Europe is full of famous vacation spots. These 7 alternatives are every bit as memorable.
Greek islands, medieval towns and storybook views — these destinations offer many of the same experiences as Europe's biggest tourist draws.
A European vacation lets you choose your own adventure. Want whimsy and romance? There are plenty of places with cobblestone streets and fairytale charm. A history lesson? You'll find those at almost every turn. Dinner at a tapas bar in Barcelona or a cliffside taverna in Santorini? There's a plate of patatas bravas or freshly caught fish with your name on it.
The one downside to these picture-perfect destinations: crowds, especially during peak season. Rome and Paris are beautiful, but maybe your idea of a good time isn't wraparound lines for the Colosseum or a photo-bombed shot at the Eiffel Tower.
Fortunately, many of Europe's biggest tourist hotspots have nearby alternatives that offer a similar atmosphere with fewer crowds and more room to explore — no twisting like a pretzel through an alleyway required.
Ithaca, Greece
For a more relaxed Greek island experience, choose Ithaca over the bigger hotspots.
(miljko via Getty Images)Ithaca offers a more laid-back Greek island experience than popular destinations like Santorini or Mykonos. Famous for its place in The Odyssey , Ithaca is full of fishing villages, sunny beaches and other hallmarks of a Greek island getaway. Meander along the docks in Vathy, then cool off inside the Archaeological Museum of Ithaca . When it's time to be near the water, head to beaches like Filiatro, go snorkeling at Ithaca's Sarakiniko or hike the trail toward the Cave of the Nymphs. However you fill your days, end them at a waterfront taverna.
Kiruna, Sweden
If the northern lights are on your bucket list, consider Kiruna.
(by nacoki ( MEDIA ARC ) via Getty Images)Seeing the northern lights is an unforgettable experience. And while Tromsø, Norway, is one of the best places on the planet to see them, it's also one of the most popular. Kiruna, a mining town in Sweden, offers a quieter Arctic escape and is great for outdoor adventures like dog sledding and snowmobiling. Plus, you can enjoy the midnight sun — and those northern lights — with generally fewer crowds than Tromsø.
Tübingen, Germany
Storybook river views? That's Tübingen.
(DaLiu via Getty Images)Tübingen, Germany, shares Heidelberg's scenic Neckar River setting with fewer people competing for the view. The university gives the city a youthful energy without the crowds of better-known destinations. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and take in the timbered houses and family-run shops in the old town. If you visit in the summer, try your hand at punting, where you'll stand on a boat and attempt to propel it with a long pole across the Neckar River (or alternatively, sit on the vessel's bench and watch someone a bit more daring).
Alberobello, Italy
Alberobello's architecture makes it one of Italy's most interesting landscapes.
(Radoslaw Maciejewski via Getty Images)If you're looking for an iconic Italian town beyond the country's most famous destinations, consider Alberobello for a similarly stunning escape. Whitewashed, cone-roofed stone huts called trulli give Alberobello a visual appeal that'll stand out on your grid. You'll get your fill of pasta, of course, and the opportunity to leisurely browse handcrafted goods at local shops. Alberobello also makes a good home base for day trips throughout the surrounding region — in this case, Puglia.
Kotor, Montenegro
If Game of Thrones put Dubrovnik on your radar, you'll likely also love Kotor.
(Алексей Облов via Getty Images)Kotor, Montenegro, rivals the stunning natural beauty of Dubrovnik, Croatia, its more crowded neighbor. But despite its quieter pace, there's still plenty to do. Journey through the medieval Old Town, filled with centuries-old churches and friendly alley cats. Then make the 1,350-step climb to the San Giovanni Fortress or cool off with a swim in the Bay of Kotor, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs. Consider taking a boat to Our Lady of the Rocks , a historic Roman Catholic church, and stare up at the ornate painted ceiling.
Ghent, Belgium
Dreaming of Bruges? Consider Ghent too.
(Westend61 via Getty Images)Often compared with Bruges, Ghent, Belgium, has castles, canals and Gothic cathedrals that create a fairytale feel. Visit Gravensteen , a 10th-century fortress, and St. Bavo's Cathedral to see the Ghent Altarpiece , a masterpiece of Early Netherlandish art. After a day of exploring, toast to the day with a Belgian brew and some bittersweet chocolate at a local café alongside plenty of locals, students and professors.
Sozopol, Bulgaria
Skip the crowds in nearby Nessebar and explore the beaches of Sozopol.
(rustamank via Getty Images)You'll find the same charming streets and Black Sea charm in Sozopol, Bulgaria, as in neighboring Nessebar, but with more room to wander. The city is divided into two halves: Old Town and New Town. The former is filled with cobblestone streets and wooden homes, while the latter is more developed. Each beach has its own unique character. For a relaxed, kid-friendly atmosphere, head to Harmanite. For something more secluded, there's Kavatsi, hidden between dunes.
