Traveling is one of life's greatest pleasures, but deciding where to go can be challenging. Leading cities of the world like London and Paris certainly are worth discovering, but smaller cities should beckon, too.
Here are some European favorites from my recent travels.
1. After Santorini and Mykonos, try Corfu
If you're looking for a seaside paradise in the Greek Isles, you may want to skip the crowded beaches of Mykonos and dirty streets of Santorini.
We've all dreamed of getting that romantic photo of blue-and-white domes from that hilltop in Oia, but it might not be worth all the trouble for that single shot.
Full of off-roading excursions, diving adventures and breathtaking shoreline, Corfu is one of Greece's most overlooked islands. Stop in Athens to get a taste of the country's cultural side, then make your way to this rugged island just off Greece's northwest coast. Rent an ATV and explore the area or relax with a book on one of the west coast's magnificent beaches. Reserve a bit of time to explore Corfu's historic city center by the same name on the east side of the island.
2. After Berlin, try Hamburg
For those of you who want to visit Berlin solely for the history, go right ahead. Between the Berlin Wall, historical museums and unique neighborhoods, there's plenty to see. Just be aware that this busy city is extremely large and doesn't have the same European charm as many of its German counterparts.
If you're looking for a city in northern Germany with natural beauty and plenty of culture, Hamburg fits the bill. Though it has an industrial side, Hamburg's parks, waterways and quaint street corners give it the charming European feel that Berlin lacks. Explore the street-side cafes and coffee shops or take a boat tour through the city's canals. For a peaceful meal by the water, grab lunch or dinner at Café Sommerterrassen.
3. If not Zurich, then Basel
Where Switzerland meets France and Germany lies Basel – a midsize city with a youthful feel and lots of character. From Gothic churches to a thriving arts scene and bustling night life, Basel has it all. Explore the street cafes and indulge in the extensive chocolate selections. If you're there during the warmer months, rent a waterproof bag for your belongings and float down the river – a popular pastime for locals and visitors alike.
4. First Dubrovnik, then Korcula
It's hard to recommend skipping one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, but if you're going to visit Dubrovnik, you really must master your timing. During the summer months, the streets are so overrun with tourists that you'll have more than a little trouble getting around (let alone breathing). Visiting Dubrovnik in the winter is a bit like visiting a ghost town.
I recommend going in April or September, spending a day in Dubrovnik and heading to Korcula for the night. Though there are many beautiful Croatian islands (Hvar, Brac, Miljet and more), Korcula is one on which you should linger. Between the rich history, scenic views, local vineyards and laid-back island lifestyle, there's a lot to admire about this Croatian gem. Korcula offers everything from snorkeling to dune buggy wine tours. Walk along the coastline at sunset for beautiful views of the town center.
5. Instead of Bruges, try Ghent
Everyone wants to experience the fairytale, canal-laden town they've seen in photos and movies. Reality is, in Bruges most of your photos will capture three or four tourist boats, and you'll be shoving people left and right to cross the Bonifacius Bridge. If canals, medieval architecture and scenic streets are your cup of tea, Ghent is only a short train ride away. Comparable to Bruges, Ghent's city center has been nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ghent maintains a youthful feel, thanks to being a college town, and is much less tourist-ridden than its famous sister city. Explore the canals by boat, snack on Belgian fries and admire the Gothic fortresses in the city center. For extra excitement, visit during July to experience Gentse Feesten, a citywide festival also known as The Festivities of Ghent.
6. Beyond Geneva, there's Montreux
Though Geneva has bits of charm, it doesn't compare to the rest of French Switzerland. For a taste of southern Swiss charm, skip Geneva and spend your time in Montreux. The city's fairytale-like quality makes it an easy place to visit and a hard place to leave. Pedal a rented paddle boat on Lake Geneva and visit the Castle of Chillon, a medieval waterfront fortress that once served as a prison to Lord Byron and other famous figures. Reserve a day to cross the lake and visit Lausanne and the world's best hot chocolate spot: Chocolaterie Le Barbare.
7. Instead of Oslo, go to Bergen
Bergen isn't exactly free of tourists. But if you're going to spend time in Norway, this city really does have it all: restaurants, hiking trails, Scandinavian heritage and spectacular views. While Oslo feels like a modern European city, Bergen feels like a Nordic utopia full of local charm. Though it's growing in both size and popularity, Bergen manages to maintain the quaint appeal that makes it such a desirable location. Examine the daily catch at the famous fish market, and indulge in everything from fresh caviar to whale sausage.
If you have time, visit BarBarista, a quirky, local café serving the best waffles in town. The kitschy-cool interior may grab your attention, but the honey-coated brie and walnut waffles are what will keep you hanging around.
8. Instead of Helsinki, visit Riga
Nothing against Helsinki, but for people who are looking to explore this part of Northern Europe, it's best to look across the Baltic Sea. Tallinn, Estonia, often takes the cake as the best place to visit in the region, but if you're planning to explore the Baltics, there is no better place to set up camp than Riga. Not only is Latvia's cultural hub full of history and European charm, it's virtually free of large crowds and rowdy tourists. Romantic street corners, quaint shops and beautiful parks make the city not only a great place to visit, but an awesome place to live. You won't regret a day trip to Jurmala, an Art Nouveau resort town with sandy beaches only a short drive outside the city.
9. Beyond the Amalfi Coast, there's Puglia
It may be your dream to visit Cinque Terra, but with the sheer number of tourists that go to the Amalfi Coast every year and the rich experiences the rest of Italy offers, it may be worth reconsidering. Puglia is a region in southeast Italy that's overflowing with local culture and unforgettable food. If you're looking for the real Italy, then the small, uncongested towns of the Puglia region may be your best bet. Visit Gallipoli and Lecce – the Venice of the South – followed by a trip to Bari to explore the traditional stone hut trullo cottages. Matera is another must-see for those who appreciate Italian history and architecture. Try to snag a night at the city's famous cave hotel – Le Grotte della Civita.
10. Nice, then Avignon
Although the pull of Nice's Mediterranean beaches (which are rock, by the way) and vibrant streets may sway you, there are more inspiring alternatives in the south of France. Rolling hills, medieval architecture and quality French wine. Sounds pretty idyllic, right? Nestled along the shores of the Rhone River is Avignon, a provincial town in southeastern France. With history dating to the 6th century B.C., the city itself is somewhat of an antiquity. Neolithic architecture, Roman monuments and a magnificent cathedral in the city center make you feel as though you've traveled back in time. Make a point to visit the Palais des Papes and Pont Saint-Benezet – both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Source: Europe's Great Small Cities | 10 less-touristy destinations with loads of authentic charm
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