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UNDERRATED EUROPE : THE CONTINENT ’ S LESSER-KNOWN DESTINATIONS YOU NEED TO VISIT
From a German-speaking microstate to a transcontinental capital – Here are five often-overlooked places that should be on your holiday radar by Tom Woods .
Including those that span both Europe and Asia , our continent is home to 51 countries . And whilst each of those nations can be reached by plane within five hours from the UK , there are many that remain relatively undiscovered by the masses .
But fear not , because I am going to guide you through a selection of Europe ’ s hidden gems , highlighting some of the very best it has to offer .
Needing a quick retreat this month ? Or perhaps you are looking forward to the summer – 2023 provides the perfect opportunity to explore more of Europe than ever before . Here are a few ideas for your itinerary .
Bay of Kotor , Montenegro The shores of the Mediterranean Sea ’ s northernmost arm are amongst the most beautiful in the world . The Adriatic borders the east of Italy and the Balkan states of Slovenia , Croatia , Bosnia and Herzegovina , Albania and Montenegro .
Yet to gain the widespread recognition of other popular tourist destinations , paying a visit to the Montenegrin Coast feels like you ’ re getting in ahead of the game . Characterised by pretty , waterside villages , towering peaks and a mix of charming pebble and sandy beaches , this fjord-like region is great for those that enjoy relaxing beach breaks away from the crowds .
One of the biggest issues with visiting Montenegro is deciding where to stay . Kotor is the tourist hotspot of the area , known for its well-preserved Old Town . Wander round labyrinthine streets and discover medieval architecture in the form of churches , palaces and museums , or take a tour around the impressive bulwarks that mark its exterior .
Tivat is home to the closest international airport and has many upscale hotels , apartments and houses for holidaymakers . Porto Montenegro is Tivat ’ s glitzy marina where you ’ ll find yachts aplenty , some of the best restaurants and bars in town and a great selection of boutiques for a spot of retail therapy .
Further up the coast , Budva boasts the golden sands and crystal blue waters of Mogren and Jaz beaches as well as multiple waterparks if you ’ re travelling with the family . Don ’ t miss Sveti Stefan , a fortified island village dating back to the 15th century which is now an Aman luxury resort .
Get there : Fly to Tivat from Manchester with easyJet ( easyJet . com ) and Jet2 ( jet2 . com )
Tbilisi , Georgia The furthest city from the UK on this list , Tbilisi is the capital of Georgia . Tucked away in the Caucasus region , the country straddles the border of Eastern Europe and Western Asia . Its transcontinental location has paved the way for a fascinating history dating back to the fifth century , reflected in its architecture , museums and culture .
Popular with many long-term travellers due to its visa-free entry rules allowing British nationals to stay for up to 365 days , one of its biggest draws is its food scene . Combining the best of Middle Eastern , Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisine , Tbilisi has more than enough to whet the appetite . Whether you ’ re at a small family-run restaurant or dining out on one of the city ’ s leafy squares , you ’ re in for a treat . Make sure to try the irresistible cheese-filled flatbread khachapuri as well as khinkali - boiled or steamed Georgian dumplings , usually stuffed with meat and spices .
If you ’ re wondering about attractions , Tbilisi is locked and loaded . Often touted as its top attraction , Narikala Fortress provides the best views of the Georgian capital from its perch atop the hill with which it shares its name . For just 2.5 lari (£ 0.79 ) each way , you can take the cable car to and from the summit and watch the city unfold before your eyes . Fancy a spot of relaxation ? Tbilisi ’ s Sulfur
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