Europe's hidden gems are often nestled away in the folds of mountains, along untouched coastlines, or within sleepy medieval towns that seem to have paused in time.

These destinations offer all the allure of their more famous counterparts—delicious cuisine, rich culture, and captivating history—without the hefty price tag or the throngs of tourists.

From sunlit islands in the Adriatic to verdant valleys in the Balkans, this article guides you through seven of Europe's best-kept secrets for a summer getaway. Whether you're dreaming of quiet beaches, mountain adventures, or undiscovered cultural enclaves, there's a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

So pack your bags, charge your camera, and prepare for a journey beyond the usual itinerary.

These are places where you can lose yourself in winding cobblestone alleys, savour meals made from generations-old recipes, and connect with locals eager to share their way of life.

This summer, let Europe surprise you.

A Hidden Haven: Alentejo, Portugal.

While the Algarve draws flocks of sun-seekers every summer, those in the know are heading north to Alentejo — Portugal’s most underappreciated region.

Stretching from the Spanish border to the Atlantic coast, Alentejo is a land of golden plains, cork oak forests, and sleepy whitewashed villages. The region’s capital, Évora, is a UNESCO-listed town brimming with Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals, and age-old charm.

But Alentejo’s real beauty lies in its countryside. Winding roads lead through endless vineyards, hilltop castles, and quiet farms where time seems to stand still. In summer, sunflowers bloom across the landscape, adding a burst of colour to the already picturesque scenes.

Alentejo is also a paradise for food lovers. Known as the “breadbasket of Portugal,” it’s home to some of the country’s finest olive oils, wines, and traditional dishes like açorda (a garlicky bread soup) and porco preto (Iberian black pork).

For those craving coastline, head to the Alentejo Coast — an untouched stretch of Atlantic beauty with rugged cliffs, wild beaches, and small fishing villages like Vila Nova de Milfontes and Zambujeira do Mar. It’s perfect for surfing, hiking, or simply unwinding without the high-season chaos.

Alentejo combines authentic Portuguese culture with stunning, crowd-free landscapes. Whether you’re exploring ancient towns or sipping wine in the sun, it’s a slow travel haven ideal for escaping the noise of the modern world.

Heavenly Hallstatt, Austria.

Hallstatt itself is no secret - the fairytale lakeside village has long been a favourite for travellers (and Instagrammers). But beyond the tourist-heavy town lies a broader region filled with stunning scenery, peaceful hamlets, and outdoor adventure - perfect for a summer getaway off the main path.

Located in the Salzkammergut region of Upper Austria, Hallstatt sits beside a glacial lake, framed by dramatic mountains. While the town gets crowded, staying in nearby villages like Obertraun or Bad Goisern offers a much quieter experience with equally spectacular views.

The region is a paradise for hikers and cyclists, with trails winding through alpine meadows, dense forests, and along sparkling lakes. Take a cable car to the Dachstein Ice Caves or the 5 Fingers viewing platform for epic views over the Alps. Or rent a boat and explore Hallstatt Lake at your own pace.

Culture lovers will appreciate the area’s rich history — from salt mines that date back 7,000 years to baroque churches and traditional Austrian architecture. And if you’re looking to relax, the spa town of Bad Ischl (a favourite of Emperor Franz Joseph I) is just a short drive away.

The Hallstatt region delivers everything you’d want from the Austrian Alps — majestic scenery, rich heritage, and fresh mountain air — without needing to stay in the overly busy town itself. It’s perfect for anyone seeking both adventure and serenity.

A Quieter Croatia: Korčula Island.

Often called “Little Dubrovnik” for its mediaeval walls and red-roofed old town, Korčula is an island that somehow remains under the radar - and all the better for it.

Located off the Dalmatian coast, this Adriatic gem combines natural beauty, cultural depth, and laid-back island life.

Korčula Town is a stunner, with narrow marble streets, Gothic-Renaissance buildings, and legends that claim it was the birthplace of Marco Polo.

Climb the bell tower for panoramic views or lose yourself in the old town’s labyrinthine alleys, where local artists and boutique shops abound.

Beyond the town, the island is a mosaic of olive groves, pine forests, and hidden coves. The beaches are often pebble or rock, with the clearest turquoise waters perfect for snorkelling.

Rent a bike or scooter and discover secluded spots like Pupnatska Luka or the village of Lumbarda, known for its sandy beach and local white wine, Grk.

Korčula also has a strong cultural identity, with traditional music, sword dances, and summer festivals that celebrate its maritime past. The local cuisine is fresh and simple — grilled fish, octopus salad, and wines produced on the island itself.

Korčula offers the charm and history of Dubrovnik without the crowds. It's perfect for a relaxed island escape filled with natural beauty, great food, and a touch of Croatian tradition.

Blissful Bohinj, Slovenia.

While Lake Bled gets all the Instagram fame, Lake Bohinj, just 30 minutes away, is Slovenia’s true alpine treasure.

Nestled in the heart of Triglav National Park, Bohinj is the largest permanent lake in the country, and one of the most tranquil, unspoilt places in the Julian Alps. Encircled by towering peaks and dense forest, the lake has a wild beauty that feels both dramatic and calming.

In summer, its crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding — all without the heavy foot traffic that surrounds Bled. Hikers and nature lovers will find dozens of trails nearby, including routes to the majestic Savica Waterfall and Mount Vogel.

The tiny lakeside village of Ribčev Laz is your ideal base, with charming guesthouses, cosy cafés, and access to the iconic Church of St. John the Baptist — one of the most photographed scenes in the region. Yet, it never feels crowded or commercial.

Bohinj also offers cultural touches, from traditional alpine architecture to summer folklore festivals. And thanks to Slovenia’s compact size, you can explore nearby attractions like the Soča Valley or Ljubljana with ease.

Lake Bohinj is a nature-lover’s paradise — peaceful, pristine, and far less touristy than its famous neighbour. It’s a place to disconnect, recharge, and savour the raw beauty of the mountains and lakes.

Southern Serenity: Puglia, Italy.

Often overshadowed by Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast, Puglia - the heel of Italy’s boot - is a sun-soaked region full of rustic charm, striking architecture, and crystal-clear seas.

With its olive groves, Baroque towns, and traditional trulli houses, Puglia feels like a world apart from Italy’s more tourist-trodden locales. Start in Lecce, often dubbed the "Florence of the South", where ornate limestone buildings glow honey-gold in the sun.

Then venture to Alberobello, a UNESCO site known for its whimsical cone-roofed houses. The whitewashed villages of Ostuni and Locorotondo are also must-sees, offering picture-perfect scenes perched on rolling hills.

Along the coast, Puglia boasts some of Italy’s most stunning - and least crowded - beaches. The Salento peninsula, with its Caribbean-blue waters and hidden coves, is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or sipping a spritz at a beach bar.

Puglia’s cuisine is another draw. Expect fresh orecchiette pasta, creamy burrata, and bold local wines. Many towns still follow age-old recipes and traditions, giving every meal a homegrown, heartfelt feel.

Puglia delivers everything you love about Italy — food, history, scenery — but without the crowds and inflated prices. It’s a dream destination for those looking to immerse themselves in authentic southern Italian life.

Discover Dinant, Belgium.

Tucked away in the verdant folds of the Meuse Valley, Dinant is one of Belgium’s most picturesque and underrated summer destinations. Far from the crowds of Bruges and Brussels, this charming town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and riverside tranquillity.

With its dramatic cliffs, fairy-tale architecture and the winding Meuse River running through its heart, Dinant feels like a scene from a storybook. Towering over the town is the Citadel of Dinant, a formidable fortress offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

A cable car ride or a climb up 408 steps rewards visitors with a panoramic vista that captures the town’s unique blend of nature and heritage. Dinant’s gothic Collegiate Church of Notre Dame, with its striking onion-shaped dome, stands as a central landmark, nestled beneath the cliffs.

Just beside it is the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, which adds a quirky cultural twist to the town. Visitors will find saxophone sculptures dotted around, paying tribute to the town’s musical legacy.

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the Meuse River. Kayaking, paddle-boarding, and boat tours offer a refreshing perspective of Dinant’s dramatic cliffs and lush greenery.

For nature lovers, the nearby Lesse Valley and the Grotto of Dinant provide excellent hiking and spelunking opportunities.

Local cuisine is another highlight - sample a rich wild boar stew or the region’s famed couque de Dinant, a spiced honey biscuit that’s as beautiful as it is tough (you’ll need strong teeth or a dunk in coffee!). Wash it all down with a local Belgian beer on a terrace overlooking the river.

Whether you’re seeking quietude, adventure, or simply a slower pace, Dinant offers an enchanting escape. In the golden glow of summer, this hidden gem shines its brightest - waiting to be discovered by those willing to wander off the beaten path.

A Hidden Jewel: Kotor, Montenegro.

Located on Montenegro’s rugged Adriatic coastline, the ancient town of Kotor remains one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.

With its dramatic mountain backdrop, Venetian-era architecture, and tranquil bay waters, Kotor offers an enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty - all without the crowds of more familiar Mediterranean destinations.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Kotor’s old town is a maze of narrow cobbled streets, sun-dappled squares, and centuries-old churches. The medieval city walls rise steeply above, leading adventurous visitors to the Fortress of San Giovanni. The climb is steep, but the panoramic views over the Bay of Kotor - often called Europe’s southernmost fjord - are utterly worth the effort.

Kotor’s charm lies in its authenticity. Unlike heavily commercialised resort towns, it retains a lived-in feel, with locals selling homemade cheese, olive oil, and rakija from shaded market stalls. Cafés spill onto the squares, offering strong coffee and people-watching beneath ancient stone façades.

Cat lovers will notice the town’s feline residents lounging around every corner - a quirk that’s earned Kotor the nickname “the city of cats.”

Beyond the old town, the bay is dotted with idyllic villages like Perast, where baroque palaces line the waterfront, and boat rides to the mysterious Our Lady of the Rocks island offer peaceful escapes.

Adventurers can explore nearby hiking trails, kayak the serene waters, or drive the serpentine roads up to Lovćen National Park for breathtaking vistas.

With its rich history, striking landscapes, and relaxed pace, Kotor feels like a place suspended in time. For travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-path European escape, this Montenegrin gem offers an unforgettable alternative to the typical tourist trail - and a welcome breath of Adriatic air.