Top 10 Underrated Cities in Europe

 

Skip the queues. Discover Authenticity.

 

Beyond Europe’s most famous cities lies a quieter, deeper layer of culture. With slow travel on the rise, more and more people are wanting to explore less touristy destinations and be able to explore more immersive and authentic experiences. But with so many hidden gem travel destinations rich in local heritage, culture, and tours, it can be difficult to decide where the best place is to go.

 

From food culture and folk traditions to galleries, markets, and meaningful hands-on experiences, these places invite you to enjoy the benefits of slow travel and explore everything you want to at your own pace.

 

How We Chose These Hidden Gem Travel Destinations

We analysed 30 European destinations using a scoring system based on our Slow Travel methodology. For this list, we focused on cultural richness scoring each city or region based on a variety of characteristics including:

 

1. Museums and Art Galleries

2. Historical Landmarks

3. Artisan Markets and Craft Shops

4. Tours and Creative Classes

 

Each destination was given a weighted score out of 10. The final rankings reflect how well these places offer authentic, accessible, under-the-radar, and alternative city breaks in Europe.

 

 

Top 10 Underrated Cities in Europe

 

 

1. Lyon, France – Culinary + Cultural Royalty (Score: 8.9)

Why it tops the list:

Lyon blends Roman ruins with Renaissance streets, world-class gastronomy, and vibrant artisan neighbourhoods. With over 60 immersive cultural tours, including authentic silk-weaving,  there are plenty of slow cultural experiences to explore. Often overshadowed by Paris, Lyon is a place that you should not miss, making it the best-underrated city in Europe.

 

---

 

 

 

2. Galway, Ireland – Ireland’s Bohemian Heart (Score: 8.5)

What makes it unique:

A coastal city alive with music, language, and independent art. Galway celebrates its Irish identity through folk festivals, traditional pubs, and local markets. It’s walkable, creative, and full of soul — with none of the big-city rush. To find more of the best walking destinations in Europe, learn more today.

 

---

 

 

3. Piedmont, Italy – Slow Culture in Every Bite (Score: 8.4)

Why it’s a cultural powerhouse:

From Baroque palaces to truffle markets, Piedmont is a feast for the senses. Its scenic towns (like Alba and Asti) offer rich artistic heritage, vineyard tours, and small museums, all perfect for exploring slowly by train or car, which is why it’s taken the third spot for our top hidden gem holiday destinations.

 

---

 

 

4. Zadar, Croatia – Roman Roots, Modern Edge (Score: 8.2)

Why it surprises:

Zadar balances ancient history and medieval churches with avant-garde art, like its Sea Organ and solar-powered light installations. With Adriatic charm and compact walkability, it is one of the least touristy places in Europe, and is becoming a rising cultural destination without the Dubrovnik crowds.

 

---

 

 

5. Salisbury, England – Storybook Heritage (Score: 8.0)

Why it's worth the stop:

Home to one of the UK’s most iconic cathedrals and just a stone’s throw from Stonehenge, Salisbury invites you to experience medieval history up close. Artisan workshops and storytelling tours offer a personal touch that’s often missing in larger cities.

 

---

 

 

6. Ystad, Sweden – Coastal Calm with Rich Heritage (Score: 7.8)

What makes it special:

Known for its medieval abbeys and literary fame (thanks to Wallander), Ystad mixes peaceful seaside life with cultural substance, making it a perfect hidden gem. With galleries, historic houses, and film festivals it is one of southern Sweden’s most underrated cities in Europe.

 

---

 

 

7. Bassano del Grappa, Italy – Grappa, Art, and Bridges (Score: 7.7)

Why slow travelers love it:

This small Veneto town punches above its weight with artisan boutiques, grappa distilleries, and elegant architecture. The riverside setting and walkable streets make it ideal for cultural wandering and sampling local craft traditions. To explore more hidden travel destinations with plenty of nature around you, discover out top 10 nature escapes in Europe today.

 

---

 

 

8. Umbria, Italy – Sacred and Artistic (Score: 7.6)

What makes it a good place to visit:

Umbria is home to Assisi, Orvieto, and Perugia, towns steeped in religious, artistic, and culinary traditions. From Etruscan ruins to stained-glass workshops, it’s Italy’s spiritual and cultural soul, perfect for those seeking a hidden tourist spot in Europe without crowds.

 

---

 

 

9. Ronda, Spain – Drama and Tradition (Score: 7.5)

Why it stands out:

Perched above a stunning gorge, Ronda is rich with Andalusian heritage, from Moorish palaces to flamenco culture. You can even discover how artisans still craft leather and ceramics in this hidden holiday destination in Europe, as it offers intimate glimpses into Spanish tradition.

 

---

 

 

10. Priego de Córdoba, Spain – Baroque Hidden Gem (Score: 7.3)

What’s good to visit here:

Often missed by tourists, this small city overflows with Baroque churches, olive oil heritage, and hands-on experiences, including cooking classes and embroidery workshops. It’s the perfect place to slow down and appreciate Spanish artistry, to embrace one of the most culturally hidden tourist spots in Europe without the crowds and queues.

 

---

Finding Your Alternative City Break in Europe

As travellers look beyond the usual hotspots, these underrated cities in Europe offer something rare: authenticity without the overwhelm. In 2025, hidden gem holiday destinations aren’t just about avoiding crowds. They’re about discovering places where culture runs deep, creativity thrives, and the pace invites you to stay a little longer.

 

From artisan markets to ancient streets, each destination on our list offers a more meaningful way to explore. Whether you're drawn to Irish folk music, Italian food festivals, or quiet Swedish harbours, these cities promise immersive travel experiences that feel personal and inspiring.

 

So, if you're craving an alternative city break in Europe with more soul and fewer queues, book your ferry to Europe today and sail on your trip easily and stress-free with P&O Ferries.