Many exceptional European cities get overlooked in favor of their more famous neighbors. If you’ve done the tourist trip and would like to see more of your favorite European country then read on, fellow traveler. Here are the best underrated European cities to visit.
Best Underrated European Cities
1. Bratislava, Slovakia
This former capital of Royal Hungary features cobbled streets, a cathedral from the 1300s, a fairy tale castle on a hilltop, and ornate palaces. Once a famous center for classical music (prior to the rise of communism), this Danube river city, the locals boast of their historic 18th-century center, architecture, and contemporary neighborhoods.
2. Bucharest, Romania
This Eastern European place offers travelers busy beer halls, peaceful parks, cool coffee shops, olden orthodox churches, Art Nouveau villas, and much more. Be sure to see the prominent Palace of Parliament (built by once-dictator Nicolae Ceauşescu), and sublime Cişmigiu Gardens. Get tickets for a show in the arresting Romanian Athenaeum as well.
3. Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
This is the often-overlooked capital of an often overlooked, little country. It comes complete with a definite fairy-tale feel from its quaint cobblestone streets and princely palace. Surrounded by vineyards and forested valleys, this city is also a great place for foodies. The Michelin Guide lists a surprising assortment of exceptional eateries.
4. Riga, Latvia
This lovely Latvian capital includes a regenerated riverside, an official UNESCO-listed medieval village, and restaurants that actually offer anything from traditional dishes to new Nordic delicacies. Stop at the city center to learn about the eclectic assortment of Art Nouveau, Baroque, Gothic, and medieval buildings. See everything from the spire of St Peter’s Church!
5. Belgrade, Serbia
This is reportedly one of the “most energetic” European capitals. Yes, it has an ancient citadel, attractive old town, and regenerated river districts but it’s also becoming a hip destination. It features designer hotels, cool clubs, an eclectic music scene, and experts confirm the “summer barge parties” along the Sava and Danube rivers “are legendary.”
6. Vienna, Austria
Although it’s famous for its culture and art, Vienna is often overlooked by Salzburg. Those that bypass Vienna do so mistakenly. See the popular Kunsthistorisches Museum with its Vermeers, Rubens, and Rembrandts. There’s also the Baroque palaces, the Vienna State Opera, St Stephen’s Cathedral, and the assorted Art Nouveau coffee houses.
7. Vilnius, Lithuania
This city was once a “European Capital of Culture.” It still has plenty to see though including the reportedly “largest medieval old town” in eastern and central Europe. It comes complete with bars, cafes, historic churches, parks, and restaurants. Other highlights of this capital city include the popular landmark Gediminas’ Tower, and the busy Cathedral Square.
8. Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia might not be on every “city break” hot list, but with its galleries, museums, and lively nightlife, it should be. Bulgaria’s captivating capital also includes the former mineral baths, the distinctive, domed St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and the National Theatre. Finally, there’s also the city’s oldest park, the beautiful Borisova Gradina.
9. Podgorica, Montenegro
This little Adriatic country’s capital was specifically built here at the confluence of the Morača and Ribnica rivers. It includes striking bridges and the remains of its Ottoman-era beginnings. See the Clock Tower from the 1600s. Don’t miss Petrović Castle in the popular Kruševac area, and the home of the Centre for Modern Arts.
10. Valletta, Malta
This is the alluring ancient capital that is perfect for a weekend getaway. Here you will discover picturesque palazzos and olden churches, like St John’s Co-Cathedral which features paintings by Caravaggio. There’s also the great Grand Harbour and the Upper Barrakka Gardens which provide people with panoramic views of this reported ex-European “capital of culture.”
