Western Europe’s major attractions are impressive but also draw huge crowds; the magic of exploring the big sights can be quickly lost amidst long queues and a sea of selfie sticks. Put the thrill back into exploring new places with our selection of alternatives to the major locations. You’ll also get the feel-good bonus of giving a boost to secondary economies and allow overtouristed infrastructures the time to readjust and recover.
For Medieval Architecture and Riverside Culture, Try Ghent Over Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is a doll-house in city form: ornate, compact, and brimming with grandiose charm. However, this can mean that the only local life you’re going to see is outside of the city walls. Less than an hour’s drive away, equally resplendent Ghent rejoices in its ancient history while feeding its young soul.
Discover Ghent’s display of medieval bridges and spires all in an afternoon’s stroll: begin at St Michael’s Church and end at magnificent St Bavo’s Cathedral. Struck by Bruges’ Belfry? Ghent boasts its own, which sees fewer crowds. Nearby, explore fairy-tale buildings in the quiet cobbled streets of Patershol and Prinsenhof. While boat trips on Bruges’ canals are a tight squeeze, in Ghent, you can circumnavigate swathes of the river by kayak and get up close to the city’s centerpiece: the imposing Gravensteen Castle.
With Bruges opting for early closing hours, it’s after nightfall that Ghent comes into its own, thanks to the award-winning Light Plan initiative, with buildings and sculptures glittering over the still canals. There are plenty of lively bars to choose from, from the best riverside spot at Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant to Dulle Griet, a cozy haunt serving up over 500 beers.
For History and Student Life, Try Leipzig Over Berlin, Germany
Hailed as the ‘new Berlin’, Leipzig offers world-class sights without the queues. Saxony’s rising star was instrumental in Germany’s reunification and, being home to one of the world’s oldest universities, the understated city is steeped in a rich history of music and philosophy. Leipzig University’s alumni include influential figures such as Goethe, Wagner, and Nietzsche, proving that the city has been attracting esteemed visitors long before it became its trendy self.
Berlin might have Museum Island, but Leipzig boasts a respected museum and gallery culture of its own. Highlights include the Bach Museum, the German Photography Museum, and the Museum in der Runden Ecke, offering insight into life at a former Secret Police station.
The street art scene in Leipzig may not be as prominent as in Berlin, but this can lead to a more rewarding experience, detached from the busy tour groups. Particularly vibrant in the Connewitz district, you can find plenty of political messages in spray form, including some by Banksy. With its smaller size compared to Berlin, navigating Leipzig is much easier. Whether it’s long-running techno haunt Distillery or the kitschy live music venue Flowerpower that celebrates all things ’60s, this city proves it doesn’t take itself too seriously.
For Lush City Gardens and Tapas, Try Seville Over Barcelona, Spain
Few would deny Barcelona’s allure, but waiting for your Instagram shot atop Park Güell or queuing for an afternoon at La Sagrada Familia can feel cramped and uninspiring. Instead, opt for a slower pace in enchanting Seville, a Spanish city boasting Roman ruins, intricate Moorish towers, and an innate energy. Lose yourself in the architecture and lush grounds of the Unesco site Alcazar of Seville, recognized as the backdrop for sun-kissed Dorne in Game of Thrones. Spend leisurely hours at Mediterranean utopia, Parque de Maria Luisa, adorned with colorful tiled fountains and shady avenues.
When it comes to dinner, finding authentic Spanish dishes doesn’t require leaving the center of Seville. Join a tapas tour and explore Seville’s lively neighborhood, Triana, perfect for tapas-hopping and flamenco dancing long into the night.
As the capital of Andalucía, Seville serves as a fantastic base for exploring the luscious sites of the wider region. Soak up the charm of nearby Córdoba’s Arab baths and Moorish hammams, or lose yourself in El Rocío, a unique town built on desert sands, where it’s not rare to see locals traveling by horse and cart.
For Surf and Seafood, Try Ericeira Over Algarve, Portugal
When numerous families, surf-lovers, and long-term vacationers flock to the Algarve, thinking of crowded summers is inevitable. However, consider the sleepy yet spectacular Ericeira. Just 50km from Lisbon, this fishing town is perched on Atlantic-facing cliffs, excelling in its two main offerings: waves and mouth-watering seafood. Loved by locals and popular with holidaymakers from Lisbon, Ericeira boasts well-maintained heritage whitewashed buildings at more affordable prices.
The Algarve enjoys an international, bustling surf season annually. Nevertheless, in Ericeira, with over 30 unbeatable surf spots, you can expect intimate surf lesson groups and ample beach space for yourself. Locals take to the waves daily, with renowned surf schools like Surf Camp Ericeira, which also features one of the best surf hostels and retreats. To the north of the town, the Ericeira World Surfing Reserve stands as Europe’s only surfing reserve.
Make the most of your time visiting relaxed lounge bars and boho surf shops. For no-frills, traditional seafood dishes, head to Mar à Vista, a local favorite. The coastline around the town experiences cooler temperatures than the Algarve, making it ideal for hiking and cycling.
For Romantic Backdrops and Artistic Treasures, Try Padua Over Venice, Italy
It’s well-known that Venice is overflowing with tourists; various restrictions have been imposed on travelers to the City of Bridges, yet it still sees tens of millions of visitors annually. Instead of spending the summer in Venice, shift your focus to a small city just 40 km away: Padua.
Showcasing delicate churches and famed locals—from Galileo to Donatello and Giotto—Padua’s walled city doesn’t seek to rival Venice. Instead, it provides its own relaxed Italian glamour, highlighted by ornate gardens and picturesque bridges. Often neglected, Padua is one of Northern Italy’s ancient cities. You’ll be amazed by the grandeur that Venice’s neighbor possesses, from Giotto’s stunning blue fresco at the Cappella degli Scrovegni to the superb landscapes in the Unesco-protected 16th-century botanical gardens Orto Botanico and the expansive Prato Della Valle, Europe’s largest square. If sharing a romantic dinner spot with many isn’t appealing, Padua’s dining scene offers a more intimate experience. Dine at the ancient, candle-lit Da Nane della Giulia or enjoy creamy artisan gelato at Gelateria Artigianale da Bruno.
