New Report Ranks Europe's Best Hidden Gem Destinations in 2024

Go somewhere quieter this year.

Summer is fast approaching, and with that comes the summer tourism season. Travelers from around the world are expected to descend upon the European continent for sightseeing in popular cities like London, Paris, and Rome. But what if you're looking for a quiet getaway in an understated town?

A new report published by European Best Destinations offers something for everyone with its list of the best hidden gems in Europe in 2024. Unsurprisingly, Spain claims the most spots on the list, including number one contender Villajoyosa on the country's southeastern coast and number two Ares del Maestrat in the mountains just a few hours north. The northern coastal town of Castro Urdiales also makes the list at number 11. 

Rounding out the top five is the Croatian village of Primošten, located about an hour away from the popular city of Split; the Bokodi Floating Village in Hungary; and the southern Finnish town of Naantali. 

Related: The 10 Best European Summer Vacations Without Crowds

Countries in western continental Europe often get the most attention from tourists, but the ranking shows that there's great destinations all around. The town of Dartlo in Georgia sits at number 10 on the list while the northern Slovakian village of Čičmany ranks at 13 in addition to Croatia's Primošten in third place. And if you're looking to get off the continent, check out Bøur in the Faroe Islands, Landmannalaugar in Iceland, and Pico Island in the Azores. 

Read up on the full list of hidden gems and find one you want to explore yourself this year. 

1. Villajoyosa, Spain
2. Ares del Maestrat, Spain
3. Primošten, Croatia
4. Bokodi Floating Village, Hungary
5. Naantali, Finland
6. Bøur, Faroe Islands
7. Blåvand, Denmark
8. Ulm, Germany
9. Aljezur, Portugal
10. Dartlo, Georgia
11. Castro Urdiales, Spain
12. Landmannalaugar, Iceland
13. Čičmany, Slovakia
14. Pico Island, Azores
15. Pont-en-Royans, France
16. Wuppertal, Germany
17. Le Puy-en-Velay, France
18. Staithes, England