Europe is a vacation hotspot all year round. It is full of different and unique cities to visit! One great thing about Europe is that you can easily start in one country and then travel to another country within a few hours! Having the Eurail Global Pass allowed us to visit so many cities and countries throughout Europe by train. We of course stopped at the “touristy” and “popular” cities in Europe, but we also got off the train at some less well-known and underrated cities. And these cities ended up being some of my favorites! And I think these cities deserve some credit, so here’s my list of 10 underrated cities in Europe!
Belgrade, Serbia
Located in the beautiful country of Serbia, Belgrade should be a city on your wish list. Along with being the capital of Serbia, Belgrade is also the largest city in the country. This city is definitely up and coming with its beautiful streets and historic sites.
Dinner in Skadarlija 
Church of Saint Sava 
Handstand
5 Must-dos:
- Eat burek
- Belgrade fortress
- Walk down Skadarlija
- Knez Mihailova Street
- Church of Saint Sava
Bergen, Norway
This city is a must-visit when in Norway. Nestled amongst mountains and fjords, Bergen is every nature lovers dream. Experience its famous fish market that’s along the harbor and take a step back in time as you walk along its old wharf. For more information on Bergen, check out my 3-day guide to Bergen.
Fjord boat cruise 
Hiking 
Fish Market 
Wharf
5 Must-Dos in Bergen:
- Fish Market
- Fjord boat cruise
- Mt. Floyen
- Aquarium
- Wharf
The Hague, Netherlands
The Netherlands is known for Amsterdam, but this country has tons more to offer! We took the train to the place known as the royal city by the sea, The Hague, and were not disappointed. Between its sights, shopping, museums, festivals, and events, there is something for everyone in this city!
Peace Palace 
The Pier 
Free Beer Co 
5 Must-dos:
- Peace Palace
- The Pier
- Binnenhof
- Museums
- Take a walk along the coast – there are tons of seaside restaurant and bars with outdoor seating
Seville, Spain
This city is known for its flamenco dancing, Real Alcázar, and its 18th century bullring. It is also the home of the Seville Cathedral which is the site of Christopher Columbus’s tomb. Yes, Barcelona and Madrid are the well-known cities in Spain, but Seville should be included on your adventure through Spain. Check out my blog on the top 5 things to do in Seville.
Real Alcázar – A GOT filming location 
Plaza de España – Star Wars filming location 
Bullring 
Real Alcázar
5 Must-dos in Seville:
- Real Alcázar
- Plaza de España
- Parque de María Luisa
- Seville Cathedral
- Giralda
Lyon, France
I had never heard of Lyon until we decided to spend 2 days in this city as we made our way through France. Lyon was beautiful with its gardens, murals, and town squares. Even in scorching heat, we had the best time roaming the streets for hours on end.
Roman Ampitheater 
Basilica 
Mural 
View overlooking Lyon
5 Must-dos:
- The zoo – it’s FREE
- Botanical gardens
- Basilica
- Roman Ampitheater
- Rose Garden
Interlaken, Switzerland
Interlaken may not be considered “underrated”, but it still isn’t as widely talked about as it should be! You know the saying “the mountains are calling and I must go”? Well in this case, you really do have to go to these mountains. They are AMAZING! We only spent a day here, but I definitely need to go back. Every direction you look, there is a view that is out of this world.
View from Harderkulm
5 Must-dos:
- Hiking – I recommend going to the top of Harderkulm!
- Paragliding
- Visit the highest railway station in Europe, Jungfraujoch
- Skydiving
- Kayaking
Dresden, Germany:
Hands down, Dresden is one of my favorite cities in Germany. This city was heavily bombed and destroyed during World War II and was built again from the ground up. It is now a beautiful and prosperous city with a tragic history.
Dresden Frauenkirche 
Procession of Princes 
Zwinger 
5 Must-dos:
- Zwinger
- Brühl’s Terrace
- “Procession of Princes” mural – you can’t miss it, it is 101 meters long!
- Dresden Frauenkirche – this church has one of the largest dome’s in Europe!
- Dresden Castle
Bratislava, Slovakia
Be sure to visit Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Bratislava is set along the Danube River and its pedestrian-only, 18th-century old town is a must-see with its adorable shops and cafes. Be sure to go to the castle that overlooks the old town and the river.
Old Town 
Man at Work sculpture
5 Must-dos:
- Bratislava Castle
- Michael’s Gate
- Man at Work sculpture
- St. Martin’s Cathedral
- Old Town Hall
Ghent, Belgium
This city in Belgium is historic as it was one of the most wealthy cities in Europe during the middle ages. You can definitely still get the medieval feel from Ghent’s beautiful architecture. If you want to visit Ghent, check out my blog called Things to do in Ghent.
Castle that was once overthrown by students 
Local bar 
Cute streets in Ghent 
Medieval skyline
5 Must-dos in Ghent:
- Take a free walking tour
- Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant
- Saint Michael’s Bridge
- St. Bavo’s Cathedral
- Gravensteen
Zagreb, Croatia
We only visited for 24 hours and that definitely was not enough time for us! Filled with museums, parks, shops, and beautiful buildings, Zagreb will have you hooked!
Mesnica NENO 
Park Zrinjevac 
Plitvice Lakes National Park
5 Must-dos
- Mesnica NENO – a large market full of flowers, veggies, fruits, and meats!
- Day trip to Plitvice Lake National Park
- Art Pavilion
- Cathedral of the Assumption
- Park Zrinjevac
There are so many more places in Europe that are amazing in their unique ways and it was hard picking 10 of my favorites. I have been to Europe multiple times now and every time I find a new favorite place, try delicious food, and meet amazing people. I urge you to go outside of your comfort zone and explore the cities that aren’t widely talked about, I think you will be pleasantly surprised!
If you are looking for affordable accommodation in these cities, check out Hostelworld! They have tons of hostels to choose from all around the world!
