If you’ve already ticked off the classics — Paris, Rome, London — and are craving something a little more off the radar, this one’s for you.
Europe has no shortage of postcard-perfect cities, but it’s the lesser-known countries that often leave the biggest impression. Think unspoiled nature, rich culture, diverse architecture, and meals you’ll still be dreaming about months later — all without the tourist crowds.
These hidden gems don’t just offer a change of scenery — they offer a fresh perspective on what travel can be.
1. Estonia: Medieval Charm Meets Modern Culture
Perched on the edge of the Baltic Sea, Estonia is a delightful blend of fairy-tale history and clean, modern design. It’s the kind of place where you can spend the morning wandering Gothic alleyways and the afternoon sipping coffee in a sleek design café.
- Architecture: Tallinn’s Old Town is pure medieval magic — cobblestone lanes, Gothic churches, and city walls that transport you to another century. But stroll into the Rotermann Quarter and you’ll find glassy, modern buildings that feel straight out of a Nordic design magazine.
- Cuisine: Estonian food is seasonal, rustic, and surprisingly inventive. Expect rye bread, smoked fish, wild mushrooms, and dishes like karask (barley bread) or verivorst (blood sausage). Nordic meets Slavic, with a dash of foraging flair.
Don’t miss: Lahemaa National Park – peaceful trails, old manor houses, and a chance to spot moose in the wild.
2. Latvia: Unspoiled Nature and Vibrant Culture
Latvia often flies under the radar, but it’s a treasure trove of unspoiled nature, moody forests, and some of Europe’s best-preserved Art Nouveau architecture — especially in the buzzing capital, Riga.
- Architecture: Riga’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site — and for good reason. Expect a mix of Gothic towers, Baroque mansions, and more than 800 Art Nouveau buildings. Outside the capital, towns like Cēsis and Kuldīga offer a slower pace and postcard-worthy timber homes.
- Cuisine: Simple, hearty, and honest. Rye bread, smoked bacon, and sklandrausis (a sweet rye pastry with carrots and potatoes) make up a Latvian table. And don’t skip a shot of Riga Black Balsam — it’s part medicine, part tradition.
☑️ Don’t miss: Gauja National Park — caves, castles, and river trails, especially around the charming town of Sigulda.
🔗 Explore our customised Baltic tours
We offer customized tours of the Baltic countries – Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania – with limited itineraries to browse for inspiration. Learn more about the Baltic region and visit our tours page.
3. Iceland: Majestic Landscapes Beyond the Crowds
Iceland may not be a secret anymore, but it still feels wild and otherworldly — the kind of place where nature speaks louder than people. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, soaking in geothermal springs, or watching the sky dance with Northern Lights, it’s pure magic.
- Architecture: Reykjavik charms with its colourful tin-roofed houses and minimalist Nordic design. The iconic Hallgrímskirkja church towers above the city like a sentinel. Out in the countryside, you’ll still find turf-roofed cottages and remote farmhouses that feel lost in time.
- Cuisine: Seafood, lamb, and dairy are staples. Adventurous eaters can try hákarl (fermented shark), while others might stick to skyr (a yogurt-like treat) or warm bowls of lamb stew. Icelandic restaurants often serve modern interpretations using hyper-local ingredients.
Don’t miss: The Golden Circle – a greatest-hits road trip of waterfalls, geysers, and tectonic rifts.
4. Faroe Islands: Nordic Wilderness Like No Other
Tucked between Iceland and Norway, the Faroe Islands feel like a secret whispered by the wind. With their dramatic cliffs, tiny villages, and moody skies, they’re perfect for travelers who want nature to take the lead.
- Architecture: Think grass-roofed houses, fishing cottages, and villages that hug the coastline. Tórshavn, the world’s smallest capital, is full of colour, charm, and quietly confident design.
- Cuisine: Expect hyper-local menus — fermented lamb (ræst kjøt), wind-dried fish, seaweed, and whatever the fishermen bring in that day. Faroese chefs are gaining acclaim for combining ancient methods with new Nordic creativity.
Don’t miss: Sørvágsvatn (the “floating lake”) and the village of Gásadalur, where a waterfall meets the sea.
We offer extensive tours to the Nordic region including Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Denmark. Learn more about the Nordics and what makes this region so special for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
5. Albania: Rugged Mountains and Pristine Beaches
Tucked away on the Adriatic Sea, Albania is a hidden gem that boasts stunning beaches and a rich historical tapestry. With its rugged mountains and charming coastal towns, it offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
- Architecture: Albania’s architecture is a blend of Ottoman, Italian, and communist influences, seen in its diverse cities and towns. Berat and Gjirokastër, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, are known for their well-preserved Ottoman-era houses. In contrast, the capital city, Tirana, features colorful buildings and modern designs that reflect the country’s vibrant culture.
- Cuisine: Albanian cuisine is characterized by fresh, local ingredients and Mediterranean flavors. Dishes often feature grilled meats, fresh seafood, and a variety of vegetables. Popular items include byrek (savory pastry filled with meat or vegetables), tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt), and fërgesë (a baked dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese).
- Don’t miss: The Albanian Riviera, known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, as well as the ancient ruins of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
6. Slovenia: Fairy Tale Landscapes and Outdoor Adventures
On the border of Italy lies Slovenia, one of the richer Balkan countries bursting with natural beauty and cultural richness. With its picturesque lakes, charming villages, and vibrant cities, it offers an array of experiences for every traveler.
- Architecture: Slovenia’s architecture reflects a diverse history, from medieval castles to modern designs. Ljubljana, the capital, is known for its Art Nouveau buildings and the stunning Ljubljana Castle. The fairy-tale landscapes around Lake Bled feature a striking church on an island, while the picturesque town of Piran showcases Venetian influences.
- Cuisine: Slovenian cuisine is a blend of Central European flavors, incorporating influences from Italian, Austrian, and Balkan cuisines. Traditional dishes include potica (a nut roll), idrija žlikrofi (dumplings), and jota (a hearty stew). Slovenia also boasts a growing wine culture, particularly in regions like the Vipava Valley and Štajerska.
- Don’t miss: The enchanting Lake Bled with its island church and hilltop castle, Triglav National Park for alpine hikes, and the charming coastal village of Piran.
7. Montenegro: A Small Country with Grand Landscapes
The coastal Balkan country of Montenegro boasts a long stretch of the Adriatic Sea lined with rugged mountains, serene beaches and ancient towns. Like Croatia, it is getting noticed for the diverse range of experiences on offer, such as hiking the dramatic landscapes and exploring ancient ruins with a rich history. Luxury travellers can also delight at the selection of luxury resorts in the most unique settings.
- Architecture: Montenegro’s architecture is influenced by a mix of Venetian, Ottoman, and Austro-Hungarian styles. The coastal town of Kotor, with its well-preserved medieval architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring narrow streets and ancient fortifications. In contrast, Podgorica’s capital city offers a more modern architectural landscape.
- Cuisine: Montenegrin cuisine reflects its Mediterranean and Balkan heritage, featuring fresh seafood, grilled meats, and locally sourced vegetables. Traditional dishes include kačamak (a hearty cornmeal dish), njeguška pršut (smoked ham), and various seafood specialties along the coast.
- Don’t miss: The exclusive island of Sveti Stefan, a luxurious resort located on the former fortified fishing village connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway, offering stunning views, private beaches, and a secluded atmosphere.
Not many companies know the Balkans as well as we do. Discover the beauty of the Balkan region including Albania, Bosnia, Croatia, Montenegro, Slovenia, and beyond. With local experts on the ground and travel specialists from Croatia and neighboring countries, we can create a phenomenal trip that will leave your friends envious. Browse our sample itineraries to the Balkans or let us design a personalized tour just for you.
Turn to the experts to book you a unique vacation catered to your interests
The most daunting thing about visiting hidden gems is knowing what to book and where to go. Let us take care of that for you! At Bellarome Travel Worldwide, we will take the time to understand what you want from your trip and tailor it perfectly to you. It’s what we do best! Inquire today for an obligation-free itinerary and let’s start planning your dream vacation.
