The Summer Destinations Most People Have Not Found Yet

Every summer, millions of travellers head to the same destinations.

Santorini, Mallorca, Dubrovnik, Amsterdam, and Oslo all have plenty to offer, but they also come with one thing many travellers are trying to avoid: crowds.

One of the questions we get asked most at this time of year is:

"Where can we go that isn't too busy?"

The good news is that Europe is full of incredible destinations that offer the same beautiful scenery, fantastic food, rich culture, and wonderful hotels, often without quite so many people.

Here are some of our favourite alternatives.

Instead of Santorini, Try Milos

While Santorini is famous for its whitewashed villages and dramatic sunsets, Milos remains one of Greece's best-kept secrets.

Known for its crystal-clear waters, colourful fishing villages, and more than 70 beaches, Milos offers a far more relaxed experience. Spend your days exploring hidden coves, swimming in turquoise bays, and enjoying long lunches overlooking the sea.

Stay: Milos Cove Resort & Spa

Instead of Mallorca, Try Menorca

Menorca is often overshadowed by its larger Balearic neighbours, but that is exactly why we love it.

The island is home to some of the Mediterranean's most beautiful beaches, charming harbour towns, and a slower pace of life that feels increasingly rare during the summer months.

Whether you're looking for a family holiday or a romantic escape, Menorca offers the perfect balance of authenticity and luxury.

Stay: Vestige Son Vell

Instead of Porto, Try Braga

Portugal's oldest city is often overlooked in favour of Porto and Lisbon.

Braga combines beautiful architecture, excellent food, historic churches, and a wonderfully local atmosphere. Wander through cobbled streets, discover traditional restaurants, and enjoy a city that feels genuinely Portuguese.

Stay: Vila Galé Collection Braga

Instead of Dubrovnik, Try Mostar

Croatia's coastline continues to grow in popularity, but just across the border lies one of Europe's most fascinating hidden gems.

Mostar is famous for its iconic stone bridge, charming old town, nearby vineyards, waterfalls, and mountain scenery. It offers a completely different experience to the Adriatic hotspots while remaining just as beautiful.

Stay: Muslibegović House

Instead of Amsterdam, Try Rotterdam

Creative, modern, and packed with culture, Rotterdam offers a completely different side of the Netherlands.

Expect striking architecture, excellent restaurants, waterside living, and a vibrant atmosphere. It feels younger, fresher, and often less crowded than Amsterdam.

Stay: Hotel New York

Instead of Oslo, Try Bergen

For those who love the outdoors, Bergen is hard to beat.

Colourful waterfront houses, dramatic fjords, mountain hikes, and some of Norway's most spectacular scenery are all right on your doorstep. It is the perfect destination for travellers who want to combine culture with adventure.

Stay: Bergen Børs Hotel

A Few More Hidden Gems We Love

Ourense, Spain

Tucked away in Galicia, Ourense is known for its Roman thermal baths, fantastic food scene, and authentic Spanish atmosphere. It remains surprisingly under the radar despite being one of Spain's oldest cities.

Tallinn, Estonia

With its UNESCO-listed Old Town, medieval architecture, and long summer evenings, Tallinn is one of Europe's most charming city breaks.

Lake Thun, Switzerland

Often overlooked in favour of Lake Geneva or Lucerne, Lake Thun offers spectacular mountain scenery, charming villages, water sports, and beautiful lakeside hotels.

Sometimes the Best Trips Are the Ones Nobody Else Is Taking

While Europe's most famous destinations will always have their place, some of our favourite client trips are the ones that venture slightly off the beaten track.

Whether you're looking for fewer crowds, better value, or simply somewhere a little different, these destinations prove that some of Europe's best experiences are still waiting to be discovered.

If you'd like help finding your perfect summer escape, we'd love to help.