Europe's Best Kept Scenic Secrets

The Baltics may not be on every traveler’s radar, but that’s exactly what makes them so special. This area is full of hidden treasures waiting to be explored, and Vilnius, Lithuania is such a perfect example that the town literally uses the tag line 'unexpectedly amazing' to attract visitors.
 

Home to one of the most wonderfully well-preserved Medieval old towns in all of Europe, Vilnius' cobblestoned streets invite you to discover over 500 historic buildings ranging in style from Baroque to Renaissance to Gothic and beyond. Beyond the architecture, Vilnius is also one of the greenest capital cities in Europe, full of lush trees and green spaces that add to its fairytale-like atmosphere. With a vibrant arts community and plenty of shopping, it's an off-the-beaten-path gem of a city.

Albania is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Wild landscapes, quiet beaches, and charming villages make it feel like your own private adventure, and the Albanian Riviera region in particular is so stunningly beautiful it's shocking that it isn't more well known.
 

This 75-mile stretch of the Ionian Sea coastline in southern Albania may not be as famous as the other 'rivieras' around the world, but that doesn't make it any less perfect for your next trip. With turquoise waters and beaches like Gjipe Beach that aren't overrun with other visitors, you'll feel like you have paradise all to yourself. Beyond the beaches, the hikes along the cliffs in this area provide coastal views at every turn, and charmingly colorful beach towns like Himara give a taste of the local culture.

Even within some of the more tourist-known countries, there are off-the-beaten-path destinations--like Portugal's own Madeira. Madeira’s rugged cliffs, lush valleys, and volcanic coastline make it a paradise for hikers and culture seekers alike. Trek the island’s levadas and cliff-top trails from Ponta de São Lourenço to the Rabaçal waterfalls, pass through forested peaks at Pico do Arieiro, and stroll the banana plantations and terraced hillsides of the south coast. Visit charming villages like Santana with its iconic thatched houses, Porto Moniz with its volcanic rock pools, and coastal towns like Camara de Lobos.
 

From taking in panoramic mountain views to sampling local food and wine and wandering the streets of Funchal, Madeira combines natural beauty, cultural traditions, and a touch of adventure in every step.

France may not be an obvious hidden gem either, but some of its best spots are overshadowed by the more famous city of lights, so we can't resist including the beautiful Loire Valley here. This region is made for biking, history, and wine lovers alike. Follow quiet ‘Loire à Vélo’ routes through scenic countryside, stopping at grand chateaux like Villandry with its ornamental gardens, and the iconic Château de Chenonceau spanning the River Cher. Explore the charming streets of Amboise and Blois, enjoy tastings in Vouvray and Bourgueil, and take in panoramic views of the lush valley.
 

Imagine pedaling past grand estates, sampling local delicacies, and soaking in centuries of history. Biking the Loire Valley offers a uniquely immersive way to experience France.

Malta is a tiny island but it's packed with big charm. From Valletta’s historic streets and the intricate archaeology of Saint John’s Co-Cathedral to the sparkling Grand Harbour, there is plenty of beauty to be found here. Perhaps the most scenic spot, though, is the Blue Grotto.
 

This network of six sea caves on Malta's southern coast features exceptionally clear waters and cave walls that, in the right conditions, can appear to glow shades of pink, green, and blue thanks to the mineral content in the rocks. Explore by boat for the best experience of this magical spot.