With multiple countries and languages, varied cultures and cuisines, there are plenty of reasons to visit Europe. Tourism is so prevalent here that during peak seasons the capital cities and other tourist hotspots often become very overcrowded and ultimately, somewhat unpleasant.
You can still experience Europe’s finest by heading away from the capitals into the ‘real’ cities beyond. Unspoilt by your friend’s Instagram feed, you can truly explore the gems of these lesser known cities for the first time. With less emphasis on tourism, you will get a real insight into the local culture and avoid paying a premium to do so.
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Cagliari, Sardinia
Colourful Cagliari is a Mediterranean dream of pinks, oranges and yellows. This seaside city is known for its four historic districts: Castello, Villanova, Stampace and Marina. With cathedrals, museums, galleries and shopping, there is plenty to do in Cagliari. Take in the rich Italian history before stretching out on one of the beautiful beaches along Cagliari’s dramatic coastline. The marina offers a selection of restaurants to help you to unwind after a day of exploring.
Birmingham, UK
Much less crowded than London, the UK’s second city has plenty to offer. Lively Birmingham is a hub for music and the arts, receiving 3.3 million visits between 2015-17. The iconic Bullring Shopping Centre is a shopaholic’s haven, home to the first Selfridges store outside London. Head to the Mailbox for more shopping and culinary delights before going on to the clubbing hotspots of Broad Street.
Another draw of Birmingham is the NEC conference centre welcoming acts and exhibitions from across the globe. Around the times of events, local hotels are much in demand, so be sure to book your stay early.
Cork, Ireland
Get a real taste of Irish culture by heading to unspoiled Cork. A foodie’s haven, Cork is laid back and welcoming with plenty of choices to eat and drink. Colourful buildings line Cork harbour looking across the River Lee that runs through the city, taking in some of the finest views. The city’s castle-like former gaol is a must-see for any visitor. Take a tour inside this imposing structure to get a sense of inmate life a century ago.
Helsinki, Finland
Despite being the capital of Finland, tourism is much lower here than in other European cities. Still, Helsinki is definitely worth a visit. Sitting on a peninsula in the Gulf of Finland, Helsinki is rich in institutional history with museums and Parliamentary buildings. Uspenski Cathedral is an architecturally impressive must-see. This red-brick Orthodox institution overlooks the harbour and is ornately decorated inside.
For live entertainment, head to Esplanadi, a green-space in the middle of the city known for hosting Jazz festivals and fashion shows.
Poznań, Poland
Known for its Renaissance-style market square, picturesque Poznań lies on the Warta River in Western Poland. With its colourful buildings and gothic cathedrals, Poznań is definitely a trip to take with your camera. Historic museums, zoos and a miniature railway are just a few of the treats Poznań has to offer, making it a great destination to visit with the family.
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Great suggestions. Poland is so underrated in my book. I had the pleasure of visiting Warsaw last year and absolutely fell in love with it. I’d love to see more of the country.
Very nice article and this location are so amazing..
great blog to read.
Really a nice blog I love it.
Wow those are amazing location and include images are so nice.
This are so nice and I like what your said about those location.
Nice Blog and it is really very knowledgeable…keep posting blog like that.
Thanks a lot for this awesome article.
Amazing post… Finland is already on my travel bucket list.. and other places are wonderful too.
Very good blog.
This is the most engaging and informative blog I have ever been through. It gives me goosebumps as to how can somebody write so well and to the point.
Amazing tour itinerary of Europe, i think these are the top most tourist destination of Europe and your content is really helpful to get aware about these amazing places.
Thanks for sharing such content with us.
Thank you this post
Really these 5 place of Europe is very interesting. When I am in Europe I would like to visit these place.
Thank you very much for such an amazing article about Europe country ❤ all these country is such a beautiful country with no crowds around.
Nice post.
Thank you for sharing a informative information with us.
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wow,
wonderfull places to visit,
thanks for sharing.