Recently updated on October 24th, 2025 at 12:27 pm
With so much to explore and local food to devour, nothing is sweeter than discovering Europe at your own pace.
Whether you’re hunting for the best wine bar in London or the ultimate beach break in Dubrovnik, our expert Travel Directors have put together their top 10 hidden gems in Europe. Ready, set, EXPLORE!
Banje Beach, Dubrovnik
If sunning yourself on a Croatian beach sounds like your idea of holiday bliss, then follow our expert Travel Director, Larae’s lead straight to Banje Beach in Dubrovnik. One of the best-known beaches in South Dalmatia, this tiny stretch of azure sea is a stone’s throw from the Old Town city walls and attracts visitors from far and wide. When you’re not topping up your European tan, seek respite from the sun under the shaded restaurant and bar, where you can taste Mediterranean dishes with a side of stunning views.
Discover this Hidden Gem on: Balkan Delight
Lambeth Bridge, London
Achieving the best view of the one of the world’s most photographed icons is no easy feat. Thankfully, Travel Director, Tony is on hand to show you the perfect spot to capture Big Ben in its entirety during your exploration of London. Head to Lambeth Bridge in central London where you can not only snap the famous clock tower, but also a sweeping view of the mighty River Thames.
Discover this Hidden Gem on: London Explorer
Zori Restaurant, Hvar
For a gorgeous restaurant off the beaten path in Hvar, make your way to Zori, situated on the island of St Klement in the Adriatic. A favourite of our expert Travel Director, Larae, Zori boasts 60 years of tradition in creating fantastic food and delivering an exceptional dining experience. Jump aboard a water taxi to access this truly unique local restaurant and enjoy the top-notch cuisine on offer.
Discover this Hidden Gem on: Pearls of the Adriatic North
Grand Canal, Dublin
Planning a trip to The Emerald Isle? Take note of one of Travel Director, Anna’s favourite Hidden Gems in Dublin and make your way to the banks of the Grand Canal. Once used to transport all the Guinness out of the city, the Grand Canal is the perfect place to soak up the city’s rich historical past, while taking a moment to escape the hustle and bustle of Ireland’s capital. With a dedicated clean-up campaign each year, the area is now the perfect spot to grab a coffee and soak up the local atmosphere.
Discover this Hidden Gem on: Treasures of Ireland
Les Jardins Saint Martin, Monaco
If you find yourself in Monaco, Les Jardins Saint Martin is an underrated destination that should be on your travel guide. With an estimated area of 11,200 square meters, there’s a range of beautiful flora to discover.
For the history buffs, the garden also holds remains of ancient medieval fortifications. Archaeological findings here date back to approximately 9,7000BC.
Experience opulence in Monaco on: Best of France
Taberno Alvaro Peregil, Seville
For a true taste of Seville, go straight to the source – and by that, we mean the city’s abundance of fragrant orange trees. From these oranges, locals make a delicious orange wine, which can be sampled at Taberna Alvaro Peregil after a day of exploring. Peel back the layers (see what we did there?) of one of Seville’s classic beverages and discover a whole new side to the Spanish city in one sip.
Discover this Hidden Gem on: Best of Spain
Au Pays du Citron, France
While Seville may be known for its abundance of orange trees, Menton in the south of France is famous for its lemons. The IGP Menton Lemon is native to the area, with the fruit popping up throughout the town.
For one of the freshest lemonades you’ll ever taste, visit Au Pays du Citron down Rue Saint-Michel, where they have a station right outside the main store entrance. Inside, you’ll find a whole shopping world dedicated to all things lemon.
Ramires, Portugal
It was in the sleepy village of Guia in Albufeira that the much-loved piri-piri chicken recipe was born, with it now becoming a staple in diets.
It was created by Jose Carlos Ramires in 1964, who originally had opened a small cafe in Guia. Since then, the area has expanded, with the restaurant (Restaurante Ramires) now taking over three floors right in the heart of the village. It’s a little drive out from the usual tourist areas, but it should definitely be on your European food bucket list.
Visit the Algarve on: Best of Portugal
Hatchards Bookshop, London
Entering Hatchards Bookshop in London, built in 1797, is like stepping back in time. A landmark on one of the most famous streets in town, Piccadilly, the store has not only been linked to many notable politicians, artists and literary heroes, but also to the royal households of Britain and Europe. For the literature buffs and bookworms at heart, Travel Director, Tony suggests putting a visit to this London institution on the top of your list.
Discover this Hidden Gem on: London and Paris Explorer
Hôtel de Soubise, Paris
For a small slice of heaven within the enormity of Paris, Travel Director, Jonathan suggests making your way to the secret gardens of Hôtel de Soubise, located in the 3rd arrondissement. A true Hidden Gem, these gardens are even kept secret from the locals, making a visit to this mansion even more special. Go for the impressive facades, stay for the perfectly-manicured gardens and courtyards that you have to explore all to yourself.
Read next: Where to find the best croissant in Paris
Discover this Hidden Gem on: Paris Explorer
Kehoe’s Pub, Dublin
For arguably the best pint of Guinness in Dublin (a tough competition, of course) head to Kehoe’s Pub in the heart of South Anne Street. As soon as you walk through the door, you feel the sense of history – almost like being in someone’s family home – thanks to its rich, mahogany doors and wood partitioned snug areas. Travel Director, Anna suggests grabbing a pint of the black stuff while you’re in town and settling in for an afternoon of good ol’ craic (and we tend to agree).
Discover this Hidden Gem on: Amazing Ireland
St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, Austria
It’s reported that the oldest restaurant in Europe, dating back to 803 AD, is St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, which sits within St Peter’s Abbey in Salzburg. Some even suggest that legendary figures like Christopher Columbus and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart ate at the restaurant, with it still gaining attention from notable figures today.
The menu is full of traditionally Austrian cuisine, with its dessert dish ‘Salzburger Nockerl’ being particularly popular.
Immerse yourself in history on: Switzerland and Austria
El Pasaje, Seville
A trip to Spain wouldn’t be complete without an ice-cold pitcher (or two) of sangria – the country’s famed cocktail. Traditionally made up of red wine and chopped fruit, often with brandy or orange juice, sangria has been enjoyed in Spain for centuries. For the best sangria in Seville, Travel Director, Isabelle recommends making a beeline straight to El Pasaje, tucked away in the city’s hidden side streets. Wash down the fruity punch with a delicious selection of tapas and you’ve got yourself one helluva fiesta.
Discover this Hidden Gem on: Highlights of Spain and Portugal
Le Moulin De La Vierge, Paris
When in Paris, one must always indulge in Parisian pastries. It’s an unwritten rule. Luckily, local (and expert on all things ‘City of Love’) Travel Director, Jonathan knows the perfect patisserie to sate your sweet tooth. Located right by Place des Victoire, Le Moulin de la Vierge is reminiscent of a 19th century Parisian boutique and is the place to go for arguably the city’s best croissants, éclairs, mouth-watering tarts, cheesecake and macarons. Bon appetit!
Discover this Hidden Gem on: Wonderful France
Loggia Roof Bar, Florence
After a day of exploring, head to Piazza Santo Spirito and it’s at the top of a hotel (Hotel Palazzo Guadagni) where you’ll find the absolute hidden gem that is Loggia Roof Bar.
It offers panoramic views from its terrace, overlooking the square and the nearby hills. It’s here that you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a moment of calmness, away from the busy city and crowds. The ‘Loggia Spritz’ is their take on a classic Italian cocktail.
Jardins do Palácio de Cristal, Portugal
The beautiful Jardins do Palácio de Cristal in Porto, Portugal, is one of the unique places to visit as you’ll look upon landscaped botanical gardens while seeing Douro River views.
As you walk through rose gardens, you’ll spot peacocks freely roaming, while greater views of the city will open up the further you venture.
Visit the gardens on: Treasures of Spain and Portugal
The Trulli of Alberobello, Italy
The ‘trulli’ refers to limestone dwellings which are based in the town of Alberobello, in the Puglia region of Italy. The buildings use a dry-stone construction, with this being a prehistoric building technique that continues to be used in the area.
When you’re looking from a distance, the buildings really are a sight to behold, and the Trulli of Alberobello are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Baleal Island, Portugal
Baleal can easily be described as a paradise location, with it still being under the radar from many tourists.
It’s located on Portugal’s west coast and is known for being the ultimate surf spot as it has a unique geographical situation where surfing is possible in any direction of the wind. When you’re not spending your time watching water sports, head into the picturesque village and grab a coffee while exploring.
Explore Portugal on: Spain, Morocco & Portugal
Farsons Brewery, Malta
It’s not everyday that you can walk through a brewery which has been turned into an immersive exhibition that explains how beer was introduced in the central Mediterranean country of Malta (with the British Armed forces being a large component!).
It was then, in the 1950s, that the Farsons Brewery was opened, in an effort to meet the requirements of a growing market. After walking through the museum-like halls, the brewery offers a beer tasting experience at its aptly named bar The Cisk Tap.
Boboli Gardens
The Boboli Gardens in Florence originally opened to the public in 1766, with it being the most perfect quintessential Italian garden. It’s located on a hillside, behind Pitti Palace, with the gardens having been arranged with a symmetrical positioning of trees and flowerbeds.
There’s a whole lot of history packed into Boboli, with it also having incredible views over the city.
Visit Bobli Gardens on: Italian Holiday
FAQ: The hidden gems in Europe
What are some underrated food cities in Europe?
A hugely underrated city for food in Europe is Albufeira in Portugal, with this area having a diverse range while having many restaurants which excel in the likes of seafood and piri-piri chicken. After all, it was in the village of Guia that piri-piri chicken was created.
Another underrated food city in Europe is Bologna in Italy, with this being the food capital of the country. If visiting, make sure to add ordering a ragù onto your must-do list.
What are some underrated summer destinations in Europe?
If you’re looking for the lesser-known destinations to visit in summer in Europe, look to Montenegro, Slovenia, Malta, Albania and Denmark.
What are the best places to visit in Europe to avoid crowds?
Visiting Europe doesn’t always mean battling crowds and hordes of tourists, with some areas still being underrated or hidden gems. If you’re wishing to explore Italy, for example, check out Puglia or Sicily. While there will be tourists visiting, the crowds won’t be as large as in Rome or Florence.
Leipzig in Germany also doesn’t see as many tourists as the capital, with Ghent in Belgium being another.
Discover these Hidden Gems and more when you travel to Europe with Trafalgar and our expert Travel Directors. Do you have any Hidden Gems in Europe that we should know about? Let us know in the comments box below!
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