Should you’re dreaming of fairytale castles that might simply have featured in a Disney movie, historic cities with cobble-surfaced lanes which have barely modified because the Center Ages, and naturally, all of the Previous World attract that comes with these, exploring Europe is definitely a high precedence for you.
Past the crowded streets of Paris, Barcelona, London, and the like, there’s a complete continent that continues to be largely undiscovered—if solely vacationers did not at all times flock to the identical 3 spots, 12 months after 12 months.
As a Journey Off Path reader, it is best to know at this level that discovering essentially the most Instagrammable spots for Eiffel Tower selfies, or the very best elite eating places on the Amalfi Coast, are the final of our issues: come January, we’re going off the overwhelmed monitor once more, and also you’re greater than welcome to affix us.
Listed here are 5 actually underrated European cities which have been on our professional writers’ radars for 2026:
Trenčín, Slovakia
House to round 55,000 residents, Trenčín is the sort of small, unspoiled European metropolis that appears to nonetheless be caught in a romantic period of chivalric tales and medieval aptitude—and we imply that in the easiest way attainable.
Its Previous City, a maze of cobbled lanes lined with colourful townhouses, looks like a storybook-come-to-life, and perched on a rock above town, vacationers will discover an imposing Trenčín Fort: sturdy towers, stunning courtyards, and hidden passageways. What extra might you ask for?
Oh, and in case you did not know, there’s actually no higher 12 months to go to Trenčín than 2026. The town was topped European Capital of Tradition for the approaching 12 months, and it seems to be set to host a lot of cultural events all year long.
Quimper, France
One of many fundamental cultural hubs of Brittany, the Celtic heartland of France, Quimper is an enthralling metropolis surrounded by medieval partitions and dominated by a hovering cathedral, Saint-Corentin, that even rivals Paris’ Notre-Dame in magnificence.
That includes twin spires and a particular ‘bent’ native, it’s a must-see in case you’re strolling round Vieux Quimper, the oldest a part of city, characterised by its winding, pedestrian-friendly lanes, and centuries-old half-timbered homes.
For the foodies on the market, head over to Locmaria, a peaceable district on the banks of the Odet River, greatest recognized for its choice of bistrots and crepe eating places. Crêperie de Locmaria is extraordinarily well-liked, with typical Breton galettes produced from native, contemporary elements, and a no-frills surroundings.
Nafplio, Greece
A vibrant port metropolis within the Peloponnese, Nafplio was as soon as Greece’s capital earlier than Athens assumed that mantle, and it has but to totally relinquish its status. It boasts grand plazas, busy purchasing streets, monumental Orthodox church buildings, and spectacular Venetian-era fortifications.
The Historic Heart is, with out query, essentially the most picturesque a part of city, with its slender alleys, neo-classical homes, and comfy cafés. It adjoins a scenic seaside promenade, Arvanitia, backed by family-owned Greek tavernas serving home made syglino and wine at reasonably priced costs.
For the Historical past buffs on the market, you’ll be able to’t miss Acronauplia, an historic fortress and viewpoint reaching heights of 279 ft above the city sprawl, and Bourtzi Fort, a Fifteenth-century fort on an islet off Nafplio’s harbor.
Trondheim, Norway
Clueless vacationers descend upon Oslo and Bergen for a Norwegian metropolis break, however we all know higher than to go for the obvious picks. In 2026, Trondheim is what we have got our eyes set on, with its landmark cathedral, well-preserved middle, and quirky museums.
With over 1,000 years of historical past, Nidaros Cathedral is the northernmost medieval church on the earth, and possibly Norway’s most stunning Gothic constructing, at that. It is on the coronary heart of Bakklandet, an space full of brightly-painted wood homes and cobblestone streets.
On the riverside, anticipate finding a plethora of charming cafés. Streif is ideal for an early-afternoon sizzling chockie, they usually serve the fluffiest cinnamon buns. Should you’re within the temper for one thing somewhat off the overwhelmed path, swing by Rockheim, an interactive pop and rock museum that’s a blast for all ages.
Vic, Spain
Tens of thousands and thousands of vacationers head to Barcelona yearly with out paying any thoughts to the broader province of Catalonia that surrounds it. It is not like we’re complaining, although: this leaves smaller cities like Vic, a perfectly-preserved medieval gem, largely freed from crowds.
Whether or not it is early morning or later within the day, chances are high you may by no means see the postcard-ready Previous City, with its arcaded plazas and Gothic structure, packed to the gills in the identical manner as Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter.
Essential points of interest embody Plaça Main, flanked with historic buildings and tapas bars, the Roman Temple of Vic, courting again to the 2nd century, and the Episcopal Museum (MEV), one in every of Spain’s greatest for shows of Romanesque and Gothic artwork.
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