The summer season in Europe has long been associated with crowded resorts and high prices, but there are still places on the continent that have remained untouched by mass tourism. Here, you can enjoy the same experiences—the sea, the mountains, or fine dining—without the crowds or the stress. Learn more about 10 unexpected destinations for a summer vacation in Europe

Popular European resorts face the same problem every year: overcrowding. During peak season, prices rise, while the quality of the vacation often declines due to long lines, crowded beaches, and a shortage of accommodations.

At the same time, there are still plenty of places in Europe that offer an equally high-quality experience but remain off the radar of mass tourism. These are regions with developed infrastructure, unique natural landscapes, and local culture that have not yet fallen victim to popularity.

According to Lonely Planet, these very destinations have become a key trend in recent years—tourists are increasingly choosing less obvious locations over classic routes.

In the previous article, we talked about the TOP-10 tourist destinations according to Time Out, which are definitely worth visiting in 2026.

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Alta Badia, Italy – for a mountain getaway

Alta Badia is located in the Dolomites and is considered one of the most beautiful mountain regions in Italy, yet it remains a less touristy alternative to the Alps in France or Switzerland. In the summer, cable cars operate here, allowing quick access to high-altitude trails without strenuous climbs.

The region is ideal for active recreation: hiking, biking, and paragliding. At the same time, the infrastructure is well-developed—there are mountain huts, restaurants, and convenient transportation between locations.

A unique feature is its historical context. Fortifications and routes from World War I have been preserved in the mountains and have now been transformed into hiking trails. Another plus is the local cuisine: from traditional Tyrolean dishes to Michelin-starred restaurants.

Minho, Portugal – for culinary discoveries

Minho is one of Portugal’s greenest and, at the same time, least touristy regions, often chosen by the Portuguese themselves for their vacations. Unlike the Algarve, there are no crowds here, but there is a mild climate, rolling hills with vineyards, and a wealth of historic towns.

The main reason to visit is the food. This is where vinho verde is produced—a light, refreshing wine that’s perfect for summer. Additionally, Minho is known for its seafood dishes, soups, and the traditional cuisine of the country’s north, which differs significantly from the tourist menus in the south.

Be sure to include Braga and Guimarães in your itinerary—these are among the country’s oldest cities, boasting well-preserved architecture and the atmosphere of “authentic” Portugal. Plus, the short distances between locations allow you to combine culinary tourism with cultural excursions without complicated logistics.

In our previous article, we provided a selection of 7 European beach destinations for an early getaway, where it’s already warm in May.

La Rioja, Spain – for wine lovers

La Rioja is a small region in northern Spain that remains in the shadow of Barcelona or Madrid but is a key center of winemaking in the country. Over 500 wineries are concentrated here, many of which are open for visits and tastings.

The landscape is shaped by the Ebro River valley—vineyards, hills, and small villages. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely getaway with a focus on gastronomy. At the same time, prices are often lower than in the more popular wine regions of France or Italy.

In the region’s capital, Logroño, be sure to visit Calle Laurel—one of Spain’s most famous culinary hotspots, where traditional tapas are served. An important note: it gets quite hot here in the summer, so it’s best to plan activities for the morning and evening.

Pélion, Greece – an alternative to popular resorts

Pélion is one of the few regions in Greece where you can combine a mountain and beach vacation in a single trip. The peninsula is washed by the Aegean Sea, while its interior features dense forests, waterfalls, and traditional villages. This sets it apart from the country’s typical “island” resorts.

The main advantage is the balance between nature and the absence of mass tourism. For example, beaches like Milopotamos or Fakistra are considered among the most beautiful in Greece, yet they aren’t overcrowded. In mountain villages such as Tsagarada or Makrinitsa, traditional architecture and a slow pace of life have been preserved.

From a practical standpoint, Pelion is convenient because you can reach it from the mainland via the city of Volos without having to fly to an island. This reduces travel costs and simplifies logistics. Additionally, the region is known for its local cuisine—especially seafood dishes and traditional “meze,” served in small family-run taverns.

In the previous article, we talked about 3 underrated European destinations for summer vacations.

Pic du Midi, France – for stargazing

Pic du Midi is a mountain peak in the Pyrenees at an altitude of about 2,877 meters, known for one of Europe’s best observatories. Thanks to minimal light pollution, this location is among the best spots for astronomical observations on the continent.

During the summer season, you can reach the summit via a cable car—the ride itself is a unique experience, offering panoramic views of the mountain ranges and clouds below the observation decks. At the summit, visitors can enjoy not only guided tours but also nighttime stargazing sessions using professional telescopes.

A practical advantage is that the region is well-suited for a combined trip. You can combine a visit to the observatory with hiking in the Pyrenees or trips to neighboring French resort towns. It’s important to consider weather conditions: even in summer, temperatures are significantly lower at high altitudes, so warm clothing is necessary.

The Baltic Coast, Latvia – for a peaceful beach vacation

Latvia’s Baltic Coast features over 500 km of sandy beaches, most of which remain uncrowded even during peak season. There are no crowded resorts typical of Southern Europe here—instead, there are long beaches, dunes, and pine forests right by the sea.

The most famous resort is Jūrmala, but if you venture a little further, you can find practically “wild” stretches of coastline. The water in the Baltic Sea is cooler (usually 17–20°C), but the air is much cleaner here and the heat is more bearable.

From a practical standpoint, this is one of the most affordable options in the EU: prices for accommodation and food are lower than in popular Mediterranean destinations. Plus—good transportation access and a large number of nature reserves, making the region attractive for those seeking a peaceful vacation without the “resort hustle and bustle.”

To learn more about the 10 cheapest European destinations for Easter in 2026, please follow the link.

Central Austria – for relaxation and wellness

Central Austria is a region of lakes and thermal resorts that is often underrated in the summer, even though this is the season when it truly comes into its own. The Salzkammergut area stands out in particular—it features dozens of lakes with clear water, many of which warm up to a comfortable temperature for swimming.

Unlike seaside resorts, there are no scorching 35°C days here—the average summer temperature hovers between 22°C and 26°C, making it more comfortable for long walks and outdoor activities. Plus, there’s excellent infrastructure: well-equipped beaches, bike paths, and trails around the lakes.

A separate category is thermal resorts, such as Bad Gastein. Here, natural hot springs, spa complexes, and a mountain climate come together. This is one of the few options in Europe where you can combine active recreation with a full wellness experience without the crowds.

The Albanian Riviera, Albania – for an affordable seaside vacation

The Albanian Riviera is one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in Europe, but for now it retains its main appeal—affordability and the absence of the crowds typical of neighboring Greece or Italy. The Ionian coast here is known for its crystal-clear waters and the combination of beaches with mountain scenery.

The most popular spots are Ksamil, Dhërmi, and Himarë. At the same time, there are many lesser-known beaches between them that are harder to reach, but that’s exactly where you can find the most peaceful vacation, especially during the high season.

A practical advantage is the cost. Compared to Croatia or Italy, expenses for accommodation, food, and car rentals are significantly lower. At the same time, the region is actively developing: infrastructure is improving, and new hotels and restaurants are opening. An added bonus is the proximity to historical sites, including the ruins of the ancient city of Butrint.

Earlier, we talked about the 5 most beautiful medieval cities in Europe for an incredible historical journey.

Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden – for a vacation on the islands

The Stockholm Archipelago consists of over 30,000 islands and islets located near the capital, Stockholm. It offers a unique blend of nature and urban infrastructure: in a single day, you can stroll through the old town and, just an hour later, find yourself on a quiet island free of tourist crowds.

Summer is the best time to visit. Long, bright days, comfortable temperatures, and the chance to explore the archipelago by ferry or even kayak. Popular islands have basic amenities—cafés, hotels, beaches—yet retain a sense of seclusion.

A practical advantage is transportation. Regular ferries run between the islands, so you can easily plan a route without a car. In the city itself, be sure to set aside time for Gamla Stan and the Skansen Museum. Important to note: even in the summer, temperatures can drop to 10–12°C in the evenings, so warm clothing is a must.

Antwerp, Belgium — for a cultural getaway

Antwerp is one of the most underrated cities in Western Europe, combining history, contemporary art, and a vibrant culinary scene. In the summer, the city hosts the Zomer van Antwerpen festival—a series of events ranging from concerts to theater, many of which are free or available at low prices.

The city is known as a hub for fashion and design. The Fashion District is home to boutiques by local designers, and Antwerp itself ranks among Europe’s key fashion capitals. At the same time, the city has preserved its historical heritage: from the Rubens House to the Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp.

From a practical standpoint, it’s a convenient city break: a compact city center, good transportation access (particularly via Antwerp Central Station), and a large number of cafes and bars along the river. A major plus is that there are fewer tourists here in the summer than in Brussels or Bruges, but the cultural offerings are just as rich.

Are you planning a trip and want to prepare without unnecessary stress? Visit World's travel guide contains key tips for travelers: rules of entry and stay, current requirements for tourists, basic safety, transportation and accommodation. Such a guide will help you quickly navigate a new country, avoid common mistakes during your trip, and plan your route taking into account practical nuances that often go unnoticed by tourists.

We remind you! Popular tourist destinations can be a trap. We have already told you which 8 places in the world Fodor’s advises to avoid in 2026 due to overtourism, environmental risks and social tension – and what alternatives to choose instead.

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