When planning a holiday, travellers might be excused for overlooking the fact thatnumerous other tourists will likely be there too. Those who've ventured to Paris's Louvre Museum have probably encountered the throngs of people shuffling forward to catch a fleeting view of the somewhat modest, yet undeniably famous, Mona Lisa.

Alternatively, you may have wandered through Dubrovnik's Pile Gate, only to discover fellow sightseers converging from every angle, rushing you along through this increasingly popular tourist attraction. Nevertheless, if you're seeking a European location with considerably fewer crowds, North Macedonia is the perfect spot. Wonderfully overlooked, this former Yugoslav nation situated at the centre of the Balkans deserves a visit before other travellers discover its exceptional natural splendour.

Among North Macedonia's treasures is the magnificent and tranquil Lake Ohrid, ranking amongst Europe's most ancient and profound lakes.

Nestled along the mountainous frontier between North Macedonia and Albania, this serene spot has been described as "the most beautiful place on Earth" by Tripadvisor reviewer mani_kalai.

Further along in their review, they maintained their admiration for this picturesque location, noting: "Amazing view, can take a boat trip to see the town view from the lake. Friendly local people, lots of bar[s], restaurants and shop[s]."

According to travel comparison website KAYAK, the average cost for a double room in Ohrid is £52 per night, though prices fluctuate significantly, with some accommodation available for as little as £30 a night.

A three-hour journey from the stunning Lake Ohrid lies North Macedonia's capital, Skopje. Best known as Mother Teresa's birthplace, Skopje is an underrated and quietly charming European destination.

A perfect way to spend an afternoon in Skopje is wandering through the vibrant Old Bazaar, weaving through the cobbled streets of this "astonishing place" as described by Tripadvisor user Arsenie V.

"Enjoy some rakia the way the locals do. I can assure you that you won't get bored in this region because it is very lively," they continued.

Another highlight of Skopje is the historic Stone Bridge, which spans the river connecting the Old Bazaar to the main square, effectively linking the old and new parts of the city.

A bus journey of approximately 45 minutes from Skopje to the magnificent Matka Canyon costs just 35MKD (£0.50) each way, though the views are worth considerably more than the remarkably cheap fare.

Featuring several monasteries and caves, Lake Matka is a stunningly picturesque destination that's certain to gain popularity as its international profile grows.

Vrelo Cave is thought to be among the deepest in Europe, possibly even the world, and the lake offers excellent opportunities for various watersports. Other visitors can savour breathtaking views, dine at exquisite restaurants and embark on boat tours at this hidden gem of a destination.