As global travel rebounds, a quieter shift is underway. Increasingly, discerning travellers are swapping overexposed hotspots for destinations that feel richer, calmer and more culturally grounded. Searches for so-called “hidden gems” have surged by over 120% in the past year, proof that luxury today is as much about space and authenticity as it is about polish.
According to travel experts at Iglu Cruise, these five underrated European destinations offer exactly that: beauty without crowds, culture without compromise, and experiences that feel genuinely discovered.
Poised to take centre stage as a European Capital of Culture for 2026, Trenčín is quietly transforming into one of Central Europe’s most compelling cultural hubs. Set along the Váh River, the medieval city blends ancient architecture with a slow, intimate rhythm of life. Days unfold between hilltop castle views, café-lined squares and a growing calendar of art installations and music festivals. Visit between late May and September to experience the city at its most vibrant, or time it with July’s iconic Pohoda Festival.
Ghent, Belgium
While Bruges draws the crowds, Ghent keeps the soul. With its winding canals, Gothic spires and youthful energy, the city delivers fairytale charm without the performative tourism. Highlights include Gravensteen Castle, the Ghent Altarpiece and golden-hour walks along Graslei and Korenlei. Spring and early autumn offer the perfect balance of atmosphere and ease, while December brings festive markets with a distinctly local feel.
Quimper, France
In the heart of Brittany, Quimper feels like a secret France never shared on Instagram. Timbered houses lean gently over the Odet River, while Gothic cathedrals, ceramic ateliers and refined Breton cuisine anchor the city’s cultural identity. From riverside strolls to Michelin-listed dining, Quimper rewards travellers seeking depth over display. Visit in summer, especially during the Festival de Cornouaille, to see the city at its most alive.
Turin, Italy
Elegant, intellectual and quietly indulgent, Turin offers Parisian grandeur with Italian restraint. Baroque boulevards, historic cafés and royal palaces sit beneath an Alpine backdrop, while the city’s recent recognition for sustainable tourism signals a future-facing sensibility. Ride the glass elevator of the Mole Antonelliana, sip a traditional bicerin, or arrive in winter for Luci d’Artista, a city-wide festival of light that transforms Turin into an open-air gallery.
Poznań, Poland
Colourful, green and refreshingly under the radar, Poznań is one of Europe’s most liveable cities, and one of its most overlooked. Beyond its postcard-perfect Old Market Square lies a network of parks, lakes and river paths that invite slower exploration. Summer is ideal for outdoor living, while November’s St. Martin’s Day celebrations offer a rare glimpse into Polish tradition at its most joyful.
The Luxurist take:
In 2026, true travel luxury lies in choosing places before they peak – destinations that prioritise culture, community and calm. These cities don’t shout for attention. They reward those willing to listen.
With thanks to Iglu Cruise.
For full destination insights, visit: https://www.iglucruise.com/blog/2026-travel-top-5-underrated-destinations
