Five Underrated Cities In Europe
Let’s have a look at five criminally underrated cities in Europe.
We all know about Europe’s most popular cities; Paris, London, Barcelona, Amsterdam.
But what about the hidden gems?
The cities that don’t end up on people’s wish lists but really deserve to be.
Ghent, Belgium
For me, Ghent is Belgium’s best kept secret, and one of Europe’s.
A cosy and relaxed city with nonstop medievil architecture and winding canalside promenades. Historical places of interest like the Graventsteen Castle and the Belfry are complimented by quirky little bars selling famous Belgian beers and fantastic food.
My favourite thing about Ghent is you are roughly half an hour away from Bruges, Brussels and Antwerp by train. You can literally hop on a train and visit another equally underrated city on the same trip.
With a vibrant yet cosy atmosphere, there really is no place like Ghent.
Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
Nestled next to the ominous sounding Black Forest in the south-west of Germany, Freiburg offers a historic university town with a Medievil backdrop.
Statistically the sunniest and warmest city in Germany - it is often used as the tourist entrance into the Black Forest; a picturesque forested mountain range that is heaven for motorcyclists and lovers of the great outdoors alike.
The region is also well known for its spa baths, and its cuckoo clocks to remind you just how long you’ve been soaking in one!
Innsbruck, Austria
Again, if you’re a lover of mountain ranges and the great outdoors, add Innsbruck to your list of cities to visit.
I feel a lot of Austria doesn’t get the credit it deserves by travellers, and Innsbruck in the western Tyrol region is no exception.
The city itself is immediately surrounded by some of the most stunning scenery and roads in the world.
Being so close to snow-capped mountains while walking city streets is a very surreal and unforgettable experience.
Innsbruck also hosts some stunning architecture, most notably the Hofburg Imperial Palace.
If you want to get off the streets and into the mountains, take the funicular and soak in some absolutely stunning views on the way up.
Porto, Portugal
Often overshadowed by its big brother Lisbon, the Portuguese city of Porto can easily be overlooked.
Steeped in history and set along the Douro river, Porto is a perfect blend of old and new. Roman history, hip bars, industrial bridges and art museums sit side by side.
Food and drink prices are generally cheaper than Lisbon too, with less tourists and the same weather.
If all that isn’t enough reason to visit, Porto is also the namesake of delicious Port wine – so prepare for a hangover!
Lyon, France
Lyon really does give Paris a run for its money. You will find enough shopping areas, museums and culture to cure your Parisienne urges, but without the Eiffel Tower.
It is warmer than Northern France, but this city really shines when you visit the largest park in the country, Parc de la Tete d’Or.
Situated outside the city of Lyon it has a free zoo, botanical gardens and a lake. You could easily spend a few days just in the park.
Do you think there are other underrated cities in Europe that should have made the top five?
