Wonderful as France and Italy are, what about the other Europe nations that don’t get as much attention as the two we just mentioned? These places will still be popular since you’re still in Europe, but you can expect fewer tourists, cheaper airfares, and, most importantly, the chance to explore a region you haven’t seen in a million images.
These are the top 5 countries in Europe that you should visit on your next holiday but probably won’t because of how popular other destinations are.
Montenegro
Montenegro is a beautiful country with towering peaks, deep canyons, rushing rivers, and a stunning Adriatic shoreline. Those in the know have long recognized its potential as an ideal destination for adventurous travelers, but the public has slowly acknowledged its numerous draws.
To top it all off, the country has remained mostly untouched by tourism, and its costs have remained lower than those in Western Europe. If you find yourself in Montenegro, don’t miss the chance to marvel at Kotor Bay or go into the wilds of Durmitor National Park.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria is a tiny nation in southeastern Europe. It is often overshadowed by its more well-known neighbors, Turkey and Greece. Few individuals are familiar with it, and even fewer have in-depth knowledge.
Sunny Beach and Bansko are synonymous with Bulgaria as summer and winter tourist destinations, respectively. Bulgaria’s capital, Sofia, and Plovdiv’s historic center are popular tourist destinations. Yet there’s more to Bulgaria than flashy bars selling cheap drinks at low prices. Its unique quality receives very little attention: its inherent qualities. One of the most underappreciated nations in Europe, Bulgaria is home to breathtaking scenery ranging from snowy mountains to the bright shore of the fickle Black Sea.Mountainous Bulgaria is home to the highest peaks in the Balkan Peninsula and is covered by a few major mountain ranges. The residents’ go-to weekend pastime is hiking, and they can access hundreds of paths.
Several glacial lakes in the Rila Mountains, such as the Seven Rila Lakes, are among the region’s most popular tourist attractions. The rocky trails of Pirin, such as the Koncheto Ridge on Peak Vihren, are well-liked by adventurers, providing a breathtaking panorama of the mountain range.
Bulgaria is home to various mountains, each of which offers unique sights, from flower-filled meadows and tranquil lakes and rivers to secluded monasteries and the crumbling remains of once-great castles. The Rila Mountains are the most scenic mountain ranges, with over 200 lakes spread over the field.
Albania
Albania is a beautiful country often overlooked by tourists because of its more outgoing neighbors, Greece and Croatia. It has a rich history and culture, beautiful scenery, and delectable cuisine and wine, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
It’s ideal for relaxing beach vacations and culturally enriching tourist excursions thanks to its abundance of historic landmarks like castles and cathedrals and outdoor destinations like national parks and quaint resort towns in the West. With all this, it’s clear that this is a fantastic option to consider if you’re seeking a hidden gem of a holiday spot.
Guernsey
The little island of Guernsey, nestled in the English Channel between England and France, is one of the most underappreciated nations you must see. This little seaside town has a rich maritime and political history that can be seen all over its streets and ports. While traveling to the nations around Guernsey, visiting the island for no more than two days is ideal. Taxis may be provided from the airport to the downtown area, and there are frequent short flights between islands.
Although many of Guernsey’s rural roads are beautiful, the island’s seaside scenery is what you should not miss. If you plan on spending a few days here, several beaches are within easy driving distance.
St. Peter’s Port is a must-see if you only have limited time in Guernsey. Castle Cornet, a fortification constructed on the waterfront in the 1800s, is a famous tourist destination. La Nautique Restaurant is a place for delicious seafood and breathtaking scenery. Le Nautique is a high-end restaurant with a waterfront view and a stylish nautical theme throughout the dining area and the bar.
Liechtenstein
The geographical position of this nation is both fortunate and unfortunate. Why should anything go wrong in the middle of Europe, next to two of Europe’s most stable countries (Switzerland and Austria)?
The issue is that Liechtenstein is so tiny that it gets lost in the shadow of its more impressive neighbors. Yet, the country’s stunning landscapes, meandering mountain paths, and awe-inspiring valleys make it an ideal getaway for outdoor adventurers.
Where in Europe do you see yourself going on holiday first? Your mind has probably already wandered to Europe, namely to Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany. Countries like the Czech Republic, Greece, and Russia may also come to mind if you’ve done your homework.
Lastly, read more about travel around the world here.