With so many headlines about tourists taking over popular holiday spots and governments introducing restrictions, such as tourist taxes and bans on new hotels or souvenir shops, you might find it harder than ever to decide where to travel next.
Luckily, Europe is filled with amazing places you can visit to get the authentic experience of that country without fighting your way through crowds of tourists.
Read on to discover our top 10 hidden European gems for the perfect spring break.
1. Naxos, Greece
If you’ve always wanted to visit Santorini but don’t want your holiday interrupted by tourists queueing for the perfect picture, you might want to head to Naxos instead.
This beautiful island boasts ancient ruins and traditional white-washed buildings that draw people to Santorini without the huge crowds. Discover the island’s fascinating history by visiting the Temple of Apollo, or relax on the long stretches of sandy beaches.
2. Berat, Albania
Berat is often referred to as the “City of a Thousand Windows” because of the incredible stack of Ottoman houses on the side of Berat Hill.
Visit the Bogovë Nature Park and Lake Komani to experience the gorgeous natural landscape and secluded waterfall, or climb to the top of Berat Hill to explore the incredible 13th-century castle.
3. Valencia, Spain
This stunning port city sits on the same coastline as Barcelona, so you can enjoy the gorgeous beaches and incredible architecture without battling your way through a crowd.
Explore the rich history of Valencia through an interactive museum, explore one of the many walking trails through the beautiful landscape, or soak up the sun on the beach.
What’s more, research concluded that Valencia is the most affordable city in Europe for a pint of beer!
4. Kotor, Montenegro
If you were considering visiting Croatia, you might want to pop next door to Montenegro instead.
With the same picturesque Mediterranean coastline and sunny weather, Montenegro has the same rugged mountains and enchanting medieval villages while being less crowded than more popular destinations like Dubrovnik.
Visit the Venetian fortifications in Kotor for a taste of history or take a dip in the stunning Bay of Kotor if you’d prefer to relax.
5. Graz, Austria
If you’re looking for a sustainable city break, Graz is the place to go. Although it’s Austria’s second biggest city, it’s often overlooked.
Surrounded by the Styrian countryside, the city takes fresh produce, vegetarian dishes, and creative recipes to a new level that will deliver the best of Austrian cuisine.
6. Wroclaw, Poland
With the Czech Republic introducing increasing restrictions on tourists in Prague after they started taking over entire zones of the city, you can avoid the hordes and get a similar experience by visiting Wroclaw instead.
Explore the dazzling Gothic architecture and the picturesque Oder River in the daytime, and visit Speakeasy-type bars and fine-dining restaurants to make the most of the city’s electrifying nightlife.
7. Porto Santo, Portugal
Madeira is currently enjoying its moment in the spotlight, but a smaller island only a three-hour ferry ride away remains one of the best European beach escapes.
Porto Santo is more beach than island, with a nine-kilometre stretch of sand backed by rolling hills and lush greenery. Relax in the sun, or venture out into the wilderness along the island’s many hiking routes.
8. Ghent, Belgium
If you’re looking for the same fascinating architecture and local culture as Amsterdam without having to pay extra for tourist tax, why not head to Ghent in Belgium instead?
Filled with quirky bars and an amazing pedestrianised city centre for you to explore, Ghent boasts a medieval castle and Michelin-starred restaurants, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
9. The Frosinone Valley, Italy
Halfway between Rome and Naples, the Frosinone Valley is often no more than a stop for travellers. However, it hides the incredible Abbey of Montecassino and the Valle di Comino, where some of Europe’s deadliest battles have taken place.
But if you’d prefer to search for postcard-perfect views, Frosinone is also the place for you. Sip award-winning cabernet in the vineyards or head to San Donato Val di Comino for incredible mountain views.
10. León, Spain
There are so many popular cities in Spain. However, León is another that escapes most people’s notice.
Home to one of Gaudi’s designs, the architecture is the city’s main attraction. Casa Botines, one of his only works outside Catalonia, makes it the perfect place to visit if you want to experience history without the hustle and bustle of Barcelona or Madrid.
