Paris, Rome and London are obvious choices when planning a European getaway, but smaller, lesser-known cities are slowly overshadowing their larger cosmopolitan counterparts. Take the road less traveled and explore these hidden gems.
Lyon, France © New Seemak | Dreamstime
France: Lyon
This budding culinary capital of France is often overlooked due to its small size and distance from the more popular French city of Paris. However, this city is just a quick train ride southeast of France’s capital and makes a perfect weekend getaway. Visit in May for the city’s electronic music and art festival.
Clerigos Church in Porto, Portugal © Sean Pavone | Dreamstime
Portugal: Porto
Just north of Portugal’s capital sits its second-largest city with an incredible arts scene and the world-famous beverage, port. Porto’s architecture, seaside views and charming citizens make it a must-see alternative to Lisbon.
Architecture Rotterdam Cube Houses, Holland, Netherlands © VanderWolf Images | Dreamstime
The Netherlands: Rotterdam
Modern art, stunning architecture and a laid back attitude are just a few of Rotterdam’s charms. The cutting-edge designs of its buildings set among the classic Dutch landscapes offer a juxtaposition that can only exist in the Netherlands.
The Historic Haga District of Gothenburg, Sweden © Rolf52 | Dreamstime
Sweden: Gothenburg
Thanks to its northern location, the summer is the best time to visit this Swedish city when the sun is out until 10 p.m. Less posh than Stockholm, Gothenburg has a thriving creative scene filled with re-purposed buildings, cozy cafes and cobblestone streets.
Read This Next
Affordable Cities for Students
Study Abroad
Aug 26, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / Europe
Nov 5, 2024Decorate a Danish Cookie Butter Tin and Win a Free Trip to Copenhagen
A cherished staple in many American households, the beloved Danish butter cookie tin has become synonymous with tasty treats and, later, a container for sewing kits or keepsakes. Evoking nostalgia, this classic blue tin captures the essence of Denmark with idyllic images of thatched roofs and half-timbered houses.
Sponsored Content
Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History
Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.
Trends / Food & Drink
Nov 4, 2024What to Expect from New York Bartender Week
New York Bartender Week is a celebration of the Empire State’s cocktail culture, with bars and spirits producers across New York State taking part in the inaugural event, Nov. 18–24. The varied and versatile week strives to highlight not just standout bars in New York City, but also elsewhere. The event will feature bars going beyond craft cocktail venues to include sports bars, dive bars, hotel bars and any other watering hole.
Destinations / North America
Nov 4, 2024Sustainable Getaway to Québec
Travelers with sustainability top of mind, consider a getaway to Québec and experience the Canadian province’s environmentally-friendly offerings.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City
Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.
Destinations / North America
Nov 4, 2024Glamping Brand Announces First Pacific Northwest Location
Next May will mark the opening of Under Canvas’ first-ever Pacific Northwest. Under Canvas Columbia River Gorge will sit on 120 acres along the Columbia River Gorge in Washington’s White Salmon River Valley, an area known for its waterfalls, wineries and towering peaks. The new glamping site will be surrounded by pine- and oak-forested hillsides, Oregon’s Mount Hood, and the snow-capped peaks of the Cascade Mountain Range.
ShareThis