While there are many famous European cities that should be on every traveller’s radar, there are also lots of underrated European cities that don’t get nearly enough credit. In fact, some of these under-the-radar destinations are just as beautiful and exciting as their more popular counterparts, but with lower prices and less crowds to boot. Especially in a continent that is so easy to travel, since you can take a van rental in Europe and basically go on a whole Euro-trip, it’s quite a waste to not see more of the underrated sceneries it has to offer. From a small city in the English countryside to an island paradise off the coast of Scotland, here are seven underrated European cities you need to visit before it’s too late.
7 Underrated European Cities You Need to Visit
1) Prague, Czech Republic Though Prague is a popular tourist destination, it often gets overshadowed by its more famous neighbours. But this city has so much to offer. From its stunning architecture to its rich history, there's something for everyone in Prague. Plus, it's incredibly affordable, making it the perfect place to visit on a budget.
2) Bratislava, Slovakia If you’re looking for a city that has everything – great food, history, culture, and nightlife – but without the crowds and high prices of Western Europe, look no further than Bratislava. The capital of Slovakia is often overlooked by tourists, but it has so much to offer. From its stunning Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to its delicious food (try the Slovak national dish, bryndza), there’s something for everyone in Bratislava. It is also incredibly affordable, you can easily get by on less than $50 a day.
3) Maribor, Slovenia Tucked away in northeastern Slovenia, Maribor is the country’s second-largest city and its wine capital. The city is home to the world’s oldest vine, which dates back to the early 18th century. If you’re a fan of red wine, be sure to try a glass of Maribor’s signature variety, modra frankinja. In addition to its vino, Maribor is also known for its lively student population (it’s home to Slovenia’s oldest university) and vibrant nightlife.
4) Zagreb, Croatia With a population of just over a million people, Zagreb is the capital and largest city of Croatia. The city has a long history, dating back to the 11th century when it was founded by two Croatian dukes. Today, Zagreb is known for its culture and cuisine. The city is home to several museums, art galleries, and theatres, as well as a number of restaurants serving traditional Croatian dishes. If you're looking for a relaxed European city to explore, add Zagreb to your list.
5) Toulouse, France Toulouse is a beautiful, historic city located in the south of France. Although it's the fourth largest city in the country, it's often overlooked by tourists in favour of Paris or the French Riviera. Truly, even if it's not as well-known as some other French cities, it's definitely worth a visit. Toulouse is known for its charming old town, excellent food, and vibrant nightlife. If you're looking for a city that has it all, Toulouse is the perfect place for you. There are plenty of festivals and cultural events happening throughout the year so there's always something new to do. Whether you want to explore one of the many museums or try your hand at cooking local cuisine at a cooking school, Toulouse offers endless opportunities for adventure.