Europe’s Best-Kept Secrets: 6 Places to Visit in 2025 Before the Crowds Arrive
Let’s be honest, Europe is incredible, but sometimes it feels like everyone you know is heading to the same places: Paris, Rome, Amsterdam…. Ready to ditch the crowds and discover hidden European destinations instead?
This year, go beyond the postcards and explore the lesser-known destinations that offer just as much charm, historic architecture, and natural beauty. I’ve rounded up six hidden European destinations you need to visit included my top accommodation picks and activities. Places that haven’t been overtaken by selfie sticks or inflated hotel prices and are totally worth visiting in 2025. Ive also included my top accommodation picks (most are under £100 per night) and activities on offer for each destination.
Whether you’re into cobblestone streets, pristine beaches, food experiences or medieval castles, these unique places are perfect for your next day trip, short stay, or full-on road trip.
Plan Your Trip With My Favorite Resources
- Best Accommodation Site – Booking.com
- Flight Checker – SkyScanner & Booking.com
- Transfers – GetTransfer.com
- Private Car Hire – DiscoverCars
- Book Day Tours Here – GetYourGuide
- Airport Lounge Luxury – Priority Pass
- Revolut Card – Spending Abroad Made Easy
➡️ Looking for your next solo travel adventure click here for inspiration!
Gjirokastër, Albania – A Living Museum of Stone and History
What makes Gjirokastër one of my hidden European destinations? Well if you’re looking for a medieval town with a laid-back vibe, Gjirokastër in southern Albania is your dream come true. Often called a living museum, the entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its unique Ottoman-era historical buildings, stone houses, and dramatic spectacular views of the Drino Valley.
- 🟢 Best part? It’s still wildly underrated.
- 🟢 Main attractions: Gjirokastër Castle, the old bazaar, and the traditional houses that climb up the hillside.
- 🟢 Perfect time to go: The warmer months between May and September when festivals bring the town to life.
- 🟢 Nearest airport: Tirana International Airport located 96 miles from Gjirokastër.
- 🟢 Perfect getaway for: History buffs, nature lovers, and anyone who prefers smaller towns to major cities.
Where To Stay In Gjirokastër, Albania
🟢 Really good value hotels available in Albania. Here are my top 4 picks:
- ➡️ Hotel Gjirokastra (£68 +) Traditional decor, close to bazaar and even has a pool
- ➡️ Hotel SS KEKEZI (£47+) Picturesque hotel, centre of town so walking distance to all the attractions
- ➡️ Jani Studio Apartments (£34+) If you’re looking for something more modern with space this place will not dissappoint. It even has a washing machine, perfect for if you’ve been traveling for a while.
- ➡️ Luxury Option – KERCULLA Resort (£77+) stunning views
Top things to do in Gjirokastër, Albania
Step into a real-life time capsule, with a view. This stunning medieval town is often called a living museum, and it’s easy to see why. Start your journey at the hilltop Gjirokastër Castle. One of the largest fortresses in the Balkans, where you’ll get spectacular views over the entire valley. Stroll down through the old town. Filled with beautifully preserved stone houses, narrow streets, and unique Ottoman-style historical buildings. If you’re into quirky finds, check out the Cold War-era bunker beneath the city.
It’s also a perfect place to relax over coffee or some local traditional cuisine, especially during the warmer months when the town hosts festivals, music, and artisan fairs. And for a magical little day trip, head to the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër). A surreal natural spring with crystal-clear waters that shimmer in impossible shades of turquoise.
➡️ Below are some of the best tours I recommend to see everything this city has to offer (just click on the links for more info):
- 🟢 From Gjirokastër: Blue Eye, Butrint, and Skotini Cave Tour
- 🟢 Gjirokaster: Old Baazar and Cfaka Walking Tour
- 🟢 From Gjirokaster: Nivica Canyons & Waterfalls Day Trip
Sibiu, Romania – Storybook Charm in the Heart of Transylvania
This small town in Eastern Europe is pure magic. Think colorful narrow streets, Gothic spires, and quirky rooftops that literally look like they have eyes. Sibiu has that special mix of rich culture, medieval buildings, and modern creativity. This is the reason why it ranks in my hidden European destinations guide.
- 🟣 Best things to do: Stroll through the old town, grab a latte at one of the many cozy coffee shops, and catch a performance during the International Theatre Festival.
- 🟣 Best way to get around: The city center is easily walkable and well-connected by public transport.
- 🟣 Nearest Airport: Sibiu International Airport serves the city of Sibiu. It is located in southern Transylvania, 3 km west of Sibiu
- 🟣 Worth visiting? 100%. Especially for a short stay with a big impact.
- 🟣 Wizz Air will be launching flights from Birmingham to Sibiu twice a week from October 2025. With fares starting at just £17.99
- 🟣 Perfect place for: A slow-paced weekend with culture, great food, and photogenic streets.
Where To Stay In Sibiu, Romania
🟣 Sibiu is another exceptionally great value city to stay in. See my top 3 hotel recommendations below, I think you will like these:
- ➡️ Kleines Hotel (£59+) Renovated old building offering modern rooms in the heart of the city.
- ➡️ Casa Gallo (£85+) recently renovated, beautifully decorated and in downtown location.
- ➡️ Zur Krone (£68+) Decandant, beautifully furnished and you can walk right into town
Top things to do in Sibiu, Romania
Prepare to fall in love with one of Europe’s most charming medieval towns. Start in the main square (Piața Mare), where colorful baroque buildings and quirky coffee shops set the tone. Wander through the old town, where the houses literally watch you. No, really, their rooftops have little eye-shaped windows! Stroll across the Bridge of Lies, explore the towers of the old city walls, and pop into the Brukenthal Palace for a dose of art and history. Don’t miss the Council Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the city center, or grab a sweet treat from a local bakery and take a slow walk along the cobblestone streets.
For a bit of nature visit the ASTRA Museum. An open-air living museum of traditional Romanian village life. Its just a short drive away and absolutely worth visiting.
➡️ Below are some of the best tours I recommend to see everything this city has to offer (just click on the links for more info):
- 🟣 From Sibiu: Day Tour to Brasov and Dracula’s Castle
- 🟣 City Tour Sibiu: Exploring the Heart of Transylvania
- 🟣 From Sibiu: Alba Carolina Citadel and Corvin’s Castle Tour
Piran, Slovenia – A Coastal Town That Feels Like Italy Without the Crowds
Dreaming of sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and romantic cobblestone streets? I am, and that’s why Piran is one of my hidden European destinations. Piran is a stunning coastal town on the Adriatic that offers all the beauty of Venice, just without the chaos and high prices.
- ⚫️ Main square: Tartini Square, where you’ll find live music, seafood, and sunset magic.
- ⚫️ Best time to visit: The summer months, from June to August, when the cafes spill out into the streets and the sea is just right.
- ⚫️ Nearest airport: Portorož Airport
- ⚫️ Short drive from:** Ljubljana or Trieste.
- ⚫️ Perfect destination for: Couples, solo adventurers, or anyone needing a tranquil sea escape.
- ⚫️ Good reason to go now? Slovenia is trending, but Piran is still off the radar. Go before it’s not!
Where To Stay In Piran, Slovenia
⚫️ More apartment style than hotel, but that means more room and a more homely feel. Not as cheap as other places in my hidden gems blog, but still worth a visit:
- ➡️ Casa Al Porto Antico (£151+) Views over the harbour.
- ➡️ MEMENTO B&B Piran (£91+) Quaint and beautiful inside. Right in the centre of town.
- ➡️ Apartments VIP Residence (£106+) Sea View apartments with pool
Top things to do in Piran, Slovenia
It’s all about sunsets, seafood, and seaside charm. Begin your stroll in Tartini Square. The lively main square surrounded by Venetian-style buildings and buzzing coffee shops. From there, wander through the narrow streets of the old town. Where every turn reveals pastel facades, sea views, or a sleepy cat sunbathing on a windowsill. Climb the hill to St. George’s Church for spectacular views over the Adriatic, then take a walk along the medieval city walls (bring your camera!).
For beach lovers, there are crystal-clear waters just steps from the promenade, perfect for a dip during the warmer months. And if you’re into traditional cuisine, fresh seafood platters and locally made olive oil are the stars of every menu in this coastal town.
➡️ Below are some of the best tours I recommend to see everything this city has to offer (just click on the links for more info):
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina – Where East Meets West Over a Stunning Stone Bridge
If you’re hunting for a place that feels part fairy tale, part history book, and 100% unforgettable, Mostar is your spot. Tucked into the mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina, this small but stunning city is best known for its iconic Stari Most, a 16th-century stone arch bridge that dramatically spans the emerald Neretva River.
But there’s so much more than just a photo-op here.
The old town is pure magic. All cobblestone streets, Ottoman-style coffee shops, colorful market stalls, and that irresistible mix of Eastern European and Turkish influences. It’s a place where cultures blend, stories run deep, and time slows way down.
- 🟠 Main attractions: The Old Bridge (watch the local divers if you’re lucky!), Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque (go up the minaret for spectacular views), and the buzzing bazaar filled with handmade crafts and copperware.
- 🟠 Perfect time to visit: Spring or early autumn. The warmer months bring out the best of Mostar, but you’ll avoid the peak summer heat and crowds.
- 🟠 Nearest airport: Sarajevo International Airport is about a 2-hour road trip away, and honestly, the drive through the mountains is part of the fun.
- 🟠 Perfect destination for: Nature lovers, photographers, history buffs, and anyone who appreciates a good riverside sunset with a side of traditional cuisine.
- 🟠 Best part? Mostar is still super affordable and not yet swamped with tourists. Making it one of the most unique places and best lesser-known destinations to add to your 2025 Europe list.
Where To Stay In Mostar Bosnia & Herzegovina
🟠 Mostar offers some beautiful accommodation at great low prices. See my top 3 recommendations below:
- Villa Amaleo (£62+) Go for the deluxe double with sea view. Perfect for sitting on the balcony with a coffee in the morning.
- Villa Gunga (£54+) Great views from the family room balcony
- City Center apartments (£53+) Modern apartments in a great location
Top things to do in Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Start at the bridge, always the bridge. The legendary Stari Most, a 16th-century stone arch and UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the heart of the city. Watch daredevils dive into the turquoise Neretva River (if you’re lucky). Then wander through the old town, a colorful mix of Ottoman-era buildings, market stalls, and cobbled alleyways that feel like a step back in time. Pop into local shops for handmade copperware, then relax with Bosnian coffee at a riverside café with postcard-worthy views.
For more history, visit the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, where you can climb the minaret for spectacular views of the entire city. And don’t miss Blagaj just outside Mostar. A peaceful day trip spot where a Dervish monastery clings dramatically to a cliffside over crystal-clear water.
➡️ Below are some of the best tours I recommend to see everything this city has to offer (just click on the links for more info):
- 🟠 From Mostar: Day Trip to the Countryside of Herzegovina (includes Pocitelj’s historical charm, Kravice’s majestic waterfalls, the waterways of Bunski Kanali, views from Fortica, and the beauty of Blagaj)
- 🟠 Self-Guided Cycling on Ciro Trail: Mostar to Capljina
Kotor, Montenegro – Medieval Magic by the Sea
If you’re dreaming of a coastal town with spectacular views, charming narrow streets, and dramatic mountains crashing into the sea, Kotor is your next obsession. Tucked inside a fjord-like bay on the Adriatic, Kotor feels like a fantasy world. With medieval buildings, fortress walls you can hike, and a chilled-out vibe that just makes you want to stay longer than you planned. And that’s why Kotor made it into my hidden European destinations list.
- 🟡 Main attractions: The Kotor Fortress (with a serious leg workout for those views), the UNESCO-listed old town, and the nearby sandy beaches of Budva.
- 🟡 Best time to visit: The warmer months (May–September), when the weather’s perfect for hiking, swimming, and café hopping.
- 🟡 Perfect destination for: Nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking for a laid-back vibe without sacrificing beauty or culture.
- 🟡 Nearest airport: Tivat Airport is just a short drive away. Ideal for a weekend escape or a scenic road trip.
Where To Stay In Kotor Montenegro
🟡 Montenegro is such a beautiful country with lots of activities and stunning scenery on offer. The hotels here don’t disappoint either. See below for my top 3 recommendations:
- ➡️ Avenza Residences I Kotor Old Town (£90+) Lovely modern new hotel. Walking distance to beach and town
- ➡️ Hotel Vardar (£142+) Small luxury hotel located in the old town. Ask for a room with a view
- ➡️ Boutique Hotel Casa del Mare (£183+) Luxury hotel with pool and amazing sea view. This one also has spa facilities, which after all this traveling is definitely well deserved.
Top things to do in Kotor, Montenegro
Bring your walking shoes and your camera. Start by exploring Kotor’s old town, a maze of narrow streets, charming squares, and medieval buildings that feel straight out of a fantasy novel. Climb the ancient city walls to Kotor Fortress (yep, it’s a bit of a hike — but the spectacular views of the bay are totally worth it). Afterward, cool off by the marina with some local seafood or a drink in one of the many laid-back coffee shops tucked into the stone alleys.
Want to explore more? Take a short boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, a postcard-perfect church floating in the bay. And if you’re craving beach time, the sandy beaches of Budva and the pristine waters of the Adriatic are just a short drive away.
➡️ Below are some of the best tours I recommend to see everything this city has to offer (just click on the links for more info):
- 🟡 From Kotor: Blue Cave and Bay of Kotor Boat Tour
- 🟡 Kotor: Boat Tour to Perast Old Town & Our Lady of the Rocks
- 🟡 Montenegro: Durmitor, Tara & Ostrog Monastery Day Trip
Tbilisi, Georgia – The Crossroads of Europe and Asia
Georgia (the country, not the U.S. state!) is a rising star on the travel scene, and Tbilisi, its capital, is a captivating mix of ancient and edgy. Picture cobblestone streets, colorful balconies, hot springs, hilltop churches, street art, and wine bars. All wrapped up in the warmest hospitality you’ll ever experience.
- 🔵 Main attractions: The historic city center, sulphur thermal baths, Narikala Fortress, and the modern Peace Bridge.
- 🔵 Best time to visit: Spring and autumn — perfect weather and fewer crowds. Though if you visit in winter, you might catch snow-covered mountains in the background.
- 🔵 Perfect place for: Culture lovers, foodies, and digital nomads who want a vibrant base with a unique East-meets-West feel.
- 🔵 Public transport is cheap and efficient, and day trips to the Caucasus Mountains or ancient archaeological sites like Uplistsikhe are easy to plan.
- 🔵 Nearest Airport: Rustaveli Tbilisi International Airport, is the busiest international airport in Georgia, located 17 km southeast of the capital Tbilisi.
- 🔵 Bonus: Georgia is famous for being the birthplace of wine, and a glass of Saperavi might just become your new favorite.
Where To Stay In Tbilisi
🔵 So many great hotels to choose from in Tbilisi , but here are my top 3 picks:
- ➡️ Qarvasla Hotel (£121+) – Luxury hotel, right in the heart of the town.
- ➡️ Mukhrantubani Boutique Hotel (£94+) Modern hotel, centrally located
- ➡️ TbiliSee Hotel (£94+) Great atmosphere, centrally located and nice views from the roof top terrace.
Top things to do in Tbilisi
Oh, where to begin! Start your adventure in the charming old town, where pastel-colored buildings lean into winding cobblestone streets and quirky coffee shops hide behind every corner. Soak in the iconic sulphur baths (a must-do — your skin will thank you), then ride the cable car up to Narikala Fortress for spectacular views over the city. Stroll across the ultra-modern Peace Bridge, get lost in the flea markets near Dry Bridge, and don’t forget to sample some traditional cuisine, khinkali (dumplings) and khachapuri (cheesy bread heaven) are basically food hugs. Wine lovers? You’re in luck, this is one of the oldest wine regions in the world.
➡️ Below are some of the best tours I recommend to see everything this city has to offer (just click on the links for more info):
- 🔵 Kakheti Wine Region Tour with 8 Wine Tastings
- 🔵 Georgian Cooking Class with Khinkali and Khachapuri
- 🔵 Diamond Bridge and Dashbashi Canyon Day Trip
- 🔵 Tbilisi City Tour With All Most Famous Tourist Destinations
Final Thoughts: Take the Road Less Traveled
Whether you’re after archaeological sites, thermal baths, or just a great time soaking up scenery and stories. Europe is full of unique places waiting to be discovered. Skip the largest cities, hop off the beaten path, and find yourself in towns where the streets whisper history and the food is made with love.
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