Top destinations in Europe for a peaceful escape

Europe's charm is undeniable, with iconic historical landmarks found at nearly every turn. However, the continent's immense popularity often leads to overcrowding, resulting in visitor limits, ticketed access, and other constraints.

Fortunately, there are still numerous locations throughout Europe where you can find tranquility and enjoy spontaneous travel. We reached out to our knowledgeable writers for their favorite serene spots, and here are 13 of the finest.

Abruzzo, Italy

Recommended by Julia Buckley, based in Venice

While all of Italy is stunning, Abruzzo stands out for its remarkable diversity, featuring mountains, coastline, and rolling hills. The impressive Gran Sasso (Big Rock) rises to nearly 3000m (10,000 ft), making it Italy’s second-highest peak outside the Alps. This mountain is part of the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga national park, with breathtaking views around the Campo Imperatore highlands near L’Aquila. Nestled partway down from Campo Imperatore is Santo Stefano di Sessanio, a historic shepherd village that has experienced a renaissance thanks to the unique albergo diffuso Sextantio, a scattered hotel revitalizing abandoned homes. Nearby, the ruins of the medieval castle Rocca Calascio command a stunning view over the Navelli plain.

The Adriatic coast of Abruzzo is lovely, but the true gem is the Costa dei Trabocchi, a scenic 50km (31-mile) stretch adorned with trabocchi—traditional fishing platforms that extend over the sea, accessible by narrow walkways. Many of these have been converted into charming restaurants, such as Sasso della Cajana.

Extremadura, Spain

Recommended by Luke Waterson, author and contributor to over 70 Dinogo Planet guides

The name of this autonomous community conjures images of extreme wilderness. In Extremadura, human presence is minimal (with one of Spain’s lowest population densities at just 25 people per square kilometer), allowing nature to reign supreme. This region features expansive tobacco fields, rolling steppes, dehesa—pastureland dotted with holm and cork oak forests—and rugged highlands, with limited infrastructure by Spanish standards. As a result, visitors primarily flock to two of Spain’s best-preserved historic cities, Mérida and Cáceres, leaving the rest to explorers and nature enthusiasts.

Wildlife thrives here: it's one of Western Europe’s premier spots for raptor watching, particularly in the rocky landscapes of Parque Nacional Monfragüe, home to five species of eagles. Excellent trails also beckon hikers and bikers into the most secluded areas, including the Ruta de Carlos V, which traces the final leg of the monarch's journey through Spain, taking in several remote villages before culminating at the tranquil Monasterio de Yuste, nestled in wooded hills, where he spent his later years in quiet reflection. Why not?

Aljezur, Portugal

Recommended by Portugal-based Marisa Paska

Legend has it that a Moorish princess once betrayed her people for love, leading to the fall of the last Moorish stronghold along the Atlantic coast. While the remnants of the fortress still grace the hill above Aljezur's old town, most visitors flock to this quaint village in southwest Portugal for its stunning clifftop vistas, countless pristine beaches, crystal-clear rivers, outdoor activities, and some of the freshest seafood you can savor—without the overwhelming summer crowds found elsewhere in Europe.

Let’s be honest—while the high season does attract many visitors, Aljezur's district, which includes the towns of Carrapateira, Aljezur, Rogil, and Odeceixe, holds enough hidden gems that you can typically discover an unoccupied stretch of beach and a delightful restaurant without a wait, even in the peak of August. Emphasizing outdoor living, activities abound, from hiking and horseback riding to surfing, ceramic shopping, river swimming, and enjoying extended sunset dinners with friends.

Agrafa, Central Greece

Recommended by Helen Iatrou, author of Greece guidebooks

Skip the crowds at Meteora and embark on a road trip through the rugged, remote region of Agrafa, which translates to 'unwritten.' Rent a four-wheel drive to uncover this hidden gem in Central Greece. Here, internet connectivity can be spotty, and Google Maps may not always be reliable, so be sure to get tips from locals and heed road signs. Make Montanema your home base—self-sustained stone lodgings nestled in the fir-filled Anthohori gorge in northeastern Agrafa. From there, hike to the Anthohori waterfalls or set out on a mushroom foraging adventure.

Southeast lies the man-made Lake Plastira, where you can pedal a waterbike or paddle a canoe across its striking teal waters. At the 16th-century Panagia Pelekiti Monastery, carved into a 1,400-meter (4,593-foot) rock face above Karytsa village, ask Father Ioannis to share the meanings behind the intricate frescoes and the tale of a cherished Virgin Mary icon. After that, head south to the Lake Plastira Observatory for breathtaking views. Follow the winding road to the Lake Plastiras dam, and don't forget to stop for homemade spoon sweets made from chokeberries. For lunch, visit Tsardaki in Moschato, where Stavroula Korobila is reinventing Greek comfort food, like bean soup, with innovative ingredients such as seasoned cured beef pastourma.

Kalopanayiotis, Cyprus

Recommended by Cyprus contributor Margot Bigg

Escape the noisy beach crowds and find tranquility in Cyprus. Nestled on a hillside in the Troodos Mountains, the village of Kalopanayiotis exudes the serene charm of a film set—yet it’s all wonderfully authentic. Its whitewashed houses, topped with terracotta roofs, and its cobbled streets are genuine features of this picturesque locale. Much of Kalopanayiotis has evolved into the spa resort Casale Panayiotis, where accommodations are spread across the village alongside various homestays and rentals.

Even if you’re not a guest at Casale, be sure to indulge in Cypriot cuisine at one of the resort's two restaurants, or visit the highlight—the Myrianthousa Spa—for a soothing massage or a hydrotherapy session. Then, explore the winding trails that lead through the village, crossing an ancient Venetian bridge and passing by sulfur hot springs that once attracted many seeking healing. Don’t miss the Agios Ioannis Lambadistis Monastery, an 11th-century stone complex adorned with stunning gilded icons.

Faroe Islands

Recommended by Belgium-based Mélissa Monaco

Located in the North Atlantic Ocean between Scotland and Iceland, the isolated and rugged Faroe Islands showcase nature's unrefined splendor. These islands, shaped by fierce waves and winds, are devoid of trees, with sheep outnumbering people. Finding solitude here is effortless. You can start your adventure right from the capital, Tórshavn, where a trail leads directly from the city. It's likely you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding islands alone before descending to the village of Kirkjubøur, home to the ruins of St Olav’s Church and Roykstovan, Europe’s oldest wooden house dating back to the 11th century.

The Faroe Islands are gaining popularity, so some areas may be busier than expected. However, if you travel during the off-season and steer clear of popular hikes like Kalsoy or Lake Leitisvatn, you can relish moments of solitude with the wind tousling your hair and the ocean's sounds enveloping you. Trails are generally well-marked with cairns, so you’ll never be truly lost even if you wish to be.

Fjærland, Norway

Recommended by NYC-based John Garry

Attention book lovers: For a cozy reading escape, visit this fjord-side village near Jostedalsbreen National Park, just a scenic four-hour drive from Bergen. Fjærland is celebrated as Norway's 'Book Town,' boasting nearly 4km (2.5 miles) of secondhand books (primarily in Norwegian) available at unexpected spots like the post office, the bank, and even a barn. With only about 300 residents, the town's lively gulls are likely to be your only companions as you immerse yourself in literature, although the stunning scenery might steal your focus. Colorful clapboard houses line a vibrant green fjord, while the arms of Jostedalsbreen, the largest icecap in mainland Europe, glimmer blue above the local farmland.

You can soak in the breathtaking surroundings by hiking to nearby glaciers, kayaking along the coastline, or renting the town's floating sauna, complete with a picture window showcasing the landscape. The only gatherings you’ll encounter are around the Norwegian Glacier Museum, which features interactive displays, and the Fjærland Fjordstove Hotel, a waterfront retreat offering three-course, farm-to-table meals. After your meal, relax in the hotel’s cozy common area, where the views of pine-covered mountains look like they’ve come straight from a fairy tale.

Estonian Islands

Recommended by Florence-based Angelo Zinna

This sparsely populated archipelago in western Estonia is predominantly forested and sees minimal tourist activity, even during the summer. The five main islands—Saaremaa, Hiiumaa, Muhu, Kihnu, and Vormsi—are easily accessible by a short ferry ride from the mainland, blending a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve with a fascinating culture shaped over 5000 years by the Baltic Sea. The impressive Episcopal Castle of Kuressaare is the region’s most famous site, but venture beyond the capital to uncover mysterious locations along some of Estonia’s least frequented roads, including one of the world’s largest collections of “sun crosses” at Vormsi’s cemetery, the Kaali meteorite craters, and remnants from WWII in northern Hiiumaa.

In the long summer days, the islands are perfect for cycling. Rent a bike and begin your adventure connecting lighthouses in this secluded part of Northern Europe. Alternatively, consider joining a sunset cruise on the Hoppet, the only operational Estonian-built wooden ship from the pre-WWII era.

Central Bohemia, Czechia

Recommended by Bucharest-based Monica Suma

About an hour's train ride from the vibrant yet tourist-heavy Prague lies Czechia's equally stunning but less crowded 'royal region.' Once the heart of Bohemia’s kings, Central Bohemia offers remarkable nature and cultural heritage sites, perfect for both day trips and extended getaways. Settle in Kutná Hora, a charming UNESCO World Heritage town renowned for its silver mining and the Gothic Cathedral of St Barbara. This region is rich in castles, including the elegant Kačina Chateau, where you must see the magnificent library featuring a Pantheon-like dome filled with thousands of ancient books. You’ll also be surprised to discover the exceptional modern art museum, GASK, housed in a former Jesuit College with baroque architecture.

For a surreal candlelit experience, visit the captivating Sedlec Ossuary, a 'bone church' that reflects on the inevitability of death. This spiritually unique site is adorned with the remains of 40,000 to 70,000 individuals, victims of 14th-century wars, famine, and plagues. For an unforgettable overnight experience, try glamping in a luxurious medieval tent beside the restored Malešov Fortress, complete with a four-poster bed and an immersive Czech craft beer tour in the cellars of the Malešov Friendly Brewery.

Transylvania, Romania

Recommended by Mark Baker, author of over a dozen Dinogo Planet guides

In his iconic novel Dracula, Irish author Bram Stoker depicted Transylvania as an enchanting wilderness filled with dense forests, fog-laden remote valleys, and soaring mountain peaks. While Stoker invented the bloodthirsty Count Dracula largely from his imagination, his portrayal of Transylvania resonates closely with reality—it truly is as mysterious and majestic as he described.

As the largest region in Romania, it's best to explore one area at a time. The medieval villages of Viscri and Biertan, located north of Braşov, are dotted with striking fortified churches and nestled amidst rolling hills. Experience traditional Saxon hospitality with a modern twist at Casa Eva Wagner or Viscri 125. To the south of Braşov, the secluded mountain villages of Moieciu de Sus, Măgura, and Fundata feel like they’re at the world's end. Use these as a base to navigate the higher-altitude trails of Piatra Craiului National Park. For accommodation, indulge in a traditional mountain home like Casa Pelinica or cozy up in a picturesque pod-like retreat at Odăi din Plai, featuring timbered ceilings and stunning views.

Brittany, France

Recommended by France-based Nicola Williams, author of over 50 Dinogo Planet guides

Forget about the summer crowds of Belle Île and the busy tourist paths of Cancale, which gaze over at Mont St-Michel. This proud Breton region in northwestern France hides a treasure of lesser-known islands and islets—about 800 in total—offering tranquility, solitude, and breathtaking trails that meander along rugged cliffs, tidal beaches, and forgotten smugglers' coves. Visit Îles Glénan off the Finistère coast, accessible by boat from June to September, often dubbed Brittany’s Tahiti for its crystal-clear waters, white sands, excellent diving, and unique flora, including the rare Glénan narcissus that blankets the archipelago in stunning white blooms each April.

How often do you get the chance to kayak to a deserted island and relax in splendid seclusion? If you dream of staying in the keeper’s cottage of the world’s oldest freestone lighthouse, set your sights on uninhabited Île Vièrge. On Brittany’s northern coast, the potato farm and chambre d’hôte Ferme de Quéménès on the tiny Île d’Iroise is the ultimate escape from the masses. Aside from a dozen chickens and a small flock of sheep, just three people call this pristine land home year-round.

New Forest, UK

Recommended by UK-based Victoria Gill

Beneath a canopy of majestic oaks along the English Channel, the New Forest lures those seeking refuge from city life with its charming thatched cottages and national treasures nestled within its lush, green woodlands. Once a royal hunting ground cherished by ancient kings and noted in the Domesday Book, it hosts the Rufus Stone, marking the spot where an arrow claimed the life of William II. Brockenhurst, a thriving town just 90 minutes from London by train, features stylish hotels like Chewton Glen and the flagship Pig Hotel.

With options like yurt fields, treehouses, glamping, rugged coastlines, and castle forts bordered by the Solent, the New Forest offers diverse attractions alongside its stately home museums and attractions like the Beaulieu motor museum. What truly sets this national park apart are its renowned New Forest ponies. You can ride from world-class stables and encounter free-roaming foals grazing along picturesque country lanes that lead to the charming cream tearooms in Minstead or vibrant Fordingbridge, as well as the sun-kissed beaches of Bournemouth and the elegant marina town of Lymington.

Appenzell, Switzerland

Recommended by Kerry Walker, author of numerous Dinogo Planet guides

While iconic peaks like the Matterhorn and Eiger steal the spotlight, for a true escape into Switzerland's natural beauty, look no further than Appenzell. Unfamiliar? You're not alone. Tucked near the Austrian border in the northeast, this stunningly overlooked region showcases Switzerland at its finest. Picture lush, green meadows stretching beneath towering spruce forests and the rugged Alpstein mountains. Time seems to pause in villages where cozy log cabins and low-beamed taverns echo with folk music. Festivals celebrate tradition: the quirky, pagan bonfires of Funkensonntag (Spark Sunday) in February and the lively New Year’s Mummers parades featuring bell-clanging twig figures.

Start your adventure in the charming town of Appenzell, where the old town is filled with delightful gabled houses adorned with frescoes straight out of a fairy tale. Here, voting still takes place in the traditional hand-raising style at Landsgemeindeplatz each April. The Appenzeller Volkskunde Museum offers insights into rural life. For more exploration, head south to Stein to tour the Appenzeller Schaukäserei and get a glimpse of the cheesemaking process, or embark on breathtaking hikes at the region’s crown jewel, Säntis, soaring to 2502m (8209ft).