So many cities and beaches in Europe are hopelessly overcrowded, especially in high season. Rome, Barcelona and Lisbon are no longer insider tips. So if you don’t want to wait until fall or simply want to gather new impressions, you’ll be well served with this short list.
1 Catania, Sicily
Sicily’s second largest city at the foot of Mount Etna offers you an unmistakably authentic lifestyle. It is the city of the locals, full of bustling alleyways, markets and great cafés and restaurants. Catania is also surrounded by beautiful beaches that are ideal for surfing. So you can combine a city trip with a few days at the beach.
2 Lofoten, Norway
The 80 islands off the coast of Norway offer you a breathtaking backdrop for a relaxing nature vacation. Fantastic beaches, picturesque mountain backdrops and cute fishing villages make an ideal vacation destination for anyone looking to escape the hot summer temperatures.
3 Kastelorizo, Greece
This beautiful Greek island in the far south off the coast of Turkey has been unjustly forgotten. In any case, it is one of the Greek pearls where the tourists won’t bother you so much. This gives you more time and leisure to enjoy the breathtaking nature. The perfect place for a relaxing vacation in nature.
4 Dubrovnik, Croatia
The medieval port city offers you everything you need for the perfect summer vacation. Great weather, views to melt away, beautiful beaches and delicious food. Croatia is nowhere near as crowded as Italy and is also much more affordable. So why not go to Dubrovnik this year?
5 Colmar, France
The picturesque town in Alsace is full of half-timbered houses and canals. Here you can stroll through the streets, visit the market and enjoy good French cuisine without too many tourist traps. The area around Colmar is well worth a visit: combine your city trip with a tour of Alsace!
Read more: This is the best beach in Germany
Based on an article by Sonja Wickerath for Secret Stuttgart.