As a growing number of British travellers search for quieter and cheaper alternatives to bustling holiday hotspots, travel experts have revealed five lesser-known European destinations to visit in 2026.
It comes as interest for ‘hidden gem’ destinations has spiked in the last year, with Google Trends revealing a 122.6 per cent search increase.
Across the continent, travellers holidaying in popular hotspots have grown increasingly frustrated with long queues, inflated prices, and a loss of authentic charm – leading to an influx of holidaymakers seeking out little-known spots.
Destinations that were once under-the-radar for British travellers – such as Albania, Montenegro and Slovenia – have drawn millions of international visitors in recent years, on the hunt for crowd-free beaches, rustic restaurants and a laid-back vibe.
With that being said, travel experts at Iglu Cruise has listed five underrated destinations travellers should consider for 2026.
Trenčín, Slovakia
Trenčín, a historic city located in western Slovakia, is often referred to as the Pearl of the Považie due to its medieval architecture and position along the Váh River.
Officially selected as one of the two European Capitals of Culture for 2026, alongside Oulu in Finland, the city is set to undergo a significant transformation this year, featuring music festivals, art installations and renewed public spaces.
Travel experts at Iglu Cruise has listed five underrated destinations travellers should consider for 2026 – including the western Slovakian town of Trenčín (pictured)
The city is set to undergo a huge transformation after being officially selected as one of the two European Capitals of Culture for 2026, alongside Oulu in Finland
Pictured: the scenic Trenčín Castle, which sits above the town
Visitors can enjoy Trenčín’s perfect blend of ancient history and a relaxed atmosphere, with must-do activities including a visit to the scenic Trenčín Castle, a climb on the City Tower for panoramic views and a coffee break in the cafes of Mierové Square.
The ideal time to visit the Slovakian city is when the weather is warm, between May and September. During this time of year, visitors can truly immerse themselves in Trenčín’s outdoor culture.
Slovakia’s largest music festival, Pohoda, is hosted in the city each year in early July – a must for music lovers.
Ghent, Belgium
While many tourists tend to flock to the canals of Bruges, or the fashion hub of Antwerp, locals across Belgium prefer Ghent.
The historic port city, located to the northwest of the country, is widely referred to as Belgium’s ‘best-kept secret’ thanks to its fairytale canals and medieval appeal of Bruges – but with more authenticity and significantly fewer crowds.
Along with its Gothic architecture, historic Graslei harbour and moated medieval castles such as Gravensteen, the city also bursts with vibrant energy due to its large student population.
Top attractions include St. Bavo’s Cathedral, where visitors can admire the Ghent Altarpiece, and the picturesque quays of Graslei and Korenlei, both perfect spots for watching the sunset.
Ghent is referred to as Belgium’s ‘best-kept secret’ thanks to its fairytale canals and medieval appeal of Bruges – but with significantly fewer crowds
The city bursts with vibrant energy due to its large student population, but still sees less crowds than the likes of Bruges, Brussels and Antwerp
Visitors are advised to visit Ghent during the shoulder seasons of April to June, and September to October, when the weather is mild and the city’s parks have blossomed with colour.
Alternatively, those looking for a winter escape can visit in December, when the Ghent Christmas Market transforms the city into a magical winter wonderland with twinkling lights, ice skating and traditional stalls.
Quimper, France
While many travellers flock to the south coast of France each year, Quimper offers an authentic French alternative with less crowds.
The charming riverside city, located in the heart of Brittany, has been awarded the label City of Art and History thanks to its world-class fine arts and the quality of its architectural heritage.
Along the Odet River, visitors will find rows of leaning, half-timbered houses that showcase traditional Breton architecture with timber frames and varied infill.
Remnants of Quimper’s medieval walls, first built in the 13th century to protect the city where rivers Odet, Frout, and Steir met, can still be spotted in areas like the Croix district.
Quimper, located in the heart of Brittany, offers an authentic, quieter alternative to bustling cities in the south of France
The city is marked by leaning, half-timbered houses that showcase traditional Breton architecture with timber frames and varied infill
Remnants of Quimper’s medieval walls, first built in the 13th century, can still be found in areas like the Croix district
Visitors can savour local cider, traditional crêpes, and a lively shopping scene, with highlights including the Saint-Corentin Cathedral, the pottery workshops of Locmaria, and scenic boat trips along the Odet River.
Quimper is also a culinary destination, home to the Michelin-starred Allium, celebrated for its elegant open kitchen and creative, nature-inspired dishes.
Sao is recognised in the Michelin Guide for its refined cooking and innovative style, while Ti-Coz offers a cosy setting with authentic regional flavours.
The ideal time to visit Quimper is from late June to early September, with late July being particularly special thanks to the Festival de Cornouaille – a celebration of Breton music, dance, and traditional costume that fills the historic centre.
Turin, Italy
Turin, the capital of Italy’s Piedmont region, is renowned for its elegant cafés, rich chocolate tradition, and dramatic Alpine backdrop.
Often described as Italy’s hidden gem, the city combines Parisian-style grandeur – seen in its Baroque boulevards and royal palaces – with a refreshingly relaxed atmosphere.
It has also been named the 2025 European Capital of Smart Tourism, recognising its achievements in sustainability, accessibility, and cultural heritage.
The Italian city of Turin is renowned for its cafés, rich chocolate tradition, and dramatic Alpine backdrop – not to mention its Parisian-style grandeur
Key experiences include riding the glass elevator to the top of the Mole Antonelliana, home to the National Museum of Cinema, for sweeping Alpine views. Visitors can also enjoy a classic Bicerin coffee in a historic café or tour the opulent Royal Palace.
May, June, and September offer ideal conditions for sightseeing, with September also marking the start of truffle season. In December, the city becomes an open-air gallery during Luci d’Artista, a renowned festival of light installations.
Poznań, Poland
Located in western Poland, Poznań is best known for the rainbow-coloured townhouses of its Old Market Square.
Often overshadowed by Kraków and Warsaw, it remains an underrated destination for 2026.
Poznań, located in western Poland, is best known for the rainbow-coloured townhouses of its Old Market Square (pictured)
Poznań is one of Poland’s greenest cities, with green spaces covering around 25 per cent of its area.
Highlights include the 250-acre Cytadela Park, set on the grounds of a former fort, and Lake Malta – an artificial lake encircled by woodland that features a year-round ski slope and a miniature railway.
The city is also home to the Wartostrada, an eight-mile riverside path along the Warta River, recently redesigned to replace concrete embankments with natural parkland.
The best time to visit is from May to September, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. For a distinctive cultural experience, 11 November offers the chance to join the lively St Martin’s Day parade and street celebrations.
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