Spain topped the new list of Europe’s hidden gems, taking first and second place with the towns of Villajoyosa and Ares del Maestrat.
European Best Destinations published a few days ago its annual ranking of “Europe’s best hidden gems” for 2024 – a list that recognizes places off the beaten track.
This year’s selection includes 18 locations across Europe, from Spain to Georgia, and focuses on places that are far from the crowds and that few tourists have ever visited.
The first 10 places deserve special attention. That’s why you should add each of them to your travel list, writes dir.bg.
Enjoy the best of Spanish gastronomy in Villajoyosa, Costa Blanca
Villajoyosa translates from Spanish as “happy city,” which seems fitting considering it has so much to offer.
Located south of Valencia and north of Murcia, it’s less than a 20-minute drive from Benidorm, known for its cheap and cheerful experiences, but it’s far from the tourist hotspot. Villajoyosa boasts colorful houses, golden beaches and world-class food. As it is located on the coast, fresh fish and seafood are particular favourites, but chocolate is the real delicacy.
The history of the sweet treat in the area dates back to the 17th century, and three factories are still open today, including Valor Chocolatiers with a museum that tells visitors about chocolate’s journey from cocoa pods to the bars we enjoy today.
If you’re more into sports, head to the Puntas del Moro and El Xarco beaches, which are great for snorkeling. Racó de Conill and L’Esparrelló beaches will be attractive to nudists
Admire the Maestrasgo with a visit to the Ares del Maestre
Located halfway between Barcelona and Valencia and on top of a rocky hill, Ares del Maestre offers breathtaking views of the Maestrazgo landscape beyond.
The city dates back to the 14th century, and while it’s home to beautiful, narrow streets, it’s perhaps best known for its Mola Castle, which has witnessed epic battles for years thanks to its strategic location.
Be sure to visit the Museo de la Cueva del Castillo, a hidden place dug into the rock where the former inhabitants hid from the attacks, often for more than a year.
History buffs won’t miss the Gothic town hall and neoclassical parish church, while sports enthusiasts can try paragliding from the popular Tossal d’Orenga mountain.
Relax on one of the best beaches in the Balkans in Primosten
Croatia is becoming increasingly popular as a holiday destination – and for good reason. In this list, however, we suggest bypassing Dubrovnik or Hvar and heading to the far less popular Primošten instead.
Located in Dalmatia, it is only a 30-minute drive from Šibenik Airport and is a top destination for sun and sea lovers.
Raduca Mala beach is one of the longest in all of Croatia – more than two kilometers. Its golden sand and crystal blue waters attract thousands. Tourists are impressed by the bars and restaurants where you can try some of the best dishes the country has to offer – for example black risotto.
Water activities are also extremely popular here, meaning if you’re more of an adrenaline junkie than a holiday junkie, this is the perfect place for you.
Experience Asia in the middle of Europe at the Bokodi Floating Village in Hungary
Many of us dream of traveling to one of the many floating villages in Asia and spending days in an overwater bungalow. If that’s out of your reach, Bokodi Floating Village might be the place for you. Located on Lake Bokodi, just a few kilometers from the town of Orošlany, it is an hour’s drive from Budapest, but it is like a completely different world.
Famous for its amazing sunsets, it is the perfect place for a peaceful experience. The artificial lake was created in 1961 by the Oroszlány Thermal Power Company and the water in it was kept warm throughout the year until the power plant stopped supplying energy in 2015. It still remains a popular fishing destination and offers a truly unique experience.
The wooden houses surrounding the lake are mostly private properties, but some of them welcome visitors and allow them access to the roof terraces to enjoy this surreal place.
A must for cartoon fans: Naantali in Finland
Not far from Turku, in the southwestern part of Finland, is Naantali. It’s a charming little town that has a lot to offer in terms of culture and gastronomy. Its biggest attraction though? Muumimaailma – a theme park dedicated to the cult animated Moomin characters.
Created by Finnish writer Tove Jansson in 1945, baby hippos have delighted children for generations.
Muumimaailma – which translates to the world of the Moomins – is located on Kylo Island. When you’ve had your fill of the Moomins, Naantali is worth exploring on its own. One of the oldest cities in all of Finland was founded around the medieval monastery Nådendal Abbey, which still dominates the city’s skyline today.
Among ancient history in Boer, Faroe Islands
One of the oldest places on this list, Boer in the Faroe Islands, dates back nearly a millennium. Today, only 75 people live there.
Featuring beautiful wooden houses with green roofs, the small village offers breathtaking views of rarely seen landscapes.
Bur is located in the western part of Vagar Island and has a unique view of the sea and the impressive “Tindholmur” – a remarkable rock that rises out of the water.
The quaint houses are clustered together, with narrow streets between them, and surround a small church built in 1865.
Due to its small size, not much is known about Bur and it is still unclear when the first church was built in the village. Maybe you’ll be able to find that out for yourself on a visit to this hidden gem.
Learn about Scandinavian history with a trip to Blavand in Denmark
As Denmark’s westernmost point and not far from the German border, Blavand has a lot to offer – not least for history buffs.
Just 30 minutes from Esbjerg Airport and a three-hour drive from Copenhagen, this little-visited enclave is an excellent place to discover lesser-known aspects of Denmark’s history.
One of the most protected sites in all of Denmark during the Second World War, it includes bunkers built on the beaches at the time, which have since been artistically transformed. Now in them there are sculptures of horses – a universal symbol of peace.
After you’ve had your fill of military history, admire Blavand Lighthouse – Denmark’s westernmost building – or continue the horse theme with a stroll along the sandy beaches with one of the majestic animals.
Fairytale charm in Ulm, Germany
Ulm in the scenic Baden-Württemberg region of Germany is on the border with Bavaria and offers the best of both areas. This charming city offers a balance between modernity and tradition, from the old town to the modern architecture in the cultural center.
Among the main attractions for history buffs are the town hall with its colorful facade and the chapel of St. Nicholas, which dates back to the 13th century. If you prefer modern architecture, head to the cultural center, which houses buildings from the 20th century, as well as many museums, exhibitions and a variety of theaters and stages.
Located on the Danube River, the city is also an ideal destination for foodies. There are countless bars and restaurants serving delicious food in the fishermen and artisan districts. Don’t miss t Neu-Ulm – the Bavarian younger sister of Ulm, a place that has an extraordinary charm.
Breathe the cleanest air in all of Europe in Aljezur, Portugal
Situated on the border between Portugal’s Algarve and Alentejo regions, Algezur is a small market town that, despite its small size, packs the best of the country. It is a sanctuary of protected nature as well as world-class history, gastronomy, beaches and natural parks.
Although relatively unknown, the historic castle of Algezur is actually featured on Portugal’s flag, and that means one thing – Algezur is important place for the country.
The town is famous for trendy restaurants and bars and some of the best beaches in Portugal, such as the iconic Arifana and Monte Clerigo, where the best surfers train. If you are in need of a healthy holiday, Aljezur could be the best destination for you. Surrounded by eucalyptus and pine trees, it is known as the place with the cleanest air in all of Europe.
Discover the most beautiful village in all of Georgia in Dartlo
Georgia is one of the least visited countries in Europe, despite being named one of the most aesthetic places in the world. Dartlo in the north of the country is considered the most beautiful village in the country. Among green hills and mountains you will find historic houses, clan defense towers and churches. All of them are made of ancient stone and give the village an otherworldly look.
It is the perfect place to visit if you enjoy hiking, as it is the starting or ending point of many of the best routes in Georgia.
At 1,850 meters above sea level, it offers the best views of the Greater Caucasus region, and thanks to its diverse history, culture and nature, it embodies in one place almost everything that the wider Tushetia region has to offer. Although there are no permanent residents in Dartlo, there are 56 hotels and guesthouses.
The list of the best European destinations is completed by: Castro Urdiale, Spain; Landmanalugar, Iceland; Chikmani, Slovakia; Pico Island in the Azores, Portugal; Pont-en-Royan in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France; Wuppertal, Germany; Le Puy-en-Velay, also in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France; and Stites in North Yorkshire, United Kingdom.
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