Europe's most underrated cities, according to travel experts

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Opatija, Croatia -

This town maintains its legacy as a place of restoration and retreat with numerous spas, while the city itself has fine restaurants, cute cafes, and well-maintained public gardens.

 

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Bern, Switzerland -

The Swiss capital is oft-overlooked for cities like Zurich and Geneva. However, it's a university city with a lively outdoor restaurant, bar, and café scene.

 

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Bern, Switzerland -

The cold, clean water of the Aare River is popular for swimming among locals during the summer, while sitting at the medieval Platz allows visitors to soak up the "un-Swiss" feeling of the city.

 

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Lille, France -

Just a short train journey away from Paris is the unpretentious and pretty center of Lille. Located on the French-Belgian border, this underrated city offers visitors a pleasant surprise.

 

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Lille, France -

A Michelin-star restaurant and Flemish-inspired eateries are easy to come by in Lille. For culture, check out the contemporary art at Tripost, the modern art at LaM, or visit the Matisse Museum.

 

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Appingedam, Netherlands -

Once a trade center of importance, Appingedam is a port city with a rich history. Admire the famous 'hanging kitchens,' of the houses here, similar to bay windows, suspended above the Damsterdiep canal.

 

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Appingedam, Netherlands -

Filled with historic buildings from the Middle Ages and later, it makes a beautiful setting for a city walk. Or take a break at one of the local museums, including the Museum Stad Appingedam and the Groninger Zilverkamer, which have extensive collections of Groningen silver on display.