7 European Destinations to Avoid Crowds This Summer

With Europe commanding seven of the top 10 most-touristed countries in the world, Indagare members are increasingly seeking more creative ways to enjoy a summertime European sojourn away from the worst crowds. While the world descends on France, Italy, Spain and the U.K., some lesser-known destinations offer a richness of culture and activity comparable to the hot spots but without the madness. Here are seven European destinations to consider for avoiding the worst of the summer crowds.

The appeal of the Greek islands is mythic—all dramatic cliffs, white-washed buildings and azure seas. While mythology may have made the islands romantic, pop culture icons like Mamma Mia! made them notorious, drawing tourists to Santorini, Mykonos and even the little island of Skopelos where the movie was shot. Syros, though, has managed to slide more under the radar, even in the summer, when tourism is at its peak. A close neighbor to the buzzy isles, Syros blends beach time with culture, offering a wonderful selection of beachfront taverns, Cycladic villages and festivals at almost any time of year—a great way to experience Greek blues music, or rembetika.

Where to Stay: Aristide Hotel

The eastern country of Romania remains (relatively) untouched, despite its artistic and historical depth—not to mention the serenity of the countryside. Bucharest alone offers an enticing alternative to the likes of Paris and London, with its complex history, burgeoning coffee scene, charming old town and notable Belle Époque and Art Nouveau architecture. (The city has even been nicknamed “Little Paris of the East.”) Beyond the capital, Romania has both the quaint medieval villages found across western Europe and a peaceful, pastoral culture reminiscent of rural Italy and Spain. This, coupled with the air of mysticism evoked by medieval castles and Gothic estates like Bran Castle—not to mention the mist of the mountains—makes Romania a quieter European getaway rich with opportunity.

Where to Stay: Matca Hotel Transylvanian Sanctuary; The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection

Indagare Intel: Bucharest has become known for “bookstore tourism,” and book lovers should not miss Cărturești Carusel, a bank that was turned into a multi-story bookstore in the Old Town.

Of all the art-rich destinations in Europe, few will think of Dresden in east Germany, a city that was decimated during World War II but has persevered and been restored to its former glory—the glory that once dubbed it “Florence on the Elbe.” The city takes a page from nearly every major architectural style of the past millennium—from Romanesque to Baroque to Rococo—creating a level of whimsy and historical elegance that rivals some of Europe’s prettiest cities. But the true prize for art and history lovers are the museums. Dresden’s rulers, specifically Augustus the Strong and his son, took to collecting with such fervor that the fruits of their efforts—porcelain, armor, paintings and more—now fill 14 museums across eight buildings, as well as the Green Vault in the Royal Palace, the largest treasure collection in Europe. While Dresden promises fewer crowds—and a lower price tag—the “wow” factor is no less; in fact, it will feel like the treat you didn’t know you needed on your travel list.

Where to Stay: Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski Dresden

Dramatic coastal cliffs, emerald green fjords and an overall rugged beauty have been drawing adventurers to the Scottish Highlands and Icelandic fjords for years, but far fewer venture out to the self-governing archipelago occupying the stretch of the Atlantic between Norway and Iceland. The remote location and untamed landscapes of the Faroe Islands have fostered a culture that is fiercely proud, devoted to tradition and effortlessly hospitable. It is a prime destination for hikers seeking spectacular wilderness that feels untouched and travelers craving that remote village culture that has been eroded in so many other places across Europe.

Where to Stay: Hotel Føroyar

Indagare Intel: Visit in the summer for puffin hatching season and the chance to see pufflings (baby puffins).

The Nordics’ popularity has been surging for years, not only for their “coolcation” status but also for their notably high quality of life, emphasis on sustainability and escapist landscapes. While remote regions like the Norwegian Fjords and Sápmi remain relatively uncrowded, capital cities like Copenhagen and Stockholm are firmly on the world’s radar—which makes Finland, with its equally pristine natural wonders and quieter capital Helsinki, an easy win for those looking to escape the hordes. Helsinki’s sauna culture, easy public transportation and close proximity to nature has turned it into one of the most relaxed—if not the most relaxed—hubs in the Nordics, with a blend of Slavic and Scandinavian influence. Beyond the capital lie 40 national parks to explore, from the otherworldly Finnish Lakeland, where canoes, kayaks and paddleboards allow you to meander the lake plateau, to the Arctic Ranua for reindeer, lynx and possibly even polar bear sightings. It’s the kind of slower-paced escape so many are craving in a world that seems to be spinning faster every day.

Where to Stay: Waldorf Astoria Helsinki; Octola in northern Finland

While Switzerland and the Dolomites beckon outdoors enthusiasts with their crystalline lakes and magnetic mountain scenery, Slovenia is oft-overlooked, despite being home to the fantastical Lake Bled and the limestone peaks and grassy valleys of the Julian Alps. Here, days of hiking and biking are punctuated with forest bathing, foraging and dining on farm-to-table meals—the best of which can be found farther south at three-Michelin-starred Hiša Franko, a bucket-list destination restaurant and boutique hotel. The capital Ljubljana, meanwhile, can be likened to Prague for its blend of Baroque, medieval and Art Nouveau architecture and Stockholm for its dedication to greenery, sustainability and waterside cafe scene (and high quality of living). To add yet another dimension to this multifaceted destination, the Slovenian Riviera, dotted with charming medieval villages, is also home to a collection of small-scale wineries producing biodynamic wines, including orange wine, of which the country is a leading producer.

Where to Stay: Boutique Hotel Vila Planinka in the Julian Alps; April1550 Boutique Hotel in Ljubljana; Hiša Franko and Monstera Estate for foodies

Indagare Tip: Those with a fondness for caves will find a striking network just an hour outside the capital, with spelunking opportunities and a castle to go with them.

Of all the great food and wine cultures of Europe—and there is certainly no shortage—one of the most overlooked is the southeastern country of Georgia, straddling the transcontinental border of Europe and Asia. “It’s one of the few places on Earth where you can witness the ancient techniques of food production and winemaking,” says Indagare editor (and resident foodie) Kathryn Nathanson, who scouted the country in 2023. “For example, you’ll show up at a winery, which is simply a farmer-turned-winemaker’s home, and sit down to a meal with the owner only to find out that the wine you’re tasting is on the menu at some of the best restaurants in the world.” While the Kakheti wine region—with its rolling hills, medieval villages and plethora of natural wine producers and local bites—is the star, those who crave a cosmopolitan complement to their trip will find a characterful city in Tbilisi. Soviet-influenced architecture swaddles a quaint old town with an exciting restaurant scene—and history-lovers can dive into the country’s past through museums and visits to iconic sights, like the Narikala Fortress and the Chronicles of Georgia.

Where to Stay: Tsinandali Estate in Kakheti; Stamba Hotel in Tbilisi

Editor’s Note: While the destinations on this list may not be as crowded as the most popular European destinations, guests should be aware that summer is still peak travel season.