When looking for a thrilling vacation, many people turn to the most travelled cities in the world. From London to Barcelona, these vibrant cities provide something for everyone. Each bustling metropolis has its own unique charm and attractions that make it a great destination for travellers. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or an adventurous family holiday, there are a plethora of cities in Europe to visit.
But rather than the aforementioned London and Barcelona, as well as other uber-popular European tourist hotspots such as Paris and Amsterdam, the continent has some hidden gems available to tourists. We aim to highlight them to you today, starting with Vienna, the Capital of Austria.
Top cultural cities to visit in Europe with fewer tourists
Vienna
Vienna is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture and is a perfect holiday destination for all types of travellers. The stunning baroque architecture is reminiscent of a bygone era, and it’s easy to get lost in the beautiful museums, churches, and galleries. Vienna also offers a wealth of cultural experiences, from its famous opera house to the annual Vienna ballroom dance halls, to its many traditional restaurants.
As well as the above, if you’re a thrill seeker, Vienna has a number of exciting casinos for high rollers to choose from. There are the likes of the Casino Wien and the Montesino Casino which attract plenty of attention and have tables available for all budgets. But if you prefer to play casino games online from the comfort of your own home, then websites like CafeCasino will allow you to scratch that itch.
Whilst in the Austrian capital, make sure to sample the local cuisine. Traditional Apfelstrudel, Wiener Schnitzel, and Würstel are all must-haves. And finally, don’t forget the quaint cobblestone streets and charming horse-drawn carriages, which make wandering Vienna an absolute delight.
Sofia
Sofia is a bustling city with a unique flavour. As the largest city in Bulgaria, Sofia has plenty of attractions to offer. From the many ancient ruins and monuments in the city center to the bustling Farmer’s Market, to the lively nightlife and vibrant cafes, there is something for everyone. Don’t miss the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and its beautiful frescoes, which have earned it a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.
The city has a wealth of parks for you to immerse yourself in, and if sports are your thing, then the Bulgarian capital has no fewer than SIX top-flight football teams. While the stadiums are crumbling somewhat, you won’t find cheaper match tickets anywhere else in Europe, and the Bulgarian supporters are some of the most passionate fans in the world.
Yerevan
Yerevan, the beautiful capital of Armenia, is a must-see destination. When people think of European cities, this is one that doesn’t tend to spring to mind. Technically, the country is located in the Caucasus Mountains and straddles the continental line between Asia and Europe But with new routes to the country being announced by WizzAir, Yerevan has never been more accessible.
This ancient city features an array of fascinating sights, such as the picturesque Mount Ararat and its stunning views of the city. Don’t miss the stunning Matenadaran building, a stunning repository of ancient manuscripts, or the stunning Cascade complex, with its towering stairway of sculptures.
Music lovers will love the vibrant music scene, offering everything from traditional Armenian folk music to modern rock and pop. There are plenty of speakeasy bars and underground clubs, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled and don’t miss anything.
One thing that is for certain, is that the people of Armenia are some of the kindest you will ever meet. They are always helpful and welcoming however, they’re also more used to getting visitors from neighbours Russia than they are from the West, so don’t be surprised if you get a few funny looks when natives hear you speaking in English. But you don’t need to worry, crime rates in Yerevan are some of the lowest around.
Florence
If romance is more your speed, Florence is the perfect destination. This charming city offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions, from the iconic Duomo di Firenze to the beautiful Ponte Vecchio bridge. Take a romantic stroll through the cobblestone streets of the historical center, or take a boat ride down the Arno River to view the stunning skyline. Don’t miss the spectacular Uffizi Gallery, home to some of the world’s most renowned works of art.
Munich
Finally, Munich is the perfect destination for a fun-filled family holiday. This vibrant city offers a wealth of attractions, from the beautiful English Garden and beer gardens to the iconic Marienplatz and its vibrant clock tower, to the BMW Museum and its array of fascinating cars. Kids will love the Deutsches Museum, the largest science museum in the world, or the Olympic Park, home to the 1972 Olympic Games.
And if football is your thing, then you have to check out the Allianz Arena, the iconic home of Bayern Munich, Germany’s number one football team. The stadium looks as though a spaceship has landed in Bavaria, and the atmosphere is second to none.
Around an hour south of Germany, you will find cities such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen, which is a mountainous town located in the Alps. The city is awash with natural beauty and is a must-see if you are heading to Southern Germany.
Featured image: Jacek Dylag/Unsplash
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