Europe is known for its blockbuster cities like Paris, Rome, and Barcelona—but beyond the crowds and iconic landmarks lie hidden gems that are every bit as charming, culturally rich, and beautiful. These underrated cities are often overlooked, yet they offer all the magic of Europe without the massive crowds or price tags.
Here are 15 of the most underrated cities in Europe, why they’re worth your attention, and what to see and do in each.
1. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Why it’s underrated: Slovenia’s capital is small but incredibly scenic, often overshadowed by nearby Venice or Vienna.
What to do:
- Wander the pastel-colored Old Town along the Ljubljanica River
- Visit Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views
- Enjoy drinks at riverside cafés and explore Tivoli Park
2. Graz, Austria
Why it’s underrated: While Vienna and Salzburg get the spotlight, Graz offers Renaissance charm and a vibrant student energy.
What to do:
- Ride the funicular up to Schlossberg and the iconic clock tower
- Explore the Styrian Armoury, the world’s largest historic weapons collection
- Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town and enjoy Styrian cuisine
3. Ghent, Belgium
Why it’s underrated: Ghent combines medieval architecture with a youthful spirit, often overlooked in favor of Bruges or Brussels.
What to do:
- Cruise the canals past grand guild houses
- Tour Gravensteen Castle
- Visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral to see the famous Van Eyck altarpiece
4. Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Why it’s underrated: One of the oldest cities in Europe, Plovdiv blends Roman ruins, bohemian vibes, and colorful revivalist buildings.
What to do:
- Walk through the ancient Roman amphitheater
- Explore the charming Old Town and Kapana arts district
- Visit the Ethnographic Museum in a historic mansion
5. Trieste, Italy
Why it’s underrated: This northeastern port city has a blend of Austrian, Italian, and Slavic influences—and views to match.
What to do:
- Stroll along the Piazza Unità d’Italia, one of Europe’s largest sea-facing squares
- Visit Miramare Castle on the coast
- Sip espresso in a historic Viennese-style café
6. Toulouse, France
Why it’s underrated: Often bypassed for Paris or Provence, Toulouse is known as “La Ville Rose” (The Pink City) for its terracotta brick buildings and southern charm.
What to do:
- Visit the Capitole de Toulouse and its ornate square
- Walk along the Garonne River at sunset
- Tour the Airbus factory or the Cité de l’Espace space museum
7. Brno, Czech Republic
Why it’s underrated: Brno is Prague’s cooler, quieter cousin—an artsy student town with loads of character.
What to do:
- Explore Špilberk Castle and the eerie ossuary under St. James’ Church
- Discover the quirky Astronomical Clock in the main square
- Visit the modernist Villa Tugendhat (UNESCO site)
8. Lecce, Italy
Why it’s underrated: Often called the “Florence of the South,” Lecce dazzles with Baroque architecture and Apulian warmth.
What to do:
- Tour Lecce Cathedral and the Basilica di Santa Croce
- Discover Roman ruins like the amphitheater right in the city center
- Enjoy local delicacies like orecchiette and pasticciotto
9. Kaunas, Lithuania
Why it’s underrated: Kaunas is filled with Art Deco architecture, modern art, and quirky museums—and it’s a former European Capital of Culture.
What to do:
- Walk Laisvės Alėja, a pedestrian boulevard lined with shops and cafés
- Visit the Devil’s Museum for something unusual
- Explore Kaunas Castle and the Old Town
10. Valencia, Spain
Why it’s underrated: Though gaining popularity, Valencia still lives in the shadow of Barcelona and Madrid—yet it offers sun, sea, and futuristic architecture.
What to do:
- Visit the City of Arts and Sciences
- Wander the Old Town and climb the Miguelete bell tower
- Feast on authentic paella in its birthplace
11. Riga, Latvia
Why it’s underrated: With its blend of Gothic spires and Art Nouveau facades, Riga is one of the most beautiful Baltic capitals—yet still a well-kept secret.
What to do:
- Stroll the medieval Old Town and Town Hall Square
- Marvel at the Art Nouveau district
- Visit the Central Market, housed in former Zeppelin hangars
12. Poznań, Poland
Why it’s underrated: Poznań has a fairytale-like Old Town and youthful buzz thanks to its large student population.
What to do:
- Watch the mechanical goats “butt heads” at the Town Hall clock at noon
- Visit the Cathedral Island (Ostrów Tumski)
- Enjoy trendy cafés, street art, and craft beer bars
13. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Why it’s underrated: Known for its iconic stone bridge and East-meets-West culture, Mostar is one of Europe’s most photogenic small cities.
What to do:
- Walk across the UNESCO-listed Stari Most
- Watch locals dive off the bridge into the river below
- Shop in the Ottoman-style bazaar
14. Colmar, France
Why it’s underrated: Colmar looks like a real-life storybook town but is often overshadowed by bigger names like Strasbourg.
What to do:
- Stroll through Little Venice with its timber-framed houses
- Visit the Unterlinden Museum for medieval and modern art
- Try Alsatian wine and cuisine in local winstubs
15. Eskisehir, Turkey
Why it’s underrated: A hidden gem in central Turkey, Eskisehir is vibrant, youthful, and filled with canals, art, and Ottoman charm.
What to do:
- Cruise the Porsuk River
- Explore the fairy-tale inspired Sazova Park
- Visit the colorful Odunpazarı Modern Museum (OMM)
Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.