7 Hidden Gems in Europe for Your Summer Trip
If you’re here, it’s likely because you’re dreaming of your next summer adventure.
And where better to adventure than Europe?
This is a continent brimming with history, culture and some of the most beautiful scenery you will ever see.
Sure, the Eiffel Tower and the Colosseum are great, but there’s something that makes you feel more like a local when you find those hidden gems that not a lot of tourists know about.
Well, let me tell you, I’m no stranger to those moments,
I once found a tiny village in Italy that seemed like something out of a fairy tale — no crowds, just me, the cobblestone streets and the locals.
It was like I had discovered a secret that nobody else knew about.
I’ll be sharing with you the seven hidden gems of Europe that will make a summer trip unforgettable in this article.
From picturesque coastal towns to magical palaces, these destinations are well-suited for solo travelers seeking to stay off the beaten path.
So get your bags, because we are about to go on an amazing trip.
1. Colmar, France
Colmar feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Imagine medieval streets filled with half-timbered houses in a riot of color, set deep in the Alsace.
This idyllic town is typically overshadowed by larger French cities, which is exactly why it’s so unique.
Begin your outing in Little Venice, or La Petite Venise.
It’s a charming part of town with canals, lovely flower boxes hanging outside windows.
Another world-class site is the Unterlinden Museum, with an outstanding assemblage of art and history.
And there’s the Saint-Martin Collegiate Church, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that’s not-to-be-missed.
One of my favorite memories of Colmar is when I visited during the Christmas market!
The whole town becomes a winter wonderland.
But if you’re visiting during summer, you’re in for a treat as well.
The streets are less crowded, and you can sip local Alsatian wine at an outdoor café, watching the world go by in the warm weather.
To get the most out of it, head into the area early in the morning or later in the afternoon to miss the heat, along with the hustle and bustle of the main streets.
2. Sintra, Portugal
Sintra is a fairytale getaway a few train stops from Lisbon.
Famous for its fairy-tale palaces and perfumed, lush gardens, this town seems as if it were plucked straight from a storybook.
The star attraction is the Pena Palace. With its bright hues and fanciful design, it seems as though it was pulled right out of a Disney film.
Be sure to visit Quinta da Regaleira, a mystical estate filled with winding tunnels and hidden grottoes.
And if a little history is what you seek, the Moorish Castle provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
I remember visiting the palaces on a foggy morning.
The fog shined an eerily, magically on the whole thing.
Pro tip: arrive as early as you can to avoid the crowds.
The town itself is small enough to walk from end to end, and you’ll find plenty of comfy cafés in which to rest your feet after a day of exploring.
Just be ready for a lot of walking and pack a sturdy pair of shoes!
3. Rovinj, Croatia
Rovinj, on the Istrian Peninsula, is a coastal gem that combines old-world charm and natural beauty.
It was a slush with the colors of the houses over its winding cobbled alleys that led up to the hilltop St Euphemia’s Church.
The Rovinj Heritage Museum offers a snapshot of the town’s deep history, and Golden Cape Forest Park provides stunning views and a bit of nature.
The best way to enjoy Rovinj’s spirit, however, is just to get lost in its streets.
One of my favorite things about Rovinj is watching the sunset from the waterfront.
The sea reflected the brilliant orange of the sky.
For a taste of the local cuisine, visit one of the many seafood restaurants and sample the local specialty, black risotto.
And if you’re seeking some downtime, there are also many secluded beaches minutes from the town center.
4. Hallstatt, Austria
Hallstatt, set between steep mountains and an idyllic lake, is one of the world’s most photographed villages.
This Austrian jewel is known for its beautiful alpine landscape and historical beauty.
First, visit Hallstatt Skywalk.
The platform hovers above the village on a hill, providing a panoramic view of the lake and surrounding mountains.
It’s an awe-inspiring view that makes the climb worthwhile.
The Hallstatt Museum is a must-see too.
It is interesting and gives you a view into the history of the region, from prehistoric times until now.
If you’re feeling adventurous, the Dachstein Ice Cave is a short drive away.
There are glaciers, frozen caverns and remarkable formations that you must see to believe.
I remember doing a day trip from Salzburg to Hallstatt.
It was a great route with beautiful views along the way.
Arriving in Hallstatt, I spent a full day there hiking around the lake and exploring the village.
One piece of advice: visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
The surrounding hiking trails provide some of the most stunning vistas so just be sure to remember your camera and some comfortable walking shoes.
5. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Mostar is a city that is like traveling back in time. The city’s historic bridges and Ottoman buildings speak to its long-standing cultural history.
The most famous sight in Mostar is Stari Most or the Old Bridge.
The iconic bridge is an architectural wonder, while standing for the perseverance of the city.
Another place not to be missed is the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque.
Scale the minaret to get a panoramic view of Mostar.
Ideal for a stroll is the Old Bazaar Kujundžiluk.
The market is bustling with shops and stalls selling everything from traditional crafts, to souvenirs and local delicacies.
Jumping into the river from Stari Most is a rite of passage for many locals and adventurous visitors.
I didn’t have the courage to dive myself, but watching the locals take the plunge was exciting enough.
Food-wise, do not leave without sampling ćevapi, local grilled minced meat served with flat-headed bread.
If you want to experience a whole new level of immersion, take a moment to sit down with the natives and learn their stories and traditions.
You always have a sense of feeling the historical and cultural vibe at every corner in Mostar.
6. Ghent, Belgium
City of Ghent, on the other hand, embraces medieval architecture and a thriving arts scene.
Centrally located in Belgium, it’s sometimes overshadowed by Brussels and Bruges, but it’s a mine worth exploring.
The medieval heart of the city is rich in stunning buildings and picturesque canals.
Be sure not to miss Gravensteen Castle.
This fortification is a window into Ghent’s medieval history, complete with dungeons and battlements.
In between, St. Bavo’s Cathedral houses a famous masterpiece of early Netherlandish art, the Ghent Altarpiece.
For those who like art, the Museum of Fine Arts has an awesome collection from medieval to contemporary work.
I explored Ghent during one of its many local festivals.
There were stalls of food and drink all over the city, and music in the air.
And do not miss Belgian waffles and beer.
Ghent is home to some of the best in the country, and you’ll find lots of cozy spots to soak them up.
To experience the city from a different perspective, consider a boat tour through the canals.
It’s a leisurely way to experience the city from a new point of view.
7. Giethoorn, Netherlands
Giethoorn is not like any village you’ve ever seen.
Dubbed “the Venice of the North,” this Dutch jewel is known for its quiet canals and picturesque thatched-roof homes.
The best way to get around is by boat, as there are no roads in the village center.
Begin with a boat tour of the canals.
This is a quiet, scenic way to explore Giethoorn, and you’ll be up close to all the lovely gardens and homes.
The Museum Giethoorn ’t Olde Maat Uus gives insight into the history and traditional lifestyle of the village.
Nature lovers, make time for De Weerribben-Wieden National Park.
It’s ideal for a day of hiking, biking or bird-watching.
I spent a glorious afternoon boating the canals of Giethoorn.
The quiet, the scenery and the slower pace made for a perfect escape from all the hustle and bustle.
You can rent a boat easily, and it’s a fun way to explore on your own.
Make sure to bring a picnic and find a quiet place along the canal to pull it out.
Giethoorn is a place where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
7 Hidden Gems in Europe for Your Summer Trip, Conclusion
Seven of those hidden gems in Europe that will make your summer trip unforgettable.
From the fairy-tale streets of Colmar to the serene canals of Giethoorn, each of these places offers a unique experience, far from the usual tourist traps.
Exploring these hidden gems will provide a more authentic experience of Europe and memories that will last a lifetime.
So get out there, take the road less traveled and find the magic of these hidden gems.
And if you’ve discovered your own hidden gems, we want to hear about them—send your stories through by sharing this post on socials.
