Second place isn’t always a bad thing — especially when it comes to European cities. Without the crowds, price tags and urban sprawl found in many of the continent’s capitals, less known cities can offer plenty of hassle-free fun, allowing you to explore historic sites in peace, savor authentic regional flavors and connect with locals who might be more open to chatting with visitors. Here are four wallet-friendly favorites.
Bordeaux, France
Roman roots and historic châteaux, elegant pedestrian boulevards and famous vineyards — Bordeaux has them all. Set in the Gironde region of southwest France, at the point where two rivers converge, this thriving port town is best known as one of the world’s winemaking capitals. But beyond the booze, Bordeaux also features a wealth of well-preserved historic buildings (second only to Paris), excellent museums, charming gardens, designer shops and more — making it an ideal place to soak up plenty of French culture, along with those great red wines.
Photo Credit: Vincent Bengold
See & Do: Bordeaux is home to one of Europe’s largest concentrations of 18th-century architecture, making it a favorite with history buffs. You’ll get a feel for its majesty at sites like the Esplanade des Quinconces (the largest square in Europe), the 18th-century neoclassic Grand Theatre, the Saint-Andre Cathedral and the two remaining gates from the original medieval walls. Rue Sainte-Catherine, the longest pedestrian street in France and the city’s main shopping thoroughfare, will take you straight through the old town. Art fans should stop by the Musée des Beaux Arts, where the collection includes works by Rubens, Renoir, Matisse, and Picasso; the Musée d’Aquitaine offers a great overview of the history of the region.
Photo Credit: Thomas Sanson
Eat & Drink: Despite Bordeaux’s importance on the wine scene, the city has never really been a place for foodies — until recently. Enticed by the city’s charm — and affordability — notable chefs from around the world have set up shop in town, while a new crop of wine bars serving small plates are making it easier to sample all kinds of local products. Get a good overview of Bordeaux wines at the La Cité du Vin multi-media museum/info center, then put your new knowledge to use navigating the lists at spots like the cozy, friendly Le Bouchon Bordelais bistro and Parisian Chef Tanguy Laviale’s Garopapilles, which has a wine shop up front.
Photo Credit: Q. Salinier
Stay: Opened in December 2015, the 130-room InterContinental Bordeaux–Le Grand Hotel enjoys a prime spot on the old town’s Place de la Comédie. The stunning interiors mix gilded touches and rich fabrics with bursts of contemporary whimsy. Enjoy perks like a rooftop “beach,” Nuxe spa, a restaurant helmed by Gordon Ramsay and a wine concierge, who can unlock doors to some of the area’s top private wine estates (room rates start at about $329 a night).
Next: Bruges, Belgium ►
Bruges, Belgium
With its canals and cobblestoned streets, 13th-century towers and market squares, Bruges is straight out of a fairy tale — and the perfect place for a romantic getaway. The capital of the west Flanders region in northwest Belgium, this port town has in recent years been discovered by tourists, who quickly fall under the spell of the medieval architecture, peaceful squares and scenic waterside walks.
Photo Credit: Peerdenbrug ©Jan D'Hondt
See & Do: Bruges boasts one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns, now a historic center. Start there to see some of its most famous buildings, including the Church of Our Lady, one of the world’s tallest brick buildings and home to one of the only Michelangelo sculptures outside of Italy; and the 13th-century belfry, with its 48-bell carillon (musical instrument). Soak up more scenery in picture-perfect neighborhoods like Arentshof, where you can get cozy on a hidden bench and watch the swans glide down the canals, and Groene Rei, dotted with old bridges and gardens. Stroll along the ramparts of the old city walls — punctuated by four historic windmills — then experience the energy in the Market and Burg squares.
Photo Credit: Janhondt
Eat & Drink: Despite its diminutive size, Bruges is a major player on the global food stage, boasting several noted chefs and restaurants, and two well-known culinary schools. Splurge at gourmet spots De Jonkman, where “rock-and-roll” chef Filip Claeys’ irreverent style has earned him two Michelin stars. you’ll also find plenty of delicious casual spots, as well as top-notch international fare.
Stay: The former residence of a Burgundian aristocrat houses Hotel Dukes’ Palace, where the 100 rooms meld modern comforts with touches of 15th-century elegance. Relax in the gardens, on the scenic terrace or in the spa, taking advantage of facilities like a salt wall and infrared sauna cabins. Other amenities include a clubby bar and bistro (room rates start at $140 a night).
Next: Valencia, Spain ►
Valencia, Spain
Bordering the Gulf of Valencia on the Mediterranean Sea, Spain’s third largest city offers a mix of influences and traditions. It’s also a city of festivals, hosting renowned celebrations like Les Falles (held every March). here, you can savor bites of paella valenciana and shop for Valencian ceramics, marvel at historic sites and modern architectural gems and stroll on the beach and in lovely gardens.
Photo Credit: Pablo Casino ©Turismo Valencia
See & Do: Travel through centuries of history in Valencia’s old town. Don’t miss sites like the Valencia Cathedral (home to the holy Grail), the Gothic-style Llotja de la Seda former Silk Exchange building, the Porta de Serrans (one of the remaining gates from the ancient city walls) and the winding streets of Barrio del Carmen, lined with buildings from the 13th to 15th centuries. Then jump to the future: As the birthplace of renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, Valencia has become known for its modern structures, too, including the Calatrava-designed City of Arts and Sciences (a culture hub with the largest aquarium in Europe).
Photo Credit: ©Turismo Valencias
Eat & Drink: Thanks to its mix of cultural influences, Valencia has a rich, varied food scene, and plenty of standout signature items. Most of the rice produced in Spain comes from the Valencia region, so it’s no surprise that paella was born here. head to the Valencia beach promenade to sample some of the best examples; La Pepcia is rumored to be where Ernest Hemingway first tried the dish. Enjoy a classic tapas experience at the circa 1909 Palace Fesol or Bodega Casa Montaña, which has been serving food and excellent wines since 1836.
Stay: Near the Turia Gardens and prime shopping streets, a 19th-century former palace has been turned into the stylish Hotel Hospes Palau de la Mar, where the 66 rooms have marble baths and Egyptian cotton linens, the restaurant highlights local produce and seafood and the spa offers relaxing rituals and hydrotherapy facilities (room rates start at $130 a night).
Photo Credit: ©Turismo Valencias
Next: Porto, Portugal ►
Porto, Portugal
Set on the Douro River in the northern part of the country, Portugal’s second largest city is also one of the oldest in Europe, with roots going back some 2,000 years. There’s a treasure trove of (often beautifully crumbling) painted tile-covered buildings that line the streets of its old town. if you’re into wine, then you know that this is also the home of Port, the rich wine made from grapes from the nearby Douro Valley, and aged in cellars in the city for which it’s named. whether you’re a foodie or history buff— or just fancy strolling hand-in-hand along cobblestoned streets and sipping affordable drinks in riverside cafés — it’s worth checking out this Portuguese charmer.
Photo Credit: Porto Convention & Visitors Bureau
See & Do: Channel Porto’s history in its old town, at the 12th-century, fortresslike Cathedral, with its Gothic rose window; the Sao Francisco Church, with its ornate, gilded interior; and the Sao Bento Railway Station, covered with beautiful tiled panels. Rua Miguel Bombarda is lined with art galleries, while along the twisting, narrow streets of the medieval Cais de Ribeira neighborhood, you’ll spy colorful historic homes and buzzing bars and restaurants. Stroll along the vibrant Douro riverfront, stopping at the Ponte Luis I bridge for some prime photo ops, then head over to the lush Crystal Palace Gardens for more scenic backdrops. Learn about and sample port at Solar do Porto information center. if you’re up for a day trip, hop a Douro Valley river cruise that glides into the heart of wine country.
Eat & Drink: Porto is booming with trendy drinking and dining spots, many of which are located in some creatively re-purposed spaces. On Galeria de Paris Street, you’ll find tons of affordable eateries set in converted warehouses, while Restaurant Book — set in a former bookstore —presents its menus in old paperbacks. Livraria da Baixa, located in a still-working, nearly century-old shop, is a good spot for tea, tapas and well-crafted cocktails (try the signature Porto Tonico). head over to the Gaia neighborhood on the south bank of the river, where you can while away an afternoon visiting some of its more than 50 traditional wine lodges.
Photo Credit: Porto Convention & Visitors Bureau
Stay: with breathtaking views of the river and old town (particularly from its rooftop pool), the Yeatman Hotel offers chic rooms, a gourmet restaurant and a Caudalie Spa. There’s also extensive wine-based programming and a world-class wine collection. Ask the in-house experts to set up a day trip to area vineyards (room rates start at about $202 a night).