12 Hidden Gems in Europe You've Probably Never Heard Of
Nina Kovalenko
Adventure Travel Writer
Beyond the Tourist Trail
Overtourism is transforming iconic destinations. Venice now charges day visitors a €5 entry fee. Santorini limits cruise ships. But Europe's magic runs deep — there are hundreds of extraordinary places most travelers will never discover. For instance, skip standard beach resorts and explore our Algarve and Sintra guides.
1. Kotor, Montenegro
A walled medieval city on a bay that rivals the Amalfi Coast, but with 10x fewer visitors. Hike the ancient walls for a panoramic view that will stop your heart.
2. Sintra, Portugal
A fairy-tale town 40 minutes from Lisbon. Multicolored royal palaces perch on wooded hills shrouded in Atlantic mist. Check our Lisbon guide under Lisbon guide for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:How do you get to Sintra from Lisbon?
You can take a direct train from Rossio Station in central Lisbon to Sintra. The journey takes about 40 minutes and costs less than €3 one-way.
Q:Is Kotor expensive to visit?
Kotor is much cheaper than Croatia (Dubrovnik) or Italy, but slightly more expensive than inland Montenegro. Budget around €45-€60 per day.