Hidden Gems: Underrated European Cities for Backpackers
With so many countries, cities, and regions to explore in Europe, it’s easy to overlook some of the hidden gems when it comes to backpacking. From Malta to Estonia, we’ve put together a list of hidden gems, showcasing the most underrated European cities for backpackers.
Gozo Island, Malta
In general, Malta is an overlooked island that offers immense exploration opportunities with its picturesque beaches and stunning landscapes. Gozo Island is great to visit year-round, given its warm weather and relative affordability. There’s a lot to do on the island, from eating local seafood to seeing and taking photographs of the Xwejni Salt Pans, which have been used by locals for hundreds of years to harvest salt. With its shocking blue waters and dramatic landscapes, Gozo Island is perfect for snorkeling, hiking, and swimming. There are also private boat trips that can be booked to some of the surrounding bays and nearby islands. While Malta has an airport, there are also ferries that you can take from towns in southern Sicily that run regularly and are quick.
Bern, Switzerland
Located on the Aare River, this old medieval town is the capital of Switzerland but can get overlooked by other towns like Zurich and Geneva. But Bern, a picturesque city that sits on the bend of the Aare River, is a sprawling, green city that has tons to explore. The city has a long history of political importance for Switzerland, as it is where parliament meets, and Bern’s classic architecture is well-preserved. The streets are walkable, and transportation makes it easy to explore without a vehicle. Like many thriving European cities, Bern has large public squares that are popular for relaxing, socializing, and people-watching. Although it doesn’t get the recognition of towns like Interlaken, Bern is an underrated city when it comes to backpacking Europe.
San Sebastian, Spain
Located in the Basque Country, not far from the French border, San Sebastian is a hidden gem in Spain. Known for its unique landscapes that include both rolling hills and beaches along the sea. Surfers also flock to this area since there are several prime beaches for catching waves. Part of what makes San Sebastian such a great spot for backpackers is its abundance of cheap, fresh seafood. Since food is such an important part of Spanish culture, its an integral part of the travel experience and gives travelers a true sense of the region’s identity. With its beautiful architecture, relaxing beaches, fresh food, and mix of live cultural events, San Sebastian makes the list as one of the most underrated European cities for backpackers.
Zadar, Croatia
Over the years, Croatia has become more popular as a tourist destination overall. But there are still hidden gems in the country that are less crowded and still offer rich, authentic glimpses of the local culture. Zadar is an old city that dates back more than 3,000 years, and its rich history can be felt while walking through town with its Roman ruins, vast public squares, medieval churches, and colorful buildings. One thing that makes Zadar, and Croatia in general, attractive for travelers is its sneaky-good wine, which can be tasted at its many vineyards. From the beaches and old ruins to the wineries and restaurants, Zadar has a lot to offer backpackers who are looking for an off-the-beaten-path stop on their way through Europe.
Matera, Italy
Like Zadar, this Mediterranean town has been inhabited for thousands of years. Matera is considered to be amongst the oldest inhabited towns in the world, dating back to prehistoric times, and that presence can be felt while walking through its winding cobblestone streets that sometimes end abruptly. The picturesque town is accessible by bus from bigger towns like Bari, and is well worth the trip. Although Matera can be crowded in the summer, it’s not somewhere that most tourists consider when making their way through Italy, and it has so much to offer. Back in the day, Matera was a complex of cave habitations, some of which can be toured today. From its ancient cave dwellings and old churches to its hilly landscapes that offer incredible sunsets, Matera is one European city that is worth a visit.
