The Most Underrated Cities in Europe (according to Lauren)

European summertime is calling! It’s serving up countryside trails, cultural delights, good food and even better wine.

 

After a few years of travel, Lauren shares seven EU cities she reckons deserve a bit more hype. Looking beyond the usual favourites of Paris, Rome, and Berlin we find some lesser-known (more affordable) cities… without the annoying crowds.

Bologna, Italy

Frequently outshined by its more famous neighbour, Florence, this vibrant university city is a paradise for food lovers. Known for its affordability, Bologna offers that quintessential Italian vibe bursting with history and culture. It's the gateway to the scenic Via Degli Dei hiking trail to Florence and is just a 3.5-hour drive from the Dolomites. The city's ancient heart is lined with extensive porticos and is home to the oldest university in Europe. Delving into Bologna's culinary offerings is essential; from the classic ragù alla bolognese to freshly made tortellini.

 

 

León, Spain

In Spain's northwest, along the Camino De Santiago's Way of St. James sits León, a haven of historical relics, epic eats and beautiful nature. The city's Gothic cathedral features stunning stained glass windows and deserves as much acclaim as its lesser-known but equally impressive Casa Botines, designed by Gaudí himself! León’s packed with tapas bars, and restaurants which offer a delicious introduction to the local cuisine and you’ll find live music on every street!

 

Bayonne, France

This Basque city is famous for its chocolate and cured hams, vibrant festivals, and rich history. Surrounded by French countryside, hit the trails or stroll along the Nive and Adour rivers, explore its half-timbered houses, and indulge in the delightful blend of French and Basque traditions which influence their food and wine.

 

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mostar is arguably one of the most picturesque cities in the Balkans with its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) uniting the diverse cultures of this historic city. The cobblestone streets, bustling bazaar, and serene views of the Neretva River invite visitors to discover the compelling history and resilience of Mostar. It should be added to any EU itinerary and is only a day trip from Split, Croatia!

 

Porto, Portugal

Nestled along the Douro River, Porto enchants visitors with its vibrant bar scene and baroque architecture. Renowned for its port wine, stored and savoured by locals and visitors alike, this city invites you to wander through its cobbled alleyway to discover riverside cafes and visit its historic wine cellars. The surrounds offer some next-level countryside hiking trails and it’s a stop along the famous Camino Portugues to boot!

 

 

Tarifa, Spain

At the southernmost point of Europe, where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic, Tarifa is a paradise for windsurfers, hikers and beach lovers. Its charming old town, bustling with artisan shops and seafood restaurants, is the perfect place to relax after a day in the sun… plus a fun fact is that it's mentioned in The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho!

Athens, Greece

While Athens is no stranger to tourists, many overlook its modern dynamism for its ancient ruins. Beyond the Acropolis, Athens thrives with contemporary art galleries, bustling markets, and a vibrant street food scene that showcases the absolute best of Greek cuisine. Don't miss the chance to explore neighbourhoods like Plaka and Monastiraki, where history meets today’s creative energy.

 

 

Whether you’re a history buff, happy hiker, big-time foodie, or a lover of the arts, these underrated destinations promise adventures that are both enriching and far from the ordinary tourist trail. If you’re considering a cheeky EU trip this year, here are a few travel essentials I wouldn’t leave home without!

 

1. MATADOR SEG 28L UNISEX TRAVEL BACKPACK

Ideal for the ultralight traveller who prefers to skip the check-in queues and baggage fees, the Matador Segment 28 is the ultimate carry-on backpack. Its sleek design maximizes storage without exceeding carry-on dimensions and offers features like a padded laptop sleeve, water-resistant construction, and comfortable shoulder straps perfect for long city walks or countryside explorations.

Why it’s perfect for Europe:

• Compact: Fits in overhead compartments easily.
• Organized: Multiple compartments for clothes, tech, and travel documents.
• Durable: Stands up to the cobblestones of old European cities and the rugged paths of scenic trails.

 

2. BIOLITE CHARGE 80 PD USB-C POWERBANK

Stay charged on the go with a high-capacity portable power bank. It's essential for long days of navigating new cities or capturing the beauty of Europe through your camera or smartphone.

Key features:

• High capacity: Keeps your devices charged multiple times over.
• Multi-port: Can charge several devices simultaneously.
• Lightweight: Easy to carry without adding significant weight.

3. OSA TRAVEL ADAPTOR - WORLDWIDE W/ 2 X USB

Europe’s varied plug systems mean a universal travel adapter is a must. Choose one with multiple USB ports to charge several devices at once, ensuring you’re always ready to document your travels or check your maps.

Key features:

• High capacity: Keeps your devices charged multiple times over.
• Multi-port: Can charge several devices simultaneously.
• Lightweight: Easy to carry without adding significant weight.

 

4. COTOPAXI CUBO PACKING CUBE BUNDLE - DEL DIA

Packing cubes are a game changer. They keep your belongings organised and accessible and help compress your clothes, making for less baggage fees and more room for souvenirs.

Advantages:

• Efficiency: Quick unpacking and repacking in hotels or hostels.
• Organization: Separate clean clothes from dirty laundry.

 

5. MAC IN A SAC 10 UNISEX WATERPROOF PACKABLE JACKET

Description:

European weather can be unpredictable. A compact, lightweight rain jacket will keep you dry during sudden showers without taking up much space in your backpack. The Mac in a Sac 10 Waterproof Jacket is perfect.

Features:

• Water-resistant: Keeps you dry and comfortable.
• Breathable: Prevents overheating during active days.
• Packable: Folds into a tiny pouch for ease

6. NEW BALANCE FRESH FOAM

A pair of comfortable walking shoes is non-negotiable. Opt for styles that provide support and cushioning, suitable for long days of exploration. The New Balance Fresh Foam range are lightweight and can handle varied terrains from urban pavements to rural paths. I’ve had the New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro V7 Womens Trail Running Shoes - Blacktop/Sea Salt  for almost a year and love them!

 

If you need any further help, don't hesitate to come in-store to chat with our experts or shoot us a message online if you have any questions! We’ll see you outdoors. Share your adventures with us on Instagram at @wildearthaustralia and use the hashtag #MyWildEarth to be featured.

 

About the contributor:

Lauren Clark is the social media manager for Wild Earth. An obsessive gram counter who's always on the hunt for the lightest and most compact gear for hiking and travel. You'll find her overseas in one country or another attempting digital nomad life. When she's not working she's taking in as much culture as she can, eating all of the foods, hiking all of the trails and trying to find people to belay for her. Follow her adventures on Instagram.