Europe is THE dream destination for travelers worldwide, and if you clicked on this article, chances are you’ve already visited famous countries like France, Italy, or Spain. But beyond these well-known nations, there are the hidden gems, those lesser-known countries that don’t often make it to the top of travel lists but are just as spectacular. So, if you’d rather go on a trip that feels and authentic than explore the same Parisian streets for the fifth time, check out these underrated European destinations: 

Ireland 

Yes, I know: Ireland is by far not a small and unknown country that you’ve never heard of, but if your knowledge of the Emerald Isle is limited to Dublin and the Cliffs of Moher, you’re barely scratching the surface of what this stunning country has to offer. For instance, you can take a short ferry ride from Galway and visit the Aran Islands – the three small islands with ancient stone forts that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. If the name rings a bell, that’s because these islands are the birthplace of Aran sweaters, those traditional heavyweight jumpers with interesting patterns that you see on every second male celebrity. They were first crafted there a century ago and to this day Aran sweaters for men make the best souvenirs to bring back from an Irish vacation. If you don’t have enough luggage space or just want to order it online for extra convenience, Irish stores as Gaelsong offer an exclusive selection of Aran knitwear for gents. I bought a few fisherman sweaters for my family and they were thrilled with the quality and price- definitely a strong recommendation. You can even get such a knit sweater before your trip, so that you can blend in with the locals and enjoy the Aran Islands in a more authentic way! 

Albania

Even though it’s neighboring countries like Greece, Italy, and Croatia that attract millions of visitors each year, Albania remains one of Europe’s least-explored destinations. However, this small Balkan country has it all: three fourths of its territory is covered in mountains, it has white sand beaches with crystal clear waters like Ksamil and Dhërmi, and a rich culture without the tourist crowds. If you’re a history lover, visit Berat and Gjirokastër – the two historic towns known for their well-preserved Ottoman architecture, and if you love hiking, Albania’s Accursed Mountains (yes, that’s their real name!) offer some of the best trekking routes in Europe, with breathtaking views and welcoming traditional guesthouses. No matter what type of vacation you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find exactly that in Albania! 

Romania 

Romania is often associated with Transylvania and its vampire legends, but these are just stereotypes – I’ve been visiting it since the 1700s and I’ve never met a single vampire! All jokes aside, this Eastern European country is a fascinating mix of history, folklore, rugged nature, and medieval towns. For instance, the Carpathian Mountains are the perfect destination for those who like hiking, skiing, and even bear-watching (but please don’t pet the bears, no matter how fluffy and friendly they look!). Sibiu and Sighișoara are two beautiful medieval towns with colorful fairytale-like houses and charming squares, and the latter is also the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler who was the inspiration for Dracula. Finally, the Danube Delta is a paradise for all nature lovers and especially birdwatchers, since this UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site is home to hundreds of bird species that you can observe while taking a boat trip through the maze-like waterways. 

Georgia 

Don’t confuse it with the state! While technically located at the boundary between Europe and Asia, Georgia has deep European roots and it’s a hidden gem waiting to be explored. The capital city of Tbilisi is absolutely captivating, with a blend of old and new, with colorful balconies, sulfur baths, and a thriving arts scene. Georgia is one of the oldest wine-producing countries in the world, so visiting a vineyard and enjoying a glass of their divine beverages should be at the top of your priorities list. While there, visit Vardzia, an incredible 12th-century cave monastery carved into the Erusheti Mountain and located less than four hours away from Tbilisi.