Europe’s Best Destinations has released its annual list of the continent’s hidden gems.
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Spain has come out on top in a new list celebrating Europe’s hidden gems, with the towns of Villajoyosa and Ares del Maestrat taking first and second place respectively.
European Best Destinations has released its annual ranking of “Europe’s hidden gems” for 2024. The list features places that are off the beaten path.
This year’s selection includes 18 locations across Europe, from Spain to Georgia, with a focus on spots far from the crowds and rarely visited by tourists.
The top 10 are especially noteworthy, and here’s why you should add them to your travel bucket list.
Enjoy the best Spanish cuisine in Villajoyosa on the Costa Blanca
Villajoyosa means “happy town” in Spanish, which seems like a perfect description considering there is so much to see and do.
Located south of Valencia and north of Murcia, it’s less than a 20-minute drive from famously cheap and fun Benidorm, but it’s far from the tourist hotspots.
Villajoyosa boasts colorful houses, golden beaches, and world-class cuisine.
Thanks to its coastal location, fresh fish and seafood are especially popular, but chocolate is the real delicacy.
The region’s sweet treat history dates back to the 17th century, and three factories are still in operation today, including Chocolate Valor, which has an attached museum that guides visitors through chocolate’s journey from the cocoa bean to the bars we enjoy today.
If you like sports activities, head to Puntes del Morro and El Charco beaches, which are great for snorkelling, while nudists can choose Raco de Conil and L’Esparello beaches, where clothing is optional.
Visit Ares del Maestre and discover the wonders of the Maestrago Mountains
Located halfway between Barcelona and Valencia, on top of a rocky hill, Ares del Maestre offers breathtaking views of the Maestrazgo landscape beyond.
The town dates back to the 14th century and is dotted with pretty narrow streets, but is perhaps best known for Morat Castle, which has been the site of many battles over the years due to its strategic location.
Being Spain, your trip may get a little hot, in which case it’s worth visiting the Castillo Cave Museum, a hidden place carved into the rock where former inhabitants often took refuge for more than a year to escape attacks.
History buffs won’t want to miss the Gothic Town Hall and the Neoclassical Parish Church, while sports enthusiasts can try their hand at paragliding from the popular Tossal Dorenga mountain.
Relax on one of the best beaches in the Balkans in Primošten
Croatia has always been a popular holiday destination, and for good reason.
But this list suggests avoiding places like Dubrovnik and the island of Hvar, and heading instead to the less popular Primošten.
Located in the Dalmatia region, just a 30-minute drive from Šibenik Airport, it is a perfect destination for sun and sea lovers.
Raduca Mara Beach is one of the longest in all of Croatia, stretching for 2 kilometres. Its golden sand and crystal blue waters are lined with bars and restaurants serving some of Croatia’s best cuisine, including black risotto and stuffed peppers.
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Water activities are also very popular here, making it an ideal spot for those seeking adrenaline rather than relaxation.
Experience Asia in the heart of Europe at Hungary’s Bokódy floating village
Many of us dream of traveling to one of Asia’s many floating villages and spending days in an overwater bungalow.
If that’s not possible, then Bokodi floating village might be the place for you.
Located on the shores of Lake Bokod, it is just a few kilometers from the city of Oroslany and an hour’s drive from Budapest, yet it feels like a world away.
Known for its stunning sunsets, it’s the perfect place for a tranquil getaway.
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This artificial lake was created in 1961 by the Oloshulani Thermal Power Plant, and the water remained warm all year round until 2015, when the plant stopped supplying it with water.
It remains a popular fishing spot and offers a truly unique experience.
Most of the wooden houses surrounding the lake are privately owned, but some welcome visitors and offer access to their rooftop terraces to admire this surreal place.
A must-see for Moomin fans: Naantali, Finland
Not far from Turku in south-western Finland lies Naantali, a charming small town with a lot to offer in terms of culture and gastronomy.
But the biggest attraction is Moomimaayrma, a theme park based on the iconic cartoon Moomin.
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Created in 1945 by Finnish author Tove Jansson, the hippopotamus-like creature has been entertaining children for generations.
“Moomimaayilma”, meaning the world of Moomin, is located on Cairo Island, across from Naantali.
If you tire of the Moomins, Naantali itself is worth exploring. One of the oldest towns in Finland, it was founded around the medieval Brigittine monastery, Nordendal Abbey, which still dominates the town skyline today.
Discover ancient history in the Faroe Islands’ Bour
Certainly one of the oldest places on this list, Bour in the Faroe Islands dates back almost 1000 years.
Today, the village is home to just 75 people and is often described as completely untouched.
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This small village with its beautiful wooden houses with green roofs offers breathtaking views that are rarely seen.
Bour is located on the western side of the island of Vagar and offers unique views over the sea and the impressive rock formation “Tindholmur” that rises out of the water.
Quaint houses are clustered together along narrow streets and surround a small church built in 1865.
Due to its small size, not much is known about Bourg and it is still unclear when the first village church was built – you might find the answer for yourself when you visit this hidden gem.
Learn about Scandinavian history on a trip to Bravand, Denmark
Located in the westernmost part of Denmark and not far from the German border, Bravand has a lot to offer, especially for history buffs.
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Located just 30 minutes from Esbjerg Airport and a three-hour drive from Copenhagen, this less-visited region is the perfect place to discover a lesser-known side of Danish history.
This artistic transformation of a coastal bunker from one of the most heavily defended locations in all of Denmark during World War II now features a horse sculpture, a universal symbol of peace.
Once you’ve had your fill of wartime history, admire the Bravande Lighthouse, Denmark’s westernmost building, or indulge in some equestrian fun by taking a majestic horse for an equine-themed ride across the sandy beaches.
Experience fairytale charm in Ulm, Germany
Located in Germany’s beautiful state of Baden-Württemberg, Ulm sits on the border with Bavaria, offering the best of both worlds.
This charming city balances modernity and tradition, from the old town to the modern architecture of its cultural centre.
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Highlights for history buffs include the town hall with its colorful façade and the 13th-century Saint-Nicolas Chapel, while those who prefer modern architecture should head to the cultural center with its 20th-century buildings, numerous museums, expositions and a variety of theatres and performances.
Its location on the Danube River makes it a great place for foodies, with the fishermen’s and artisans’ quarter filled with bars and restaurants serving hearty cuisine.
Ulm is conveniently located within walking distance of the Danube, from which you can discover Ulm’s charming Bavarian little sister, Neu-Ulm.
Breathe in the freshest air in Europe in Aljezur, Portugal
Straddling the Algarve and Alentejo regions of Portugal, Aljezur is a small market town that, despite its small size, encapsulates the best of Portugal.
It’s a sanctuary with protected nature as well as world-class history, gastronomy, beaches and natural parks.
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Although little known, Aljezur’s historic castle is featured on the Portuguese flag, indicating its importance to the country.
The town is full of trendy restaurants and bars and is home to some of Portugal’s best beaches, including the iconic Arrifana and Monte Clérigo, where top surfers train.
If you are in need of a healthy getaway, Aljezur might be the perfect destination for you.
Surrounded by eucalyptus and pine trees, this place is known for having the cleanest air in Europe.
Discover Daltoro, the most beautiful village in Georgia
Despite being hailed as one of the most beautiful places in the world, Georgia is one of the least touristed countries in Europe.
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Daltoro in the north is considered the most beautiful village in the country.
Surrounded by green hills and mountains, the village is filled with historic houses, clan defense towers and churches, all built from ancient stone, giving the village an otherworldly feel.
If you love hiking, it’s the perfect place to start or finish off some of Georgia’s best walks.
At 1,850 metres above sea level, the mountain offers some of the best views of the Greater Caucasus, and thanks to its diverse history, culture and nature, it brings together almost everything the Tusheti region has to offer in one place.
Dartlo has no permanent residents, but there are 56 hotels and guesthouses run by local families, allowing you to explore this little-known heart of the region.
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Rounding out the list of Europe’s best destinations are, in order, Castro Urdiale in Spain, Landmannalaugar in Iceland, Cikmani in Slovakia, Pico in the Azores archipelago in Portugal, Pont-en-Royans in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes in France, Wuppertal in Germany, Le Puy-en-Velay in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes in France and Staithes in North Yorkshire in the UK.
