Exploring Lesser-Known Cities Off the Tourist Radar

When it comes to exploring Europe, many travellers often flock to iconic cities and tourist hotspots. However, for those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences and greater value for their money, there are plenty of lesser-known destinations our there waiting to be discovered. So read ahead as we will take you on a journey to some of Europe’s lesser-known destinations, each offering a blend of affordability, cultural richness, and extraordinary experiences!

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Images by @shreyabond

Tucked away between Austria and Italy, Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is a fairytale-like city bursting with charm. The picturesque Old Town, adorned with Baroque buildings and crowned by a hilltop castle, offers a delightful setting for exploration. Take a boat ride along the peaceful Ljubljanica River, savor culinary delights at the bustling Central Market, or climb to the castle for panoramic views of the city. Indulge in the flavours of traditional Slovenian cuisine by dining at local restaurants and taverns. Sample dishes such as potica (rolled pastry with various fillings), štruklji (rolled dumplings), and kranjska klobasa (Carniolan sausage). Pair your meal with delicious local wines and finish with a taste of the famous Ljubljana cake! Ljubljana is also an ideal base for exploring the country’s stunning natural landscapes, including Lake Bled and Triglav National Park. Why not treat yourself to our mouth-watering 4-Night Taste of Slovenia Experience?

Porto, Portugal

Images by @feriaseva & @themodernleper

While Lisbon often steals the limelight, Porto remains a hidden gem worth exploring. This coastal city captures the essence of Portugal’s soul, with its narrow winding streets, stunning azulejo-covered buildings, and the iconic Douro River flowing through its heart. Known as the birthplace of Port wine, Porto offers affordable wine tastings, cellar tours, and picturesque vineyard landscapes. Explore the Ribeira district, visit the Livraria Lello bookstore (a source of inspiration for J.K. Rowling), and be enchanted by the city’s warm and welcoming atmosphere. For those looking to escape the city buzz head to the beautiful gardens of Palácio de Cristal to relax and unwind. This park offers lush greenery, stunning views of the Douro River, and charming pavilions. Take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the tranquil ambiance of this urban oasis. Absolute bliss!

Belgrade, Serbia

Images by @_smallthings_inlife_

For a unique blend of history, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage, look no further than Belgrade. This Serbian capital is often referred to as the “White City” due to its striking architecture and lively atmosphere. Stroll along the bustling streets of Knez Mihailova, visit the ancient Belgrade Fortress, or experience the city’s dynamic music and arts scene. Go beneath the surface and discover the hidden underground tunnels and spaces of Belgrade. Take a guided tour to explore the underground passages, bunkers, and caves that reveal the city’s rich history. Partygoers will be happy to hear that Belgrade has a vibrant nightlife scene, known for its energetic clubs, bars, and live music venues. Visit the famous floating clubs along the riverbanks, known as splavovi, where you can dance the night away to a variety of music genres. Explore the lively neighborhoods of Savamala and Cetinjska Street for a mix of hip bars and alternative venues.

Brasov, Romania

Image by @anamariamnc

Located in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains, Brasov is a captivating city in Romania that often goes unnoticed. Its medieval charm is embodied by the well-preserved Black Church, the impressive Bran Castle (associated with the legend of Dracula), and the picturesque Council Square. Hop on the cable car or hike to the top of Mount Tampa for breathtaking views of Brasov and the surrounding Carpathian Mountains. At the summit, explore the Brasov Hollywood-style sign, visit the iconic Brasov sign, and enjoy a leisurely walk amidst nature. Don’t forget to take advantage of Brasov’s proximity to the Carpathian Mountains and go hiking in the beautiful natural surroundings. Explore the Piatra Craiului National Park, Bucegi Natural Park, or the Seven Ladders Canyon. Enjoy breathtaking vistas, spot wildlife, and experience the tranquility of nature. See Brasov’s beauty for yourself on one of our many Romania Experiences!

Kotor, Montenegro

Nestled on the stunning Bay of Kotor, this fortified town is a hidden gem of the Adriatic coast. With its medieval architecture, charming squares, and breathtaking mountainous backdrop, Kotor enchants visitors with its beauty. Lose yourself in the maze-like streets lined with well-preserved medieval buildings, charming squares, and historic churches. Visit landmarks such as St. Tryphon’s Cathedral and the Maritime Museum, and soak in the enchanting atmosphere of this ancient town. Take a boat ride to the small islet of Our Lady of the Rocks (Gospa od Škrpjela) in the Bay of Kotor. Legend has it that the islet was created by fishermen who laid stones here after finding an icon of the Virgin Mary. Explore the picturesque church and museum, and enjoy the serene surroundings and views of the bay. If you’re looking for a quieter and cheaper alternative to Croatia’s popular Dubrovnik then Kotor ticks all the boxes! We have an array of experiences in Montenegro that have stop-offs in Kotor, check them out here!

Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Images by @danielaphotography

Located in the heart of Bulgaria, Plovdiv is one of Europe’s oldest cities and a true hidden treasure. This unique destination offers a fascinating blend of Thracian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences. Stroll through its narrow cobblestone streets, admire the colourful 19th-century houses, and visit historical landmarks like the Roman Amphitheatre, Ancient Stadium, and the iconic Nebet Tepe Hill. Experience Plovdiv’s vibrant arts scene by exploring the Kapana Creative District. Translating to “The Trap,” this neighbourhood is known for its artsy atmosphere, with a labyrinth of streets filled with galleries, studios, and trendy cafes. Discover local art and design, enjoy live performances, and soak in the creative energy of this bohemian quarter. Plovdiv’s affordability, rich history, and vibrant arts scene make it an ideal alternative destination in Europe.

Tallinn, Estonia

Images by @miry_giramondo & @juhakristiano

For a glimpse into medieval Europe, Tallinn is a remarkable destination. The capital of Estonia, with its well-preserved old town, transports visitors back in time with its cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and defensive walls. Explore Toompea Hill, visit the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and enjoy the panoramic views from Kohtuotsa Viewing Platform. Gain a different perspective of the city by climbing the Tallinn City Walls. These centuries-old fortifications offer panoramic views of the Old Town and beyond. Take a leisurely walk along the wall, explore the defense towers, and imagine the city’s medieval past as you soak in the vistas. Tallinn offers a unique mix of history, modernity, and is a lot more affordable compared to its Scandinavian neighbours making it an ideal alternative destination for people looking for that cool Scandi feel without the price tag.

Ronda, Spain

Images by @exploredbymarta

Perched dramatically atop a gorge, Ronda offers breathtaking views and a rich cultural heritage. Explore the stunning Puente Nuevo bridge, visit the Moorish palace of Mondragón, and wander through the narrow streets of the historic old town. Ronda’s scenic beauty, affordable accommodations, and fascinating history make it a captivating alternative destination in Spain. Ronda is also part of the prestigious wine region of Andalusia. Embark on a wine-tasting tour to sample the region’s excellent wines, which are known for their rich flavours and high quality. Visit local wineries, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy the scenic vineyard landscapes. For a memorable experience, head to Mirador de Aldehuela, a viewpoint overlooking the valley and the iconic Puente Nuevo. This spot offers panoramic views of Ronda’s breathtaking landscapes, and it’s a perfect place to watch the sunset as the warm hues of the sky reflect upon the city. Visit beautiful Ronda on our 4-Night Andalusia Experience!

From the medieval allure of Brasov to the bohemian spirit of Belgrade, these lesser-known cities offer captivating experiences that go beyond the typical tourist path. By venturing off the beaten track, you’ll discover the true essence of these destinations and create memories to treasure. So, embrace the adventure and consider exploring these alternative European destinations on your next journey. Happy travels!

Written by Lucy Kaufmann

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Stunning Video Guide to Bosnia and Herzegovina

Let @WagnerProduction take you on a visual journey through the heart of the Balkans – Bosnia and Herzegovina!

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Lucys European Escapades: Unveiling Her Favourite Must-Visit Destinations

Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating charm of Europe as I share my personal travel highlight! From the sun-kissed beauty of Andalusia and the haunting allure of Transylvania to the fairytale town of Tallinn and the enchanting landscapes of Finland, these destinations have truly stolen my heart! Read ahead to hopefully inspire your next trip!

Andalusia, Spain

Having spent the past 12 years flying back and forth into Malaga to visit my dad I’ve definitely had the opportunity to spend a great deal of time exploring everything Andalusia has to offer. This sun-kissed region of Spain is such a special place to me, filled with vibrant bustling cities, quaint white-washed villages all melded together in history and culture. My dad lives in the very beautiful coastal town of Nerja, just over an hour from Granada, and is the perfect place to soak up the sun! I absolutely love visiting in the cooler months when crowds are few and the unbearable heat has subsided, as we have a tradition where each time I visit we explore a new part of Andalusia. Whether that be the unique Setenil de las Bodegas, a town built into a rock overhang that seems to define the laws of physics, or marvelling at the craftsmanship of the Puente Nuevo otherwise known as the ‘new bridge’ in the mountaintop town of Ronda, or even conquering my fear of heights when walking along the Caminito del Rey, the sights are endless! I’ve also been lucky enough to visit both Granada and Seville a few times too and highly recommend experiencing both cities. The Alhambra in Granada is a true Andalusian jewel and a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Definitely make time to explore its stunning palaces, intricate courtyards, and lush gardens, all while enjoying panoramic views of the city and the Sierra Nevada mountains. For Seville, you’ve got the jaw-dropping Plaza de España, an architectural masterpiece that combines Renaissance and Moorish styles. Take a boat ride along the canal that surrounds the square, admire the colourful ceramic tiles, and soak up the majestic ambiance. Sadly I couldn’t convince my dad to get in a little boat with me but it did look fun… Maybe next time! We have a tasty trip to Andalusia that visits the very best this sunny region has to offer, check it out here!

Tallinn, Estonia

Estonia had never really been on my radar, and to be honest I hadn’t even heard of the country until I met my Estonian friend Elenor back in 2017! So when we were invited to her wedding in August of 2022 I jumped at the chance to check out this little corner of the world and I was honestly so pleasantly surprised! Nestled on the shores of the Baltic Sea, this vibrant city seamlessly blends medieval charm with modern allure. The perfectly preserved 13th-century buildings and narrow cobblestone streets instantly transport you back in time, and with the medieval walls and towers proving a picturesque backdrop, it’s the perfect place to explore on foot. Head to the vibrant Kalamaja district, known for its cool bars and music venues to hang out with the locals and fellow travellers. It’s also home to the Telliskivi Creative City, a complex of disused factories that now house more than 200 independent businesses! If you’re looking for something a little quieter, the city is lucky enough to be surrounded by calm sandy beaches and woodland trails that are easily accessible by bike or foot. We spent half a day at the beach and it was the perfect place to recharge my social batteries. Tallinn is also becoming a top destination for foodies! The thriving food scene has been steadily evolving and gaining recognition in recent years thanks to a growing number of trendy and upscale eateries, street food and food markets, microbreweries, and cocktail bars! I could honestly go on and on about my time visiting but to sum it up, If you want a true fairytale experience, with history, natural beauty, and tasty food, Tallinn is the one for you.

Transylvania, Romania

I was lucky enough to visit Transylvania with Untravelled Paths back in 2017, and who’d of thought it but five years later, I ended up landing a job working for them! – But that’s a story for another time… Let me start by saying that Transylvania’s allure goes far beyond the tales of Dracula! Exploring the region’s captivating towns and cities, each with its own unique charm was such a special experience. Brasov stole my heart with its picturesque streets, lined with colourful houses and adorned with ornate architecture. Sibiu on the other hand amazed me with its beautifully preserved medieval walls, stunning fortified churches, and those windows that look like peeping eyes! Then there’s Sighisoara, a name I still can’t pronounce but a town I’ll never forget… I could go on about medieval towns and rural villages but let me tell you what really took me by surprise, Transylvania’s natural landscapes! I’m not sure what I was expecting but it definitely wasn’t miles upon miles of pristine wilderness, an abundance of wildlife, giant looming Mountains, and glacial lakes which left me breathless! If you want to experience all of the above and more check out experiences in Romania here!

Lisbon, Portugal

Now Lisbon is a city that knows how to have a good time! With 290 days of sunshine per year and the temperature rarely dipping below 15.C, it’s the perfect city to experience year-round. It’s one of the few European cities I’ve visited where I genuinely feel safe walking around day or night and for that, I couldn’t recommend it enough for solo travellers and females alike. Picture yourself strolling through narrow, winding streets that lead to stunning squares bursting with life, the colourful titled facades and quaint tramcars add a touch of vintage charm to every corner. If you want to know how to spend 48 hours in Lisbon then check out my previous blog post here to help you make the most of this fun and vibrant city!

Lapland, Finland

Landing in Lapland was definitely a pinch-me moment that I never thought I would get to experience. From the moment I arrived, I had a bubble of excitement in me that stayed throughout my time here. My first stop was in Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus. The city is very much aimed at children and families which is great for them however, I am neither child nor family but a lone 30-year-old so activities where limited. However I did manage to find

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Which Airport Doesnt Belong?

In this airport quiz, we listed three airports at some of the top travel destinations and one airport that doesn’t belong. Can you spot the one that doesn’t belong?

TAKE THE QUIZ

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The Hazards of Wildlife Photography

This wildlife photographer certainly got the seal of approval!

Video credit @LADbible

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The European Mountain Range Quiz

Know your Carpathian Mountains from your Caucasus Mountains? Take this tricky quiz to find out!

TAKE THE QUIZ!

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Exploring Bosnias Natural Wonders: A Paradise for Nature Enthusiasts

Nestled in the heart of the Balkans, Bosnia and Herzegovina remains a well-kept secret for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests, this captivating country is a haven of national parks and awe-inspiring landscapes. Join us on a journey as we delve into the natural wonders of Bosnia, immersing ourselves in its enchanting beauty and discovering its hidden treasures.

Kravica Nature Park

Images by @vanilia_travels

Kravica Nature Park stands as a testament to Bosnia’s magnificence. Its centerpiece, the renowned Kravica Waterfall, often hailed as the “mini Niagara,” captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring splendor. As you venture into the park, the thunderous roar of cascading water grows closer, building anticipation for the spectacle ahead. Stepping into the park reveals a breathtaking sight—the Kravica Waterfall pouring over limestone cliffs, creating a mesmerizing curtain of water that descends into a pool of tranquil turquoise. Surrounded by lush greenery, this idyllic setting is a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Visit Kravica Nature Park on our 4-Night Mini Bosnia Experience to truly witness the beauty of this place!

Una National Park

Images by @irfanalijagic & @bjn_89 

Located in the northwest region of Bosnia, Una National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Named after the magnificent Una River that flows through it, this park is characterised by its crystal-clear waters, stunning waterfalls, and lush greenery. Embark on a thrilling rafting adventure down the rapids of Una River or simply relax by its banks, taking in the serene beauty that surrounds you. This thrilling national park is perfect for families who love a good outdoor adventure!

Blidinje Nature Park

Images by @jo.dadic & @visitblidinje

Nestled in the picturesque Dinaric Alps, Blidinje Nature Park is a serene oasis of natural beauty. Home to vast meadows, tranquil lakes, and snow-capped peaks, this park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. Take a leisurely hike along the scenic trails and witness the diverse flora and fauna that call this park home. Blidinje Nature Park is also known for its mesmerising astronomical phenomena, making it a haven for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts.

Hutovo Blato Nature Park

Images by @hutovo_blato & @tomas.zachar

Situated in the southern part of Bosnia, Hutovo Blato Nature Park is a wetland paradise absolutely teeming with biodiversity! Embark on a relaxing boat ride through the park’s vast marshes, lakes, and canals, and marvel at the rich birdlife that inhabits this area. With over 240 bird species, including rare and endangered ones, Hutovo Blato is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. For a full experience, take a ride with a rented canoe or kayak as these don’t produce many sounds that could scare off the birds.

Kozara National Park

Images by @the_travely & @julienduvalphoto

Found in the northwestern part of Bosnia, Kozara National Park offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Explore its dense forests and meadows, which are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, wild boars, and numerous bird species. Visit the iconic Kozara Memorial Complex, a monument dedicated to World War II victims, and learn about the rich historical significance of the park.

Sutjeska National Park

Images by @banu_acarr & @cheyf.travel

Sutjeska National Park is found in the Dinaric Alps and is home to some of Bosnia’s most breathtaking landscapes. Marvel at the towering peaks of Maglić Mountain, the highest point in the country, and embark on a challenging hike to explore the mystical Perucica Primeval Forest, one of the last remaining primeval forests in Europe! Discover the captivating beauty of the Trnovačko Glacier Lake, nestled amidst dramatic cliffs, as you immerse yourself in the untouched wilderness of Sutjeska.

These natural wonders will leave you speechless and yearning for more. So, grab your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and set out on a journey to experience the paradise of nature that Bosnia and Herzegovina has to offer!

Want to know more about our 4-Night Mini Bosnia Experience? Contact us at info@untravelledpaths.com

Written by Lucy Kaufmann

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