9 underrated European cities worth visiting in 2025

Europe is full of amazing destinations you may not have heard of yet. Discover nine cities and towns that impress with their architecture, atmosphere, and prices, but remain off the tourist beaten track

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If you feel like you've already seen all the major European sights, it's time to turn your attention to lesser-known but equally charming destinations. Experts at Which? Travel have named nine cities and towns that deserve just as much attention as Paris or Prague, but retain their authenticity, tranquility, and affordability.

Wrocław, Poland: medieval charm without the tourist crowds

Wrocław, located among picturesque river islands, is a city that combines Gothic, Renaissance, and a young urban spirit. Its ancient square, surrounded by colorful houses, is reminiscent of Krakow, but it is much quieter and cheaper here.

After strolling through the old town, be sure to visit one of the many bars or cafes, or plan a trip here during the winter holidays to experience the atmosphere of the Christmas market.

León, Spain: medieval history on the pilgrims' route

León is part of the famous Camino de Santiago route, but the city itself is often overlooked by tourists. Its Gothic cathedral with stained glass windows, which has earned it the nickname “House of Light,” is impressive in its scale and beauty.

No less interesting is the Royal Pantheon of San Isidoro, a place with 11th-century frescoes that are compared to the Sistine Chapel. León is ideal for those looking for a peaceful trip to the real Spain without the tourist crowds.

Bolzano, Italy: Gateway to the Dolomites

Bolzano is a combination of Alpine nature, Italian charm, and German pedantry. Here, it is worth visiting the Ice Man Museum, dedicated to the 5,000-year-old mummy Ötzi, and then heading to the mountain peaks.

All visitors to the city can use free public transport — buses and cable cars connecting the center with the picturesque Dolomites. It is an ideal place for active recreation in nature.

Budva and Bar, Montenegro: sea, history, and ancient streets

Budva is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic, a city with ancient architecture, cozy streets, and a Mediterranean atmosphere. Its old town overlooks the sea, and there are about 20 beaches nearby.

Nearby is Bar, another historic city with a rich past. Both destinations are a great alternative to the crowded resorts of Croatia, with authentic cuisine, a relaxed atmosphere, and affordable prices.

Évora, Portugal: the city of olives and wine

Évora is the pearl of the Alentejo region, impressing visitors with its combination of romantic landscapes and ancient architecture. Here you can stroll among olive groves, visit medieval castles, and taste local wine straight from the vineyards.

The city is on the UNESCO list and reveals a new side of Portugal — calm, authentic, and soulful, far from the bustling streets of Lisbon.

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Murcia, Spain: sunny Spain without the crowds

Murcia is a city with over 1,200 years of history, located just an hour from Alicante. It is famous for its Baroque architecture, old squares, and local traditions.

It is the perfect place for those who want to see authentic Spain, where the influence of mass tourism is not yet felt.

Ljubljana, Slovenia: a fairytale capital on the banks of a river

Ljubljana impresses with its cozy atmosphere: the old town, pastel facades, Baroque buildings, and modernist bridges create the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll.

It is worth climbing up to the castle on the hill to see the city from above, as well as taking day trips to Lake Bled or Postojna Cave, two of Slovenia's most famous natural attractions.

Carrick-on-Shannon, Ireland: in the heart of the land of lakes

This is Ireland's smallest county town, with a population of only about 4,000. Its picturesque location on the River Shannon attracts nature lovers. Here you can rent a boat and sail along the Shannon-Erne route, enjoying the scenery of old castles and traditional villages.

The town is famous for its festivals, artistic events, and friendly atmosphere — the real Ireland that you won't find in tourist guidebooks.

Cartagena, Spain: between antiquity and the sea

Cartagena is a coastal city in southeastern Spain, where Roman and Carthaginian monuments have been preserved. After the opening of the Roman Theater Museum in 2008, the city became a real discovery for historians and tourists.

However, its main attraction is its atmosphere: narrow streets, Art Nouveau facades, and sea views create the perfect place for a leisurely vacation.

Plan your trip with Visit Ukraine

If you decide to travel to Europe, take care of all the details in advance. On the Visit Ukraine platform, you can easily take out medical insurance for trips abroad — it is mandatory for crossing the border of most EU countries. It's fast, reliable, and will help you avoid unexpected expenses while traveling.

We remind you! November is not a reason to give up on sun and beach holidays. Read about the 10 countries and resorts that offer the warmest holidays in November 2025 with temperatures from +21°C, ideal for beaches and excursions.

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