Hidden Gems: Underrated European Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List

North Yorkshire – England, Staithes

Hidden away in the far northwest of England's rugged North Yorkshire coast is the pretty, old-fashioned, fishing village of Staithes. Tightly packed cottages lined its cobblestone streets, leading to a quiet harbor filled with artists through the years.

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Built to the side of Staithes Black Mole, the awesome volcanic rock that protrudes from the edge of this historic fishing harbor, is the home of Captain James Cook during his apprenticeship. The Captain Cook and Staithes Heritage Center allows visitors to explore the town's seafaring past. In addition to its historical appeal, Staithes is a haven for the artist inclined too, with independent galleries, and an annual art festival.

Staithes offers a slice of authentic English coastal life, sitting back from the fast-paced cities, whether you’re sunning beside the coastal paths or filling up on fresh seafood at a local café.

Spain – Cantabria – Castro Urdiales

Away from Spain’s most popular tourist destinations, Castro Urdiales is a medieval city with its best qualities, but it is full of contemporary charm. This is a great, less touristy coastal destination with a great cultural backdrop that is perfect for travelers.

A Gothic Santa María de la Asunción church rises majestically above the town, its rural backdrop a sea. Apanages, the 13th century castle and lighthouse, have wonderful panoramic views.

Castro Urdiales has a vibrant culinary scene complete with freshly caught seafood and regional delicacies which foodies will love. Go for a stroll along the harbor or just chill on the sandy beach do what else you ask?

Aljezur, Algarve – Portugal

Set inside the splendid landscape of Portugal’s Algarve region, Aljezur is a sleepy town that successfully combines history with nature. It’s an idyllic getaway, with its laid back atmosphere and traditional architecture.

On top of a hill, the Moorish Castle of Aljezur boasts fantastic views over the area. If you are an enthusiast of history, then exploration of the castle ruins will help you to know how important important to be in the past.

Aljezur is also a gateway to some of the Algarve’s best beaches: the wild and unspoiled Praia da Amoreira. Aljezur’s blend of culture, history, and nature provides something stunning for every surfer and nature lover, leaving you with some lasting impressions.

Azores – Portugal

The 'Mountain Island', Pico Island in the Azores, is a natural paradise for adventurers and wine fans alike. Portugal’s highest peak, Mount Pico, dominates the island, which is an outdoor delight for lovers.

Pico Island’s UNESCO World Heritage vineyards are just one of the bits that stand out about the island. Wine tours are a must as the volcanic soil brings something different to the island’s wines. If adrenaline is something you are looking for, hiking up Mount Pico gives fantastic views and the satisfaction of having finished it.

The island is also famous for its world-renowned whale-watching tours, which treat die-hard marine enthusiasts to regular glimpses of sperm whales, bottlenose dolphins and others in their natural habitat. Pico Island has some of the world’s most rugged landscapes combined with rich traditions — an unparalleled escape.

Landmannalaugar, Iceland

In Iceland’s highlands, Landmannalaugar is a breathtaking visual to try to think that it isn’t otherworldly. An isolated region of strikingly colorful rhyolite mountains, this area is popular with trekkers and nature photographers.

In fact, part of the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, Landmannalaugar has various hiking trails to choose from for all levels, from beginner-friendly to the torturous trips for the experienced! This is the start of one of Iceland’s most famous multi-day hikes, the Laugavegur Trail, possibly the only place you will visit where the untamed wilderness has gone about its business for thousands (possibly tens of thousands) of years.

If you’ve been hiking a long day, relax in local geothermal hot springs, in the midst of surreal landscapes. Iceland’s raw beauty, with bare rock and hot springs all around us, and an adventurous spirit is evident in Landmannalaugar.

Dartlo, Georgia

Dartlo is the only remaining village in the remote Tusheti region of Georgia, where it gives us a look at the country’s ancient traditions and unspoiled landscapes. Its stone towers and grounds of rustic charm make it a favorite places for those looking for places off the beaten path to go.

Tusheti National Park is a UNESCO listed site with rich biodiversity and pristine nature where Dartlo is a part of. Hiking trails wind through dramatic valleys and cascading waterfalls as well as alpine meadows will be open to visitors.

Dartlo is remote, but that doesn’t mean it’s cold, as locals are willing to share its culture, food and polyphonic music. Dartlo is ideal for any traveler looking for an authentic and calm travel experience.

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes – France, Le Puy en Velay

If you ever find yourself in France, be sure to visit Le Puy en Velay, which is largely a gem that holds its own next to the country’s more popular destinations. This medieval town is a serene but inspiring place to set off on the Pilgrimage of the Camino de Santiago.

The magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral dominates the skyline and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Saint Michel d’Aiguilhe Chapel, set atop a volcanic rock formation, is another pretty place to visit, and all you have to do is perform a scenic climb of 268 steps.

For history, culture and natural beauty, there is no treasure trove like Le Puy en Velay. History enthusiasts and food lovers are hard-pressed to avoid the destination with its rich history; its local markets and specialty dishes such as green lentils and Verveine liqueur.

France, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes – Pont-en-Royans

Pont-en-Royans is a small but stunning village set in the foothills of the Vercors Massif that wins over visitors with its colorful hanging houses. These homes perch precariously up on the River Bourne, forming a lovely and unique landscape.

The characteristics of the village are not limited to its architectural beauty. It’s a good base point to get the Vercors Regional Natural Park, for those who are into nature too. Activities include hiking, cycling and seeing the nearby Choranche Caves.

To ease the stress, have a stroll along the riverbanks or try some local treats like some ravioles du Royans. Known for cultural charm and outdoor adventuring, Pont-en-Royans embodies what our entire list seeks out in subtler destinations—significant but underappreciated cultural charm with under the radar outdoor adventure.

Cicmany, Slovakia

Cicmany is a tiny Slovak village that is known for beautifully decorated wooden houses, and for a big cultural impact. These fantastic white geometric patterns, based upon local folk art, turn the village into a giant open-air gallery.

Visitors can step into Slovakia’s rich cultural heritage in Cicman. Over the centuries, the traditions of the village have been preserved in folk costumes and crafts. Surprisingly, the local museum offers interesting insights into the region’s way of life, which a visit is worth taking.

Cicmany is also surrounded by lush meadows and hilltops and is a great base from which to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Travelers looking for something different fall in love with its great charm and tradition.

Wuppertal, Germany

Western German city has its features as people know them as innovation, greenery and culture, all in equal amount. Although overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, the city of Wuppertal is most famous for its unique suspension railway, Wuppertal Schwebebahn, allowing you to travel through the city in a way that’s unlike any other.

It is a city with an impressive number of attractions: the Wuppertal Zoo, which contains over 5,000 animals, and the Von der Heydt Museum, with a varied collection of European art. The extensive parks and green spaces which make Wuppertal so well known as The Green City is something which nature lovers can revel in.

A suspension railway ride for a really different view of the city. Wuppertal is an exemplary blend of urban innovation, exemplary and natural beauty, which holds a lasting impression with all who visit.

Conclusion

There are so many hidden gems in Europe, Europe just brimming with its gems all ready to be discovered. Stathes' quiet coasts, the volcanic Pico Island, the artistic Cicman traditions - all these places prove that exploring off the beaten track will make for the ultimate adventure.

If you want to go to a destination with some cultural archeology and stunning natural beauty, check out some of these underrated European destinations that are totally worth visiting. That's why you pack your bags and prepare to explore Europe on a side that few travelers have met.

These few hidden gems make your European trip anything but ordinary. Then which one will you visit first?