Secret destinations, far from the crowds, Out of the Beaten Path Places, discover the hidden gems of Europe.

Europe is a continent rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, yet many of its most enchanting locales remain off the beaten path.

For travelers seeking unique experiences away from the typical tourist trails, these hidden gems offer authentic adventures and unforgettable memories.

From the colorful streets of Bosa in Italy to the serene hot springs of Saturnia, the picturesque village of Nesso on Lake Como, the tranquil island of Halki in Greece, the medieval charm of Albarracín in Spain, the unspoiled beauty of Corvo Island in the Azores, the coastal allure of Tenby in Wales, the historic town of Blagaj in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the medieval village of Rupit in Spain, and the dramatic landscapes of Vik in Iceland—each destination provides a distinctive glimpse into Europe's best-kept secrets.

Embark on a journey to these lesser-known locales and discover the diverse and captivating experiences that await beyond Europe's well-trodden paths.

Book your flights, accommodation, activities and tours at the best price, ready to pack for the best hidden gems in Europe.

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Secret Destinations in Spain, the Most Amazing Hidden Gems in Italy, The Best Kept Secret Destinations in Greece, the Most Beautiful Hidden Gems in Portugal, The Best Kept Secret Destination in France! 

1. Bosa

Italy

Nestled along the Temo River, Bosa is one of the Best Hidden Gems in Europe. It is renowned for its colorful houses and the medieval Malaspina Castle.

Stroll through the historic center, explore the castle, and relax on the nearby Bosa Marina beach.

Local Cuisine: Savor traditional Sardinian dishes like "porceddu" (roast suckling pig) and "seadas" (cheese-filled pastries drizzled with honey). Don't miss tasting the local Malvasia di Bosa wine.

During your stay do not miss to discover the Most Beautiful Beaches in Italy! 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO). From there, Bosa is approximately a 1-hour drive (55 km) via SP49 and SP105.

 Where to stay: For a luxurious stay, consider the "Palazzo Sa Pischedda," a historic hotel offering elegant rooms and panoramic views.

2. Nesso

Italy

Located on Lake Como, Nesso is famous for its natural gorge and waterfall, the "Orrido di Nesso."

The ancient Roman bridge, Ponte della Civera, offers picturesque views.

Local Cuisine: Enjoy lake fish specialties such as "missoltini" (sun-dried shad) and "risotto al pesce persico" (risotto with perch).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP). Nesso is about a 1.5-hour drive (75 km) via the A9 and SP583 roads.

 Where to stay: "Hotel Tre Rose" provides comfortable rooms with lake views and is highly rated by guests.

During your stay do not miss to visit the Most Amazing Castles in Italy and Best Kept Secret Destinations in Italy! 

3. Corvo Island

Azores

The smallest of the Azores islands, Corvo boasts the stunning Caldeirão, a large volcanic crater with lakes and islets.

The island's only village, Vila do Corvo, offers a glimpse into traditional Azorean life. This year discover one of the most amazing hidden gems in Europe, visit Corvo!

Local Cuisine: Try "caldo de peixe" (fish soup) and "biscoitos de orelha" (traditional biscuits).

 How to get there: Book your flights to João Paulo II Airport (PDL) in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel Island. From there, take a regional flight to Corvo Airport (CVU). The island is small, and most attractions are accessible on foot or by local transport.

 Where to stay:  "Guest House Comodoro" offers comfortable accommodations with excellent reviews.

Need inspiration? Discover the Best Hidden Gems in Portugal as well as the Best Beaches in Portugal! 

4. Albaraccin

Spain

Often cited as one of Spain's most beautiful villages, Albarracín features narrow, winding streets, pink-hued buildings, and ancient city walls.

During your stay in one of Europe's Best Hidden Gems make sure to visit the Cathedral of El Salvador and the Alcázar fortress.

Local Cuisine: Delight in "ternasco" (roast lamb) and "migas" (fried breadcrumbs with chorizo and garlic).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD). Albarracín is approximately a 3-hour drive (280 km) via the A-2 and A-23 highways.

 Where to stay: "Hotel Albarracín" offers charming rooms in a historic building with high guest ratings.

During your stay discover the best hidden gems in Spain, Best Castles in Spain as well as the Most beautiful beaches in Spain and Best things to do in Spain.

5. Blagaj on Buna

Bosnia-Herzegovina

Blagaj is home to one of the Best Kept Secret Places in Europe: the Blagaj Tekija, a Dervish monastery built into a cliff beside the source of the Buna River.

The serene setting is perfect for reflection and photography.

Local Cuisine: Enjoy "čevapi" (grilled minced meat) and "burek" (meat-filled pastry).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ). Blagaj is about a 2-hour drive (130 km) via the M17 highway.

 Where to stay:  "Hotel Blagaj" provides modern amenities and is highly rated by visitors.

6. Rupit

Spain

Rupit is a charming medieval village in Catalonia and one of the Best Hidden Gems in Europe. 

It is characterized by its cobblestone streets, stone houses, and the iconic hanging wooden bridge over the Rupit River.

Explore the Church of Sant Miquel, dating back to the 12th century, and hike to the nearby Salt de Sallent waterfall for breathtaking views.

Local Cuisine: Savor traditional Catalan dishes such as "escudella" (meat and vegetable stew) and "butifarra" (Catalan sausage).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN). Rupit is approximately a 1.5-hour drive (100 km) via the C-17 and C-153 roads.

 Where to stay: "Hostal Estrella" offers comfortable rooms in a historic building with high guest ratings.

7. Halki

Greece

Halki is a small island in the Dodecanese, one of the Best Dreamy Hidden Gems in Europe known for its crystal-clear waters and neoclassical architecture.

Visit the Church of Agios Nikolaos with its impressive bell tower, and relax on the tranquil Kania Beach.

Local Cuisine: Enjoy fresh seafood dishes like grilled octopus and "astakomakaronada" (lobster with pasta).

During your stay do not miss to discover the Most Beautiful Islands in Greece! 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Rhodes International Airport (RHO). From there, take a ferry from Kamiros Skala port to Halki, which takes about 1 hour.

 Where to stay: "Halki Sea House" provides modern amenities with stunning sea views and excellent reviews.

8. Tenby

Wales - UK

Tenby is a picturesque seaside town known for its medieval town walls, pastel-colored houses, and beautiful beaches.

Discover one of the Best Secret Destinations in Europe and explore the Tudor Merchant's House, stroll along Castle Beach, and take a boat trip to Caldey Island.

Local Cuisine: Try Welsh specialties like "cawl" (lamb stew) and "bara brith" (fruit loaf).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Cardiff Airport (CWL). Tenby is approximately a 2-hour drive (150 km) via the M4 and A48 roads.

 Where to stay: "The Esplanade" offers luxurious rooms with sea views and high guest ratings.

During your stay do not miss to visit the Most Beautiful Beaches in England and Best Castles in England! 

9. Saturnia

Italy

Saturnia is one of the Best Hidden Gems in Italy. It is famous for its natural hot springs, particularly the Cascate del Mulino, where thermal waters cascade over limestone terraces.

During your stay in one of the Best Kept Secret Destinations in Europe visit the medieval town center and the nearby archaeological sites.

Local Cuisine: Enjoy Tuscan dishes like "pici" (thick hand-rolled pasta) and "acquacotta" (vegetable soup).

 How to get there:  Book your flights to Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO). Saturnia is approximately a 2-hour drive (150 km) via the A12 and SS1 roads.

 Where to stay: "Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf Resort" offers luxurious accommodations with access to the thermal springs and excellent reviews.

During your stay make sure to discover the Best Destinations to Visit in Italy!

10. Vik

Iceland

Vik is a small village on Iceland's south coast, known for its black sand beaches, particularly Reynisfjara, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

Visit the Vik i Myrdal Church perched on a hill, and explore the nearby Dyrhólaey promontory for panoramic views.

Local Cuisine: Try Icelandic specialties like "plokkfiskur" (fish stew) and "skyr" (dairy product).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Keflavik International Airport (KEF). Vik is approximately a 2.5-hour drive (180 km) via Route 1.

 Where to stay:  "Hotel Kría" offers modern rooms with mountain or sea views and high guest ratings.