Experts have named five European cities worth visiting this year

European travelers are increasingly looking for quiet alternatives to popular resorts. Find out which five European cities experts recommend visiting in 2026 and why they are considered hidden tourist gems

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European tourism is gradually shifting its focus: more and more travelers are consciously avoiding oversaturated resorts and looking for quieter, more affordable, and authentic destinations. That is why travel experts advise paying attention to less popular cities that are rich in culture and atmosphere, which may become real discoveries in 2026.

Specialists from the travel company Iglu Cruise have compiled a selection of so-called “hidden gems” of Europe — cities that combine history, events, and comfort without excessive tourist hype. The Daily Mail writes about this.

Trenčín, Slovakia: Cultural Capital of the Year

In 2026, Trenčín became one of two cities to receive the title of European Capital of Culture. This means a packed calendar of events: music festivals, art installations, theater performances, and renovations of public spaces throughout the year.

Must-see attractions include Trenčín Castle, which dominates the city, the city tower with panoramic views, and cozy cafes on Mirove Square. Special attention should be paid to Slovakia's largest music festival, Pohoda, which traditionally takes place in early July.

The best time to travel to Trenčín is from May to September, when the city is alive with festivals and perfect for leisurely strolls.

Ghent, Belgium: medieval charm without the crowds

Ghent is often called “Belgium's best-kept secret.” It is a port city with fairytale canals, medieval architecture, and a lively atmosphere, yet it remains much less crowded with tourists than Bruges or Brussels.

Key attractions include St. Bavo's Cathedral with its famous Ghent Altarpiece, the Graslei and Korenlei quays, which are ideal for watching the sunset, and Gravensteen Castle with its moats and massive walls.

The best time to visit is during the off-season: from April to June and from September to October. And in winter, in December, the city turns into an atmospheric Christmas location with a fair, ice rink, and festive lights.

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Quimper, France: Breton classics and gastronomy

Quimper, France, has the status of a “City of Art and History” thanks to its architectural heritage and artistic environment. Along the Odette River, there are rows of half-timbered houses that preserve the characteristic Breton style.

In the city, you can see the remains of the 13th-century medieval walls, the Cathedral of Saint Corentin, the pottery workshops of Locmaria, and enjoy boat trips on the river. Quimper is also considered the gastronomic center of the region: it is home to Michelin-starred restaurants, including Allium and Sao, as well as Ti-Coz, which serves authentic local cuisine.

The ideal time to travel is from late June to early September. At the end of July, the city hosts the Cornouaille Festival, which fills the streets with music, dancing, and traditional costumes.

Turin, Italy: elegance and cultural discoveries

Turin is often called the hidden gem of Italy. The city impresses with its Baroque boulevards, royal palaces, and palpable “Parisian” atmosphere. One of the main attractions is the Mole Antonelliana, a symbol of the city, which houses the National Museum of Cinema. A ride in the glass elevator reveals a panoramic view of the Alps.

Tourists are advised to try the classic drink bicerin in an old-fashioned café and visit the Royal Palace. The best months to travel are May, June, and September. The latter also coincides with the start of the truffle season. And in December, Turin becomes the stage for the Luci d'Artista light installation festival.

Poznań, Poland: a balance of history and modernity

Poznań is distinguished by its bright townhouses on the Old Market Square and successfully combines history with modern urban spaces. Popular locations include Citadel Park, Malta Lake with its recreational infrastructure, and Wartostrada, a renovated embankment along the Warta River that has been transformed into a green park.

The best time to travel is from May to September. And on November 11, tourists can enjoy large-scale street celebrations of St. Martin's Day with parades and local traditions.

Tip: when planning a road trip to these cities, it is worth taking care of the documents for crossing the border in advance. In particular, a Green Card is mandatory for trips to EU countries by car. Ukrainians can quickly apply for it online through the Visit Ukraine service — this allows you to avoid unnecessary risks and focus on the trip itself.

We remind you! Some countries leave such a strong impression on tourists that they want to return again and again. Read about which destinations topped the ranking of the most popular countries for repeat trips and why the first place came as a surprise.

Photo: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone

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