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Italy, Apulia, Metropolitan City of Bari, Monopoli. Porta Vecchia (Old Port)

The Best Off the Beaten Track Destinations in Europe

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By Holly Wallis


Already visited the famous European holiday hotspots, and want to try something completely different? Fewer crowds, authentic cultural experiences and unique natural gems are just some of the reasons to opt for an off the beaten track holiday in Europe. From the marvellous sea view hiking trails of Madeira to the icy arctic forests of Finland’s Lapland, to the quaint medieval Old Town of Vilnius, there are an array of charming, lesser-known European treasures, just waiting to be discovered!

Read on for a selection of our top recommended off the beaten track destinations in Europe.

Puglia, Italy

Forming the “heel” of Italy’s boot, this sunny region of Italy is home to a gorgeous Mediterranean coastline, beautiful baroque architecture, and charming historic towns. Popular places to visit in Puglia include Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, Lecce, as well as Matera, which is situated in the neighbouring region of Basilicata.


Puglia makes for a fabulous fly drive destination, offering you ultimate freedom to make as many stops as you wish. We also offer a range of well-paced guided group tours and rail itineraries. During your holiday to Puglia, sample delicious regional delicacies such as caffè Leccese, handmade orecchiette pasta, and delicious traditional baked goods such as focaccia.


How to get there: Approx 3 hour flight to Bari or Brindisi


TF recommended holiday itinerary: Explore Puglia: The Heel of Italy's Boot


Discover more about holidays to the region on our Puglia & Matera Holidays page


Italy, Apulia, Metropolitan City of Bari, Monopoli. Porta Vecchia (Old Port)

Madeira Island, Portugal

On a holiday to Madeira, you could be hiking along incredible levada trails, driving past breathtaking roadside waterfalls, or climbing up dramatic volcanic peaks. There are also wonderful sea-based activities to enjoy in Madeira, from whale and dolphin watching to swimming in natural lava pools, to discovering stunning sea views from some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe.


Madeira is a popular choice for travellers seeking an active holiday, as there is such a great range of hiking trails and other active pursuits to enjoy, such as canyoning and jet skiing. The natural beauty of Madeira is well complemented by the striking architecture and historical landmarks of Porto and Lisbon, for a longer multi centre package.


How to get there: Approx 4 hour flight to Funchal


TF recommended holiday itinerary: Madeira: Pearl of the Atlantic


Discover more about holidays to the island on our Madeira Holidays page


Coastal path along ocean in Ponta do Sossego tropical gardens, Sao Miguel island, Azores, Portugal

Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius’ boasts one of the largest remaining medieval old towns in Europe, and is a perfect option for an off the beaten track city break. Splendid landmarks to fit into a 3 day itinerary in the city include a visit to the neoclassical Vilnius Cathedral, a climb up to the top of the Gediminas’ Tower, and, if you are brave enough to do it, a hot air balloon ride over the city centre. This is one of the few European capitals where hot air balloons can fly over!


Vilnius is budget friendly and remains authentic, as a lesser-known tourist destination. Being less commercialized, you can enjoy wandering through charming neighbourhoods where the locals hang out, and browse quaint, quirky craft shops, along with sitting in peaceful courtyards, sipping a relaxed coffee.


How to get there: Approx 3 hour flight to Vilnius


TF recommended holiday itinerary: Vilnius City Break


Discover more about holidays to the country on our Lithuania Holidays page


Aerial View of Vilnius Old Town With The University Bell Tower Above the Horizon

Latvia

Latvia is home to lush verdant forests, including Gauja National Park, along with fresh Baltic coastline, offering 500 km of white-sand beaches. Escape into pristine nature on a visit to Latvia, with walks alongside scenic waterways and charming lakes, as well with views of preserved local flora and fauna.


Latvia is also well suited to those seeking to discover a unique European culture. Learn about Latvia’s history with a visit to iconic landmarks such as Dobele Castle and Koknese Castle Ruins. While there are many ways to discover Latvia, guided group tours are an excellent option, as all the logistics and arrangements are taken care of.


How to get there: Approx 3 hour flight to Riga


TF recommended holiday itinerary: Classic Baltics


Discover more about holidays to the country on our Latvia Holidays page


House of Blackheads, Latvia

Rovaniemi, Finland

While perhaps most famous for being the hometown of Santa, Rovaniemi is also gateway to the Finnish Lapland countryside, sitting directly on the Arctic Circle. The ultimate Christmas escape for children and adults alike, there are boundless amounts of winter activities to partake in. What’s more, the friendly people, hearty food and fascinating culture make this a truly unforgettable holiday destination.


If you’re after an exhilarating Lapland adventure, why not opt for a snowmobiling excursion, husky sledding experience or a fat biking trip. Alternatively, relax into Finland’s wellness scene with a sauna session or float past the sparkling snowy surrounds on an unforgettable reindeer ride. Lapland is the perfect place to celebrate something special at Christmas.


How to get there: Approx 3 hour 30 minute flight to Rovaniemi


TF recommended holiday itinerary: Arctic Escape - Panoramic Views and Northern Delights


Discover more about holidays to the region on our Lapland Holidays page


Vaatuunki Wilderness Lodge
Vaatuunki Wilderness Lodge

Krakow, Poland

Krakow is home to a wide range of historic sites of interest. Beyond the main Market Square and Wawel Royal Castle, popular excursions include a visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine which is one of the oldest working salt mines in the world – having produced salt for over 700 years.


One of the most important sites of interest remains the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum, where visitors have the opportunity to learn about the harrowing history of the largest Nazi concentration camp complex.


Many travellers opt to visit Krakow as a standalone city break, but the city can also be combined with other popular cities in Poland, such as Warsaw and Gdansk – all easily connected via Poland’s trainline.


How to get there: Approx 3 hour flight to Krakow


TF recommended holiday itinerary: Discover Historical Krakow


Discover more about holidays to the region on our Poland Holidays page


Horse Carriage in Krakow, Poland

Zadar, Croatia

On a holiday to Zadar, explore the city’s charming old town, which is lined with remnants of its Roman past, such as the still-standing Pillar of Shame and the adjacent Roman Forum which has become an open-air museum. The Cathedral of Saint Anastasia, located in the centre of the old town, is a symbol of Zadar’s endurance through conflict, having been rebuilt several times throughout the city’s history.


The oldest city in Croatia, Zadar is often visited as part of a longer fly drive holiday to Croatia along with Split and Sibenik, with a stop en route at the wonderful Krka National Park. For those seeking relaxation, Zadar is also situated near to the charming beach of Kolovare Beach and emerald-green Zrmanja River, surrounded by spectacular limestone canyons.


How to get there: Approx 3 hour flight to Zadar


TF recommended holiday itinerary: Croatia’s Historic Cities: Split & Zadar


Discover more about holidays to the region on our Croatia Beach Holidays page


Beautiful pebbly beach in Istria - Turquoise bay in Cape Kamenjak Nature Park

Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest is a great choice of destination for history buffs, with Revolution Square – famous for the 1989 uprising - and the majestic Palaces of the Parliament. For those seeking a wellness cure, the Therme Bucharest is an excellent spa to visit during your visit.


A great value destination, Bucharest can be visited either as an energetic city break, or can be combined with a visit to the beautiful countryside of Transylvannia. Transylvannia’s castles, including Bran Castle – also known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’ and Peles Castle, are among some of the most striking in Europe, and are nestled within beautiful lush forests.


How to get there: Approx 4 hour flight to Bucharest


TF recommended holiday itinerary: Romantic Romania: In search of Dracula


Discover more about our holidays to Bucharest on our Romania Holidays page


Europe, Romania, Bucharest. National Museum of Romanian History. Located Old town on Calea Victoriei

Olbia, Sardinia, Italy

On the northeast coast of Sardinia, the region surrounding Olbia boasts scenic coves, natural rock pools, and coastal paths. Gateway to the spectacular Costa Smeralda, a flight to Olbia, means you could be spending the next week or so lazing on picture perfect beaches, dining on terraces overlooking the glistening Mediterranean Sea, or dipping into your resort infinity pool, soaking up the rays.


While perhaps more well known as a beach destination, Sardinia is also a wonderful choice for a walking holiday, particularly at cooler times of the year. One popular choice for a guided group walking tour is Walking in Sardinia with Exodus Travels. This journey includes a walk along Gorropu Gorge, a visit to the large caves at Cala Luna and time to wander through the Nuragic village of Tiscali.


How to get there: Approx 3 hour flight to Olbia


TF recommended holiday itinerary: Sardinia's Emerald Coast


Discover more about our holidays to Olbia on our Sardinia Holidays page


Alghero, Sardinia, Italy

Carcassonne, France

The fairytale-like city of Carcassonne is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval walled citadels, nestled in the Languedoc region. During a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site city, walk along the ramparts, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Stroll the cobblestone streets, stopping at charming French cafés and restaurants as you explore.


The city can easily be combined with a visit to Toulouse and Bordeaux, as part of a broader rail itinerary.


How to get there: Approx 2 hour 30 minute flight to Carcassonne


TF recommended holiday itinerary: Medieval France: Toulouse & Carcassone by Rail


Discover more about holidays to France on our France Holidays page


Medieval castle town of Carcassone at sunset, France

With so many options of off the beaten track destinations to choose from, speak to a Trailfinders travel consultant today, to get started on planning your next adventure!


For more inspiration, take a look at our Europe Holidays pages and our Off the Beaten Track Holidays page.


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Written by Holly Wallis

Holly is a Web Content Supervisor in our Marketing Team, based in our Kensington head office.

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