10x hidden gems in Europe you have to see

I’m always up for a good getaway . Don’t get me wrong, I think cities like London, Paris and Barcelona are absolutely fantastic. But how fun is it to discover hidden gems? Places that aren’t yet overflowing with tourists, but are so beautiful, fun and delicious that you almost consider moving there. These are 10 such European hidden gems.

So go now, before they are discovered en masse. I’ve already packed my suitcase.

1. Villajoyosa, Spain

Colourful, idyllic and a true chocolate paradise: that’s Villajoyosa in Spain. The town is incredibly photogenic thanks to the bright, colourful houses painted by the fishermen from the village. And that chocolate? There’s plenty of it thanks to chocolate brand Valor, which has a factory, shop and museum in this charming little town. Add the delicious restaurants serving fresh fish and culinary tapas, and you understand why this place was named Europe’s most beautiful secret destination. *books tickets immediately*

2. Ares del Maestre, Spain

Yep, Spain is full of hidden gems. Between bustling Barcelona and Valencia, in the province of Castellón, lies Ares del Maestre. It’s situated on a rocky hill, so you’re guaranteed a stunning view of the surrounding area. Besides being a hidden gem, Ares del Maestre is also a somewhat forgotten gem. It takes you on a journey through time, back to the Middle Ages. Old houses, the ruins of Castillo de Ares del Maestre castle and cobbled roads are reminders of that era. Walk towards Mirador Ares del Maestre for that spectacular view I mentioned. And dine at Restaurante El Coll d’Ares, one of the best restaurants in town. Here, you can eat a complete menu for € 20, including delicacies such as grilled octopus and homemade croquettes. Plus wine from the nearby town of Useras. ¡Muy sabroso!

3. Primošten, Croatia

Primošten is a peninsula and yes: that means there’s plenty of sea and beach. But swimming and sunbathing are far from the only things you want to and can do here. Wander through the old streets towards the charming church and enjoy the atmosphere of this lovely little town. For delicious food, head to the square, where you can hear street musicians all day long. The harbour is also a wonderful place to enjoy delicious Croatian food. Restoran Panorama is the best place for fish lovers, with a view of the sea. For authentic Croatian cuisine, head to restaurant Torkul. Try the ispod peka: octopus slow-cooked under a cast-iron dome.

4. Ulm, Germany

Ulm is located in the German state of Baden-Württemberg, right in the east of Germany. The city lies on the gently flowing Danube. Situated by the water, with its pastel-coloured houses and pointed church spire (the tallest in the world!), Ulm is the perfect postcard setting. The present and the past are seamlessly intertwined here. You’ll find historic viewpoints as well as modern restaurants. At Barfüßer Hausbrauerei, go for a real German schnitzel with a good glass of home-brewed beer. Fun fact: scientist Albert Einstein was born in Ulm. 

5. Aljezur, Portugal

You almost wonder why Aljezur is a hidden gem. Because this Portuguese place has it all: cosy bars and restaurants, a seaside location, historic hotspots and stunning nature. What should you absolutely not miss during your visit? Castelo de Aljezur: a Moorish castle from the 10th century. But also Costa Vicentina Natural Park, where you can see crystal-clear blue water lapping against green cliffs. And what about Mercado Municipal de Aljezur, the local market where you can buy the best Portuguese delicacies? I said it already: this place is unjustly hidden, but is rightfully a true gem.

6. Pico Island, Azores

The Azores are a Portuguese archipelago also known as the Hawaii of Europe. With its rich nature full of unique flora and fauna, it’s hard to believe that this part of the world really does ‘simply’ belong to Europe. Pico Island is a volcanic island in the Azores. The literal highlight of the island is the volcano: Montanha de Pico. But did you know it’s also known as wine island? There are rolling hills covered in vineyards. The vineyards of Zona de Adegas are even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Want to taste local volcanic wine? Then visit the Criação Velha vineyard. Highly recommended!

7. Pont-en-Royans, France

Pont-en-Royans is also known as one of the most beautiful villages in France. What makes it so special? The colourful houses perched on raised rocks above the water, seeming to lean slightly forward. You can see this clearly from various viewpoints. Another place worth visiting here is the Musée de l’Eau. If you speak a little French, you may already have realised that this museum is all about one thing: water. It’s incredibly interesting, because there’s a lot to learn about it. You can also taste plenty of it. At the water bar in this museum, you can order no fewer than 1,500 types of water. Finally, something on tap that doesn’t give you a hangover.

8. Staithes, England

Staithes is a fishing village on the coast of North Yorkshire. Come here with a fully charged phone, because you’ll be taking plenty of beautiful pictures. The best view is from just before the bridge, where you can capture the colourful houses, rock faces and sea in the background. Foodies are guaranteed to love this little place too. You can fully immerse yourself in English cuisine. Enjoy fish & chips with a large pint at Royal George Pub, and a true English high tea at Dotty’s Vintage Tearoom.

9. Wuppertal, Germany

Wuppertal has a fantastic main attraction: the suspended monorail that crosses right over the city. If you stay on board from start to finish, you’ll glide 13.3 kilometres above the area. It’s an incredibly green place. The area around Wuppertal is especially full of forests, farmland and farms. It’s fun to cruise through by car. Tip for Wuppertal itself: Laurentiuskirche, which lights up beautifully in the evening.

10. Bokodi Floating Village, Hungary

If you really want to feel as though you’re at the end of the world, you have to visit Bokodi Floating Village. It’s a one-hour drive from the Hungarian capital, Budapest. These are colourful houses standing on the water, reached via a wooden walkway. With the shimmering water and setting sun in the background, you get an almost fairytale-like view. Great to combine with a city trip to Budapest!

Also read:

• The best European destinations for cheese lovers
• Travelling solo as a woman? These are the best destinations according to AirBnB
• Ameland, the perfect holiday destination

Source: European Best Destinations