Alternative summer destinations in Europe for your travel list.
Travel to lesser-known destinations has now become one of the most dynamic trends. More and more travelers choose places that aren't at the top of travelers' lists, eager to step off the beaten path and experience new, authentic experiences.
If you're interested in an alternative summer escape in Europe, then it's worth adding the following 'under-the-radar' destinations recommended by Conde Nast Traveller to your list.
Braga, Portugal
The oldest city in Portugal is also one of the most underrated. Although it's in the shadow of neighboring Porto, Braga is a superb destination in its own right. Travelers will discover a city with narrow, cobbled streets, Roman ruins, a legendary medieval cathedral, and serene squares with open-air cafés and restaurants serving traditional Portuguese dishes. To get a taste of Braga's history, visit Portugal's oldest cathedral, dating back to 1070, as well as Bom Jesus do Monte, the church with picturesque steps and fountains set in a striking location on a hill just outside the city.
Rotterdam, Netherlands
Rotterdam - the second most populous city in the Netherlands - is an ideal destination for lovers of contemporary architecture. Much of the city was leveled during World War II and rebuilt from scratch with an eye on the future. Its postwar architecture and modern skyscrapers make Rotterdam a gem for design lovers. The Cube Houses, the Nieuwe Luxor Theatre, and the Van Nelle Factory are among the stops you should make. Rotterdam is also Europe's largest port, from which Dutch families once emigrated to New York. You can learn more about Rotterdam's maritime past at the city's Maritime Museum. Rotterdam is known for its thriving arts scene, and thanks to bustling food markets like Markthal and Fenix Food Factory, it's a paradise for food lovers.
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Although it was partially destroyed during the Bosnian War (1992-1995), this small city still bears traces of its rich history. Built in a valley surrounded by high mountains, Mostar impresses with its picturesque charm and traditional character. Many Old Town buildings have been rebuilt or restored. Strolling the narrow lanes, you'll take in old houses, little shops, colorful murals, gardens, cafés, and souvenir stores. The much-photographed Stari Most (Old Bridge), a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the city's landmark. The bridge was destroyed during the Bosnian War and rebuilt after it ended.
Bordeaux, France
Victor Hugo once described it as the city with "the gentle horizon, the splendid sky, and the warmth of the sun you can't help but fall in love with". The French affectionately call it "la belle dormante", meaning "the Sleeping Beauty". Set on the banks of the Garonne, in southwestern France, Bordeaux is a city synonymous with fine wine. Annual production reaches 800 million bottles, while some labels rank among the most expensive in the world. In the region's wineries you'll discover beautiful cellars and taste exceptional wines. Bordeaux is also home to the largest wine museum in the world, La Cite du Vin, which opened in 2016. Beyond that, the city boasts more than 350 historic buildings and monuments worth seeing.
Bergen, Norway
Nestled between imposing mountains and dramatic fjords, with a colorful collage of wooden houses, Bergen feels as if it has stepped out of a fairytale. It is the second largest city in Norway and lies on the country's western coast. The city's famed fish market is perhaps the biggest draw for tourists. Picturesque Bryggen, Bergen's old wharf with its distinctive architecture, has a 900-year history and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. A must is the ride on the funicular to Mount Floyen, as well as a cruise through the fjords- the nearby Sognefjord, is the largest fjord in Norway by area.
