Cities in Europe: 20 underrated cities you should visit is written by Stefan Slothuus
Underrated cities in Europe
It can be difficult to plan your next trip to a beautiful, exciting and charming city in Europe. Because there are so many good ones to choose from. That's why we here at the editorial office are bidding on cities that will certainly not disappoint.
In this guide to cities in Europe, we have disregarded the well-known big cities such as Paris, London, Berlin og Madrid. Of course, they are all worth a visit in their own way, but there are so many others to choose from, so instead we focus on the medium-sized cities that may be a little more unknown, but have a lot to offer.
We start by being inspired by more than a hundred thousand readers of the American magazine Condé Nast Traveler, ranking their three favorites.
Next, here at the editorial office, we will give our take on three other European cities that should be added must seethe list.
At the end of the article you will find a long list of underrated cities in Europe that are definitely worth a visit as well.
Basel - The cultural stronghold of Switzerland
The Swiss city is right where France, Germany og Switzerland meet.
Therefore, it is perhaps best known as a stopover between these countries when you are on the move. It's a shame though, as the city has a lot to offer in itself.
Basel is the country's cultural stronghold with its many museums and theaters. And then it is a joy to move around in the charming cobbled alleys, where the Rhine idyllically winds through the city.
Basel is one of the cities in Europe that you naturally pass by on a Tour De Europa, so remember to set some time aside for it.
Lucerne - Swiss aesthetics and magnificent mountains
We stay in the Swiss idyll and move into the middle of the country where Lucerne is located.
Lucerne is somewhat smaller than Basel, but is almost the image of the classic Swiss aesthetic. The architecture is distinctive with its colorful style that mixes the historic and modern.
It is also seen by Europe's oldest covered bridge, the Kapellbrücke. Here you can cross Lake Lucerne and the mouth of the river Reuss, which is the link between the old and new district.
The city is also located at the foot of the mighty Alps, which can be seen from there. Therefore, it is also a popular starting point for expeditions in the mountains.
Salzburg - Home of Mozart
We are still in the German-speaking part of Europe, where Salzburg is indispensable. Here at the editorial office, we are also enthusiastic about Austria, which is a magnet for Danish ski enthusiasts. But Austria is definitely worth a visit in the sunnier months of the year, which is why Salzburg is in our city guide.
The city is home to Mozart and the immortal Oscar-winning musical Sound of Music. Therefore, it is also a popular destination for musical and cultural connoisseurs. In addition, the city is surrounded by beautiful nature and sights that are worth all the money.
Not far from Salzburg you will find St Johann in Salzburg, which with its beautiful nature and landscape is also worth a visit.
Cities in Europe - The editorial staff recommends
The other favorites on their city guide are German Cologne, Italian Florence og Venice, Portuguese Harbour, Scottish Edinburgh, Swedish Stockholm and Spanish Sevilla.
Below are our suggestions for overlooked destinations.
Vilnius - A capital full of history
Our first contribution is Lithuania capital, Vilnius.
Vilnius a really nice city with an exciting history. It is also particularly suitable if the wallet is not completely full, as the city generally has friendly prices – even in its otherwise surprisingly good restaurants.
Take a look back in time at the Genocide Museum in the former KGB headquarters, or stroll around the city's cozy alleys with its many churches and other historical monuments.
All in all, there are many fine cities in Europe that lie east of Denmark.
Aix-en-Provence - French charm and culture
We could not make this list without including a city from diverse France, which is a travel mecca for everyone. The choice fell on the Provencal city of Aix-en-Provence. The Romans loved the city in its time, and so do both locals and tourists now.
The whole atmosphere of the town oozes Provencal culture with its wine, olive oil, cheese, architecture and music. A definite contrast to the otherwise normal everyday life of stress and hustle. Therefore, it is an optimal destination if you need to get down to speed with good food and drink.
A clear recommendation from here when you are looking for interesting cities in Europe.
Ghent - One of the ancient cities of the Middle Ages in Europe
Belgium is generally an overlooked travel country, and there is certainly something to discover in the northern Flemish part of the country.
Here you will find Ghent, located between two perhaps more well-known travel destinations: Antwerp and Bruges. Ghent has a charming soul with architecture that bears witness to an old and historic city.
Where in the Middle Ages it was Europe's second largest city, today it is much more modern than that. The many young residents of the city's large university create a lively atmosphere. You can therefore find many hip shops, cocktail bars and pubs, where there is especially a wealth of good local Belgian beers.
If you approach the cozy old harbor in the city center, your mouth runs in the water of the countless waffle houses - surrounded by historical monuments and churches. So you get all the best from an otherwise divided nation.
More overlooked cities in Europe
In addition to the 6 cities mentioned, there are many other fine overlooked cities in Europe.
Some of the editors' own favorites are Tampere in Finland, Bergen i Norway, Freiburg in Germany, Gdansk in Poland, Graz in Austria, Beograd in Serbia and Czech Budejovice in the Czech Republic.
There is also Volos in Greece, Sligo in Ireland, Kaunas in Lithuania, and Scilla right down on the southernmost tip of the boot Italy or Trento right up at the Italian border in the north. Other overlooked cities in Europe are Ljubljana in Slovenia and Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
It is obvious to experience the cities on an extended weekend, a road trip, or on a train trip through Europe.
Have a good trip to the lesser known cities of Europe!
Here are the best overlooked cities in Europe:
- Basel
- Luzern
- Salzburg
- Vilnius
- Aix en Provence
- Ghent
Did you know: Here are the 7 cities in Europe with the most hours of sunshine
7: Nice in France – 342 hours/month
6: Valencia in Spain – 343 hours/month
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