Top 10 Hidden Gems to Visit in Europe on Your Next Trip

From glitzy capitals like Paris and London to historic sites in Rome and ancient ruins in Greece, Europe's most famous destinations attract huge crowds of tourists every year. But seasoned travelers know that some of Europe's real gems are off-the-beaten-path places that most tourists never see. These hidden gems offer a more authentic and unique experience away from the hubbub of busy cities and packed tourist sites. 

Here are my top 10 picks for hidden gem destinations to check out on your next trip to Europe:

1. Bran Castle (Romania) - Perched dramatically on a hilltop in Transylvania, the storied Bran Castle is an incredibly well-preserved medieval fortress that inspired the legend of Dracula. Wander the castle halls and take in sweeping countryside views.

2. Hallstatt (Austria) - This picturesque village tucked between a lake and the Austrian Alps looks like a fairytale come to life. With its colorful 16th century homes and charming narrow streets, Hallstatt is one of Austria's most photographed (yet overlooked) places. 

3. Procida Island (Italy) - Just a short ferry ride from Naples takes you to this lovely, laid-back island. Wander around the pastel-hued harbor, explore Procida's sun-soaked beaches and get lost in its maze of tiny, vibrant streets. 

4. Meteora Monasteries (Greece) - Perched dramatically atop rock pinnacles rising from the plain, the centuries-old Eastern Orthodox monasteries of Meteora make you feel like you're suspended between earth and sky. 

5. Andalucía White Villages (Spain) - Dotting the sun-baked hills of Spain's southern Andalucía region are charming whitewashed villages stuffed with history, scenic beauty and captivating culture unique to Spain.  

6. Ghent Canals (Belgium) - Bruges gets all the attention, but Ghent is also laced with scenic canals lined with archetypal Belgian architecture dating back to medieval times. It's like a mini-Bruges with a fraction of the tourists.  

7. Sintra (Portugal) - This village nestled in the hills north of Lisbon is dotted with pastel-hued palaces showing unique architectural styles from Moorish to Manueline. Wandering around feels like walking through a fairy tale.

8. Lofoten Islands (Norway) - With its staggering peaks and green slopes falling straight into the sea, this archipelago in northern Norway looks totally wild and incredibly dramatic. Base yourself in charming villages likes Reine and Henningsvær while exploring this untamed landscape. 

9. Český Krumlov (Czechia) - Sitting pretty on meandering bends of the Vltava River, Český Krumlov charms with its hilltop medieval castle and immaculately preserved Baroque town center below. It's straight out of a history book. 

10. Slovenia's Lake Bled - With its turquoise-green lake, tiny church-topped island, hilltop castle and backdrop of the Julian Alps, Bled looks like a living postcard. Escape the big tourist destinations of central Europe for Slovenia's number one natural attraction.

So next time you plan a trip to Europe, do like a savvy travel insider and check out these 10 underrated hidden gems! Wandering through their unspoiled beauty and charm will give you that delightful feeling of discovering something amazing that's still untouched by mass tourism.