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Eurosummer is fast approaching, and if you’ve been thinking of hopping across the pond for some of that Old World charm and amazing history, you might want to hold off on booking London or Paris… at least you’ve read this.

Look, as much as we love those world-famous, iconic megacities, they’re not exactly where you go for that dreamy, fairytale Europe vibe.

You know what I mean: it’s kinda tough to feel like you’re in a storybook when there’s traffic buzzing nonstop, clout-chasers waving selfie sticks, and overpriced bistros that practically scream “tourist trap”.

The true, unspoiled magic lies in those low-key, smaller towns people usually skip right over, and that’s something Rome2Rio finally clocked.

Though we’ve been banging this drum for years here at Travel Off Path, the popular travel search engine finally put out a study recently that shows searches for small cities are up 35 percent globally, as the hunt for places with fewer crowds and more character intensifies.

In case you’re wondering what that looks like in Europe, there seems to be 3 under-the-radar towns that stood out in particular:

PLUS: We’ve created an interactive quiz for you at the end of this article to find your perfect match!

Teruel, Spain

Away from the hustle and bustle of Barcelona, Teruel is a small high-altitude town nestled in the Aragon mountains, in eastern Spain, a region most tourists tend to skip over, for no other reason than the fact it’s slightly out of the way for your average beachgoer.

Too bad, as it is arguably one of the prettiest small towns in the entire country, so it’s no wonder Rome2Rio namedrops it on their research.

The Old Town is primarily known for its Mudéjar architecture, a unique style that combines Gothic and Islamic elements―in case you didn’t know, Spain was at one point under Muslim control―and soaring 12th-century Santa Maria de Mediavilla Cathedral.

The cathedral really steals the spotlight here.

It’s got that massive, soaring structure and a beautifully detailed painted ceiling that makes you stop and stare. Right next door, the Torre de El Salvador kind of feels like an add-on (because it is), built in the 14th century with a striking exterior and those tight, spiraling stairs that wind all the way to the top.

If there’s one thing to know about Teruel, besides the fact that it’s ridiculously stunning, it’s that the food goes hard. You absolutely can’t skip the Jamón de Teruel: dry-cured, rich, and just a touch less salty than prosciutto. You’ll spot it stuffed into sandwiches at pretty much every little bakery you pass.

Škofja Loka, Slovenia

Slovenia is a pretty low-key destination already, with its picture-perfect capital city, Ljubljana, only recently making waves in the travel sphere, but if it’s medieval charm and quaintness you seek, you might as well go all in and take the detour to Škofja Loka.

Sounds like a keyboard smash at first glance, we know, but don’t let the unpronounceable name scare you off. This unassuming village-like setting on the edge of the Slovenian Alps might just be the Central European country’s best-preserved medieval town.

Think stone townhouses lining a crystal-clear alpine river, arched bridges stretching across it, like the historic Capuchin Bridge, colorful buildings with intricate floral details, and a big, yellow-washed Baroque castle watching over it all from the hill above.

In sum, it just ticks all the ‘Fairytale Europe’ boxes.

And if safety’s been on your mind, especially with all the talk about rising crime in big cities like Paris and London, Slovenia is about as chill as it gets. It’s widely considered one of the safest, most stress-free destinations in Europe, with very low reports of violent crime, break-ins, or even pickpocketing.

Travelers have been reporting on their time in Slovenia, giving it a ranking of 86/100 using our Traveler Safety Index:

Slovenia is pretty chill, but if you’re flying to Europe this summer, make sure you refer to the Travel Advisory Checker to verify any travel alerts that apply at your destination beforehand.

Motovun, Croatia

A teeny-tiny Croatian town sitting on a lush hill in Istria—that’s northern Croatia, hundreds of miles from the jam-packed Dubrovnik, for that matter—Motovun is where you go to really sink into that old-world European vibe and escape the crowds.

Honestly, it feels like a storybook town that somehow stayed intact.

Cobbled streets, little piazze anchored by churches or the occasional coffee shop, and tightly packed buildings made from that warm, honey-colored Istrian stone that gives everything a soft golden glow.

Add in those weathered shutters in faded blues and greens, and the whole place just has this lived-in, timeless feel.

It’s more of a “wander around and soak up the atmosphere” destination than a checklist kind of spot, but you’ll still want to swing by the Church of St. Stephen, whose belfry rises above the red-tiled roofs.

Oh, and definitely walk the medieval walls, which overlook Motovun’s clustered maze of houses cascading down the hill, with the rolling Istrian wine country stretching out in the distance.

This summer, the European Union is tightening entry rules for American travelers, including the addition of mandatory fingerprinting and biometric scanning.

Make sure you have your documentation in order: use the Entry Requirement Checker to double-check the existing travel rules at your destination prior to takeoff.

Now take this quiz to find your perfect fairytale match!

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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Step aside France, Italy, Spain: there’s a new cooler kid in the block, one that isn’t drowing in a wave of crime, or buckling under the weight of overtourism for once.

Tucked away in its well-protected, cozy Central-Eastern European nook, Hungary wrapped up last year hosting a record-breaking 20 million tourists.

As far as foreign visitors go, that’s a 12 percent jump over 2024, according to the Hungarian Conservative, and with demand still going strong, it’s looking like it’ll only get hotter in 2026.

Even if you’re not a seasoned traveler or a full-on Europhile, chances are you’ve heard of Budapest.

But if you’re wondering what else Hungary’s got up its sleeve, think summery lakes lined with resort towns, fairytale castles straight out of a storybook, and medieval villages that feel like time just… forgot about them.

One City To Rule Them All

Of course, there’s no Hungary without its beating heart, the cultural powerhouse, magnanimous former imperial seat that is Budapest.

A tale of two cities, Buda and Pest, that once sat on opposite sides of the Danube River prior to joining forces, it is simply one of the most beautiful European cities you could visit.

Honestly, if Paris had you staring slack-jawed at those Haussmann buildings, or London charmed you with its decaying Victorian-era polish, nothing can really prep you for a glorious BUD.

Think grand boulevards lined with palatial buildings you’d swear are museums, government offices, or luxury hotels, but are actually just residential apartment blocks dating back to the Habsburg days.

Add in a riverfront straight out of a dream, with soaring domes and spires reflecting off the fast-moving Danube, plus thermal spas tucked inside ornate 19th-century bathhouses, and yeah… It’s kind of on another level, if we’re honest.

How Safe Is Budapest On A Night Out?

Other than admiring the stunning architecture, you should swing by Szimpla Kert, the OG ‘ruin bar’ in town, basically a half-genius maze inside a crumbling building filled with mismatched furniture, loud neon art, bathtubs that double as sofas, and graffiti-splattered corners.

The best thing about Budapest is that, unlike some European capitals that have seen increases in crime in recent years, it remains generally safe and low-risk for travelers.

No getting followed home at night if you’re a woman by sketchy-looking individuals, nor constantly casting one of those “just in case” glances over your shoulder to make sure no hooded figures are lurking in the shadows.

The U.S. State Department currently lists it as a Level 1 destination, the safest classification a city can get.

Pickpockets, violent crime, and scams aren’t exactly a major concern in Budapest, but if you’re heading elsewhere in Europe, it’s still a good idea to double-check any Travel Alerts in place at your destination using the Travel Advisory Checker.

Back to Budapest, it currently enjoys one of the highest safety scores of 87/100 in the Traveler Safety Index for any European capital:

Where The Real Magic Happens

Budapest is grand, but the real magic happens when you take that old rattling train out of the sprawling capital and into the virtually untouched Hungarian countryside.

If you have a soft spot for small villages that look like they’ve jumped out of the pages of a storybook, Szentendre has the cobblestone streets, pastel Baroque houses, and quaint riverside cafés dishing out fresh-out-the-oven pastries and artsy coffee.

Unlike your average Disneyfied European hotspot, it’s completely devoid of the usual selfie-taking hordes.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hollókő is that postcardy town that feels frozen in time. It has perfectly intact wooden medieval churches, whitewashed houses, and family-run taverns that keep folk traditions alive.

Over in Eger, in the heart of the namesake wine country, you’ll find a castle town filled with wine cellars, more Baroque monuments, and thermal baths with half the Budapest crowds.

If you’re here for some full-on medieval drama, the unassuming Visegrád may be tiny, but it’s packed with history: It houses the ruins of a medieval royal palace, and the hilltop citadel overlooks a sharp bend in the Danube. Hands down one of the best viewpoints in the entire country.

Hungary’s prettiest small town, you ask? Tihany is famous for its Benedictine Abbey perched on a hill overlooking Lake Balaton, the ‘Hungarian Sea‘, and endless fields of lavender in summer. Feels just like Provence, minus the hefty price tag.

For those flying to Europe this summer, head over to the Entry Requirement Checker to verify you have all your documentation in order for smooth sailing.

Is Hungary Still Affordable In 2026?

Speaking of prices, Hungary is not the dirt-cheap destination mainstream publications will have you believe it is.

Then again, it’s not like we’re surprised, given the already-debunked ‘Hidden Gem Marseille‘ debacle, but definitely don’t believe everything you read on the internet, especially if it’s written by legacy media that’s maybe 3 to 5 years behind on travel trends.

That said, Hungary is affordable, although Budapest in particular is rapidly catching up with Western European capitals in terms of costs.

For instance, tickets for the iconic Széchenyi Thermal Bath in Budapest have doubled since 2020. The “basic” ticket now costs around $40, without extras. If you’re adding a private cabin, locker, additional towels, or weekend/peak-time upgrades, that can easily bump up to $55–$70+ per person.

Cocktails in ruin bars and touristy areas usually run about $6–$14 each, and a draught beer in a central pub is roughly $3–$5.

It’s still cheaper than most of Western Europe, but it’s definitely a step up from that old “super cheap Budapest” reputation that’s still floating around.

Hotels and Airbnb are where you actually see how BUD and cities like Paris or Rome don’t actually differ that much. A mid-range listing will set you back $130–$200/night in peak season, whereas budget hostels are still cheap-ish, but even those have gone up to $25–$60/night in good areas like Districts V or VII.

As for eating out, a simple local meal costs $8–$15. A restaurant dinner with drinks is $25–$30 per person.

Out in the country, smaller towns are generally cheaper, with meals often costing under $10, beer or wine ranging from $1.50 to $3, and accommodation starting from $30.

By the way, if you’re visiting Budapest in the coming months, why not pair it with a side trip to the criminally underrated, equally exciting Belgrade, the capital city of Serbia?

There’s this new direct train that’s just been launched between the sisterly capitals, and tickets cost about $22–$38 one-way.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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Planning a trip to Spain this spring but the surging crowds you see on TikTok are making you question your decision?

Let me tell you something I’ve learned after years of traveling around the Iberian heartland myself: all the jam-packed beaches, overpriced terraces slinging $15 sangrias, and hours-long wait lines just to visit a landmark is something you see in mainly 5 tourist cesspits:

• Madrid, the bustling capital
• Barcelona, the number one coastal getaway
• Mallorca, the go-to spot for German beer buffs
• Gran Canaria, the equivalent to a European Cancun for year-round sunshine
• Malaga (and the wider Costa del Sol), pretty much a British colony at this point

Ditch the southerly spots, however, and you’ll find a plethora of cultural gems that are yet to be spoiled by the masses.

In my recent travels around Galicia, one of those overlooked northerly regions, I happened to stumble upon Lugo, an ancient city very few tourists have heard about, even though it boasts one of the most impressive Historic Centers in the entire continent:

The Last Perfectly-Preserved Roman City Walls

Lugo is an inland city located in Galicia, the northwestern edge of Spain, home to roughly 100,000 residents.

It’s a mid-size city by Spanish standards, but the fact it’s not directly on the coast, much less on the Mediterranean side, makes it less of an easy prey for the sun-seeking hordes. Now, if you’re coming to Spain for that Old World allure, you’ll want to check this out:

Quiet, unassuming Lugo just happens to be completely surrounded by a sturdy row of Roman-era walls. I mean Ancient Roman, dating back over 1,700 years. I couldn’t believe it myself when I saw it with my own eyes.

They loop around the entire Historic Center, making the city the last one in Europe to still be completely fortified by a Roman enclosure.

The craziest part? Though it’s only a short 2h train ride away from the trendy A Coruña, and an equally-short 2h30 hop from Santiago de Compostela, the world-famous pilgrimate site, this place has not been on the radar of the average tourist.

Oh, but don’t you worry: the culture aficionados has kept a close eye on it, and as early as 2000, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Heading to Spain this summer? Check the latest Travel Advisories for the country to avoid any unpleasant surprises on the ground.

No Dubrovnik-Level Crowds

Remember when you had to pay a hole-burning €40 ($45) to walk the coastal ramparts of Dubrovnik, Croatia?

The Adriatic views are breathtaking, alright, but what if I told you you can explore the full extent of Lugo’s far-more ancient, far-more impressive Roman Walls, La Muralla Romana, for a grand total of 0 cents of euro?

There are 10 access points around the perimeter of the Old City, and no ticket booths, nor turnstiles keeping curious visitors out. You’re free to just walk up, and walk the whole length of the walls while admiring views of the city’s iconic glassed-in balconies, grid-like street plan, and church towers.

I took maybe 4,000 pictures along the way myself, so I might have taken close to 1h30 to complete the loop, but at a leisurely pace, if you’re not wonderstruck like I was and you’re only casually snapping a pic or two, you can complete the walk in around 40–45 minutes.

And guess what? Practically zero photobombers up there, just regular locals going on their morning jog—can you imagine how cool it must be to have a Roman wall as your running grounds? Now, that’s a flex.

Most Beautiful Cathedral In Galicia?

You would think the UNESCO-listed Muralla Romana is by far the most impressive sight around here, but wait until you see the flipping cathedral.

With soaring towers visible from a mile away, and a gorgeous Baroque façade, it has an exceedingly-long nave, lined with gilded columns, ornate gold leaf chapels, and altar pieces carved out of ancient wood.

The adjacent medieval cloister is equally as atmospheric, and if you’re paying the full €8 entry fee (something like $9.20), you can even go up to the upper level of the cathedral, where some beautiful sacral art and sculptures are housed.

A short walk away from cathedral square, down narrow alleys lined with arcaded buildings and picturesque fountain plazas, Domus Mitreo is that underground treasure trove you don’t want to miss:

Free to visit, it’s the archaeological remains of a large Roman domus, associated with a cult to a pagan sea god—or that’s what I could gather myself as I couldn’t bother with a guided tour.

Let’s just say, the few mosaics and columns that are left truly are impressive.

If all the old stones and buzzing pedestrian traffic start getting to you, a little outside the center, down by the Miño River, there’s this beautiful park cut through with biking lanes. It’s perfect for a taste of the Galician countryside without ever leaving town.

I guess I should mention that, even if you try to escape it, Ancient History will always catch up to you in Lugo: spanning the river, there’s a multi-arch, stone-built Roman bridge dating back to the 1st century AD (older than the walls, even).

This bridge is a popular landmark for Camino pilgrims walking past Lugo on their way to Santiago, and oftentimes, you’ll see them chillaxing for a bit at A Calzada Bar, a no-frills tapas bar right by the bridge, before resuming their journey.

How To Get To Lugo This Summer

Lugo is just one of many amazing destinations you can discover around Northern Spain, and guess what?

Starting this year, Americans can fly nonstop from Newark (EWR) to the region for the first time. Flights land at both Bilbao (BIO) and Santiago de Compostela (SCQ), two of the leading destinations on the North Atlantic Coast.

For those headed straight to Lugo, the most convenient airport for landing is SCQ, as it’s in the same region, and a 2h30–4h train journey from Santiago (usually via Ourense or A Coruña).

And remember, don’t forget to check the latest travel rules for Americans going to Spain this year. Whether it’s mandatory fingerprinting or Travel Authorizations, it’s all changing fast.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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Don’t really fancy getting reminded every few steps by a menacing graffiti that you’re not welcome there, walking the streets of Madrid, or even chased down the streets of La Rambla, Barcelona, by angry locals brandishing water pistols?

Neither do we, but we can’t stay away from beautiful, sun-drenched Spain.

That’s why this summer, we’re avoiding the Mediterranean altogether and heading North to a lesser-known Asturias: from the verdant countryside, to the quaint coastal villages, and every ancient monument in between, it’s Spain’s most underrated province.

Oh, and the good news is, instead of chasing foreigners away, they’re actually doubling down on tourist promotion after seeing a surprising 42% uptick in visitors last year:

Welcome To Asturias:

Perhaps Spain’s Last-Truly Unspoiled Region

Asturias has never been exactly a tourism powerhouse, unlike Catalonia, Andalusia, or the Balearic Islands (home to the jam-packed Mallorca and Ibiza, in case the name doesn’t ring a bell).

It straddles the much-colder, windier, rainier northern coast of Spain, it has no obvious major resort destinations, and the limited connectivity of Asturias Airport (OVD), which hosts flights mostly from domestic and a select number of European hubs, has all helped keep it lowkey and secret.

Well, it seems the Asturian administration is now aiming for an international breakthrough.

Not Mallorca-levels of crowding, and no Barcelona-style gentrification, but a much-needed boost in tourist numbers for one of Spain’s least-visited regions.

While the southern coast sees tens of millions of guests year in, year out, Asturias records an average of 2.5 million guests a year… most of which come from Spain.

Wondering where all the unexplored potential is all about?

Been to spain recently? Help other travelers out by casting your vote below…

A Gorgeous Capital City Exuding Ancient Charm

A good place to start is Oviedo, the Asturian capital, named Spain’s best alternative to the Been-There-Done-That cities.

Oviedo Cathedral is a soaring Gothic gem built back in the Middle Ages, best known for its Cámara Santa (Holy Chamber), a treasure chest of Christian relics.

It stands in the heart of the Casco Antiguo (Old Town), your typical maze-like medieval core:

Think pedestrianized thoroughfares lined with stunning ocher-colored buildings, dotted with plazas dominated by imposing churches, and boasting that undeniable ancient flair you can only find in Southern Europe.

A 30-minute walk from the center of action, Iglesia de Santa María del Naranco is the must-see UNESCO-protected landmark: completed around 848 AD, it’s one of the best-preserved examples of pre-Romanesque architecture still surviving to this day.

Don’t miss the lesser-known San Miguel de Lillo, an equally ancient 9th-century church right next door.

Gijón: The Coastal Getaway

Set along the Asturian Coast, Gijón is where Asturians go in summer for beaches, fresh seafood, and homemade cider. Truly, you haven’t been to Asturias until you’ve tried the local cider.

This is nothing short of the perfect North Spain postcard, with the long seafront walk unfolding along a golden-sand beach, Playa de San Lorenzo, an old hilltop neighborhood that traces its origins back to a fishing village, Cimavilla, and a beautiful central square, Plaza Mayor, ringed by café terraces.

Looking for the best sidrería in town?

Sidrería La Costa pours some genuinely great cider and dishes out solid Asturian bar fare: bean stew with chorizo, cachopos (my personal favorite, a giant-breaded meat sandwich), and Chorizo a la sidra. The name is self-explanatory.

Oh, and no impatient waiters that just look cross half the time for having to brush up on their English, nor anti-tourism graffiti anywhere in sight.

If you don’t mind a little uphill walk, Elogio del Horizonte is a massive concrete, portal-like sculpture designed by Eduardo Chillida, a famous Basque artist. It’s brutalist-core, and perhaps ugly to some, but it’s perched on a prominent hill, almost acting as a window to the coast, and the views are what counts.

Peace & Quiet? In Spain?

The heart of Asturias is its scenic coastline, interspersed with quaint fishing towns. One of those, Llanes, has cobbled streets, stone houses, and a medieval vibe coupled with a seaside promenade that make it that much more charming.

Cudillero is that tiny, colorful Asturian pueblo clinging to small coastal cliffs. The houses are literally stacked on hillsides, and the local pintxo bars are known for their delicious grilled fish and draught beer. On that note, a sit-down meal here is unlikely to cost you over $17.

Asturias is one of the cheapest regions to travel in Spain, especially in smaller towns.

Ribadesella is that lively coastal town at the mouth of the Sella River, famous for its annual canoeing competition, folk and beer festivals, and compact (yet beautiful) Historic Center. Craving somewhere even more offbeat, though?

Cangas de Onís, a little inland from the coast, has stone bridges, including a Roman one over the Sella, and it’s a short 30-minute drive to the Asturian section of Picos de Europa. That’s Spain’s mini Switzerland, by the way.

Towering peaks, serene mirror-like lakes you can swim in, and plenty of rural villages tucked away in deep valleys, with small sidrerías and quaint medieval churches.

Check Travel Rules Before Heading To Spain This Year

Heading to Spain this year?

You should know entry rules for Americans heading to Europe are changing in the near future. This summer, you could be subject to mandatory fingerprinting upon landing at select EU hubs, and later in the year, you will need to apply for a mandatory travel permit ahead of flying.

Naturally, this includes Asturias-bound travel.

Stay up to date with travel regulations by double-checking the Travel Off Path Traveler Dashboard before jetting off:

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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If you’re even half the Europhile we are here at Travel Off Path, chances are you’re already browsing for Transatlantic flights now that spring’s right around the corner, and Europe’s gloomy weather is finally dissipating.

Let’s face it: now’s truly the best time to hop across the pond, before the blazing summer sun scorches the earth, prices shoot through the roof, and the cruise hordes swarm ashore.

If you’re flexible and you’re yet to map out where to go, how about an offbeat European island untouched by mass tourism? You know, one that still feels authentically local and lived-in (unlike your Mallorcas and Santorinis), and where you can actually soak up all that Old World charm in peace.

Did we say one? Sorry, we actually meant five:

PLUS: We’ve built an interactive quiz for you at the end of this article to find your perfect match. Scroll to the bottom to try it out!

Aegina, Greece

The pearl of the Saronic Gulf, a short 50 min ferry hop from the Port of Piraeus (the one that serves Athens), Aegina is all the Mamma Mia ̶s̶u̶m̶m̶e̶r spring you need.

Aegina Town, the main settlement on the island, is a colorful harbor featuring gorgeous Neoclassical buildings in lovely pastel colors, family-run seafood tavernas, and shops selling Aegina pistachios pretty much everywhere you look.

Speaking of, Aegina is the pistachio capital of Greece, and the local shell-covered seed found here actually has protected status. From gelato to pastries to liqueur and even pesto, you’ll find it in every imaginable form and shape.

If you’re here for the beaches, Agia Marina is one of the longest ones on the island, roughly 9 miles from the port.

Rent a bike, hit the coastal road headed northeast, and you’ll soon find a beautiful stretch of golden sand unraveling in the distance.

Came to Greece for the ancient culture? The 2,526-year-old Temple of Aphaia, perched on a hill with breathtaking views over the Saronic Gulf, is one of the best-preserved in Greece. In fact, it forms a ‘Sacred Triangle’ with the Parthenon in Athens, and the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, except…

None of the usual crowds!

Bornholm, Denmark

Bornholm may be an island under Denmark, but given the fact that it lies off Sweden’s coast, somewhat detached from the Danish archipelago, and its unique hilly geography, a casual observer could easily mistake it for a Swedish island instead.

You see, most of Denmark is flat farmland and Holland-style dredged canals to keep the rising seas at bay. There’s definitely no significant elevation, or the kind of jaw-dropping nature you might associate with Scandinavia.

Bornholm feels like an entirely different country:

Along the coast, it’s mostly rocky cliffs and towering granite sea walls, whereas inland, you get lush pine forests and hillier terrain. Needless to say, the whole island’s like a hiker’s paradise for nature enthusiasts, and the best part?

Thanks to those allemansrätten Scandinavian laws governing nature use, most land is free to roam—though stricter rules on camping do apply—and there are barely any tourists out to crowd the gorgeous Baltic views or litter the place.

On top of that, Bornholm is home to four rare fortress-like round churches, most notably Østerlars, and one of the largest medieval ruins in Northern Europe: Hammershus, a former citadel, or what’s left of it, resting on the cliffs above the Baltic Sea.

That said, all that wild nature and beautiful ancient stuff comes at a price. Bornholm isn’t exactly the easiest place to get to.

There’s a reason why people jokingly say Bornholm feels indeed more Swedish than Danish. Most people drive from Copenhagen into Sweden, crossing the Øresund Bridge, and take a ferry from the Swedish port of Ystad (overall, the journey takes 3 hours in total).

Alternatively, there’s a night ferry leaving from Køge, Denmark (5.5h), or a shorter ferry from Sassnitz, on the German coast (1.5h).

Île d’Oléron, France

Similar to the increasingly trendy Île de Ré, which we’ve written about at length here, Île d’Oléron is an offbeat French island offshore from Brittany, on the west coast of France.

Unlike Bornholm, it’s a lot less complicated to get to, thanks to a bridge that ties it permanently to the mainland. That’s not to say it’s not a long way to travel, especially from Paris (5h38), but hey, no getting on and off ferries is already a major win.

We digress.

What has this secret French island you’ve probably never heard about got to offer? Well, how do pine forests crisscrossed by cycle paths, unruffled dunes and sandy beaches, and quaint fishing towns with no beret-clad Instagrammer in sight sound?

The capital and largest town, Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron, is where you go for that warm, neighborly welcome to the island: bustling harbor, shops, cafés, and weekend farmers’ markets loaded with every local product under the sun, from goat cheese to freshly-caught oysters.

Side note: Oléron is basically France’s oyster capital, and you won’t find’em tastier or fresher than at Auberge le Saint Pierre.

It might be a little cool in April to swim in the North Atlantic, but if you’re up for a relaxing coastal walk, Plage de Gatseau is a wide sandy beach, hugged by shallow, gentle waters.

You may even spot brave locals sprinting into the surf with wetsuits on. Just keep in mind this is not the South of France, and those beautiful, bright-blue waters you see off the coast are not the warm Mediterranean.

Try dipping your toes first, see how you feel about it before running after them.

Of course, it’s not a French island without a château, and over at Le Château-d’Oléron, a picturesque coastal town, you can visit a monumental star-shaped fort built in the 1600s. There are also excellent seafood restaurants and oyster farms nearby.

Ponza, Italy

Forget Capri and its invite-only, celeb-frequented beach clubs and jam-packed spiaggie: if it’s a tourist-free, tucked-away Italian gem you’re seeking, you should probably check out Ponza, the largest landmass in the Pontine archipelago, some 23 miles from the nearest mainland at Anzio.

Getting there isn’t exactly a breeze, whether you’re traveling from Rome or Naples—add to that a short train, then a couple of hours by hydrofoil—but the minute you step off that boat, the island’s unspoiled charm makes every stressful minute of travel worthwhile.

Rugged cliffs plunging straight into the clear turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, hidden coves that can only be reached by small boat, and timeless coastal towns lined with them traditional skinny ocher-colored townhouses…

Yes, the ones with the green shutters, you know, from the postcards.

The main town, Ponza Porto, is the island’s heartbeat. Picture a boat-fringed harbor, gelaterie and seafood trattorie galore, colorful houses hanging from coastal cliffsides, and small boutiques.

The perfect day in Ponza Porto consists of grabbing an espresso on the quayside, watching fishermen bring in their daily catch, then strolling the lively backstreets before swinging by Buco Divino for a casual, but quality lunch.

When it comes to beaches, the most beautiful, and arguably more tranquil, is the crescent-shaped Chiaia di Luna. It’s where locals themselves will flock to on the odd-hot spring day, either for an early-season swim or simply to bask in the sun.

Due to Ponza’s rugged nature, there aren’t that many sandy stretches on the island, but Chiaia di Luna is a rare exception: here, you’ll be greeted with soft sands, shallow waters at the edges, and clear blue seas.

A Illa de Arousa, Spain

The only island-municipality in Galicia, A Illa de Arousa, or simply Arousa, is a low-key gem of northwestern Spain, where you go to unwind and soak in their slow, coastal life.

With tidal estuaries, reed-lined inlets, sandy coves kissed by calm Atlantic waves, and small fishing villages still largely untouched by tourists—like much of Galicia, for that matter—Arousa is the serene Transatlantic escape you’ve been dreaming of.

The island is sparsely populated, with fewer than 5,000 residents, so it doesn’t really have a “main town.” Think of it like neighborhoods or parish districts that together form a single community.

Out of those, Carril is perhaps the most important, thanks to being the busiest port and primary landing point. It’s probably where you’ll make landfall if crossing by boat from the mainland.

That said, administratively, San Xulián da Illa de Arousa is the parish and main town, where most local services, shops, and the town hall are centered.

All around the island, it’s whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and that unmistakable maritime vibe you can feel in every corner. Arousa’s main attractions, however, are its wild beaches, often lined with soft, golden sands and calm waters.

Now, this is the northwest of Spain, not the Mediterranean, so you might want to test the waters before diving in. For those coming later in the season, say early May, try Area da Secada or A Lanzada—hands down the best swimming spots on the island.

Naturally, no Galician getaway would be complete without a touch of history, and lucky for the culture buffs like us, all around the island, you’ll spot ancient stone chapels, small abandoned fortifications, and maritime watchtowers that date back centuries

How to get to this off-path slice of paradise, you ask? Drive or take local transport from Pontevedra or Santiago de Compostela (which will soon host nonstop flights from Newark) to the ferry dock at Vilagarcía de Arousa, then hop on a short ferry ride to Arousa (5–10 minutes).

Now take this quiz to find your perfect match!

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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When you think of Greek islands, the first image your brain conjures is probably Santorini’s blue church domes and caldera views, or maybe Mykonos’ iconic string of windmills on a hill and colorful harborside houses.

The powerhouse duo may be Greece’s top two most popular destinations, but if you’re asking us, they’re far from being the most rewarding, especially when it comes to beaches.

Between Santorini’s rugged volcanic coast, largely made up of craggy descents and pebbly stretches, and Mykonos’ windswept, club-heavy shorelines, they’re not somewhere you go for swimming and lounging by the sea, necessarily.

Now, if it’s Greece’s postcard-ready sandy beaches and clear turquoise seas you’re after, this lesser-known island hideaway has just been featured in the World’s 50 Best Beaches:

Is Kefalonia The Best Island In Greece For Beaches?

Located on the Ionian side of Greece—the side that faces Italy—Kefalonia is an island paradise best known for its indented coastline, interspersed with cliff-backed bays, limestone sea walls, and short strips of mixed white pebble and sand.

Fteri Beach, one of these hard-to-access, small pebbly coves backed by towering cliffs, was just ranked the second best beach in the world by the experts behind World’s 50 Best Beaches, closely behind Sardinia‘s Cala Goloritzé.

In Greece, it beats out other heavyweights like Voutoumi, Porto Katsiki, and even Crete’s iconic Elafonissi Beach, which chart at Nos. 3, 5, and 15, respectively.

At this point, you’re probably wondering why this beach is so special. Well, other than the powdery white sands and crystalline seas, of course, its challenging access is key to understanding its appeal with beachgoers.

How To Get To Fteri Beach On Kefalonia

You can only get there hiking down from the small village of Zola, on the northwest coast, and that takes about 40 minutes, or by taking a water taxi. If you’re walking, sneakers are highly recommended as the route can get a little rough in parts, and you’ll need good shoes to walk across Fteri’s white pebbles.

Naturally, taking the taxi is a lot faster and more convenient: a 5–10 minute glide from the harbor to the beach.

There’s a Fteri Water Taxi running from Zola Harbor in the high season, offering pickups and drop-offs at Fteri, and even other nearby beaches like Amidi and Kamari.

According to travelers who have been, the best time to visit is the morning, before the taxi boats arrive, as the beach is usually nearly empty.

Once the taxis are operational, they start dropping people off every 30 minutes (or more frequently, even).

As for the water, they have that pool-like translucent shade closer to shore, that gradually turns that gorgeous gatorade-blue so typical of the Ionian Sea.

Oh, a piece of advice? Kefalonia is a proper wild beach, with no amenities like on many of Kefalonia’s mainline beaches, so make sure you bring your own sunscreen, bottle of water, snacks, and beach attire, as you won’t be able to purchase them from a kiosk.

Kefalonia Is Full Of Turquoise-Water Bays

Fteri Beach may be the star of the show today, but it’s far from being Kefalonia’s only paradisiacal cove with surreal waters.

In fact, the most popular beach on the island is Myrtos, similar to Fteri in many ways, except it’s far easier to drive to with a car. White pebbles, neon-blue seas, and imposing cliffs.

Petani is the family-friendly, amenity-packed alternative: you park at the top of the cliffs, then you walk the short way down. It has sunbeds and umbrellas to rent, and a couple of beach bars and restaurants nearby.

You’ve probably heard of Crete’s pinkish Elafonissi Beach, but did you have any idea Kefalonia hosts its very own red-sanded strip?

With soft, clay-like sands, Xi Beach straddles the southern coast of the island, in the Paliki peninsula, and it has a full setup of sunbed rentals, seasonal cafés, and water sports. It gets busier than most, sure, but the deep-ocher sands and the azure waters are unique in Greece.

Where To Stay On Kefalonia

If you’re looking for a place to stay, Argostoli, the quaint Kefalonian capital nestled on a coastal hill overlooking the Ionian Sea, is probably your top pick.

A lively harbor town, it’s filled with shops, restaurants, and even the nightlife isn’t all that bad, thanks to a bar-lined central promenade, easy to walk to at night for after-dinner drinks.

For a quieter island experience and easier access to Paliki peninsula beaches (like Xi), Lixouri is a popular alternative.

Kefalonia’s second-largest settlement, it’s still big and well-equipped for tourism, yet serene enough to feel worlds away from the main hub.

A short ferry hop away from the gorgeous Melissani Cave, one of Kefalonia’s top natural wonders, Sami is a great base for exploring, and of course, if your primary goal is to be a short 5 min water taxi ride from the dreamy Fteri Beach, Zola is where you should crash for the long weekend.

This spring, you can find accommodation on Kefalonia Island from as cheap as $46-a-night, though a modest hotel room in one of the main towns would average $65–$90.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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When you think of Peru, chances are Lima comes to mind, with its beautiful coastline, vibrant food markets, and buzzing city life. Or maybe the colonial charm of Cusco, which brings that Old World allure to the mix.

And, of course, there’s Machu Picchu, the world-renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the Andean Highlands.

That used to be Peru ticked off for most, or at least Peru for beginners.

Lately, an interesting trend has been emerging: more and more visitors are being drawn to a lesser-known city in the south of the country that’s not exactly part of the popular, Andean-centered Peru 10-day package.

In fact, according to data shared by Gercetur, the Peruvian Gerencia Regional de Comercio Exterior y Turismo (Regional Management of Foreign Trade and Tourism), tourism there has already surpassed pre-pandemic levels:

Arequipa Is Peru’s Shining Star

Welcome to Arequipa, Peru’s trendiest destination right now:

Historically considered Peru’s third-best tourist destination, Arequipa used to be the place you ‘fit’ into the itinerary if there were enough days left. After, you know, Cusco, Lima, and all your Sacred Valleys and Rainbow Mountains and stuff.

Recently, however, a growing number of tourists are veering off the beaten path—not that we’re trying to be self-referential—and spending time in Arequipa.

This isn’t just another name on a map, or somewhere you pass through on your way from Point A to B: it’s a sprawling regional capital home to over 1.19 million residents, with a unique mix of history, culture, and geography that makes it stand out from the rest.

For starters, it is nicknamed La Ciudad Blanca, or The White City: a majority of the buildings in the colonial Historic Center were built by the Spanish using local sillar, a volcanic stone extracted from the surrounding mountains.

Discover The White City

Also UNESCO-protected, this same Centro is packed full of stunning Baroque churches, café-bordered plazas, and elegant colonial mansions dating back to the 16th century, perfectly preserved.

There’s plenty of historic structures to be found around town, but if we were to narrow it down to the top 3 most important, these would definitely be:

• Plaza de Armas: the central square, and the beating heart of Arequipa. It’s where you go to admire the ornate white-stone buildings, buy snacks from friendly local vendors, and people-watch
• Catedral Basílica: located right on Plaza de Armas itself. Originally dating back to the 1600s, it’s been rebuilt a number of times, mixing Renaissance and Baroque features
• Santa Catalina Monastery: essentially a miniature city inside Arequipa, it has narrow streets, vibrant-colored walls (in stark contrast with the largely-white townscape), and old cloisters

The coolest thing about Arequipa is that it sits in a valley surrounded by volcanoes, with El Misti, Chachani, and Pichu Pichu to name a few.

These provide the most breathtaking backdrop to the city’s church towers and Spanish-style civic edifices, and, beyond being beautiful, these mountains are the main reason Arequipa is so fertile and productive.

After all, volcanic soil is the key ingredient behind its rich agriculture.

Are you thinking what we’re thinking?

Peru’s Food Medina, Second Only To Lima

Ancient monuments, stunning natural vistas, and lush nature are perhaps 50% of the reason why tourists flock to Peru every year. The remaining 50% is food.

We don’t know that for sure, but we know.

If you came here for fresh farm-to-table fare, new, indescribable flavors, and culinary surprises around every corner, Arequipa is probably second only to Lima in terms of gastronomical prowess. If the capital is the country’s Food Mecca, Arequipa can be the Peruvian ‘Food Medina’.

A beef-and-herbs-stuffed spicy pepper, topped with a creamy béchamel-esque sauce, rocoto relleno is Arequipa’s pride and joy, and there’s nowhere better to try those than Sol de Mayo, a charming colonial-inspired eatery near Plaza de Armas.

Ocopa Arequipeña is a hearty local dish of boiled potatoes smothered in a thick sauce made with peanuts and huacatay (an Andean herb), topped with cheese, and if they’re feeling particularly generous, a boiled egg crowns the plate.

Chicha, run by renowned Peruvian chef Gastón Acurio, is said to serve the best ocopas in town, and given the chef behind it, expect nothing less than exceptional.

The Peruvian Grand Canyon

Last but certainly not least, Arequipa is the main base for trips to Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest, and perhaps the main natural wonder in southern Peru.

About 10,730 feet deep at its deepest point, it’s roughly twice as profound as the Grand Canyon, and this dramatic depth creates towering cliffs and natural terraces that attract both adventurous rock climbers and casual sightseers alike.

To the bird geeks out there, this is the home of the Andean condor, and at viewpoints like Cruz del Cóndor, you can actually see the majestic winged creature in flight, as they vertiginously glide down the ravine only to conquer the skies again.

Other than wildlife, the canyon is dotted with ancient agricultural terraces, built thousands of years ago by long-lost civilizations that preceded the Incans. Some are still in use today by local farmers, especially those from indigenous communities like the Collagua and Cabana peoples.

How To Stay Safe Visiting Peru In 2026

Heading to Peru in the near future?

Use our Travel Advisory Checker (powered by the U.S. Department of State) to stay up to date with travel warnings and any security updates affecting your destination.

For instance, at this very moment, Peru stands at Level 2, which means ‘Moderate Risk’. Americans aren’t discouraged from visiting, yet they must exercise a greater degree of caution, especially when visiting large cities like Lima and Arequipa.

This is due to elevated rates of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas, and to the risk of demonstrations that can temporarily disrupt services. This year, and for the best part of 2025, Peru has been quite stable.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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Even the most seasoned travelers with passport stamps filling up every page can still be shocked by what they discover.

“Hidden gems” may be an overused term, but the fact is, there’s something magical about finding places that nobody seems to know, and oftentimes, they leave a lasting mark even bigger than global icons.

As for the West Coast, most travelers opt for a handful of major cities and trendy beach towns.

In between is what’s left to locals who tend to remain tight-lipped about their picture-perfect hometown.

But today, as a resident Californian myself, I’m putting my Joker mask on and playing the villain as I reveal the West Coast’s 4 most beautiful beach towns that have been held a secret far too long.

4) Fort Bragg, CA: ‘Glassy’ Shores & Towering Redwoods

Let’s be honest — with the exception of Long Beach and anywhere around The Bay, many California beaches are spitting images of each other.

But if there’s one specific swath of shoreline that’s more unique than the rest, it’s Fort Bragg.

Home to Glass Beach, just as it sounds, the coast gleams with kaleidoscopic sea glass, making for the perfect photo op.

Don’t worry — you won’t slice your feet open and have to make an unexpected ER visit. The ‘glass’ is smooth, so your trip will be too.

But Fort Bragg is no one-trick pony. As if glassy beaches weren’t cool enough, how about sprawling forests with trees you can’t wrap your arms around?

That’s right, this town is home to numerous Redwood locations and pristine waterfalls, including:

• MacKerricher State Park
• Russian Gulch State Park

Better yet, make sure to hop aboard the Skunk Train to enjoy the scenery even more.

3) Tillamook, OR: Cake Cheese By The Ocean

They say ‘it ain’t easy being cheesy’. That is unless find yourself in Tillamook, Oregon.

If you’re a cheese fiend like me, perhaps you’ve purchased Tillamook brand dairy products at your preferred grocer without batting an eye that Tillamook is a real place that just so happens to be a seamless gateway to otherworldly coastline nobody ever seems to talk about.

This little-known foodie town is a fun visit itself, but on the outskirts of town lie rugged stretches of coastline speckled with towering sea stacks, misty headlands, and wide-open beaches that feel straight out of a Pacific Northwest dream.

People talk about Bigfoot sightings more so than Tillamook’s shores, and that’s a shame. Especially, if you visit such places as Cape Lookout State Park.

And yes, while you’re here, you can book a visit to the Tillamook Creamery. It’s obligatory, right?

2) Carpinteria, CA: The ‘Safest Beach In The World’

Despite what you hear about California’s ‘zombie land’ streets in major cities, one off-the-radar paradise has been crowned the ‘world’s safest’ beach destination.

Next door to Santa Barbara lies the historic town of Carpinteria, boasting a delightful Old Town and even more enjoyable beaches that rarely draw huge crowds, with the exception of the annual California Avocado Festival held every fall.

As I mentioned, I live in California. Guess how many times I’ve heard people rave about Carpinteria…

Zero. It’s locally beloved.

But that makes this gem even more enticing as one of the West Coast’s few yet-to-be-discovered hideaways perfect for dolphin spotting, surfing, or simply kicking back with a White Claw in-hand (hide it from the lifeguards!).

1) Solana Beach, CA: San Diegans Will Spite Me For Revealing This Place

Well… it was a good run.

I may be banned from local taco shops and threatened by dude-bro surfers for revealing our beloved hideout from tourists that invade each spring and summer like clockwork.

San Diego vacationers tend to opt for Coronado, Mission Beach, Del Mar, and La Jolla, but Solana Beach has remained off the typical tourist path as a local haven to enjoy year-round.

Neighboring Del Mar’s uppity, pinky-out crowd, this laid-back town is the antidote for a sense of real SoCal with hole-in-the-wall taco shops, walkable shops and other eats, and pristine beaches hidden below staggering bluffs that tourists tend to miss.

With no major hotels and no resorts, this is where you can spend a day trip to blend in with locals at such places as Pizza Port, rather than botox-injected Karens in ritzy Del Mar and La Jolla.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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It may seem as if everyone goes to Florida for spring break, but not all of them go to Destin and Panama City, as it may seem.

With Miami putting the kibosh on rowdy college crowds, even Florida’s most iconic city has become a lot more enjoyable from March through April.

That said, there’s so much more ‘electric blue’ coastline to be discovered.

One such town shares the same beautiful stretch of coastline as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and ritzy Palm Beach, yet doesn’t get the glory it deserves.

In fact, we at Travel Off Path consider this luscious haven of crowd-free shores to be one of Florida’s best-kept secrets on the Atlantic since we just revealed the most worthwhile hush-hush hideaways on the Gulf side recently.

With fewer footprints along gleaming white sand, fewer retirees hogging pickleball courts, and no shortage of outdoor thrills, practically unknown Juno Beach tops our list as Florida’s most gorgeous getaway that tourists have yet to invade.

A Hidden Gem Without The Headaches

It’s safe to say everyone loves feeling like they discovered a so-called “hidden gem”. Juno Beach is no different, except for the fact that it doesn’t take a grand adventure to find it.

Juno Beach is sandwiched between Miami’s gargantuan shadow and Jupiter, which tends to draw no-nonsense golfers and snowbirds with deep pockets.

But Juno Beach isn’t going to break the bank, nor is it going to be a headache to reach, which is why we love it!

You have 3 well-connected airports to choose from in close reach:

• Miami (MIA)
• Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
• Palm Beach (PBI)

Trendy Vero Beach (VRB) is just over an hour away, too, if you care to double-dip beach towns with far fewer crowds than Florida’s household names.

What’s The Vibe Like In Juno Beach?

What goes overlooked in Florida is how diverse this state truly is. Every beach town seems to have its own unique flair — some good, some not so great, if we’re being honest.

But Juno Beach isn’t the type of town you’ll see based as a storyline for an episode of It’s Florida, Man.

Juno Beach is a pristine paradise where you rarely have a hard time finding a prime parking space and can take part in fun outdoor activities at the drop of a hat, whether it’s as simple as a bike rental to soak in blissful 75-degree spring or something more extreme for the adventurous, like windsurfing.

Boasting vibrant blue Atlantic waters, a mix of white and quartz sand, and no flashy resorts towering over the coastline, Juno Beach is a slice of real Florida in between some of the state’s most popular cities, making for a laid-back escape from the urban chaos.

According to TripAdvisor, Juno Beach Park is the place to be. This spot holds rave reviews from the few tourists in the know about this tranquil oasis.

It’s also considered very family-friendly as there are lifeguards on duty and it offers free parking to save money and easily unload your beach gear.

Best of all, Juno Beach may be little known, but that just means you won’t pay inflated tourist prices. You can mingle with locals who likely wonder how you discovered their beloved hometown and score cheap drinks and fresh eats at such places as the Thirsty Turtle Seagrill.

Discover Juno’s Wild Side This Spring

While fishing from Juno’s unmissable beach pier and spotting bottlenose dolphins bobbing are common, what will surely draw the biggest crowd this spring will be to witness nesting turtles on one of Florida’s most popular beaches to do so.

A variety of turtle species dominate the shores here, with thousands of nests laid each year. If you’re around March through October, it’s a spectacle you have to see to believe.

You can to see:

• Leatherbacks
• Loggerheads
• Green turtles

Believe it or not, it’s actually best to visit at night. While you will see activity in spring, official turtle tours return in June, led by the expert crew at Loggerhead Marine Life Center.

Kiddos are welcome to join in, but must be at least 10 years of age. These ‘night walks’ take place for roughly 3 hours and come with extensive rules to protect the nesting areas, such as no photography allowed.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.