Europe is always a great choice for a holiday especially as a solo traveller. The whole continent is diverse with something for every type of solo. If you’re planning a getaway this summer and are looking for somewhere different to visit, I’ve included some of the hidden gems in the most popular countries in Europe below. Avoid the crowds and help spread tourism through these countries instead.
Antibes
France
Antibes
There is no shortage of beautiful destinations to visit in France during the summer. I love France and can’t wait to go back and explore more of the country. Everyone knows Paris but somewhere that is lesser known is the seaside city of Antibes, situated on the French Riviera between Nice and Cannes.
Antibes has its unique charm and famous people are connected to the city, including Pablo Picasso, Aristotle Onassis, and Gloria Guinness. You can also find the first museum in the world to be dedicated to the works of Picasso there.
In Antibes, make sure to visit Fort Carré, a star-shaped fortress that was commissioned by Henry II of France in the 16th century. It was built during a time when Antibes stood right on the frontier with the Duchy of Savoy, giving it huge strategic importance.
Albi
Albi
Albi, a commune in southern France, is home to the Musée Toulouse-Lautrec and forms part of the UNESCO-listed Episcopal City of Albi, recognised for its distinctive red-brick architecture and well-preserved historic centre. Avignon, located on the left bank of the Rhône, is historically significant as the seat of the papacy in the 14th century.
You can also visit the Rocher des Doms, a peaceful green space with views over the river and surrounding area. While Avignon itself isn’t specifically known as a major producer, the wider Provence region is well known for its fresh fruit and vegetables, which you’ll find in local markets.
Cartagena
Spain
Cartagena
There are so many places to see in Spain. I lived there for 2 years and barely scratched the surface of the country. And if it’s sun that you need, then you’ll be happy to know that Spain is known for having the sunniest cities in Europe with Cartagena ranking number one!
Situated on Spain’s southeastern coast, it’s a historic port city that’s often overlooked by travellers. The town is packed with Roman ruins, including a well-preserved theatre and ancient city walls, alongside a charming old town full of pastel-coloured buildings. You can wander the narrow streets, visit the naval museum, and climb up to the Castillo de la Concepción for panoramic views over the harbour and coastline.
Murcia
Murcia, further inland, is a lively city with a strong sense of local culture. Its baroque architecture shines in the cathedral and the many churches scattered throughout the city, while the surrounding orchards and huertas show why the region is known as the “huerta de Europa” (Europe’s orchard). Murcia also has a relaxed vibe, with cafés lining the plazas and local markets offering a glimpse into everyday life in southern Spain.
Saragossa (Zaragoza)
Saragossa, located along the Ebro River, is a city of fascinating history and bold architecture. The Basilica del Pilar dominates the skyline, but there’s also a Roman theatre, medieval streets, and modernist buildings to explore. It’s a great city to wander on foot, with vibrant tapas bars, cultural festivals, and plenty of corners where history and contemporary life meet, all without the crowds of Spain’s bigger cities.
Meersburg
Germany
Lake Constance
Located where Germany, Austria and Switzerland all meet is Bodensee, (known as Lake Constance in English). It’s a popular spot for leisure visitors, offering plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors from sightseeing and swimming to sailing across the lake. For a unique perspective, you can even take a scenic aerial Zeppelin trip and see the rolling hills and Alps from above.
Some of the most important cities and towns you can stop by are Konstanz, which retains sections of its old city wall; Meersburg, which has a well-preserved mediaeval town that is pedestrian-only; and Lindau, which is on an island connected to the mainland through a railway and road bridge.
Sankt Goar
A different type of historical charm awaits along the Middle Rhine, further north. Sankt Goar is named after a 7th-century hermit and priest, revered as a miracle worker. Its main attraction, Burg Rheinfels, dates back to the 1240s, though the original castle was five times larger.
Across the river, the sister town of Sankt Goarshausen is known for two striking castles: Katz and Maus (“cat” and “mouse”), built in the mid- to late-1300s. Some of the outer buildings in the area have been converted into wellness centres, restaurants, and luxury hotels, making it easy to combine history with relaxation.
Rugen
For those who want to spend time by the sea, Rugen, Germany’s largest island, is an ideal choice. The island has plenty of seaside resorts, including the popular Villa Meeresgruss, wide sandy beaches, and natural attractions like the chalk cliffs in Jasmund National Park. The Mönchgut peninsula, with its lagoons and countryside, is another lovely spot to explore.
Cuxhaven
Further along the northern coast, Cuxhaven in Lower Saxony offers a similar seaside climate, while the island of Sylt, the largest of North Frisia, is famous for its resorts, particularly Kampen, and has also inspired many painters over the years.
Romantische Strasse
For a completely different experience inland, the Romantische Strasse stretches 460 kilometres through southern Germany, offering stunning architecture, historic towns, and scenic landscapes. It’s a great option for travellers who want a mix of culture, history, and picturesque views.
San Gimignano
Italy
San Gimignano
Italy is the quintessential summer destination, and many of its best-known spots are familiar even to those who haven’t visited them personally. But there are some hidden gems you should consider seeing as well. San Gimignano is one of them.
San Gimignano is a walled hill town that retains much of its charming medieval architecture, with tower houses creating a unique skyline. The Piazza della Cisterna is the town’s main square, built in a triangular shape and surrounded by medieval houses. Towers you can visit include the Torre del Diavolo, Torre Grossa (the tallest in San Gimignano), and Torre Rognosa.
Orvieto
Orvieto, in southwestern Umbria, sits atop a cliff with defensive walls built from local stone. Its cathedral is approximately eight centuries old. Visitors can also explore the Pozzo di San Patrizio, an impressive well built during the Renaissance, as well as a labyrinth of tunnels, caves, quarries, wells, staircases, and secret passages historically used by noble households during sieges.
Lecce
Located in southern Italy, Lecce is renowned for its Baroque architecture made from soft local limestone that allows intricate sculptures and designs. It’s also an important centre for wine and ceramics. Landmarks include the Piazza del Duomo, the Roman amphitheatre, the Castle of Charles V, the botanical garden, and archaeological museums.
Final Thoughts
I hope this article inspires you to travel somewhere off the beaten path this summer. Don’t forget to check out the solo travel guides for Spain, Italy, Germany and France for more ideas on where to travel to.
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