Europe's most underrated cities, according to travel experts

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Think of European cities and a plethora of well-known destinations spring to mind. There's no shortage of places to discover the history and culture of this continent. But don't overlook its smaller, less explored cities. Many are hidden gems, far from the hectic crowds, that offer visitors a much more intimate, unspoiled experience. Condé Nast Traveller asked their seasoned contributors to put together a list of Europe's most underrated cities. Using their network of travel specialists and European-based writers, they compiled a list of places you might not have considered—or heard of at all—based on their recommendations.

 

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Gdańsk, Poland -

Sightseeing and incredible food await visitors in Gdańsk, Poland. As well as having a comprehensive museum dedicated to its WWII history, you can see one of the best-preserved castles in Europe at Malbork.

 

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Gdańsk, Poland -

For something special, take a boat on the Baltic Sea, sampling the city's innovative cuisine before tasting the countryside's rustic offerings on the same day.

 

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Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina -

Named after the bridge keepers (mostari) who guarded the Stari Most (Old Bridge), Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina is the fifth largest city in the country. The bridge is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

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Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina -

Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman architecture blend in Mostar, where a relaxed atmosphere pervades the cobbled streets. You'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to places offering traditional food like dolma (vegetables stuffed with ground meat and rice), sarma (stuffed cabbage leaves), and fresh bread.

 

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Zamora, Spain -

A small city of just 60,000 people, Zamora is only a one-hour journey from Madrid by high-speed train. It is one of Spain's most important epicenters of modernist art buildings.

 

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Zamora, Spain -

Filled with Romanesque churches, the city is famous for its Holy Week celebrations at Easter. You can sample delicious food here, too. Try the 'arroz a la zamorana,' rice cooked with meat and ham, finished in the oven.

 

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Thessaloniki, Greece -

Thessaloniki has long lost out to Athens when it comes to tourists. But that doesn't mean the city hasn't got plenty of well-preserved historic buildings to be discovered.

 

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Thessaloniki, Greece -

Greece's first "City of Gastronomy," has a world-class food scene, vibrant nightlife, as well as a rich, multicultural heritage reflected in its architectural diversity.

 

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Tirana, Albania -

A rapidly evolving city, Tirana offers a glimpse into Albania's history while having a distinctly youthful vibe. The center is entirely walkable too, making it easy to get around.

 

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Tirana, Albania -

Echoes of the communist era remain, serving as a reminder of the country's past. Venturing further out, there is plenty by way of nature. You can ascend Mount Dajti in a cable car, before returning to spend the night in the Blloku neighborhood.

 

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Trondheim, Norway -

Norway's third biggest city, don't write off Trondheim. Michelin-star restaurants, the beautiful Nidaros Cathedral, the medieval Archbishop’s Palace, and several interesting museums are located here.

 

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Trondheim, Norway -

On the river and in the Trondheimsfjord you can enjoy boat rides, kayaking, biking, and other excursions. In addition to beautiful nature, the city has a vibrant nightlife scene.

 

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Cork, Ireland -

Visitors to Ireland might be drawn in by Dublin, but they shouldn't discount Cork, the country's second city, known for its friendly, local vibe.

 

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Cork, Ireland -

There are plenty of pubs and one of the best food markets in Europe, as well as galleries, museums, historical sites, and museums to be explored. It's also a great place to be based for day trips to nearby seaside towns such as Kinsale and Cobh.

 

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Ohrid, North Macedonia -

A UNESCO-protected town, the charming cobbled streets blend Byzantine religious history and architecture in Ohrid, North Macedonia.

 

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Ohrid, North Macedonia -

One of Europe's oldest lakes, Lake Ohrid, offers beautiful nature and sunbathing to city visitors, especially those in need of a refreshing dip in the water.

 

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Petworth, England -

The quintessential English country town, Petworth and its surrounds offer visitors a glimpse of quaint beauty. Cobbled streets are lined with cute cafés and independent shops, just waiting to be explored.

 

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Petworth, England -

Petworth House and Deer Park is a National Trust where you can watch wildlife living across 700 acres of parkland.

 

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Narbonne, France -

While most visitors to the southwest of France might opt to spend their time in Toulouse or Montpellier, the historic city of Narbonne is not to be overlooked.