There is also a clear movement towards slow travel, with the modern-day traveller is not just trying to cross off the list of the well-known sights as fast as possible. Rather, it is the goal to explore the historical layers of a city and more through the eyes of a local. The experience of previous destinations as a hidden gem such as Zagreb in Croatia or Salzburg in Austria, has proven that the market is blooming in the mid-sized cities that offer history, culture, beauty and good food.
In this list, I want to highlight these 3 European cities as the perfect alternatives to more popular destinations and they are Batumi in Georgia, Spa in Belgium and Karlovy Vary in the Czech Republic.
1. Bratislava, the walkable capital of Slovakia
I visited Bratislava a few years ago and loved every minute of it. Not only is it packed with culture, but it's also very affordable. Set along the Danube River and in close reach of Vienna in Austria, which are among Europe's closest capital cities, only being 60km away from each other, but feeling like a world apart.
The pedestrian-only 18th-century old town, with Bratislava Castle perched on a hill overlooking it, which add to how visually beautiful the old town is but you will also find plenty of cafes and bars, creating a lively and friendly atmosphere for such a small Capital. In the old town, you will also come across an array of quirky statues, street art set among a blend of Gothic, Baroque and Communist-era architecture
2. Spa, Belgium: The Original Blueprint of European Wellness
While many in the wellness industry may have already heard or visited the Belgian town of Spa, buried deep in the woodlands of the Ardennes, to others, it will be the first time they are hearing about it. It's the town that inspired the very idea of what a "Spa" is and Spa certainly provides the experience of immersion into the roots of wellness tourism.
The town of Spa is also surrounded by forests, which is perfect for those who like a bit of hiking and cycling, wih plenty of trails to explore. It's also a town that is known for its fine dining, a historic casino, and the famous Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps nearby.
Spa is also home to one of the world's oldest casinos, which opened in 1763 as a place to offer highbrow entertainment to royalty, politicians and celebrities, and still preserves its breathtaking aristocratic architecture to this day. You don't have to be royalty to visit it today as it's welcoming to all if you want to try your luck at one of their slot machines, table games like poker, roulette and blackjack games.
3. Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic: Bohemian Grandeur and Cinematic Legacy
Karlovy Vary, located in the western part of Bohemia, Czech Republic, is another historic Spa town which is known for its 80+ natural thermal springs and over 600 years of healing traditions. Situated in a steep wooded valley, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
It's also known for its architecture with it's grand colonnades, the fancy-adorned covered walkways, and
pastel-colored, super-ornate neo-baroque and Art Nouveau walk-ups with stucco work and wrought-iron balconies form the streets, giving an effect of theatricality without an end or beginning.
This year is also the 60th anniversary of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF), which will take place in July 2026 in the city. KVIFF is the most important film event in Central and Eastern Europe with the status of the elite A-list accreditation.
What European destinations are on your list this year?
