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10 Underrated Cities to Visit in Europe

10 Underrated Cities to Visit in Europe

When one travels to Europe, he or she wants to go and visit the more popular cities such as Paris, Rome, Madrid, and/or London, to name a few. As a result, most tourists do not realize is that there are many other beautiful and equally fascinating cities across the continent that are often overlooked. With that in mind, here is a list of some of the most underrated cities that you have to visit the next time you take a vacation in Europe:

1. Spilt, Croatia

The second largest city in Croatia is the place to go if you want to go somewhere in Europe with a laid-back Mediterranean vibe and a breathtaking view of the sea. Besides its’ beautiful beaches, Split is known for its’ excellent selection of fine dining, shopping, and bars. Sites to visit while in the seaside town include Diocletian’s Palace (An UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Saint Domnius Cathedral. Be sure to also to go to Bacvice Beach and Riva (Split’s seafront promenade as well. 

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2. Porto, Portugal

The seaside city and 2nd most populous city in the country is often overlooked due to tourists flocking to Lisbon, the nation’s capital. Porto is a vibrant and beautiful city with a charming aurora that is definitely worth exploring.  Tourists should definitely check out the scenic Ribeira neighborhood, Clerigos Tower, and The Livraria Bookstore. Fun Fact: With Duoro Valley close by, Porto is one of the world’s top wine destinations, so be sure to get your drink on when you visit!!

3. Bruges, Belgium

This Belgian hidden gem will capture your heart the minute you step into the city! Like Amsterdam, Bruges has a beautiful series of canals and bridges in addition to cobblestone streets that will make you feel like you step back into what the world was like centuries ago. Key places to visit while there include The Markt (Pictured below), The Fish Market, The Church of Our Lady, and The Frietmuseum (A museum dedicated to Belgian fries). 

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4. Marseille, France

Located on the Southern Coast of France on The Mediterranean Sea, the nation’s second largest city is a highly underrated tourist attraction as a result of the influx of tourists visiting Paris. The vibrant and beautiful city has plenty to offer to visitors. Vieux Port is the hotspot of Marseille and located in the center of the city, where people can look at the clear blue waters and beautiful boats docked on the shore. Other attractions include Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica and La Musee Cantini. Be sure to try some Bouillabaisse, the city’s most famous seafood dish,  during your stay.

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5. Bergamo, Italy

Bergamo is a hidden gem worth traveling to for your next trip to Italy. It is known for its’ charming history, music, art, buildings, and history. The city offers a breathtaking view of The Swiss Alps. The Venetian Walls and Piazza Vecchia are must-see tourist attractions located in Upper Bergamo. 

6. Innsbruck, Austria

This hidden gem is the destination for adventure and recreation year round!! The best time to go on a holiday in Innsbruck is during the winter for ski season and during the summer for hiking and seeing the breathtaking mountains and scenery. Fun Fact: Innsbruck hosted The Winter Olympic Games twice (In 1964 and 1976). 

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7. Manchester, England

Although the city is already well known for both of their soccer teams (Manchester City and Manchester United), it is an overlooked city for tourists to visit. The music scene and nightlife are huge and popular there. Also, the city is known for its breathtaking architecture. 

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8. Bologna, Italy 

This Northern Italian city is overshadowed by the country’s more popular cities such as Rome and Florence. Dubbed as Italy’s ‘Foodie Heaven’, Bologna is a must go place for your next trip to Italy. Besides its’ famous food scene, Bologna has amazing architecture and wonderful views. 

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9. Basel, Switzerland

One of Europe’s most unique cities (and the hometown of one of the greatest tennis players of all time Roger Federer) Basel is a must-see!! Bordering Germany and France, the city is a traveler’s dream. The city has one of the largest collections of museums in the entire continent. Basel’sIts peaceful atmosphere is one of its’ main attractors. 

10. Zurich, Switzerland

For a city primarily known for its’ banking and where the headquarters of FIFA is at, Zurich has plenty to offer for those visiting. Zurich is also famous for its’ renown art gallery scene, medieval architecture, cuisine, and boutiques. For any art lovers, you definitely need to stop by The Zurich Museum of Art and No Show Muesuem during your stay. 

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Which of these hidden gems would you like to visit on your next trip to Europe? Be sure to comment below!

Feature Image Source: Instagram @proudbasque