6 alternative European cities that need to go on your travel bucket list
Looking for a weekend break with a bit of a difference?
Why not look beyond Berlin and Amsterdam, and try some of the alternative destinations Europe has to offer.
Here's our top picks:
1. Bonn – Germany
Located on the banks of the Rhine in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia, Bonn effortlessly combines a nostalgic historical flair with a lively urban vibe.
With a huge selection of top-rated museums and a picturesque riverside setting, Bonn is the perfect city for a relaxing weekend away.
Oh, and it's also home to a number of cherry blossom tunnelled streets, which are every bit as magical as they sound.
2. Riga – Latvia
While Latvia's capital may have held onto its classic Gothic aesthetic, it's flamboyant art, trendy bar scene and youthful population give this vibrant city a fresh and modern vibe.
The streets of the pedestrian-only Old Town are steeped with culture and seeing as art nouveau architecture makes up roughly one-third of all the buildings in the city centre, it's the ideal destination for art lovers who aren't afraid to let their hair down.
3. Vilnius – Lithuania
This charming and compact city is the perfect destination for anyone looking for incredible value for money.
Visitors can immerse themselves in a warming sense of historical awareness, or simply soak up the culture in the city's bustling cafe scene.
What's more, the cobbled streets boast some of the most Instagrammable graffiti eastern Europe has to offer.
4. Girona – Spain
Located just over 100km North East of Barcelona, the so called “City of the Four River” serves as the capital of the Girona Province in Catalonia.
Its winding streets and old city walls offer the perfect base for travellers who wish the explore the surrounding areas, and with Ryanair offering Irish passenegers a direct flight from Dublin, it's be rude not to, really.
5. Sintra – Portugal
Often described as a Portuguese fairytale, this picturesque town is nestled among the pine-covered hill of the Serra de Sintra.
A popular destination for those looking to take a day trip away from Lisbon, this magical resort is famous for its hilltop 19th-century Pena National Palace that boasts a whimsical design and spectacular views.
6. Utrecht – The Netherlands
Often overlooked by tourists who instead flock to the neighbouring cities of Amsterdam and Rotterdam, this vibrant student centre offers all the charm of a mediaeval Dutch city – minus the stag parties.
Its canals are some of the prettiest in Europe and with world-class festivals, hip cafes and fascinating museums, it is truly The Netherland's hidden gem.
