feel like you have to yourself. Many visitors skip Albania entirely when planning their European adventures, but that’s exactly why you should go. Gjirokastër is known as the “City of Stone” because of its unique Ottoman-era architecture—each house has a distinctive slate roof, giving the town a look like nowhere else in Europe.
Strolling through the hilly cobblestone streets is a treat in itself. You’ll see whitewashed stone houses with grand wooden balconies. Some of these homes have been turned into small museums, showcasing everything from antique furniture to local textiles. At the top of the town is Gjirokastër Castle, which offers incredible views of the surrounding Drino Valley. From up there, you can truly appreciate the layers of history that shaped this place—from its days as an Ottoman stronghold to its more recent role in Albania’s turbulent 20th century.
If you’re a fan of local cuisine, you’re in luck. Albanian food is hearty and homey, with influences from both the Mediterranean and the Balkans. Be sure to try byrek, a savory pie filled with spinach and feta-like cheese. People here are warm and welcoming, so strike up a conversation in a café or while sampling raki (a potent local spirit). It won’t take long for you to feel like you’ve uncovered one of Europe’s true hidden gems.
2. Guimarães, Portugal
Portugal has seen a huge tourism boom in recent years, mainly in cities like Lisbon and Porto. Guimarães, though, often gets overlooked—and that’s a shame because it holds a special place in Portuguese history. Often called the “birthplace of Portugal,” Guimarães was where the country’s first king, Afonso Henriques, was born. The entire city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which tells you just how culturally significant it is.
Guimarães feels like a town out of a fairy tale. Picture narrow medieval streets lined with ancient stone walls, quaint squares with outdoor cafés, and a castle that dates back to the 10th century. One of the highlights is the Castle of Guimarães, which looms over the old quarter. It’s free to wander around the outer walls, and if you climb the tower, you can see panoramic views of the entire city. Right next door is the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, another historical must-see full of grand banquet halls and medieval artifacts.
Despite its ancient roots, Guimarães also has a modern side. There’s a lively university scene that brings a youthful energy to the town. That means you’ll find trendy bars, coffee shops, and restaurants tucked away behind centuries-old facades. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a relaxed destination that feels truly Portuguese, Guimarães won’t disappoint.
3. Visby, Sweden
When thinking of Sweden, most people picture Stockholm, with its canals and brightly painted buildings. But if you want to see something out of a storybook, take a ferry or a short flight to the island of Gotland and explore Visby. This medieval town is like stepping into another era—there’s a stone wall circling the entire city center, and inside you’ll find narrow lanes lined with rose-covered cottages.
Visby’s medieval city wall, known as Ringmuren, is incredibly well-preserved, dating back to the 13th century. Walking around or along the wall, you’ll get beautiful views of the Baltic Sea on one side and the orange rooftops of Visby on the other. The town is dotted with ruined churches that add a touch of romantic mystery. Some of these structures date back hundreds of years, and it’s not uncommon to see people having a picnic or taking wedding photos among the stone arches.
One of the best times to visit is during Medieval Week in August, when the town is filled with people in period costumes, jousting tournaments, and medieval markets. Even if you come in the off-season, Visby’s charm is impossible to miss. Make sure to try some local specialties like saffranspannkaka (a saffron pancake with berries) and the fresh seafood that Gotland is known for. If you’re looking for a fairytale escape that most tourists never see, Visby should definitely make your list.
4. Kotor, Montenegro
Montenegro is still a bit under the radar, though it’s been getting more attention in recent years. Kotor, in particular, is one of those places that feels almost too picturesque to be real. Tucked between towering mountains and a fjord-like bay, it’s a small town with a lot to offer—medieval fortifications, winding streets, and an Old Town that’s a maze of historic churches, squares, and Venetian-influenced architecture.
Kotor’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (you might be noticing a pattern: these off-the-beaten-path towns often have serious historical significance). One of the best things to do is simply wander around, getting lost in the narrow alleys and popping into little cafés for a quick espresso or a local pastry. But if you want a bit of a workout and some epic views, hike up to the Castle of San Giovanni. The steep trail has around 1,350 steps, but every single step is worth it. From the top, you’ll see the entire Bay of Kotor spread out below you, framed by rugged mountains.
Because of its location, Kotor makes a great base for exploring the rest of Montenegro’s coastline. You can easily catch a bus or rent a car to visit places like Budva or Sveti Stefan. But truth be told, Kotor itself might be all you need for a relaxing, scenic getaway that still feels like something special and undiscovered.
5. Nafplio, Greece
Greece has countless islands that tourists flock to every summer. But if you want something a little different, head to Nafplio, a small town in the Peloponnese region on the mainland. Once upon a time, Nafplio was actually the first capital of modern Greece, and it’s easy to see why. The place is stunning. It’s built on a peninsula, with crystal-clear water on almost every side, and it’s overlooked by not one but two fortresses.
One fortress, Palamidi, sits high above the town and can be reached by climbing 999 steps—though some locals insist the number might be a bit off. Either way, it’s a good workout with incredible views of Nafplio’s terracotta rooftops and the endless blue of the Aegean Sea. The second fortress, Akronafplia, is more integrated into the old part of town. Between the two, you get a sense of the layered history here—Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences are all visible in the architecture.
Back in the old quarter, you’ll find narrow, paved streets lined with neoclassical buildings, boutique shops, and traditional tavernas. Nafplio is also a great launching pad for exploring some of Greece’s most famous ancient sites, like Epidaurus and Mycenae. Whether you’re into history, beach time, or simply soaking up Greek culture, Nafplio is a lesser-known destination that deserves more attention.
6. Ronda, Spain
When people think of Spain, they often picture Barcelona’s Gaudí architecture or the sun-soaked beaches of the Costa del Sol. But Ronda, set high in the mountains of Andalusia, offers a completely different Spanish experience. The town is split in two by a dramatic gorge, El Tajo, which is spanned by the iconic Puente Nuevo (New Bridge). Standing on this bridge and looking down into the deep ravine is not for the faint of heart, but it’s one of the most memorable views you’ll find in Spain.
Ronda’s history is as dramatic as its landscape. It was once an important fortress town, and you can still see remnants of its Moorish heritage in the old city walls and Arab baths. The bullring in Ronda is also famous, considered one of the oldest and most historically significant in Spain. Even if bullfighting isn’t your thing, the arena is worth a visit to understand a slice of Spanish tradition and culture. If you wander the narrow streets of the old town, you’ll find small shops selling local wines, cheeses, and handicrafts. Grab a table at a restaurant overlooking the gorge to watch the sun set over the rolling hills. It’s the kind of place where you’ll wonder why everyone else is missing out.
Final Thoughts
Choosing which European towns to visit can be tough when there are so many famous places calling your name. But sometimes, the most rewarding experiences come from the quieter corners—the places that don’t make the “Top 10” lists or get flooded with cruise ships. These six towns—Gjirokastër, Guimarães, Visby, Kotor, Nafplio, and Ronda—are perfect examples of how much diversity Europe really has to offer beyond the capitals and major cities.
Each of these destinations boasts a unique history, whether it’s the Ottoman influence in Gjirokastër, the medieval walls of Visby, or the Venetian footprints left in Nafplio. They’ve got breathtaking views, from Kotor’s bay to Ronda’s jaw-dropping gorge. They’re also fantastic places to sample regional cuisines. And maybe best of all, they give you a chance to explore at your own pace without the rush that comes from overcrowded tourist spots.
So, the next time you’re planning a European trip, consider skipping the usual suspects—just for a little while—and checking out these lesser-known towns instead. You might come back with stories that none of your friends have heard before, and memories of a Europe that’s still refreshingly authentic and undiscovered.
