Europe has some incredible attractions but the magic can easily get lost when there are long queues and huge crowds.
This is why we have created an alternative list of a beautiful locations in Europe which will still give you a thrill of exploration, and avoid the huge crowds. Not only will you see places that you may not have visited otherwise, but also you will be giving a boost to secondary economies- bonus!
For history avoid Berlin and visit Leipzig, Germany
Leipzig offers world-class sights without the queues. Being home to one of the world’s oldest universities, the understated city is steeped in a rich history of music and philosophy. Berlin might have Museum Island, but Leipzig has a respected museum and gallery culture of its own, such as the Bach Museum, the German Photography Museum and Museum in der Runden Ecke. One of our favourite places is Nikolaikirche, a beautiful church inside and out.
It also hails its own street art, predominantly splashed on the walls of the Connewitz district. You can even find a Banksy. Although Berlin's nightlife is renowned around the world, you can easily access some great techno places or live music venues throughout the city.
When it comes to food, you will get much more of an authentic German cuisine in Leipzig, with a huge range of local run restaurants and cafes to choose from!
For authentic spanish tapas and beautiful gardens, try Seville over Barcelona, Spain
It is hard to deny Barcelona has an offering that cannot be matched by many, but due to this, it can feel very cramped and unsinpired when you are waiting in the long queues at places such as La Sagrada Familia. Instead, why not take the alternative option of the slower paced, beautiful city of Seville. This Spanish city boasts Roman ruins, detiailed Moorish towers and an incredible energy. The one to watch for us are the grounds of Unesco site Alcazar of Seville, which is recognised by many as the backgrop for sun-kissed Dorne in Game of Thrones. Make sure you spend some relaxation time at the the beautiful Parque de Maria Luisa, with its colourful tiled fountains and shady avenues.
When it comes to dinner, you will find authentic Spanish dishes in the centre of Seville as well as Triana, which is known for its amazing tapas and flamenco dancing!
Looking for medieval architecture go for Ghent rather than Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is a compact and city full of charm, but less than an hour's drive away, you will be in the equally charming city of Ghent. Discover Ghent’s display of medieval bridges and spires, starting with St Michael's Church and ending at the magnificent St Bavo's Cathedral. Nearby, get your fill of quiet cobbled streets of Patershol and Prinsenhof. For Boat trips we know Bruges’ canals are great, but you can find an alternative in Ghent where you can get up close to the city’s centrepiece: the Gravensteen Castle.
For nightlife, Ghent eclipses Bruges with plenty of bars to choose from on the riverside who serve over 500 different beers.
For romantic backdrops and artistic treasures visit Padua over Venice
Let's be real, Venice is crowded with tourists. Instead of spending your summer in Venice, turn your attention to Padua.
Padua has its own laid back Italian glamour through beautiful gardens and picturesque viewpoints. From Giotto’s stunning blue masterpiece inside the Cappella degli Scrovegni to the array of Unesco-protected botanical gardens, including Prato Della Valle, Europe’s largest square- Padua is a hidden gem in Italy.
If you are looking for romantic date spots like Venice, there are so many authentic restaurants in this beautiful city.
