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With tourist overcrowding at popular European destinations showing no signs of abating, now is the perfect time to explore better alternatives and avoid the massive influx of tourists.
Orange, France
While Avignon attracts thousands of tourists thanks to its summer festival and Papal Palace, the nearby city of Orange seems to have been overshadowed despite its many attractions.
Orange is easily accessible to tourists as it is relatively uncrowded. The city's highlight is the Roman theater, built in the first century AD.
In addition, the Oregon Museum is housed in a beautiful 17th-century mansion. It's a worthwhile attraction for anyone visiting Orange City.
Norwich, United Kingdom
It's often said that Norwich has enough pubs for every day of the year and enough churches for every Sunday.
If the rumors sound a bit exaggerated, the undeniable truth is that Norwich boasts many medieval buildings that are considered among the most beautiful in England.
Norwich Cathedral was built in 1096, and the streets of Colegate and Elm Hill are centuries-old buildings located right in the heart of the city.
If you have time, be sure to visit The Adam and Eve pub in Bishopgate – the oldest pub in England, dating back to 1249.
Aarhus, Denmark
Denmark's second-largest city might seem overshadowed by Copenhagen. But in reality, Aarhus is a perfect weekend getaway destination with beautiful beaches, the Domkirke Tower, and the unique Aarhus Art Museum with its stunning rainbow walkway.
The Aros wine and food showroom is also one of the best destinations in the city if you want to enjoy Nordic cuisine at an affordable price.
For those seeking a higher level of culinary experience, head to Gastromé in Latin Square, where a menu features dishes that can satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Antwerp, Belgium
The Notre Dame Cathedral, a prominent landmark on the Antwerp skyline, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. However, the city boasts many other remarkable structures.
A prime example is the Square Mile, where visitors can learn about the diamond manufacturing industry – a vital part of the city since the 15th century.
Here you'll also find the Red Star Line Museum located on the old Antwerp docks, which will unveil chapters of history about the Belgian migration to America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The Hague, Netherlands
While Amsterdam's authorities are trying to reduce tourist numbers by closing its famous Red Light District and implementing strict, short-term regulations, The Hague is a much better and more relaxed option for those determined to choose the Netherlands as their holiday destination.
This city is renowned for having some of the country's most beautiful architecture, a network of canals, and the Mauritshuis museum – a rival to the "giant" Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.
This place is just a 15-minute drive from the beautiful Scheveningen seaside resort.
Sarajevo, Bosnia
Often overlooked in favor of more popular destinations in neighboring Croatia, Sarajevo in Bosia is a revitalized city brimming with fascinating cultural and historical landmarks. At the heart of the city lies Baščaršija – the old town still bustling with spice stalls, cafes, and the captivating Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque.
Visitors can also learn about Sarajevo's history during the civil war of the 1990s at the Tunnel of Hope and the Childhood War Museum. The chaotic racetracks dating back to the 1984 Winter Olympics are also a fascinating attraction.
If you want panoramic city views and to enjoy some of the best food in Bosnia, head to the Pino Nature Hotel.
Pristina, Kosovo
The capital city of Kosovan is often not at the top of many tourists' wishlists, but don't let that deter you from visiting this fascinating city. The war here ended 20 years ago, and Pristina has undergone significant changes since then, most notably the emergence of many strangely shaped buildings.
If you want to delve deeper into the local culture, visit the Emin Gjiku Ethnographic Museum and the National Museum of Kosovo. Additionally, the unique library of the University of Pristina will fascinate architecture enthusiasts. And for those seeking relief from the heat, head to the large swimming pool in Germia Park, located north of the city.
Malmo, Sweden
Malmö has long been considered a stopover for day trips from Copenhagen, via the Oresund Bridge. In fact, Malmö is well worth a few days' stay.
Moderna Museet Malmo is one of the finest contemporary art galleries in Europe, while culture enthusiasts will appreciate Malmöhus Castle and other local museums. Malmö's cuisine can rival that of the nearby Danish capital. Foodies should visit Bloom in the Park and experience "no-menu" dining, or perhaps enjoy global cuisine at Malmö Saluhall.
Ribersborg Beach is also located here, just a short walk from the city center. It's considered a great place to escape the heat.
Aberdeen, Scotland
Those who have visited Scotland's capital during the festival season may find it incredibly crowded. However, a trip north to Aberdeen reveals a far more than ideal alternative. Boasting stunning architecture, Aberdeen is known as the "Marble City." Culture enthusiasts can visit Aberdeen's main art gallery, scheduled to reopen at the end of September 2019, or head to nearby Speyside to tour some of Scotland's finest malt distilleries.
Bern, Switzerland
Tourists often only visit the Swiss capital during the summer holidays, go skiing in Zurich or Geneva in the winter, and usually overlook Bern. This is a shame because Bern is absolutely worth spending a few days exploring.
When temperatures rise, locals flock to the River Aare to find cool air with boat trips and activities. Even more interesting, Bern boasts the Museum of Fine Arts, featuring works by Picasso and Klee, making it an ideal destination for art lovers. Additionally, those who enjoy hiking can climb to the top of Gurten – a mountain overlooking the old city.
Warsaw, Poland
In Europe, there are many small cities that embody the quintessential cultural values of the region, and Warsaw is one of them. Located on the banks of the Oder River, this western Polish city was the European Capital of Culture in 2016 and boasts numerous attractions in art, architecture, and history to explore. A highlight of Warsaw is the 114-meter-long Racławice Panorama, depicting the 1794 defeat of the Russian army at the hands of the Poles. The stunning Centennial Hall, the Penitent Bridge nestled between towers, and the Church of Mary Magdalene are all must-sees. And, in particular, you can't say you've truly been to Warsaw without spending a full day exploring its Gothic Old Town.
Tbilisi, Georgia
Georgia's capital city is situated between Asia and Europe. The name Tbilisi comes from the hot springs located beneath the city's surface. The sulfur baths here are also a major tourist attraction.
Tbilisi also boasts a multi-ethnic history, with the famous Metekhi Church, dating back to the 13th century, being a source of great pride and situated near the Narikala Fortress, built by the Persians in the 4th century. Meanwhile, the narrow alleyways and small shops of the Old Town are perfect places to relax for hours.
Minsk, Belarus
Nearly destroyed during World War II, the Belarusian capital has become fertile ground for the redevelopment of the former Soviet Union. Today, war-torn buildings are preserved to recreate a period of the city's history. Tourists can wander around the 7-hectare Independence Square before visiting the Museum of the Great Patriotic War, learning about how Belarus overcame Nazi occupation.
If you want to experience the vibrant, modern atmosphere of Minsk today, head to the bars to sample the local balsam. If that's not to your liking, Gambrinus is a great option for trying different beers.
Yerevan, Armenia
Located in the far east of Europe, the Armenian capital Yerevan might seem easily overlooked by tourists. But with a history spanning over 2,800 years, Yerevan possesses unique values unmatched by any other tourist hotspot. The city center is a blend of Beauxist buildings and Soviet-era blocks. Visitors can explore the Apostolic Church and learn about the city's history at the Erebuni Museum of History & Archaeology – a site dating back to 782 BC.
Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Romania's second-largest city is often considered a stopover for travelers seeking outdoor adventures in the Apuseni Mountains or those wishing to witness the historical beauty of Transylvania. The expansive Gothic St. Michael's Church and Fabrica de Pensule—an art gallery housed in a former paint factory—are just two of its many attractions. But Cluj-Napoca doesn't stop there; it has all the hallmarks of an ideal city with vibrant cafes, lively bars, and charming squares.
Debrecen, Hungary
While Budapest is renowned as one of Europe's most attractive cities, Debrecen remains a great option for those seeking a less crowded alternative. The main square, Kossuth tér, is home to the impressive Calvinist cathedral and the Grand Hotel Aranybika. Additionally, Debrecen boasts an Old Town with excellent cafes, ideal for people-watching. Don't forget to look for hotels with spas for a relaxing soak in the hot springs before exploring the Great Plains near the Old Town.
Ankara, Türkiye
When it comes to Türkiye, Istanbul is the first name that tends to receive all the praise. But the capital city of Ankara is equally interesting, beyond just a brief stop on the way to Cappadocia and other Anatolian delights. In Ankara, be sure to visit Anitkabir – the mausoleum of the founder of modern Turkey – along with the Independence War Museum, Kocatepe, and the fascinating Hacı Bayram Mosques. Finally, take some time to relax in the cafes of Kızılay – an ideal spot to enjoy kebabs and admire this culturally rich city.
Plovdiv, Bulgaria
As the current European Capital of Culture, Plovdiv is the longest-inhabited city in Europe. Boasting a colorful Old Town, a 2nd-century Roman amphitheater not discovered until the 1970s, and the 5,000-year-old Thracian ruins of Eumolpias just outside the town, Plovdiv possesses a rich historical atmosphere unmatched anywhere else.
Trondheim, Norway
Located on a fjord of the same name, Trondheim is Norway's third-largest city. However, with fewer than 200,000 inhabitants, it is surprisingly uncrowded and easy to explore. The famous Gothic cathedral is perhaps Trondheim's most well-known landmark, but the scenery on the water and around its vibrant harbor is equally impressive. Trondheim is also known for its excellent microbial plants, most notably Den Gode Nabo.
Turin, Italy
While Venice struggles with overtourism, the less congested nearby city of Turin is a suitable alternative. The Piedmontese capital happens to be home to some of Italy's valuable but underrated attractions, including the Castell di Rivoli Museum of Contemporary Art, the Basilica di Superga, and the Museo Egizio, with its collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts. Here, visitors can comfortably sip coffee on the sidewalk, enjoy some of the country's best cuisine, and escape the crowds of the tourist hotspots.
