With almost 50 countries, hundreds of cities and a mind-boggling array of natural destinations, Europe has endless possibilities of places to explore, sights to see and delicious foods to taste however one of best ways of getting a true sense of European life is by heading to the fairly off the radar places.
From Italy to Iceland, there’s a whole array of amazing places to visit that are fairly far from the madding crowd
Take a look at Europe’s most stunning off the radar destinations to visit this year:
1.) Faroe Islands
This small archipelago is situated in between Scotland and Iceland with strong connections to Denmark.
Faroese nature is as dramatic as you can expect; dramatic cliffs, dramatic lakes… dramatic everything! The islands are nature lovers paradise.
Read more: Best things to do in the Faroe Islands
2.) Isles of Scilly, England
The Isles of Scilly is one of the UK’s best-kept secrets. These almost tropical islands are warmed by the Gulf Stream currents from the Caribbean, giving it a warmer climate than the rest of the UK.
Filled with white sandy beaches, palm trees and unspoilt nature, the Isles of Scilly are perfect if you want to explore an unspoilt slice of UK life at a relaxed pace. You can even snorkel with seals! 🙂
Inspired to visit the Isles of Scilly? See more of its stunning islands during a one-week travel itinerary.
3.) Gdańsk, Poland
This quaint sea-side city in northern Poland is a wonderful place to spend a weekend exploring the heritage, delicious food and charm of Poland.
Travel here to enjoy its historical allure and learn much more about the cities prized possession, amber.
Read more: Best things to do in Gdansk
4.) Stromboli Island, Italy
This small volcanic island is just off the north coast of Sicily in Italy (not to be confused with Scilly, in the UK). Complete with a picturesque fishing village this island is best visited in summer when day trips leave from the mainland and Sicily.
Discover its small island charm, fishing community and dramatic landscape that basks in the sunshine of the Mediterranean.
If you’re visiting Sicily, take a look at our post on spending a weekend in its biggest city, Palermo.
5.) Dyrhólaey, Iceland 
About 5 hours drive from Reykjavik is Dyrhólaey, situated in a South Easterly direction from Iceland’s capital city.
Not only is this area of Iceland perfect for nature lovers, but it’s also one of the best places to view the Northern Lights.
Almost total blackness and limited light pollution make this area a stunning backdrop for the light show overhead.
Visiting Iceland? Take a look at our comprehensive plan to visit the island in 5 days. Not sure what you need to pack? Then read here.
6.) Bratislava, Slovakia
This Eastern European capital city is a picture-perfect place to explore a little slice of Slovakian charm. Wander through its cobbled streets and grab some hot cocoa and roasted butter corn.
Don’t forget to visit the beautiful Bratislava and Devin castles.
Read more: What to do in Bratislava
7.) Lake Bled, Slovenia
Nestled within the Julian Alps of Slovenia, Lake Bled is arguably one of Europe’s prettiest lakes.
Head to the northwest of this small European country and explore the pristine nature of the Carniolan region.
Read more: Visiting the oldest town in Slovenia
8.) Bornholm, Denmark
Bornholm is a small danish island that sits within the Baltic Sea. Take a ferry to this island or travel directly from the amazing city of Copenhagen, which is amazing to explore.
A perfect little island that’s regularly missed when travelling around the Baltic Sea.
Read more: Best things to do in Copenhagen
9.) Portmeirion, Wales, United Kingdom
This stunning Italian town is actually not in Italy at all but nestled in Snowdonia National Park in Wales.
Famed for its beautiful architecture, Cambrian views and relaxed charm, it is the perfect place to spend a day (or a few nights in the town’s hotel) while eating gelato and enjoying its surroundings.
Read more: Best things to do in Wales
10.) Montepulciano, Italy
Montepulciano is a medieval town perched high in southern Tuscany.
Take a wander around its independent craft and art shops while sipping on some of the regions award-winning wines. Standing over 600 metres high, you’ll also have some stunning views across the Tuscan countryside.
Bellissimo!
Read more: Best cities in Italy to explore
Check Out The Very Best Of Great Britain!
