A European vacation is a great opportunity to see exciting cities and famous museums. Every year, millions of tourists travel to Europe to take in the sights in cities such as Barcelona, Paris, Milan, London, and Rome. The average traveler knows all about the main tourist attractions, but what about those underrated gems that everyone should have the opportunity to see?
Although the top attractions are always worth a look, Europe is so much more than just Buckingham Palace and the Eiffel Tower. Have a unique vacation by visiting destinations that aren’t known tourist traps. Here are five of the most underrated destinations in Europe that everyone should know about. So, go ahead and book some cheap car rentals and get going to these less popular but intriguing destinations.
Avebury, England
Everyone has heard of Stonehenge. Well, just twenty miles north of that historic and iconic site is Avebury, England.
- Avebury, England….Tim / Foter / CC BY-NC-ND
Avebury is home to one of the largest, and most interesting Neolithic monuments in all of Europe. Similar to Stonehenge, this monument is comprised of several concentric stone circles set within and around a medieval village. The on-site museum offers a glimpse into the past. So, why fight the crowds at Stonehenge when just up the road, there is a much larger and much less crowded megalithic monument?
San Sebastian, Spain
To know San Sebastian is to love it. The sophisticated city, situated in Northern Spain’s Basque region, is alluring with its old-world charm, scenic bay and cobblestone streets.
- San Sebastian, Spaincincinnato / Foter / CC BY-NC-SA
Arched around La Concha, one of the finest urban beaches in Europe, San Sebastian beckons visitors to enjoy themselves. Spend the days lazing about on the beaches, soaking up the sun, swimming and surfing. Enjoy evenings strolling along the historic streets, snacking on authentic tapas and fine wines at any of the many sidewalk cafes.
Bruges, Belgium
Although Bruges is not on any list of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, it probably should be! The medieval city has been well preserved over the years and boasts some of the most beautiful and interesting architecture in Belgium.
- Bruges, BelgiumWolfgang Staudt / Foter / CC BY
Culture, architecture and art abound in Bruges. Visitors should rent a bicycle, ride along the canals and stop for a snack of Belgian chocolate. Don’t miss Market Square and the Choco-Story Museum. Bruges is a picture-perfect city that everyone should experience.
Kutna Hora, Czech Republic
Located just an hour from Prague, Kutna Hora is one of the most underrated destinations in the Czech Republic. Though many people simply take in Kutna Hora as a daytrip and spend most of their time in the country’s capital, it deserves much more.
- Kutna Hora, Czech RepublicCurious Expeditions / Foter / CC BY-NC-SA
A laid back city, Kutna Hora allows for delightful strolls through the various squares, stops in quirky attractions and relaxing days down by the river. Visitors should not miss the Sedlec Ossuary, a chapel made entirely of the skulls and bones of monks. Another odd but interesting attraction is the Alchemy Museum.
Compiegne, France
While everyone else is visiting Paris and Versailles, tourists hoping for a unique vacation should spend some time in Compiegne, France.
- Compiegne, FranceJean Lemoine / Foter / CC BY-NC-SA
Just an hour outside of Paris, Compiegne is a historic city that has a lot to offer, especially to the history buff. In 1430, Joan of Arc was captured here, and there are two statues devoted to her plight. Just northeast of the town center, visitors can view the site of the armistice signing that ended World War I. The city is also home to several beautiful parks and plenty of cafes serving delicious local fare and wine.
