The outdoor cafes, the good whine, the cobblestone streets. Europe is no doubt one of the favorite travel destinations for people throughout the world. Think of Europe and all that comes to mind is Paris, London, Rome, Vienna and Geneva. While these beautiful cities have good reason to be famous, Europe is by no means limited to them. So if you want to have the dream European vacation without burning a hole in your pocket and also want to avoid all the flocks of tourists at the most famous destinations, we’re just about to show you five under rated European cities that are every bit as charming and promise to give you a vacation that is just as memorable.
Budapest:
It is hard to believe how a city so beautiful can be so under rated. Built on the banks on the Danube river, Budapest is the capital of Hungary. It is often referred to as the Paris of the east, and with good reason. Budapest has a lot to offer to tourists of all ages and inclinations whether it be the beautiful centuries old Gothic style architecture, a performance at the famous Hungarian state opera house for the art lovers or partying in one of the ruin pubs. Just take a stroll along the chain bridge and you’ll see why Budapest is known as the pearl of the Danube and when you get tired from all this just take a dip in any one of the world famous thermal baths. If all this wasn’t reason enough for a visit, not being on the euro makes Budapest a really cheap vacation destination while compared to some other western European countries.
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Ljubljana:
The capital and largest city of Slovenia. Many of those who have had the fortune of visiting this city call it the most beautiful city in all of Europe! Even though being a capital city it still retains a small town charm, providing a perfect getaway from your busy daily life. Take a walk along the streets in the old town and you will most definitely fall in love with this place. Other places worth seeing include the dragon bridge, the chain bridge and the Tivoli park.
Cesky krumlov:
A short drive from the famous Czech capital of prague, this place is not technically a city but is definitely one of the most enchanting places you will ever visit in your life. Walking on the cobblestone streets, just as people did hundreds of years ago you cant help but feel lost in time in this beautifully preserved historic town. The castle garden is also a must visit with its breathtaking natural scenery that will most definitely refresh your mind and body alike.
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Mostar:
Many a times you would have come across a photo of an arched bridge, with medieval looking buildings surrounding it on many postcards, wondering to yourself what place that was and whether you could ever go there. Well, Mostar is that place. Straddling the Neretva river, this beautiful city in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina is famous for its ‘stari most’ or old bridge. Viewing the river and city from the middle of this iconic bridge is a thing many people have on there bucket lists and a visit here will tell you why. Other places to explore include the old bazar which has some of the best restaurants in the city and makes for a fantastic day trip.
Bruges:
When it comes to Belgium, you must have heard of Brussels or even Ghent, but Bruges is a city that is often overlooked. With its picturesque canals flanked by medieval houses, this is a place that is bound to leave you mesmerized. Visit the church of holy blood to know about the rich history of this city, climb the belfry tower for its panoramic views and travel back in time by taking a horse drawn carriage ride in the city center. Don’t forget to taste the world famous belgian chocolates and waffles and wash it down with freshly brewed belgian beer, arguably the best in the world .