Most people think of Barcelona, Paris, or London when they think of Europe, but there are hundreds of great vacation spots throughout the European continent that people don’t know exist. If you’re looking to try something different on your next trip to Europe, check out these five great European vacation spots that most people don’t know about yet. You’ll be happy you did.
Gozo, Malta
Malta is a small Mediterranean island nation located in the Mediterranean Sea and is home to some of Europe’s most stunning beaches. Gozo is Malta’s sister island and has a special charm all its own, with the rugged terrain of its hillsides, caves, and historic buildings dotting the coastline. One of Malta’s best-known landmarks is Mdina, which was founded as a Roman fort and served as Malta’s capital during medieval times. The old town of Rabat is another UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers visitors an insight into the lives of locals centuries ago. If you’re looking for one last adventure before flying out, take a ferry from Valletta to Comino Island.
Zakopane, Poland
Zakopane is the largest mountain resort in Poland and an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The town is filled with world-class ski slopes, alpine skiing courses, cable cars, and snow parks. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to enjoy a warm drink or fresh pastry after a day spent on the mountain. In the summertime, hikers can explore the area’s picturesque valleys. The best way to get around is by hiking up one side of the valley and down the other side, often rewarded by stunning views. For those who want a more relaxing holiday without all the hustle and bustle that usually comes with city life, Zakopane is the perfect escape.
Utila, Honduras
Utila is a small, beautiful island off the coast of Honduras. It’s one of the cheapest places to visit in all of Central America, and it boasts an active culture with lots of fun things to do on land and in water. There are some great beaches, as well as amazing dive sites for those who are looking to get up close and personal with sea life. Van rental in Europe will make getting around easier so you can explore without much hassle.
Großglockner, Austria
The Großglockner is the tallest mountain in Austria and the tallest in Europe. Standing at 3,798 meters high, it is one of the most iconic mountains in all of Europe. The Großglockner, or the Grossglockner as it’s known locally, has a long history with mountaineers and hikers looking to make their way to its peak.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Bratislava is a lesser-known Eastern European city with plenty of well-preserved architecture and natural landscapes. The city is also home to the Slovak National Theatre, numerous theatres, museums, and galleries. In addition to its cultural offerings, Bratislava offers visitors plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking in the mountains or biking along the Danube River.
It can be easy to fall into the trap of visiting tried and tested destinations because you see gorgeous pictures on social media, but it is definitely worth it to do a little bit of extra research and exploring to find hidden gems like the above because research has shown that going off the beaten path is a much more fulfilling experience. Commercialized or mainstream tours have a way of cheapening the experience and making it lackluster. So, the next time you’re itching to travel, look for places that truly speak to you in order to make the most out of your holiday.
