Are you dreaming of a European summer trip but dreading the crowds? While iconic cities like Paris and Rome are packed with tourists, there are still plenty of incredible, less crowded European summer destinations where you can soak up the beauty of Europe without the long lines and packed streets.
In this travel guide, I’ll share eight stunning destinations that offer breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and family-friendly activities without the overwhelming crowds. I hope to inspire you to have a coastal escape, visit a charming small town, or have an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
See where to go for an epic summer getaway in Europe below!
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8 Less Crowded European Summer Destinations Worth Visiting
Europe in the summer is an amazing time to visit. The hardest part is finding places to visit that aren’t crowded. It can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. Even some of the destinations where I expected big crowds, weren’t as packed as I anticipated.
All of the following European summer destinations left a lasting impression on me and my family. You will find beautiful cities and towns where you can create a memorable trip. Each are perfect for families or couples seeking adventure without the chaos of tourist crowds.
If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable European summer trip without the stress of packed hotspots, these eight places are worth considering. Let’s dive in!
Siena, Italy
Siena is one of the European summer destinations that I thought would be much busier than it felt. It can be a popular day trip destination from Florence; however, if you choose to stay the night, like we did, it feels calm.
It is a medieval town where you can wander and get lost. Even visiting the top attractions in Siena doesn’t feel overwhelmingly busy.
I visited in August with my friend and fell in love with Siena’s charm. I still remember walking down to the Piazza del Campo on my first evening, marveling at its size and beauty. There were a few people wandering around, but because of the large size of the square, it didn’t feel too crowded.
It actually felt just right; a lively vibe where you aren’t fighting for a spot to sit.
Top Things To Do In Siena:
- Climb the Torre del Mangia – For breathtaking city views. This was the only thing that felt busy to us in Siena.
Pro tip: Because of its popularity, tickets sell out fast and are only available at the ticket office. Go there early in the morning to get yours. - Visit Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) – One of Italy’s most stunning churches.
- Explore the winding medieval streets – Every corner feels like a postcard.
- Check out the Palazzo Pubblico and Civic Museum – Learn about Siena’s rich history and take in some beautiful frescoes.
- Let the kids run around at Piazza del Campo – The vast, car-free square is also a nice place for a picnic in the evenings.
- Try delicious Tuscan treats – Some options are ricciarelli (tasty, soft almond cookies), panforte (a dessert with nuts and fruits), cantucci (crunchy, almond-flavored cookies), and pici pasta (a thick, hand-rolled noodle native to the region).
- Watch the sunset at Fortezza Medicea – Grab a drink and soak in the local vibe.
- Take a day trip to San Gimignano – Bribe the kids with the best gelato in the world!
- Go on a winery tour at La Lastra – A family-friendly experience in the Tuscan countryside. This is the exact tour that we did!
I still think fondly about Siena. It is such a beautiful city. I would go back in a minute.
Read More About Visiting Siena here: A Day in Siena: Fall In Love With Tuscany’s Most Beautiful Medieval City
Dhermi, Albania
Dhermi is a coastal gem in southern Albania, nestled along the stunning Albanian Riviera.
My family and I visited for a week in July. We spent our days exploring different beautiful beaches. Ultimately, our absolute favorite became Gjiri Beach, a hidden gem off the beaten path.
To get there, you have to walk down a dirt road and follow an unmarked trail. The reward is a nearly empty beach with the clearest, most beautiful water I’ve ever swam in.
If you’re not up for the adventure of finding a secluded beach, there are plenty of options nearby, from luxury beach clubs with chairs and umbrellas to free public beaches where you can relax with your own towel.
Pro Tip: Bring water shoes. The beaches are beautiful, but they are pebbles, not sand.
Best Things To Do In Dhermi:
- Explore the multiple beaches – Visit Drymades Beach for a lively vibe or Palasa Beach for tranquility.
- Take a boat tour – Discover hidden caves and beaches along the coast. There are signs all over the beach area where you can sign up for a tour when you get there!
- Visit the Monastery of Saint Mary or Manastiri i Shen Merise– Great place to see lovely panoramic views.
- Hike to Gjipe Beach – A stunning beach located at the end of a scenic canyon.
- Enjoy fresh seafood at Noah on the Beach – Our favorite restaurant with oceanfront dining.
- Take a drive up to Llogara National Park – Enjoy mountain views and cool, fresh air.
- Eat at Agriturizem Dukat in Llogara – Flavorful, local delicious food at an affordable price. If you want authentic, this is where you go!
- Drive down the mountain instead of taking the tunnel – Stop at the bunkers and scenic viewpoints along the way. It is especially gorgeous at sunset!
Dhermi is great for families and couples looking for an off-the-radar European summer trip with incredible beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. It is honestly almost too secluded!
Note: Dhermi does host a few music festivals over the summer. If you are looking to relax, be sure to check if any are happening during your trip; otherwise, you might find an unexpected crowd!
Rose, Montenegro
Located on the Lustica Peninsula, Rose is a hidden gem within the Bay of Kotor that offers a peaceful escape from Montenegro’s busier tourist spots.
We traveled to Montenegro in July, and while the Kotor Bay area is stunning, it can get incredibly crowded. Kotor is a cruise port and the cruise ships bring in hundreds of visitors each day.
The lack of infrastructure means heavy traffic in places like Kotor, Perast, and Tivat, which can be frustrating.
Rose, on the other hand, is quiet, charming, and offers a truly relaxing experience. The beaches here are beautiful, although bring swim shoes, as most beaches in this area are pebbly. Instead of dealing with traffic, opt for boat trips, which make getting around much more enjoyable.
It is quite small, so if you want to be more connected to other places in the Bay of Kotor area, stay in Herceg Novi to be close by.
Top Things To Do In Rose:
- Swim and Sunbathe – Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and peaceful beaches, far from the crowds.
- Take a Boat Trip – The best way to explore the Bay of Kotor. You can hire a boat or join a tour to see the area from the water.
- Visit Our Lady of the Rocks – One of Montenegro’s most famous landmarks. This artificial island and its stunning church are must-sees.
- Explore Kotor – While busy, the medieval town of Kotor is worth visiting for its stunning architecture and breathtaking views from the fortress. Walk around the lower sections of the wall and visit with the cats! Don’t miss a taste of Marshall’s Gelato. It is probably some of the best gelato we’ve ever had in our lives!
- Perast Day Trip – This charming baroque town is known for its picturesque waterfront and historical charm. Eat at Locanda. The carbonara pizza is to die for.
- Visit Herceg Novi – A lesser-visited town with a beautiful old town, a relaxed vibe, and a gorgeous seaside promenade. Visit the Savina winery where you can take in the breathtaking hillside views and taste the local wine.
- Take the Kotor cable car for stunning views – Along with the breathtaking views, you can take a short hike, play on the playground or zoom down the alpine coaster.
If you’re looking for a summer destination in Europe that offers both beauty and tranquility, Rose is a perfect choice. Its serene atmosphere, stunning coastal views, and easy access to the Bay of Kotor’s highlights make it an ideal getaway for those looking to experience Montenegro without the chaos.
Bologna, Italy
Bologna, located in northern Italy, is often overlooked in favor of more famous cities like Florence, Venice, and Rome. This is another destination I expected to be packed with tourists, but when I visited in August, I was surprised by how quiet it was.
Walking through the city felt relaxed, and I never had to deal with overwhelming crowds.
One of Bologna’s most beautiful features is its porticos, elegant covered walkways that stretch for miles throughout the city. These archways provide shade from the summer sun and add to the city’s charm.
I especially loved the warm hues of the buildings; deep reds, burnt oranges, and golden yellows. Bologna felt so special.
Best Things To Do In Bologna:
- Climb Accursi Tower (Torre Accursi or Torre dell’Orologio) – While the Asinelli Tower is currently closed for maintenance, Torre Accursi offers an alternative way to enjoy the stunning panoramic views over the city’s rooftops. You must buy your tickets online!
- Walk through the longest portico in the world – The Portico di San Luca stretches for nearly 4 km and leads up to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca for breathtaking views.
- Try traditional Bolognese cuisine – Bologna is the food capital of Italy! Be sure to try tagliatelle al ragù (any kid’s favorite food!), tortellini, and mortadella (what us Americans would call bologna (pronounced /bal-own-ee/), but it tastes way better in Bologna.)
- Explore Piazza Maggiore – The city’s main square is a great place to soak in Bologna’s historic atmosphere.
- Visit the Anatomical Theatre of the Archiginnasio – A fascinating and unique wooden lecture hall where medical students once studied human anatomy. It’s cooler than it sounds, I promise!
- Indulge at Venchi: Chocolate Tasting Experience – Perfect for chocolate lovers, this experience lets you sample some of Italy’s finest chocolates in the heart of Bologna. What kid doesn’t like chocolate?
- Visit the Lamborghini Museum – Just outside Bologna, this museum is a must-visit for car enthusiasts, showcasing Lamborghini’s iconic supercars.
If you’re looking for an authentic Italian city to visit without the massive tourist crowds, Bologna is an amazing choice. Especially if you are a food lover!
Read More About Visiting Bologna: How To Spend An Amazing Weekend In Bologna
Malmo, Sweden
Malmö is Sweden’s third-largest city, located in the southernmost part of the country, just across the Øresund Bridge from Copenhagen. Many travelers visit Denmark’s capital and only take a day trip to Malmö, but I would argue that there is so much more to this city than can be fit into one day.
Malmo surprised me in so many ways. It’s more affordable than Copenhagen, which is a big plus! It also offers a mix of modern architecture, beautiful parks, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere.
It’s one of the less crowded European summer destinations while still being near the busy Copenhagen. You get the best of both worlds.
During our fall visit, we found Malmö to be a vibrant and welcoming city, and we couldn’t help but imagine how delightful it would be in the summer months.
The city has a great blend of Scandinavian charm, green spaces, and waterfront areas. Sweden’s southern coast is right there and is best visited in the summer where you can enjoy the white sandy beaches.
Top Things To Do In Malmö:
- Explore Gamla Väster – The city’s charming old town with colorful buildings and cobblestone streets.
- Walk through Kungsparken and Slottsträdgården – Two beautiful parks where you can take a summer stroll or have a picnic.
- Relax at Ribersborg Beach – A sandy beach with shallow waters and great views of the Øresund Bridge.
- See the Turning Torso – Malmö’s most iconic modern landmark; a twisting skyscraper that dominates the skyline.
- Visit the Disgusting Food Museum – A must-visit for adventurous eaters! Even my picky eater tried some of the weird (and sometimes gross) treats.
- Rent your own boat and explore the canals – A fun way to see the city from the water at your own pace.
- Spend the afternoon at Folkets Park if you are traveling with kids – The children will have a blast playing mini golf, exploring the many playgrounds, and trying boule ball, a popular local pastime.
- Take a dip at Ribersborgs Open-Air Bath – A traditional Swedish bathhouse where you can experience the sauna followed by a refreshing swim in the sea.
- Try Swedish Fika – Stop at one of Malmö’s cozy cafés for coffee and a cinnamon bun.
- Take a Day Trip to Copenhagen – A day trip to Copenhagen is both easy and quick, allowing you to experience the charm of two countries in one visit. The train is the easiest and cheapest way to get there.
If you’re looking for a less crowded European summer destination that still offers easy access to a major city, Malmö is the perfect alternative at a fraction of the price!
You May Also Like: The Best Places To Visit In Malmo With Kids
Groningen, Netherlands
Groningen is a vibrant university city in the northern Netherlands, known for its rich history, lively cultural scene, and bike-friendly streets. Despite being the largest city in the north, it remains one of the European summer destinations without crowds.
While many visitors stick to Amsterdam and the more touristy areas of the Netherlands, Groningen provides an authentic Dutch experience. It isn’t hard to get to either. Jump on a direct train from Amsterdam and you will arrive in about 2 hours.
We visited Groningen in 2023 and immediately fell in love with its relaxed atmosphere, scenic canals, and welcoming community. We loved it so much that we decided to move here! We’ve been here for almost 3 years now.
The city has a great balance of history, culture, and outdoor activities. It is a fantastic destination for those looking for a slower-paced European getaway full of charm.
Best Things To Do In Groningen:
- Climb the Martinitoren – The tallest church tower in Groningen, offering incredible views of the city.
- Explore the Groninger Museum – A modern and colorful museum featuring art, history, and design exhibitions.
- Wander the Noorderplantsoen – A beautiful city park perfect for a picnic or a summer stroll.
- Rent a boat and explore the canals on your own – Pick up a rental from the marina and cruise through Groningen’s waterways.
- Rent a kayak or SUP and paddle through the canals – A fun and active way to see the city from a different perspective.
- Visit the Forum in Groningen – A striking modern building with interactive exhibits (the kids will love Storyworld), a rooftop terrace, and great city views. The restaurant at the top, NOK, is a great spot to grab a drink or have lunch!
- Bike around the city – Groningen is the cycling capital of the Netherlands, and riding through its streets is an experience in itself. Reserve your rental bikes here.
- Enjoy Dutch pancakes on the Pannenkoekschip – This pancake boat is a unique dining experience where you can try classic Dutch pancakes while sitting on a ship in the canal.
Day Trips From Groningen:
- Schiermonnikoog – A car-free island with beautiful beaches, nature reserves, and excellent cycling paths.
Pro Tip: Rent e-bikes as it can get windy on the island, making it much easier to explore! - Visit Drenthe – Known for its prehistoric hunebedden (ancient dolmens) and scenic hiking and biking trails. Gasselterveeld is a pretty little spot to visit.
- Bourtange – A well-preserved star-shaped fortress town with cobblestone streets and fascinating history.
- Mudflat Walking (Wadlopen) – A unique adventure where you can hike across the seabed at low tide to the Frisian Islands. There are also easier routes where you don’t actually walk all the way to the islands. Much easier if you doing it for the first time! We did an easy route, and we had a lot of fun.
- Lauwersmeer National Park – A great spot for birdwatching, sailing, and stargazing. It’s an official Dark Sky Park too!
Groningen is the perfect alternative to busier Dutch cities. It feels very authentic and is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the Dutch lifestyle.
Riga, Latvia
Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a stunning city located on the Baltic Sea. It is known for its beautifully preserved Art Nouveau architecture, its medieval old town, and its vibrant culture. Riga is often overlooked in favor of Western European summer destinations, but it shouldn’t be.
While we haven’t personally visited Latvia yet, I partnered with a local from Riga to get all the inside tips for visiting. After learning about all there is to see and do in Riga, it has skyrocketed to the top of my bucket list! I can’t wait to visit.
Top Things To Do In Riga:
- Explore the Old Town (Vecrīga) – Wander through charming cobblestone streets, admire the historic buildings, and soak up the medieval atmosphere.
- Visit Dome Square and Riga Dome Cathedral – One of the most iconic spots in the city, this historic square is home to the impressive Riga Dome Cathedral, known for its grand pipe organ and beautiful architecture.
- Climb St. Peter’s Church Tower – One of the best spots for panoramic views of the city.
- Admire the Art Nouveau district – Riga has some of the best Art Nouveau architecture in the world. The popular Albert Street is a must-see!
- Visit the Riga Central Market – One of Europe’s largest markets, located in historic Zeppelin hangars. You will find fresh produce, local delicacies, and a taste of Latvian culture.
- Take a boat tour on the Daugava River – A relaxing way to see Riga from the water. Find some options for boat tours here.
- Explore the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum – A fun, interactive experience showcasing traditional Latvian villages and culture.
- Visit Mežaparks and Riga Zoo – Mežaparks is a massive park with playgrounds, walking trails, and a scenic lake, while Riga Zoo is home to over 400 species. A great stop for families visiting Riga.
Day Trips From Riga:
- Sigulda – Located by the Gauja National Park, this area is known for its beautiful countryside, medieval castles, and outdoor adventure activities like hiking and bobsledding.
- Jūrmala – A coastal town famous for its sandy beaches, wooden architecture, and peaceful nature trails. It is the perfect summer escape from the city.
If you’re looking for a unique and less crowded place to explore, the Baltics, and especially Riga, should be on your radar!
Check out our Riga travel guide here for more information!
Ghent, Belgium
Ghent is a historic and beautiful city in Belgium, located between Brussels and Bruges. We visited in 2022 and instantly fell in love with its stunning medieval architecture, charming canals, and vibrant atmosphere.
While many travelers flock to Bruges, Ghent remains a less crowded but equally magical alternative. It is one of the best European summer destinations to explore.
Best Things To Do In Ghent:
- Visit Gravensteen Castle – A medieval castle in the heart of the city that feels straight out of a fairy tale. Our kids loved exploring its towers, dungeons, and interactive exhibits!
- Wander through the historic city center – Admire landmarks like St. Bavo’s Cathedral.
- Take a canal boat tour – A relaxing way to see Ghent’s gorgeous architecture from the water.
- Walk along the Graslei and Korenlei – These picturesque streets along the river are lined with stunning guild houses and cozy cafés. Grab an ice cream or a Belgian beer and relax by the water while taking in the beautiful buildings.
- Climb the Belfry of Ghent – One of the best views in the city from the top of this UNESCO-listed tower.
- Explore Patershol – A charming old neighborhood filled with unique restaurants and hidden alleyways.
- Try Belgian waffles and frites – No trip to Belgium is complete without indulging in these delicious treats. Might as well throw in some chocolate while you are at it!
- Turn sightseeing into an adventure with the Fosfor the Dragon app – Download this fun scavenger hunt app and let the kids follow Fosfor the Dragon through the city, solving puzzles and uncovering Ghent’s secrets along the way.
Day Trip From Ghent:
- Bruges – While Bruges is much busier than Ghent, its canals, cobblestone streets, and medieval charm make it worth visiting for a day, if you can handle the crowds!
With its rich history, stunning architecture, and fewer tourists than Bruges, Ghent is an ideal place to visit on a summer trip to Europe.
My Final Thoughts On These Amazing European Summer Destinations
Europe in the summer doesn’t have to be a sweaty trip where you are fighting for space. These 8 European summer destinations are all amazing, and I would visit them all again in heartbeat.
As we are living in the Netherlands, I am hoping to find even more European hidden gems. I will update this list each year and add any non-crowded destinations that I find that are worth visiting.
Save this post, so you can easily find it in the future. Bon Voyage!
Rose looks so beautiful, Montenegro was one of our favourites last year!
It was so so beautiful. My favorite area around the Kotor Bay. Next time I will need to visit the other areas of Montenegro.