Everybody knows about Paris and London, but how many of us have overlooked some of the most gorgeous cities throughout Europe? Europe is a huge continent with tons of countries, so it would only make sense for there to be some hidden gems within. If you’ve been on the lookout for the perfect summertime getaway, then look no further than this list. Here you’ll find the top 20 lesser known cities in Europe that you’ll absolutely fall in love with.
Prague, Czech Republic
Filled with gorgeous architecture from the romanesque, gothic, and baroque periods, Prague is a gorgeous tourist destination. Scope out the beautiful castles, grab a beer, and prepare to be blown away by the beauty of this ancient city. If you happen to be a dance music fan, Prague music clubs are world-renowned.
Vienna, Austria
Do you love the idea of strolling through cobblestone lanes all while sightseeing around castles in a city filled with history and tradition? Then you’ll absolutely fall in love with Vienna. Vienna is known as the city of music and you’ll find that there are endless venues where you can catch a performance. Before a musical number you can always walk into a homey pub and grab a glass of wine or explore some of the historic museums.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Are you a festival lover? Then Edinburgh is the summer destination for you. There is always some sort of festival or celebration going on in this masterpiece of a city. A main attraction is the Edinburgh castle and the out of this world view from Calton Hill.
Munich, Germany
Munich has begun to attract a huge crowd of people during the summer months. This may be due to the small-town feel of the city and the ability to easily walk from place to place. Filled with beautiful art galleries and museums, Munich is an unexpected travel destination that will leave you with great memories.
Salzburg, Austria
Right at the border of Germany, Salzburg is the homeland of Mozart and where shots of “The Sound of Music” were filmed. If you love open scenic views then you’ll love traveling throughout the city of Salzburg. Mountains, cliffs and beautiful dome shaped homes will all captivate your gaze.
Bruges, Belgium
If you didn’t already know, Bruges happens to be one of the most visited Medieval cities in the world and for good reason. The city is filled with canals and bridges that make it easy to travel by foot or on a bike. The city is known for its beautiful cathedrals and its amazing beer and chocolate.
Hamburg, Germany
At Hamburg’s core you’ll find a huge lake that is filled with boats and cafes, all waiting for visitors to come by. Despite all of the water, Hamburg is also home to tons of parkland, making it a great destination for those that are looking to explore. Don’t miss out on the local fish market and the surprisingly famous Reeperbahn, or red light district.
Bern, Switzerland
As the capital of Switzerland, Bern is a historic city with a wide variety of attractions and sights to see. Visitors will fall in love with the medieval towns and neighborhoods that serve as a true treasure to the city. Political junkies will love the fact that the Houses of Parliament are located right above the city and are open to visitors.
Saint Petersburg, Russia
Saint Petersburg is a great city to visit if you’re looking to be immersed in a variety of cultural traditions. From the Mariinsky Theatre where you can catch a ballet or opera performance to the State Russian Museum where you can see Kandinsky’s work, you’ll find tons of beauty in this Russian city.
Lisbon, Portugal
Are you in the mood to tan and hang out by the beach? Then Lisbon may just be the destination for you. The city has a variety of beautiful beaches all along the Atlantic. Inside the city you’ll find pastel colored roofs and tons of places to get beautiful heightened views.
Zürich, Switzerland
If you’re looking for a spot that most tourists don’t head out to, then Zurich is your place. Most of what you’ll see in Zurich is regular Swiss people living their everyday lives. Within the city you’ll find an array of hidden alleyways to explore and a ton of farm country to bike through.
Seville, Spain
Are you looking to partake in some flamenco dancing? How about visiting the tomb of Christopher Columbus at the Gothic Seville Cathedral? You can do all of that and more in Seville. The city is filled with gorgeous beaches, castle complexes, and amazing food.
Monaco, French Riviera
For adventurers looking to gamble amongst high-scale hotels and go yachting at the beach, Monaco is the ideal destination.
Helsinki, Finland
During the summertime the city of Helsinki is flooded with street performers all engaging the public in fun and free activities. Outside of that, the market square offers authentic Finnish dishes and an opportunity to purchase souvenirs to remember Helsinki forever!
Reykjavik, Iceland
Summer in Reykjavik is unlike summer anywhere else as the daylight stays for a full 24 hours. During the summer solstice, tourists can enjoy whale watching, fishing, and even traveling by horseback throughout different destinations.
Oslo, Norway
Are you super into water activities and sports? Then you’ll love Oslo in the summer. Have fun by jumping into a refreshing lake or go island hopping through the use of the public ferry.
Budapest, Hungary
A summer vacation in Budapest must include bathing in the famous open-air pools, taking a cruise on the Danube, and enjoying the city’s nightlife on a boat party.
Strasbourg, France
In Strasbourg you’ll find historic sites like the Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame and a beautiful mix of German and French architecture. One of the most beautiful sites in the city is La Petite France that features rustic homes and canals.
Bergen, Norway
In Bergen, Norway you can take a beautiful trip through the Bryggen with old wharf and traditional houses or head to the Fløyen Mountain where you can hike up to see some breathtaking panoramic views.