For the last couple of years, tourism tendencies in Europe became even more patterned.

According to the World Tourism Barometer publication, most tourism to Europe is heavily focused on Western countries like Spain or France, while Eastern Europe continues to fly under the radar.

But there are many beautiful places all over Europe that deserve just as much recognition as the likes of Paris or Rome, so in this list we will present the most underrated destinations.

Consider traveling to these fabulous locations in 2019!

6 Underrated Destinations In Europe

Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland

Ireland is a nation of breathtaking scenery, medieval castles, rich culture, and of course, Guinness. Though don’t forget to include a trip to Northern Ireland in your itinerary; one of the most underrated regions here is the Causeway Coast.

No trip to Northern Ireland is complete without a visit to the Giant’s Causeway. Some 60 million years in the making, 40,000 massive black columns jut out of the sea at the foot of basalt cliffs along the edge of the Antrim plateau.

This natural wonder has inspired local legends for centuries; of giants who built it to stride over the sea to Scotland. Though geological studies show that this striking landscape was caused by volcanic activity during the Tertiary, some 50–60 million years ago.

The area makes up part of the 2-3 day walk along the Causeway Coast Way which also takes in Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle.

 Image credit: Giuseppe Milo via Flickr

Berat, Albania

If you’re a fan of history, Berat in Albania is a definitely must. With churches that date back to the 13th century, and castles that are 2,500 years old, Berat has become known as the ‘Museum City of Albania’.

There really is such a rich tapestry of heritage here – every building feels as though it’s a historic landmark. And because of this, the whole town has been preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Having been occupied by various Empires throughout the centuries, the town’s architecture is like walking through time. Everyone from the ancient Greeks, to the Byzantine Empire, the Roman Empire, Slavs, Bulgarians, and the Ottoman Empire have all left their mark here.

And of course, there are stunning views of the rugged Mt Tomorri.

Image credit: my_cottage (CC BY-SA 2.0) via Flickr

Assos Village, Greece

A small village in Kefalonia, Greece, Assos Village boasts what most Greek cities have – blue waters by the beach with a wonderful warm and sunny weather all year round.

What stands out however is the feeling of being lost in time; the village has a very mystical atmosphere, with traditional Ionian architecture, and pretty colored houses on a craggy hillside.

You can watch fishing boats come in and out of the small harbour, and there’s even the remnants of a 15th century castle originally built by the Venetian army.

Built as a fortification against pirate attacks, more recently the castle was home to political prisoners who were tasked to cultivate the vineyards which local tourists now enjoy.

Image credit: Spiros Rokkos from Wikimedia Commons

Ferrara, Italy

If you want to go shopping, your choice should be Milano or Rome. For sightseeing, people tend to choose Florence and Venice. But if you really want to feel true Italian vibes, visit Ferrara.

This city is still surrounded by Medieval walls and its spirit will remind you of the glorious Renaissance era. Because of Ferrara’s location between such tourism gems as Bologna and Venice, it is often skipped by visitors. However those travelers are missing out!

This is actually a wonderful base to explore the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy, though in the city itself you’ll find it bursting at the seams with medieval castles, renaissance churches, and museums and galleries housed in luxurious palaces.

There’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Historic center that dates back to the Middle Ages.

Faroe Islands, Denmark

Technically, these islands are considered to be a part of Denmark, though in reality they feel like you’ve travelled out of this world!

Recently voted the best islands in the world by National Geographic, the Faroe Islands are an unbelievable chain of islands which lie halfway between Iceland and Norway, in the North Atlantic Ocean.

Inspiring scenery, untamed nature, and dramatic landscapes; the Faroes are unspoiled, unexplored and absolutely unbelievable. One of the most unspoilt destinations left on earth, every scene is spectacular, and every view takes your breath away.

Because of its isolation, the Faroe Islands have managed to preserve a very authentic Nordic way of life. The best time to visit Faroe Islands is in summer (June – September) since winter sees very short days and often burdensome snowfall.

Colmar, France

Colmar is often quoted as the prettiest town in France, and looks like it’s straight out of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast! Or does Beauty and the Beast look like it’s straight out of Colmar?

This city is well known for its authentic image. Once you walk along the streets, you can easily imagine how France looked like, let’s say, a hundred years ago.

When you arrive, be ready for cozy streets, small pretty houses, and flower beds bursting from every window pane. There’s even an identical fountain to which Belle twirled around with her books and a gaggle of sheep.

Image credit: Fonzie D (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr

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Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.