Explore Europe’s most unusual, hidden, and fascinating places. From fairy-tale villages and dramatic coastlines to mysterious ancient sites, surreal landscapes, abandoned towns, and quirky architectural wonders — discover the strange, beautiful, and lesser-known destinations that make Europe unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or exploring the continent’s remote corners, this guide highlights Europe’s most unique, unusual, and breathtaking spots.
2,500 years ago, the Etruscans founded an isolated, rugged hilltop town in the Lazio region which eventually became known as Civita di Bagnoregio. Due to its remote location, the fortunes of Civita di Bagnoregio have ebbed and flowed through the centuries. In the 21 st century, the permanent population of the village has teeterd between…
In 1887, a catastrophic earthquake struck Northern Italy. The medieval town of Bussana was badly damaged. Residents had no choice but to flee the ruins and build a new town a short distance from Bussana Vecchia—or, Old Bussana. Bussana Vecchia languished until a wave of settlers in the late 1940s began to illegally inhabit the…
When most people envision a trip to Greece, they imagine themselves floating in the blue waters of the Aegean Sea or watching the sun rise over the Acropolis in Athens. Until recently, the mountainous interior of Greece didn’t appear on many travel itineraries because it was difficult to access due to roads that were either…
After spending a few hours admiring Villajoyosa’s colorful buildings, gorgeous beaches, and relaxing yet delicious eateries, you will hardly be surprised that the English translation of Villajoyosa is “joyful town.” Located in Alicante on Spain’s Mediterranean Coast, Villajoyosa is the ideal spot to spend a day or two soaking in the sun. One of Villajoyosa’s…
Castles have always drawn attention with their grandeur and mystery. Yet some of them are surrounded by legends that make your heart beat faster — whispers of ghosts, strange noises, and inexplicable phenomena. Denmark’s Dragsholm, Britain’s Bodelwyddan, and, of course, Romania’s Bran — they have become iconic symbols of horror and mysticism, attracting tourists and…
Die-hard fans of the show Game of Thrones agree that one of the most memorable episodes of the series is “Kissed by Fire,” when Jon Snow has a romantic rendezvous with his nemesis-turned-lover Ygritte in a gorgeous cave that looks as fantastical as the dragons that that fly through the skies of Westeros. Located in…
Some cities feel like open books — others, like Prague, are written in code. Every corner hides a whisper, every stone carries a symbol. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down, look closer, and wonder what lies beneath the surface. It’s no coincidence that Dan Brown, the master of hidden messages and…
One of Italy’s greatest treasures (besides the food, sea, sun, and architecture) is the Dolomites. These mountains sit in the country’s northeast and stretch for about 150 km (93 miles). You’ll find pine forests, glaciers, alpine meadows—and incredibly clean air. The Dolomites are one of the most beloved destinations for travelers. You can go mountaineering,…