Top 10 Underrated Cities In Europe For Solo Travel

You know about Paris, Rome, Amsterdam… all the usual suspects of solo travel in Europe. But what about those hidden gems, the top 10 most underrated cities in Europe for solo travel?

There’s something exhilarating about veering off the beaten path and discovering cities you’d never considered. Europe is full of these overlooked treasures, each deserving as much love as their more renowned counterparts.

As a flight attendant exclusively roaming Europe for five years, I’ve stumbled upon cities I never knew existed. From the top of my head, places like Linkoping, Vaxjo, and Sandefjord sparked my curiosity.

Now, I’ve made it my mission to shed light on these hidden gems that often get overshadowed when planning a European solo travel city trip!

1. Krakow

My initial impression of Poland was sceptical when it first appeared on my roster. I had assumed it would be old and dull. But oh, how wrong I was! Poland has quickly become one of my favourite destinations, earning a spot in the top 10 most fantastic underrated cities to visit in Europe.

Krakow, in particular, stole my heart with its incredible restaurants, vibrant bars, picturesque town square, stunning architecture, and rich history. While it resembles Prague, I found Krakow to be cleaner and brighter.

Their affordability makes Krakow and Poland stand out, making them ideal budget destinations. And don’t miss out on indulging in the local delicacy, ‘pierogi’ – those mouthwatering dumplings filled with meat or cheese are a true delight.

For those interested in delving into World War II history, a visit to Auschwitz is possible. Guided tours are available, offering an educational experience. It’s crucial to remind ourselves of the atrocities of the past to ensure they never happen again.

Where to stay?

Check out the top-rated White Room Apartment or the Apartment Golden Place for a place to stay. Or check out the full accommodation list with hotels in Krakow.

What to do?

There are plenty of fun and educational tours to do. Check out these amazing tours in Krakow!

Where to eat/ drink?

Have dinner at La Campana. The food and staff are excellent, and there is a beautiful garden to sit in. Teatro Cubano is a great place for drinks and a great night out if you’re into Latin music.

2. Malaga

If you’re searching for an underrated solo travel destination in Europe, let me introduce you to the charming city of Málaga on Spain’s Costa del Sol. As a seasoned traveller and flight attendant, I can assure you that Málaga is a gem perfect for solo female travellers.

Málaga combines rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Imagine strolling through narrow streets with pastel-coloured buildings, the scent of tapas in the air, and the Mediterranean Sea sparkling nearby. The city’s friendly locals, known as Malagueños, will make you feel right at home, and its safety and ease of navigation are perfect for solo explorers.

Kick off your adventure with a visit to the ancient Alcazaba fortress for panoramic city and sea views. History enthusiasts will love the Roman Theatre and Picasso Museum, celebrating Málaga’s most famous son. For a modern twist, head to the trendy Soho district, filled with street art, chic cafes, and unique boutiques.

Of course, no visit to Málaga is complete without indulging in delicious tapas and fresh seafood. And don’t forget to relax on the beautiful beaches, like Playa de la Malagueta, or enjoy a peaceful promenade stroll.

3. Gothenburg

Gothenburg, Sweden’s second-largest city, often flies under the radar, but I think it surpasses Stockholm as a destination. With its picturesque canals reminiscent of Amsterdam, trendy coffee bars, juice joints, and health-conscious eateries, Gothenburg exudes a unique charm.

The city boasts a vibrant shopping scene and a relaxed, youthful atmosphere that’s hard to resist. Swedes are known for their impeccable style, and Gothenburg is no exception. Even before Covid, they were rocking athleisure with effortless flair.

The locals’ English proficiency is impressive, surpassing the Dutch’s fluency. Undoubtedly, Gothenburg deserves more recognition as a travel destination in Europe.

Whether planning a trip to Sweden or exploring Scandinavia, Gothenburg is a must-visit. And if you’re a fan of theme parks, Liseberg shouldn’t be missed – it’s the most popular theme park in Scandinavia.

Where to stay?

Sleep in the Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel, which has a great central location, or check out the complete list of hotels in Gothenburg.

Where to eat/ drink?

Have delicious Thai food at a tuk-tuk table at Moon Thai Kitchen.

What to do?

Check out all activities in Gothenburg.

4. Nuremberg

My first impression of Nuremberg was the Stadtstrand Summer In The City, where they’ve created a beach oasis right in the heart of the city. It’s the perfect spot to kick back, sink your toes into the sand, and enjoy refreshing drinks and bites.

But Nuremberg offers much more. Its historic medieval city centre boasts many restaurants, cosy pubs serving cold brews, and fascinating museums to satisfy your thirst for history. The Old Town exudes medieval charm with its impressive architecture, grand churches, and ancient castles.

Nuremberg played a significant role during World War II, and like Krakow, it has undergone extensive rebuilding efforts since then. The Documentation Center Museum offers insight into the city’s wartime history and reconstruction.

For a truly magical experience, visit Nuremberg during Christmas. The city transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with festive decorations and hosts a sprawling Christmas Market that enchants your trip!

Nuremberg is definitely one of the underrated cities in Europe for solo travel!

Where to stay?

Check out the top-rated Adina Apartment Hotel for accommodation, or check out the complete list of hotels in Nuremberg.

What to do?

Check out all Nuremberg tours here!

Where to eat/ drink?

For authentic German food and beers, go to Hausbrauerei Altstadthof

5. Utrecht

No compilation of Europe’s most underrated gems would be complete without a Dutch city. While Amsterdam tends to steal the spotlight, the Netherlands boasts other equally enchanting destinations.

Enter Utrecht, the epitome of quintessential Dutch charm. With its winding canals, picturesque streets, inviting terraces, cheese emporiums, and iconic architecture, Utrecht embodies everything you’d expect from a Dutch city. And the best part? It’s just a short 40-minute journey from Amsterdam.

What sets Utrecht apart are its underground bars and eateries nestled in centuries-old cellars along the canals. It’s a unique experience that’s hard to describe but captured perfectly in the photo above. These hidden gems are exclusive to Utrecht and offer a charm unlike anywhere else.

For these reasons, Utrecht unquestionably earns its place among the top 10 most underrated fantastic cities in Europe for solo travel.

Where to stay?

Sleep in the top-rated The Hunfeld Hotel located in the city centre, or check out these hotels in Utrecht.

What to do?

What about a tour through the canals? Check out these Utrecht tours and find one that suits you.

Where to eat/drink?

Street Food Club is famous in Utrecht! It serves amazing street-style food and has a kick-ass interior. You can start with a cocktail in the beautiful Ruby Rose Wine Bar.

6. Bilbao

Bilbao is nestled in the northern reaches of Spain’s Basque Country and is renowned for its iconic Guggenheim Museum. However, it’s also celebrated for its unique twist on tapas known as pintxos – bites served on small slices of bread. Pintxos bars dot the cityscape, inviting visitors to indulge in this flavorful tradition.

What sets Bilbao apart is its affordability compared to other Spanish metropolises. I vividly recall sipping on a glass of rosé for a mere €2, initially questioning if it was a mistake. Beyond its culinary delights, Bilbao has charming squares, a vibrant shopping scene boasting Spanish staples like El Corte Inglés, and plenty of cultural attractions.

Navigating Bilbao is a breeze thanks to its efficient metro system, which eliminates the need for costly Ubers. Just be sure to pack an umbrella—the city’s frequent rainfall is no secret.

For those with a penchant for surfing, Bilbao lies within easy reach of a prime surf beach, approximately an hour away. While I’ve yet to visit myself, colleagues rave about Bilbao’s allure as a surf destination, further cementing its status as one of Europe’s most underrated cities for solo travel.

Where to stay?

To sleep, check out the top-rated ByPillow Amari in the centre or find other awesome hotels in Bilbao.

What to do?

What about a bike tour through the city? Check out these fantastic Bilbao tours!

Where to eat/ drink?

A great little pintxos bar on a cosy square is Cafe Bar Bilbao. Check the menu inside on the boards and order at your table. Bring home the local pastry “pasteles de arroz” from Pastelería Arrese 1852.

7. The Hague

Let me tell you about The Hague, a gem in the Netherlands, perfect for solo female travellers. And the city where I was born!

The Hague, known locally as ‘Den Haag, ‘ effortlessly blends rich history with modern sophistication. It is a delightful mix of culture, art, and seaside charm, all in a safe and welcoming environment.

Start your adventure with a visit to the stunning Binnenhof, the heart of Dutch politics, and marvel at its gothic architecture. Art lovers will be in heaven at the Mauritshuis, home to masterpieces like Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring.” The city’s vibrant cultural scene extends to the Escher Museum and the Peace Palace, symbolising international justice and peace.

For a breath of fresh air, head to Scheveningen Beach. Whether relaxing on the sandy shores or exploring the bustling promenade, the seaside vibe is irresistible. The city’s excellent public transportation makes it easy to get around, and its compact size is perfect for exploring on foot or by bike.

With its rich cultural heritage and beautiful parks, The Hague offers a unique and enriching solo travel experience. Safe travels, and enjoy exploring this Dutch delight!

8. Turin

While Rome, Milan, and Florence often steal the spotlight, Turin in Italy is equally breathtaking. Unfortunately, it tends to be overshadowed by its more famous counterparts.

Renowned for hosting the Olympics in 2006, Turin offers the same allure as other Italian cities but with fewer crowds and a more budget-friendly appeal. This is in contrast to Florence, which can feel overwhelmingly crowded, especially during the sweltering summer months.

Turin has excellent restaurants, charming wine bars, and delicious gelato shops, all set against stunning baroque architecture. History enthusiasts will delight in the Egyptian Museum of Turin, which offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient art and culture.

Before you leave, purchase a bottle of limoncello and a chunk of Parmigiano to savour the region’s flavours at home. Embrace the Italian way of life by renting a Vespa to explore the city at your own pace. And what better way to conclude your day than with a refreshing Aperol Spritz?

Where to stay?

To sleep, check out the top-rated Residenza Dell’ Opera Hotel.

What to do?

Check out all these fantastic Turin tours!

Where to eat/ drink?

For a quick but good breakfast, check out 1610 Bagel Torino. This place has amazing bagel sandwiches! If you’re in the mood for gelato, go to Gelateria La Romana. They have multiple locations in town.

9. Bordeaux

It took me some time to truly appreciate Bordeaux’s magnificence. Once I did, I was astounded that I had overlooked this hidden gem in Europe so many times.

Savouring a glass of Bordeaux wine in its namesake city is an unparalleled experience. The city centre is big, with shops, restaurants, terraces, charming squares, and French bistros. Bordeaux offers all the amenities of a bustling city, including amazing cuisine and exquisite wines.

For picturesque views, head to the Stone Bridge, which offers fantastic views across the river and serves as a prime photo spot. Similarly, the iconic Place de la Bourse is a must-visit, boasting a reputation as one of Bordeaux’s most renowned squares.

For wine lovers like myself, keen on delving into winemaking, the Saint-Emilion Wine Tasting Experience promises a great afternoon! It’s a must-do as one of the underrated cities in Europe for solo travel.

Where to stay?

Check out this top-rated Aparthotel Adagio in the centre of Bordeaux for accommodation, or check out all the accommodations in Bordeaux.

What to do?

Check out all Bordeaux tours here!

Where to eat/ drink?

If you’re looking for a great night out with an excellent dinner, check out restaurant Nofa.

10. Gdansk

Gdansk sits gracefully by the sea. Its city centre is reminiscent of Krakow but adorned with even more vibrant hues. The picturesque buildings lining the waterfront provide a stunning backdrop for unforgettable photographs.

Like any medieval city, Gdansk is steeped in history. It boasts magnificent architecture, ancient cathedrals, and many cosy cafes and restaurants. Despite being smaller and less renowned than Krakow, Gdansk offers a charming alternative, perfect for a weekend getaway. It encompasses all the offerings of a bustling city but with an added sense of intimacy.

For those seeking vibrancy, Gdansk doesn’t disappoint with its rooftop bars offering breathtaking views and top-notch hotels providing luxurious yet affordable accommodations.

Where to stay?

To sleep, check out the top-rated Fama Residence Hotel in the middle of the Old Town or check out the complete list of accommodations in Gdansk.

What to do?

Check out all these tours in Gdansk!

Where to eat/drink?

Check out Pierogarnia, which offers a wide selection of different pierogi. It’s my favourite spot for dumplings! Check out Literacka Restaurant, a lovely restaurant for dinner and great wines!

I hope this list of the top 10 most underrated cities in Europe for solo travel has sparked some ideas! I’ve been to each of these cities and can vow for them for a perfect weekend away.

And if you’re a wine lover and a foodie like me, Bordeaux, Turin, and Bilbao are a must-visit!