Europe is on everyone’s dream destination list. And why not. It is one continent that is as rich in culture and architecture as in landscape. From playing in the snowcapped Alps mountains to the green Tuscan Fields. And from hopping the canals of Venice to enjoying the Keukenhof Tulip Gardens near Amsterdam. From Disneyland in Paris to the beautiful fairytale castles of Germany – Europe has it all. We ourselves had our first trip to Europe 5 years back. And since then, we have been yearning to get onto another trip of Europe. And to explore more destinations in Europe like Iceland – a must visit in Europe or the Balkans – off the usual beaten path. Would you believe if we say we actually defined itineraries. And were on our way to explore more places in Europe – almost!
However, we all know how the last couple of years have turned out. With so many travel restrictions. But, things have changed in recent months. Since travel restrictions were lifted around the world, there has been an interest among many people in visiting some of the best places and experiencing something a little different in Europe. The good news is that most of the countries in Europe have lifted all kind of travel restrictions. Which means even unvaccinated people are welcome! (At the time of this writing). Thus, you can find a number of interesting locations to visit in Europe this summer. But there are a few that are certainly seen as hidden gems. Let us look at where you can visit in Europe this summer which is less crowded, off the beaten bath and less commercial also.
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Sami, Kefalonia, Greece – Greek island devoid of crowd
We will be lying if we said Greece is not at the top of our Europe bucket list. And that the beautiful pictures of Santorini and the ruins of Athens have not lured us. But then they are also the most famous, most crowded destinations in Greece. While Sami is a peaceful area located on the northwest coast of the island of Kefalonia. Not only is this a beautiful island in its own right, but it also has the Melissani Cave, which is truly a spectacle in itself. The cave opens up into a wild forest that seems to be lost in time. There is a tour that you can take which lasts 15-20 minutes but is breath-taking despite its short length. We would certainly recommend that you experience an adventure holiday in Greece! However, this part of the world also undoubtedly has something for all tastes and inclinations.
You can club your visit to Sami along with other Greek Islands to explore wildlife and adventure. And also add a few days to the main areas like Athens and Santorini. And this will make for a perfect holiday with the best places to visit in Europe this summer. What’s more, Greece is one of the preferable locations when you want to visit Europe on a budget!
Crovie, Aberdeenshire, Scotland
While a road trip across Wales is definitely a dream of many. But, if you are looking for a hidden gem in Scotland, Crovie is truly one of the most unique places in the world. And much of this is due to one wealthy landowner. Located in northern Scotland’s Aberdeenshire region, Crovie consists of 50 houses and one road. All of this is on one tiny stretch of land that is so narrow, the residents have to park their cars outside the village. So, why this unusual situation? Well, long ago, a wealthy landowner decided to drive all the inhabitants off his property so that his sheep could graze on the meadows. This meant that they all had to move onto the tiny strip of land facing the sea. It is a unique sight and one you will enjoy visiting. Many of the properties in the area are now holiday homes. And slowly Crovie is evolving into a newfound holiday destination – perfect place to visit in Europe this summer.
Procida Island, Italy – a hidden gem to visit in Europe this summer
Think of the coasts of Italy and what pops up in mind is the Amalfi coast – villages with colorful hosues dotted along a soaring hill across a blue ocean. Right out of a dream. But again, most of the popular locations through the coasts and islands of Italy tend to get overcrowded in the summer months. Except one, which we have saved for you as a sweet secret to enjoy.
Considered one of the most beautiful islands in Europe, Procida island is located in the Bay of Naples. The island is of volcanic origin and has been featured in many films over the years. The streets are narrow and the architecture is beautiful, including the Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo. The houses on the island are all painted in different colours by the fishermen, who use the same colours as their boats. On our last trip to Italy, we went to Rome, almost near to Naples. But, we could only explore so much. Definitely we will return back to explore this hidden gem on our next trip to Europe.
Sorano, Tuscany, Italy – surreal place to visit in Europe this summer
Another hidden gem is located in Italy, but this time found in Tuscany. We instantly fell in love with Tuscany on our previous trip to Italy. Wherein we explored Florence through free walking tours, went to visit the leaning tower of Pisa. And while exploring in and around Florence, we saw beautiful Tuscan countryside. But we also wanted more of it. Like Sorrento and the other regions under the Tuscan sun! So, this time we bring to you a hidden gem of a place to visit in Europe this summer which is in the heart of Tuscany. Yet not so crowded. Since, Tuscany is a region that urges you to slow travel. To slow down and settle here like a local. And to experience its tranquility.
The village of Sorano is centuries old and is perched on a cliff and dug into the rock. You can see the beautiful architecture of the village as well as take a walk down the pathways through the quarries. Many feel that these walks are like taking a trip through time when everything is just as it was long ago. You can also sample the local wines and crafts that are unique to this area of the world. Find your accommodation in a local house here. And enjoy your life like a local Italian would do!
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many hidden gems you can discover on a journey through Europe. While some are in remote areas, there are also many that are simply hidden from view and seen only by those that know the area.
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