Want a Cheaper, More Authentic European Trip? This Quiz Finds Your Perfect ‘Second-City’

London, Paris, Rome. These iconic capitals are rightfully on each traveler’s bucket checklist, promising world-class artwork, historical past, and vibrant metropolis life. However what if we informed you that a few of Europe’s most rewarding, genuine, and infrequently cheaper journey experiences are discovered just a bit off the crushed path?

Sensible vacationers are more and more wanting past the apparent.

They’re in search of out Europe’s “second cities”—the second-largest city facilities in every nation—and for good motive. A latest in-depth examine by Radical Storage analyzed 44 European nations, evaluating their largest cities to their second-largest, and the findings are a game-changer for anybody planning a European escape.

The takeaway? In 10 of the 44 European nations analyzed, the second metropolis truly supplied a higher vacationer expertise than the capital.

Not solely that, however in 28 of 44 instances, the second metropolis was considerably extra reasonably priced. This is not nearly saving a couple of bucks; it is about discovering real native tradition, fewer crowds, and a refreshingly distinctive perspective on a rustic you thought you knew.

Why The ‘Second Metropolis’ Is The Sensible Selection

Give it some thought: whereas capital cities usually have the best focus of well-known landmarks, in addition they include peak vacationer costs, congested streets, and an environment typically diluted by the sheer quantity of holiday makers. Second cities, alternatively, usually retain a stronger native identification, a extra relaxed tempo, and a palpable sense of discovery for the traveler.

The examine checked out 5 essential classes: lodging, meals, buying, tradition & native points of interest, and accessibility. Whereas Barcelona (Spain’s second metropolis) may provide an unlimited array of points of interest corresponding to a capital, Novi Unhappy (Serbia’s second metropolis) shines with exceptionally high-quality eating places and points of interest at extremely reasonably priced costs.

This is not about ditching the classics without end, however about broadening your horizons and recognizing that “second-best” usually means “best-kept secret.”

Uncover Your Good European ‘Second Metropolis’

Are you a hardcore historical past buff, a faithful foodie, or somebody who lives for retail remedy and a buzzing city scene? Do you dream of well-connected hubs or favor the rugged attraction of the Balkans or the mystique of the Caucasus? And is it the sheer number of choices or the assured high quality of fewer, extra genuine experiences that actually excites you?

That can assist you minimize via the information and discover your splendid European “second metropolis” journey, we have teamed up with the insights from this complete examine to create a brand-new interactive quiz.

It is quick, enjoyable, and designed to pinpoint the vacation spot that completely matches your journey priorities. Take the quiz and take a look at the checklist of prime 10 greatest second cities beneath.

Regardless of your desire, there’s a second metropolis ready to shock and delight you. From the traditional attraction of Kutaisi to the architectural wonders of Brno, Europe’s neglected gems provide a richness that rivals —and typically surpasses —these of their bigger counterparts.

Able to cease following the crowds and begin touring smarter?

Take our fast quiz beneath and uncover the European ‘second metropolis’ that is meant for you.

We’ll inform you precisely why it is an ideal match and what makes it such an unimaginable vacation spot, setting you on a path to a very memorable journey.

The highest 10 Second Cities in Europe

• Novi Unhappy, Serbia
• Barcelona, Spain
• Gyumri, Armenia
• Cluj-Napoca, Romania
• Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Kutaisi, Georgia
• Kaunas, Lithuania
• Brno, Czechia
• Porto, Portugal
• Graz, Austria

So which one did you get? Tell us within the feedback!