When we think of places to visit in Europe, names like Paris, Rome, and London often come to mind. However, with the growing number of international travellers, these iconic destinations have increasingly
turned into tourist traps: overcrowded, overpriced, and often exhausting. While this reality may dampen many travel dreams, what if we told you that beyond the crowds and marquee capitals lies a long list of lesser-known countries just waiting to be explored?
If you’re planning a winter getaway to Europe, these hidden gems deserve a spot on your itinerary. Here, you can experience the old-world charm of the continent, peaceful, snow-covered towns instead of camera-packed streets, local cuisine instead of long queues, and everything we romanticise about a European winter without the crowds, overbooked hotels, or budget burn.
Here are some off-the-beaten-path European destinations every explorer should add to their travel bucket list.
Portugal
Winter in Portugal presents a different side of Europe. While much of northern Europe battles the cold, cities like Lisbon and Porto stay lively and easy to explore on foot. Winter is perfect for strolling through tiled neighbourhoods, riding historic trams, and lingering over seafood lunches without the summer crowds. Travel costs also dip significantly, particularly in coastal towns and smaller cities such as Cascais and Tavira.
Hungary
Hungary in winter becomes nothing short of cinematic. It offers a more relaxed and pleasant weather. You can enjoy the thermal baths in the capital city, Budapest, stroll through the bridges of the Danube River and explore the grand architecture like Budapest’s Parliament and Buda Castle. Smaller towns like Eger and Pécs offer baroque streets, wine cellars, and lower prices, making them ideal winter getaways.
Poland
If you want to enjoy the classic European winter charm without Western Europe’s price tag, then Poland is a must-visit. Expect light snow showers in cities like Kraków, Wrocław, and Gdańsk. Kraków Old Town & Wawel Castle, Warsaw Uprising Museum, Gdańsk’s historic port, Zakopane & Tatra Mountains, Wieliczka Salt Mine are must-visit spots of Poland.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria offers a beautiful blend of history, mountains and culture. Sofia’s onion-domed churches and broad boulevards are framed by snowy landscapes, with nearby mountains perfect for skiing and winter hikes. Cities like Plovdiv blend Roman ruins with charming old quarters, making winter here peaceful, budget-friendly, and delightfully untouched.
Romania
Romania offers a fairytale-like atmosphere during winter. Transylvania’s medieval towns, misty forests, and large castles become even more beautiful in colder months. Visit Bucharest Old Town & Parliament Palace, Bran & Peleș Castles, Brașov, Transfăgărășan Highway and Danube Delta.
Czech Republic
Winter is the perfect time to explore the hidden gems of the Czech Republic. Explore Prague Castle & Charles Bridge, Český Krumlov, Kutná Hora’s Bone Church and Karlovy Vary spa town here.
Latvia
Riga’s art nouveau architecture, compact old town, and cosy cafés make Latvia ideal for slow winter exploration.
Bosnia & Herzegovina
Cities like Sarajevo and Mostar unfold a blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern history amid striking landscapes. In winter, quiet streets, mist-covered rivers, and an unhurried rhythm of daily life take centre stage, far from tourist crowds.
North Macedonia
North Macedonia has one of Europe’s oldest lakes, Lake Ohrid, which looks more whimsical in colder months. Beyond this visit, Skopje Old Bazaar & Kale Fortress, St. Jovan Kaneo Church, Matka Canyon and Tetovo Painted Mosque.
