5 Alternative European Holiday Destinations

Europe is well known for having a wealth of outstanding holiday destinations which attract millions of visitors each year. When we think of European vacations, we automatically consider Parisian chic, London glamour, Italian elegance and Greek dining. However, Europe is changing, and this means that there are more fabulous places to visit than ever before, many of which are not yet fully on the tourist radar for holidays. If you are looking for something a little different from your annual break, why not consider some of these beautiful destinations, to offer you a glimpse of another side of the Europe which we all know and love?

Munich

Munich is rapidly becoming the first choice for people wanting to visit a part of Germany which offers the full complement of culture and tradition, with a Bavarian charm and tradition that will keep even the most jaded travellers enthralled. Rub shoulders with residents in Lederhosen, enjoy the rustic charm of beerhalls, and dine on the finest Weisswurst to get a true glimpse of Germanic culture at its best. Even with all this history vying for your attention, you’ll still get a fix of modernity with a bustling range of attractions including museums, art galleries, shopping to satisfy evben the most hardened haggler and a huge number of outstanding restaurants.

Antwerp

Belgium is becoming a holiday destination to be reckoned with, and it’s places like understated Antwerp which are cementing its reputation as a beautiful European destination. Antwerp is a lovely fusion of the modern and traditional, with cobbled streets, impressive architecture and a bustling community of Belgians who are welcoming and warm. No longer the underdog of years gone by, Antwerp enjoys a thriving shopping scene packed with boutiques and the stalwart of all Belgian cities – a huge array of mouth-watering chocolates.

Valencia

Spain may be better known for the bustle of Barcelona, but Valencia is climbing its way up in the style stakes when it comes to choosing a gentle and relaxing city to spend your Spanish break. Valencia is famous for its orange groves, providing beautiful scents and scenery, but also offers a healthy number of things to do including architectural visits, beach trips and the opportunity to kick back and relax on sun-soaked shores for a fraction of the price you would have to pay to get a similar break outside of Europe.

Cork

Move over, Dublin. It’s all about Cork now. This up and coming tourist destination has all the charm of the capital, without the associated price tag and hordes of tourists. Chill out on the banks of the River Lee nursing the obligatory Guinness, before heading off for an exploration session to find opera houses, art galleries and a multitude of traditional pubs nestled in among the old buildings in cramped alleyways. Featuring all the best Ireland has to offer, including hospitality and an unrivalled dining culture, Cork is quickly becoming the latest craze for people looking for an Irish fix off the beaten track.

Rotterdam

If you thought Holland was all about Amsterdam, think again. Rotterdam is becoming well known for offering everything which its more popular rival city provides, but without the seedy underbelly of drugs and the sex trade. Artists from around the world flock to Rotterdam for a fix of the outstanding architecture and scenery, developed following WWII by a handful of quirky architects who’s collective efforts resulted in a crazy fusion of different styles which all work well together. Add in great food, beautiful surroundings and a welcoming dose of hospitality to the mix, and you’ll be left wondering why you ever went anywhere else.