Looking for the best underrated European cities to visit in 2025? You’re in the right place.
Europe is full of iconic destinations, but some of its most unforgettable experiences lie just beyond the spotlight. These hidden gems in Europe offer authentic culture, rich history, vibrant food scenes, and stunning photography opportunities — without the overwhelming crowds.
If you’re craving less touristy places in Europe, where you can wander slower, eat better, and discover stories beyond the guidebook, this list is for you. Whether you’re planning a trip, creating your 2025 bucket list, or looking for unique travel ideas, these cities deliver.
Here are five of the most underrated European destinations to explore this year — and why they deserve a spot on your radar.
🏰 1. Ghent, Belgium
Often overlooked in favor of its more touristed neighbor Bruges, Ghent offers a refreshing balance of history, youth energy, and local authenticity. With its winding canals, moody gothic architecture, and vibrant creative scene, it’s a city that feels both timeless and alive.
Why go: Ghent is packed with medieval charm but doesn’t feel like a museum. You can explore centuries-old castles, duck into modern art exhibits, and end your day sipping Belgian beer in a lively square.
Don’t miss:
- Gravensteen Castle — a rare fortress right in the city center with panoramic views.
- STAM city museum — stunning architecture and a peaceful photo spot.
- A canal-side lunch at Patershol, Ghent’s old town food quarter.
Photo tip: Go early to capture the stillness of the canals before the city wakes up. Foggy mornings here are gold for dreamy shots.
🎨 2. Riga, Latvia
Riga is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets — a city that surprises you with its mix of faded grandeur, bold creativity, and layered history. From pastel-toned Art Nouveau buildings to bustling local markets, Riga offers texture and story at every turn.
Why go: It’s more affordable than Western Europe and full of personality. Whether you’re into architecture, street photography, or just wandering beautiful cities without crowds, Riga delivers.
Don’t miss:
- Alberta iela (Alberta Street) for intricate Art Nouveau façades.
- Riga Central Market, located in old Zeppelin hangars — packed with local produce and personality.
- A slow sunset walk along the Daugava River.
Food rec: Try grey peas with bacon or Rupjmaizes kārtojums, a dark rye bread dessert layered like a trifle — strange and delicious.
Photography tip: Capture reflections of ornate buildings in puddles or glass, especially in the early morning light.
🍷 3. Maribor, Slovenia
Nestled among vineyards in eastern Slovenia, Maribor is a quiet charmer — historic, compact, and full of small joys. It’s the kind of place where you slow down without trying to, and where every corner feels like a photo waiting to happen.
Why go: This city is home to the world’s oldest grapevine, a rich wine culture, and a local pace that invites deep breathing and full attention.
Don’t miss:
- The Lent district along the Drava River, dotted with wine bars and medieval charm.
- A cable car ride up Pohorje Mountain for alpine views.
- Wine tasting at Vinag Wine Cellar, one of the oldest in Europe.
Food rec: Try bograč, a hearty Slovenian-Hungarian stew, and locally made pumpkin seed oil — it’s practically black and deeply flavorful.
Photography tip: Visit during golden hour for warm tones over the river and vineyards. Late autumn also offers gorgeous misty vineyard shots.
🐉 4. Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Plovdiv is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, but it doesn’t get the love it deserves. It’s gritty, colorful, historical, and completely unique — a blend of Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, and lively art-filled neighborhoods.
Why go: It feels alive with contradictions — ancient ruins and indie music, crumbling facades and bright street murals. You feel like you’re discovering something real.
Don’t miss:
- The Roman Theater, still in use for concerts and open-air plays.
- The Kapana Creative District for artisan coffee, street art, and galleries.
- A hike up Nebet Tepe, an ancient hilltop site with panoramic city views.
Food rec: Bulgarian food is underrated — order shopska salad, banitsa, and wash it down with rakia (carefully).
Photo tip: Use shadow and contrast in the old town to highlight textures — peeling paint, ancient stones, and modern color overlays.
🌊 5. Porto, Portugal
Though increasingly popular, Porto is still less touristed than Lisbon and feels more local, more raw. It’s a dream city for photographers — bold colors, layered textures, riverside charm, and moody light that shifts with the Atlantic wind.
Why go: You’ll find soulful energy here — music in alleyways, blue-tiled churches on every corner, and the smell of grilled sardines drifting through the air.
Don’t miss:
- Livraria Lello, a stunning bookstore that inspired parts of Harry Potter (go early to avoid crowds).
- São Bento Station for its breathtaking azulejo tile murals.
- A port wine tasting across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia.
Food rec: Order a Francesinha — a ridiculously over-the-top sandwich covered in cheese and beer sauce — and pair it with a local red or port wine.
Photography tip: Shoot at dusk from Dom Luís I Bridge for soft light over the Douro River. Bring a wide lens for those iconic riverfront building stacks.
Pingback:Best Fujifilm Recipes for Every Photo Style - Anna