Where to go in Europe? Travel Dupes beyond the usual trails
Where to go in Europe? It's time to immerse yourself in some other European cities, from the green capital to the solar city.
When planning where to go in Europe, most travelers instinctively think of Paris, London, or Barcelona. These cities are undoubtedly beautiful, but they can increase the cost of your experience by up to 40%. And it can be more during peak season.
Yes, traditional cities are worth it; mass tourism doesn't take away their charm. If you're about to return to the Old Continent, consider experiencing something new: the freedom to explore.
Now you can immerse yourself in places where English isn't the primary language, where cultural nuances require patience and curiosity, and where fewer tourists mean authentic interactions with locals.
Where to go in Europe?
Ljubljana, Slovenia: Europe's Green Capital
Ljubljana earned the European Green Capital award in 2016. The city has closed its historic center to cars, implemented a comprehensive zero-waste strategy, and achieved 68% waste recycling rates—among the highest in Europe.
Ljubljana is built on the site of the Roman city of Emona, founded in 15 BC. The archaeological remains found throughout the city portray the history of two millennia.
Although it is a classic, Ljubljana also blends medieval and modernist design. The Triple Bridge, designed by architect Jože Plečnik, is a true example of this. It was this construction that transformed the city in the 1930s.
Where to go in Europe: Ljubljana
- Ljubljana Castle: A 12th-century fortress offering panoramic views of the entire city.
- Metelkova Mesto: A former military barracks transformed into an autonomous cultural center covered in colorful street art.
- Central Market: Designed by Plečnik, this riverside market operates daily, offering local produce and artisanal goods.
- Tivoli Park: Five square kilometers of walking trails, gardens, and contemporary art installations.
What and where to eat in Ljubljana?
No matter when you visit Ljubljana, eating štruklji - rolled dumplings with various fillings- and Carniolan sausage -parboiled sausage made from high-quality pork, pork fat, garlic, salt, and pepper- is a must. Both are traditional dishes with their own unique Slovak recipes.
Go to Gostilna Šestica for authentic Slovenian cuisine in a family-run setting. Ando to Čevabdžinica Sarajevo '84 for authentic Bosnian food, čevapčiči is their signature dish, but they offer more options.
Another place to connect with locals is Odprta Kuhna (Open Kitchen) food market. It runs every Friday from March to October, featuring 50+ local food vendors in Pogačar Square.
Sustainable practices:
The city stands out for its sustainable practices:
- Free electric tourist train that runs through the pedestrianized historic center.
- BicikeLJ: Public bike-sharing system with more than 600 bikes and 80 stations.
- Composting program that serves 75% of households.
- Eco-certified accommodations that meet strict environmental standards.
- Ljubljana's food scene emphasizes farm-to-table practices with most restaurants sourcing ingredients within a 50-kilometer radius.
Best Time to Visit
Spring brings the Ljubljana Festival's opening events without summer crowds, while autumn offers comfortable temperatures (15-20°C) and the Ana Desetnica Street Theatre Festival in September.
That means: late April to early June or September to mid-October.
Ghent, Belgium: Medieval Sustainability
Where to go in Europe? Belgium is a great country, but Bruges isn't the only city worth visiting in it. Ghent is a rather hidden gem.
This city introduced Thursdays Veggie Day in 2009, making it the first city worldwide to officially promote weekly plant-based eating. Ghent's mobility plan has reduced car traffic in the city center by 65% since 2017, and the Gent en Garde program ensures 80% of city events meet strict sustainability criteria.
The Castle of the Counts, built in 1180, remains one of Europe's best-preserved medieval fortresses. Few visitors know that the Ghent Altarpiece, housed in Saint Bavo's Cathedral, is considered the first major oil painting in art history—created by the Van Eyck brothers in 1432 and called The Mystic Lamb.
Must Seen
- Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts): Walk through torture chambers and climb ramparts for city views.
- Saint Bavo's Cathedral: Home to the Ghent Altarpiece.
- Graslei and Korenlei: Medieval guild houses lining the canal, stunning at golden hour.
- STAM Ghent City Museum: Interactive exhibits spanning Ghent's 1,000-year history.
- Patershol Quarter: Narrow cobblestone streets filled with independent boutiques and restaurants.
What to eat in Ghent?
- Waterzooi (creamy chicken or fish stew) is the city's signature dish—try it at De Graslei.
- Komkommertijd offers exceptional plant-based interpretations of Belgian classics.
- Cuberdons: one-shaped raspberry candies) from the vendors on Groentenmarkt square.
- The Vrijdagmarkt (Friday Market) has operated continuously since the 12th century, offering local produce, cheese, and flowers every Friday morning.
Sustainable Practices
- Car-free city center.
- Circular economy initiatives, including city-wide plastic reduction targets.
- Urban agriculture projects with over 100 community gardens.
- Climate-neutral public transportation by 2035 goal with electric bus fleet expansion.
Best Time to Visit
Spring offers the Ghent Floralies (once every five years), while September provides comfortable weather (16-19°C) and the Ghent Film Festival.
Winter months see 30-40% fewer tourists but shorter daylight hours. The Ghent Festivities in late July draw 1.5 million visitors—avoid unless you enjoy massive crowds.
Kotor, Montenegro: Where Mountains Meet the Adriatic
You keep asking, Where to go in Europe? What about a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Kotor's Old Town preserves more than 2,000 years of history within its medieval walls.
Kotor offers beauty without the high prices and crowds of Croatia. The Bay of Kotor is often considered Europe's southernmost fjord, although it's technically a submerged river canyon. Its breathtaking landscapes, with towering limestone cliffs plunging into turquoise waters, are a must-see on your trip to Europe.
The city prospered under Venetian rule from 1420 to 1797, which explains the Italian architectural influence. The fortifications stretch for 4.5 kilometers with walls up to 20 meters high. These were built between the 9th and 19th centuries. Kotor was a major maritime power, with ships reaching as far south as America in the 16th century, but few people remember this fact now.
Must Seen
- San Giovanni Fortress: climb 1,350 steps to this place. From here, you have a unique view of the walled city.
- Cathedral of Saint Tryphon: Romanesque church from 1166, housing religious artifacts and a treasury.
- Maritime Museum: chronicles Kotor's seafaring history across 2,500 years.
- Our Lady of the Rocks: an artificial island with a 17th-century church (€1 boat ride from Perast, 15 minutes away).
- Old Town labyrinth: wander car-free limestone streets, discovering hidden squares and churches.
What and where to eat in Kotor?
- Buzara: shellfish in white wine and garlic sauce.
- Pršut: air-dried ham.
- Njeguški sir: smoked cheese from nearby mountains.
Enjoy those at:
- Galion: waterfront dining with fresh seafood.
- Cesarica: serves traditional dishes in the Old Town.
- Kotor Green Market operates daily with local produce, homemade cheese, and olive oil.
A local extra:
- Sample Montenegrin wine from the Plantaže winery—the Vranac grape varietal thrives in this region.
Special sustainable practices:
- Car-free Old Town preserves medieval character and reduces emissions.
- Protected bay area with fishing quotas and marine conservation zones
- Eco-certification program for accommodations and tour operators.
- National park buffer zones limiting development around the Lovćen and Durmitor mountains.
Best time to visit
May to early June or September to mid-October. May features pleasant temperatures (18-24°C) and the Kotor Carnival, while September provides warm swimming conditions (22°C water temperature) without summer crowds.
FAQS
Which is the best country to visit in Europe?
There's no single "best" country—it always depends on your interests and travel style. For sustainability-focused travelers seeking authentic experiences, Slovenia ranks exceptionally high with its commitment to green tourism. Its compact size allows easy exploration without excessive transportation, and diverse landscapes from the Alps to the Mediterranean coast within 150 kilometers.
Belgium offers unmatched medieval architecture and culinary diversity, while Germany leads in ecological innovation, and Montenegro provides dramatic natural beauty at accessible prices.
What is the prettiest place in Europe?
The Bay of Kotor ranks among Europe's most stunning locations, with its dramatic mountain-rimmed bay and medieval towns.
Ljubljana's blend of baroque and art nouveau architecture along the Ljubljanica River creates exceptional charm. While Ghent's preserved medieval center, particularly the Graslei at sunset, rivals any European city for photogenic beauty.
What is the #1 tourist spot in Europe?
Currently, the Colosseum in Rome attracts over 7 million visitors annually, making it Europe's most visited paid monument. However, the most visited overall destination is Disneyland Paris with approximately 15 million annual visitors.
How to decide where to visit in Europe?
Start by identifying your priorities: cultural immersion, outdoor activities, culinary experiences, or historical exploration. Consider:
- Language barriers (English proficiency varies significantly—highest in the Netherlands, Scandinavia, and Germany; lower in Southern and Eastern Europe).
- Seasonal weather.
- Budget (Eastern Europe and the Balkans offer 40-60% lower costs than Western Europe).
Research each destination's sustainability initiatives if environmental impact matters to you. Embrace lesser-known cities on your second visit—they often provide deeper cultural understanding and more memorable interactions than racing between famous landmarks in overcrowded capitals.
Pamela Herrera
