The most visited cities in Europe are well documented: London, Paris, Berlin, Barcelona, Rome, and Vienna have been featured in numerous movies, documentaries, and books. Yet many find these destinations do not satiate the innate desire to discover something relaxing. Relaxation is tough to find in the hustle and bustle of the aforementioned cities. As a result, I have listed the top five destinations for those seeking a lesser visited, but equally wonderful European vacation.
Without further ado, here is the list:
Krakow, Poland
Situated in south eastern Poland (a geographic area known as Galacia), Krakow is not subjected to the harsh weather most of Poland receives. The capital of the Polish Kingdom from 1038 until 1596, Krakow contains some of Europe's most majestic churches and an impressive castle. Spared the destruction of World War II and largely spared communist development during the rule of the USSR, Krakow maintains an old world Europe feel similar to Prague or Budapest. Krakow is also an hour by train or minibus from Auschwitz, the notorious Nazi concentration camp from World War II. Poland is a member of the European Union and is quite safe. Despite being a member of the EU, Poland has yet to join the Euro and is still quite affordable.Budapest, Hungary
Just three hours by train or car from the Austrian capital of Vienna, Budapest is a thriving center of culture in its own right. Budapest is well known for serving as a second and equal capital of the Austrian Empire following the Dual Compromise of 1867, but truthfully it spent equal time in the Austrian Empire and the Ottoman Empire. As a result, the influence of both cultures, though vastly different, is quite apparent. Many buildings reflect Viennese type architecture, while surrounded by Turkish baths (which are quite famous!). Having spent so much time under the rule of others Hungarians, or Magyars, are a proud people with a troubled history. Hungary is also part of the EU and not on the Euro. It, too, is relatively affordable.Copenhagen, Denmark
A well known city in Europe, Copenhagen is not as full of tourists as one might think. In fact, few enough tourists visit this city that many who do consider it “overlooked.” The established capital of a thriving, if small, western European country, Copenhagen is definitely worth a visit. Danish bread is particularly well regarded throughout Europe and there is no shortage of it here in the capital. The city is also Europe's most cyclist friendly, with cycle lanes that parallel main roads for maximum access. Copenhagen is also conveniently located to northern Germany (also beautiful) and Malmö, Sweden is just across the bridge. For its beauty, as well as its proximity to other great spots in Europe, Copenhagen is a must. Copenhagen is in the EU and has voted by referendum not to adopt the Euro. Despite this, prices in Denmark are quite high (as is true of all of Scandinavia). Copenhagen is less expensive than Stockholm and Oslo.Istanbul, Turkey
While it is true half the city lies in Asia, the old town, or Sultan Ahmet as it is called, is located entirely on the European side. Located in the political hotbed Middle East, Turkey is a surprisingly safe and out-of-this-world friendly country. Though it borders countries such as Iraq and Iran, Turkey is astonishingly democratic and very western. Turkey is the only secular Muslim country in the world. Furthermore, Turks, proud of their history and eager to tell their part of the story, have done a fantastic job preserving Ottoman palaces and relics. From the Hagia Sophia to Topkapi Palace, Istanbul is sure to please and educate. Though not a member of the EU, customs is a simple process and visas are available at all entry points (by train, car, or plane) for a fee of $20 U.S.Istria, Croatia
Located on a peninsula to the north of its more famous relative, the Dalmatian Coast, the Istrian Peninsula is equally beautiful and less touristy. Begin your stay in Poreč, located only an hour south from Trieste, Italy. This town of 9,000 is easily accessible by car or bus and customs through Slovenia into Croatia are a breeze. Visit Vrsar and Rovinj on day trips, but be sure to be back in Poreč for every dinner, as Croatian and Italian cuisine are on display each night in some of Europe's finest restaurants. Fresh fish and other seafood are available in small markets around town and they sell only the current day's catch. Don't forget a boat cruise around the Adriatic like only Croatian tour guides can provide! In short, Istria provides all the beauty of the Mediterranean without being overrun by unappreciative visitors. But hurry, Europe's best kept secret is about to get out! Like Turkey, Croatia is not a member of the EU, but it is a candidate and should be admitted by 2009. No visa is required for U.S. citizens.
One final note: I have traveled extensively throughout Europe and have visited each of the aforementioned destinations. All of this advice is first hand information and comments will be quickly answered.
