5 secret cities in Europe

Ever heard of Secret Europe? No? Neither had I. These are the places that tourists quickly overlook. Gems of Europe that for some reason are not famous, but just as beautiful and a lot more relaxed because you feel like you're among the locals.

If you're still looking for a truly original destination for this summer, then definitely come along. In the category of forgotten vegetables (but, well, from the world map) I present to you the top 5 of Secret Europe:

1. Guimares, Portugal

You know the Algarve, Lisbon, and Porto. But does the name Guimares ring a bell? No, right? And that's quite a shame because the oldest city in Portugal is on the UNESCO World Heritage List with its historic center. Fun fact: half of the residents are under 30 years old, making it one of the youngest cities in Europe.

2. Bitola, Macedonia

Bitola is located in the south of Macedonia, about 15 kilometers from the border with Greece. It is the second largest city in Macedonia (and even a former capital) and yet it attracts only a handful of tourists. By the way, did you know that more than 500 songs have been written about Bitola? The poor treasure has simply fallen into oblivion. I say: pack your bags and go!

3. Cabo de Gata, Spain

Where can you sunbathe on the most beautiful and least crowded beaches in Europe? This is the place to be. Okay, a little bit of cheating then. Cabo de Gata is not a city, but a protected nature reserve. Here, there are no high-rise buildings and through roads along the beach, but nature, silence, and walking paths around the paradise beaches, white villages, and salt lakes with flamingos. Exactly what you need to completely unwind. There's a good chance you'll never want to go to another Spanish beach after this.

4. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Three hours south of Prague lies the small town of Cesky Krumlov. Okay, sexy might sound different, but if you belong to the party-hardy people, then this nightlife paradise is definitely for you. Tip: at hotspot Hospoda 99, you can drink the first hour (?! ) free beer, wine, and vodka. Something about asking for trouble and so on...

5. Bydgoszcz, Poland

In the category of serious tongue twisters, I present to you; Bydgoszcz. That byd-gos part is fine, but how do you pronounce those three consonants afterwards? You could knock me out. The fact remains that most Dutch people who take a city trip  to Poland visit Krakow, but what if I told you that Bydgoszcz has an old town that looks like it was plucked straight from a postcard? Additionally, in the beautiful city along the Vistula, you will find the Opera Nova, one of the best classical music concert halls in Europe.

Source: Skyscanner