Sicily is one of the less-visited destinations

With anti-tourism protests sweeping across popular holiday hotspots in Europe and the introduction of tourist taxes, travellers are seeking out quieter and less popular areas around the continent for their summer getaways.

Those looking for the less-visited destinations do not need to sacrifice any of the beauty or interest of a more well-known spot. Europe is full of less popular towns and islands that offer stunning beaches, breathtaking mountains, historic settlements, and rich cultural heritage. Here are 11 incredible European destinations to visit in 2026 that could surpass usual spots like Tenerife and Benidorm as your favourite holiday.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

A well-preserved medieval German fairytale town in Bavaria, it is known for its intact city walls, half-timbered houses, and cobblestone lanes, making it a highlight of Germany's Romantic Road.

Sardinia

Italy's second-largest Mediterranean island is famous for its stunning turquoise waters, beautiful beaches, rugged coastline, ancient history (including unique Nuragic ruins), and vibrant towns like Cagliari.

Tatra Mountains

The dramatic natural border between Slovakia and Poland is known for its stunning alpine scenery, glacial lakes, hiking, skiing, and abundant wildlife, including chamois and lynx.

Sicily

Italy's largest Mediterranean island is renowned for its blend of Greek, Roman, Arab, and Norman history, Baroque architecture, vibrant culture, and dramatic landscapes ( including Mount Etna), and beautiful beaches.

Lofoten Islands

The Norwegian archipelago above the Arctic Circle is renowned for its dramatic mountains rising from the sea, pretty fishing villages, pristine beaches, and phenomena, such as the Midnight Sun and Northern Lights.

Transylvania

A historic and culturally rich region in central Romania, famous for its stunning mountain landscapes, medieval towns, its association with the Dracula legend, and wildlife (bears, wolves, lynx).

Isle of Skye

Scotland's largest Inner Hebridean island is famed for its rugged landscapes (including the Old Man of Storr and the Fairy Pools), harbourside views, castles, and Viking history.

Kefalonia

Greece's largest Ionian island is famous for its stunning natural beauty, dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque villages, offering a blend of relaxation, adventure, and history.

La Rioja

The province in northern Spain is renowned for its wine production, with the region containing over 500 wineries. It is also home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a pilgrimage route, and is popular for hot ballooning.

Sligo

The vibrant Irish city is known as "Yeats Country" for its inspiration to poet W.B. Yeats, offering stunning landscapes like Benbulben Mountain, rich history, coastal adventures, and a lively cultural scene.

Annecy

The picturesque city in the French Alps, known for its medieval old town (Vieille Ville) with pastel houses, charming canals, and cobblestone streets leading to Lake Annecy.