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Europe’s less-travelled cities

Go off the beaten track on a tour of Europe

If you’ve already ticked Paris, Rome and London off your list of European cities, there are many other destinations waiting to be explored. Immerse yourself in a remarkable variety of cultures, while travelling from Scandinavian countries in the north to warm countries in the Mediterranean.

With thousands of years of history, distinctive cuisine and a wealth of attractions, there’ll always be something different to experience in Europe’s smaller cities. Check out this guide that introduces you to destinations beyond the usual tourist trail.

Belgrade, Serbia

Serbia’s capital is one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Situated at the meeting point of Central Europe and the Balkans, it has long been an important trading centre.

Today, its streets are lined with cafés, restaurants and boutiques. Take a walk down Knez Mihailova, a lively pedestrian street for shopping and entertainment. Visit Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress for sweeping views across the city, then admire valuable collections at the Nikola Tesla Museum.

Gothenburg, Sweden

Sweden’s second-largest city features a fascinating blend of Nordic and Dutch influences. Easy to explore, it’s known for its relaxed atmosphere and café culture, or ‘fika’, during the summer months. Gothenburg is also ideal for cycling, with scenic routes running through many of its green spaces.

Make your way to the historic Haga district to see traditional wooden buildings and snack on cinnamon buns. You can also wander around Universeum, a science centre with its own rainforest and aquarium.

Zaragoza, Spain

Zaragoza, the capital of Aragón, is one of Spain’s most historic cities. Set beside the Ebro River, it is home to Roman ruins, Moorish architecture and grand Baroque landmarks.

Its museums display works by Spanish artists, including Goya, alongside well-preserved Roman artefacts. For local cuisine, wander through El Tubo, a maze of narrow streets where you can indulge in tapas and traditional dishes at several restaurants.

Skopje, North Macedonia

Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, is set on the Vardar River. This charming destination combines Ottoman heritage with modern architecture and neoclassical landmarks. Start in Macedonia Square, the central plaza where you’ll find a massive statue of Alexander the Great.

Cross the 15th-century Stone Bridge to the Old Bazaar, home to mosques, hammams and artisan shops. Visit the 6th-century Kale Fortress to take in beautiful vistas of the city and Šar Mountains beyond.

Maastricht, Netherlands

With roots dating back to Roman times, Maastricht grew from a medieval trading centre into a garrison town and later an industrial hub. Today, it’s a university city famous for its café culture.

Explore Maastricht Underground, a network of caves beneath the city, or head to Sint Pietersberg, boasting breath-taking views of the surrounding area. If you’re craving a sweet treat, sample a slice of Limburgse vlaai, a traditional fruit tart filled with cherries, apples or plums.

Lyon, France

With a history shaped by the silk trade and the Renaissance, Lyon is France’s third-largest city. Located where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, it’s celebrated for its cuisine and is often regarded as the country’s gastronomic capital.

Savour regional dishes including quenelles, saucisson brioche and praline pastries. Afterwards, marvel at the city’s cultural attractions or stop by the Croix-Rousse district to discover its silk-weaving heritage.

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