European Hidden Holiday Gems

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The best hidden gems to visit in Europe

Europe is home to many amazing destinations for holiday-makers. Whether you are looking for a summer break on the golden sands of the Mediterranean or a winter wonderland beneath the Aurora Borealis in Iceland, Europe has something for you. But if you are looking for somewhere away from the mainstream of Europe's holiday hubs, this list has your back. We are going to break down some of the under-the-radar destinations that are perfect for travel hipsters, or those with an adventurous spirit.

Budapest, Hungary

We're starting this list with a European capital you won't want to miss. Budapest is a stunning city with tons to offer those visiting, from cultural arts dated across centuries to a thriving nightlife full of charming restaurants and bustling bars.

Hungary is home to events and activities year-round, from their signature Danube Carniva or Sziget Festivals to a more relaxing cruise of local tastes at the Budapest Wine and Spring Festivals.

Speaking of local tastes, you won't be short of delicious cuisine to sample. Some favourites of ours are Chicken Paprikash, Goulash (a spiced stew of meat, veggies and noodles) and Lángos flatbread, which is served with potatoes and sausage or ham.

Best Airport:
Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) - The widely celebrated "best airport in Eastern Europe", with quick and easy transit connections into the main city including regular buses and trains.

Top Airlines:
Wizz Air - Great for visitors locally in Europe
Lufthansa - A brilliant global service that flies regularly to Budapest
United Airlines - For visitors going to and from the USA
Turkish Airlines - Connecting Budapest eastward into the Middle East and Asia

Aarhus, Denmark

Looking for a small, quaint but equally stylish city to get your fix of European charm? Aarhus is the premier destination for travellers looking to avoid the crowds without compromising on culture, cuisine or scenery. Aarhus being condensed makes it great for a more relaxed vacation, where all major attractions are within walking distance of one another.

Attractions such as its iconic harbour, where you can take a slow walk drinking in the bay views, to the Dokk-1 Cultural Centre, where there are tons of activities and interactive displays for the whole family. Just outside the city (but still walkable) you have the summer home of Demark's reigning Queen Margrethe. A stunning palace where you can watch the ceremonial changing of the guard each day at noon.

Best Airport:
Aarhus Airport (AAR) - The closest airport to Aarhus, with many international destinations and good bus connections to Aarhus Central.

Top Airlines:
Scandinavian Airlines - Denmark's national flag carrier with worldwide connections
Ryanair - Offering budget flights for European travellers
IcelandAir - Flights across the Atlantic to the USA, Canada and more
Emirates - Trips in and out of Europe to the Middle East and beyond

Delphi, Greece

When the ancient Greeks were presented with a tough decision (such as choosing where to go on vacation) they would always travel to Delphi to consult the Pythia (a prophetic priestess of Apollo). Maybe they were on to something! Delphi is a great place to visit, not just for enlightenment, but for a good holiday too.

Believed to be "The Centre of the Ancient Greek World" by some, Delphi is home to some of the most iconic ruins from the country's legendary past. The main attraction is of course the archaeology tours around the Temple of Apollo and surrounding ancient towns, museums and breathtaking landscapes, making it a wonderland for mythology and history buffs.

Being in the heart of Greece also means delicious local cuisine to whet your appetite, like roasted lamb shanks and gloriously baked moussaka.

Best Airport:
Athens International Airport (ATH) - Delphi is not too far away from the nation's capital, being only a 2-hour transfer from this amazing South European hub.

Top Airlines:
Aegean Airlines - A Greek favourite, connecting to many international and domestic destinations
Scoot - Connecting Asia, Europe and beyond
easyJet - A low-cost carrier servicing Europe
Pegasus Airlines - Trips across the Middle East

Primosten, Croatia

Perhaps you're looking for a beachy getaway somewhere warm. For that, the golden shores of Primosten are a hidden gem you won't want to miss. The Raduca Mala beach is home to so many activities, bars, restaurants and much more. Primosten is the place to be if you want to relax and tan in the Mediterranean sun, explore the charming village itself, or take on some thrilling water sports.

Best Airport:
Split Airport (SPU) - Split Airport is the largest international airport nearby, which is about a 40-minute transfer away from Primosten.

Top Airlines:
Austrian Airlines - They fly regular flights into Croatia from across Europe
Vueling - Flights in and out of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East
TAP Portugal - Another great choice flying across from the USA, around Europe
KLM - Global flights to Croatia

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