In today’s age of digital exploration, it’s easy to believe that every hidden corner of the world has been unveiled. Yet, there remain enigmatic gems, secret islands of Europe, untouched by the hordes of tourists and influencers. These lesser-known destinations offer a unique and tranquil escape for those seeking an unforgettable summer adventure.
Bornholm: A Gastronomic Marvel in the Baltic Sea
Location: Baltic Sea, North of Poland Access: Just a 30-minute flight from Copenhagen
Bornholm, a Danish island, awaits culinary enthusiasts and adventure-seekers. Despite its remote location, it’s only a short flight from Copenhagen, making it accessible for travelers seeking unique gastronomic experiences. What sets Bornholm apart is its commitment to locally sourced ingredients.
Local chefs take pride in crafting dishes from the region’s bounty. A favorite is smoked fish, paired with the flavors of wild herbs and seasonal berries. Bornholm’s northern climate may not favor swimming, but it compensates with captivating natural allure.
Visitors are spellbound by the island’s landscapes – mountains, cliffs, and the Baltic Sea. History enthusiasts find medieval churches, fortress remnants, and beautifully preserved windmills.
Nestled within the Croatian archipelago, Losinj Island remains a well-kept secret, preserving its serene tranquility by avoiding tourist masses. This enchanting island, once favored by an Austrian-Hungarian emperor who built a villa here, boasts an atmosphere scented with sage, lavender, and pine forests.
The island’s mild climate provides an ideal habitat for these fragrant botanical wonders, offering visitors an olfactory symphony. Losinj presents a unique blend of historical architecture, pristine air quality, and inviting beaches, all without the bustling crowds found in more popular tourist destinations.
Kythira: Greece’s Hidden Gem
Location: Ionian Islands, Greece Noteworthy: Birthplace of Goddess Aphrodite
For those acquainted with Greece’s bustling, tourist-saturated islands, Kythira offers a refreshing alternative. This Ionian gem, steeped in Greek mythology as the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite, has captivated luminaries such as Homer, Aristotle, and Gluck through the ages.
Kythira’s unique geographical location, surrounded by three seas – the Ionian, Mediterranean, and Aegean – allows a dip into its crystalline waters to claim the unique distinction of swimming in three seas simultaneously. Beyond its coastal charm, Kythira boasts captivating historical sites like the ancient capital, a formidable fortress, and a cave adorned with 8th-century frescoes.
Senja: Norway’s Arctic Wonderland
Location: Second-largest island in Norway Moniker: “Pearl of the North”
Senja, Norway’s second-largest island, weaves together the captivating facets of Norway’s natural splendor, earning it the title “Pearl of the North.” Situated beyond the Arctic Circle, Senja’s crisp climate doesn’t deter intrepid explorers from discovering its manifold wonders.
Senja epitomizes Norway’s essence with majestic mountains, sinuous fjords, dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and stretches of pristine white sandy beaches. Among the most sought-after experiences here is witnessing the enchanting spectacle of the northern lights, especially during the popular travel season in March.
Re Island: A Tranquil Oasis in France
Location: Off the Western Coast of France Connectivity: Linked to La Rochelle by a three-kilometer bridge
Re Island, nestled off the western coast of France, stands as a serene haven where time seems to languidly drift by. Connected to the historic city of La Rochelle via a three-kilometer bridge, this island offers respite rather than bustling tourist attractions.
Locals on Re Island predominantly traverse its serene streets by bicycle, adding to its unhurried atmosphere. Here, one finds no urgency or traffic congestion; instead, charming 19th-century architecture, leisurely avenues, and an overall sense of serenity invite travelers to unwind and savor life’s simpler pleasures.
La Maddalena: Italy’s Concealed Jewel
Location: Strait of Bonifacio, Between Corsica and Sardinia Legacy: Periods of military occupation
Nestled in the picturesque Strait of Bonifacio, between Corsica and Sardinia, lies a small archipelago comprising 62 islands. Among these, La Maddalena stands as the most renowned and the sole inhabited one. Often referred to as the “pearl of Italy,” La Maddalena boasts a rich history, including periods of military occupation. However, following the closure of military bases, it has warmly embraced both its local populace and inquisitive tourists.
Visiting La Maddalena is akin to embarking on a tranquil beach holiday where one can immerse oneself in the pristine beauty of the natural surroundings. The warm waters of the bay beckon for a refreshing swim, and the Pink Beach, with its blush-colored sands, provides a unique haven for relaxation. This island paradise has evolved into a sanctuary for those yearning to reconnect with nature while reveling in its serene beauty.
Cies Archipelago: Spain’s Galician Paradise
Location: Off the Coast of Galicia, Spain Alias: Galician Seychelles
The Cies Archipelago in Spain, often referred to as the Galician Seychelles, remains a hidden treasure that has eluded the discovery of many beyond Spain’s borders. Comprising a cluster of islands, these secluded paradises offer pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear ocean waters, and a rich tapestry of flora and fauna.
To safeguard the archipelago’s abundant wildlife and untouched ecosystems, the Spanish government has implemented stringent conservation measures, ensuring the preservation of its natural splendor. Consequently, tourists can luxuriate in the tranquility of the Cies Archipelago, reveling in sun-drenched beaches, invigorating swims in the Atlantic, and an immersion into the unspoiled beauty of this Spanish paradise.
Secret Islands of Europe to Visit This Summer: Which One Would You Choose?
In conclusion, these secret islands of Europe beckon intrepid travelers, promising unique experiences untainted by the trappings of mass tourism. Each of these hidden gems boasts its own distinct charm, be it culinary, historical, natural, or cultural. So, as the summer sun calls, consider veering off the beaten path and embarking on a journey to these secret isles, where the allure of discovery and the serenity of solitude await.
Planning A Road Trip in Italy: Your Perfect Itinerary
This article will not only provide information on the best routes for exploring Italy by car but also guide you on how to plan and create your own high-quality itineraries. You will gain insights on where to find information about attractions and which maps to use, as well as tips on how to prepare for your trip. Additionally, I have a separate detailed article covering car rental, toll roads, gasoline prices, and other essential details that you should read as well.
Choosing the right flight to start your Italian trip
Italy has numerous options for flying in, with a vast selection of airlines flying to the capital. Low-cost airlines even have a separate airport in Rome – Ciampino (CIA). The major international airports in Italy include Rome, Milan, Venice, Bologna, Rimini, Naples, Palermo, Pisa, Genoa, Bari, and Verona. You can begin your car trip from any of these cities.
Regardless of which airport you choose to fly to, all major airports in Italy have car rental options available. However, the largest selection of rental cars can be found at Fiumicino (Rome) and Malpensa (Milan) airports. To find the cheapest flights to Italy, you can simply search for “Italy” instead of a specific city on websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights. Additionally, searching for flights over a whole month or choosing “The cheapest month” option can often lead to more affordable options, as long as you are flexible with your travel dates.
I recommend arriving and departing from the same city to save money; but if you want to explore multiple cities, you can plan a route to arrive in one city and depart from another. Keep in mind that this will come with an extra charge for your car rental. The farther apart the pick-up and drop-off points are, the more expensive the service will be.
What months to avoid when visiting Italy
August is a peak tourist season in Italy and the month is known for its high temperatures and crowds of visitors. If possible, it’s best to avoid visiting Italy during this month, as all major attractions will be overcrowded and there will be frequent traffic jams on highways between cities.
Routes in Italy – how to create a quality itinerary by yourself
Study information about the country on the Internet.
See what UNESCO World Heritage sites are there (there are more of them in Italy than in any other country in the world).
Study the rating of attractions in Italy and reviews about them on TripAdvisor.
I immediately mark all the places of interest on Google Maps. There you can get directions and find out the distances between cities, and the approximate time it takes to get from one city to another:
Italian cities and sights to include in your road trip itinerary
Based on the fact that there are a huge number of attractions in Italy, and it is very difficult to visit everything in one trip, it would be logical to build a route separately for the north of Italy, the central part, and the southern part. If you have time, you can combine the north with the central part, or the south with the central part.
Places to visit in the North of Italy:
Milan (minimum 1 full day)
Venice (minimum 1 full day)
Verona (minimum 1 full day)
Bergamo
Padua – has one of the largest squares in Europe: Prato della Valle.
Treviso – a walled city, the birthplace of the Tiramisu desert.
Vicenza – the city center included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The surroundings of Lake Garda – you can easily spend a few days here or even a week.
Parco Natura Viva Safari Park – a delightful thing to do both for kids and adults
An amusement park for children Gardaland is like an Italian Disneyland
Dolomites (Renon earth pyramids)
Genoa and Liguria region (Portofino, Riomaggiore)
Turin – the fourth largest city in Italy, famous for its exquisite cuisine and architecture.
Surroundings of Lake Como
The city of Aosta – a small town in the Alps, where some buildings from the time of Roman rule have been preserved: triumphal forts, city walls, and towers.
Places in central Italy to include in your road trip itinerary:
Rome and Vatican (minimum 2-3 days).
Florence (minimum 1 full day).
On the way from Florence to Rome: San Gimignano (historic city center included in the UNESCO World Heritage List), Monteriggioni, Siena (UNESCO World Heritage List), Cascate del Mulino thermal springs.
The largest Italian resort city of Rimini and San Marino.
City of Ravenna (UNESCO).
City of Urbino (UNESCO).
Pisa and the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Places in the South of Italy:
Naples (minimum 1 full day).
Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius (1 full day).
Amalfi Coast (Positano).
Surroundings of Lecce and Bari, also the Sassi di Matera – a city carved into solid rock.
Tips for planning a road trip in Italy
When planning your itinerary, allow at least three days to explore Rome and the Vatican. One or two days are enough for most other major Italian cities.
Don’t try to see everything in one trip. Focus on your top priorities and save the rest for future trips. Trying to cram too much in, can make your vacation feel like a stressful marathon instead of a relaxing break. Choose three or four main cities, then add nearby attractions using Google Maps.
Italy’s highways are well-maintained, so you can comfortably drive 300-600 km a day between cities. To estimate travel time, assume you can travel 100 km in one hour. For example, it would take roughly 5-6 hours to travel 500 km.
Avoid scheduling long drives on your arrival or departure day. Instead, plan to spend the night near the airport.
Consider choosing a home base in one city and exploring the surrounding areas for a few days. For instance, from Florence, you can visit Pisa, while from Naples, you can go to Pompeii and Vesuvius, or from Rimini, you can visit San Marino. In Northern Italy, you can select a hotel near Lake Garda and Verona, stay for a week, and travel in different directions, as frequent check-ins/check-outs from hotels can be exhausting.
Another idea is to save the most exciting sights for the end of your trip. If you start with the most spectacular sights, the remainder of your journey might become dull. It is better if the magnificence of the attractions increases gradually. For instance, it is preferable to go to Naples first, and then to Rome, instead of the opposite. However, there is a chance that unforeseen circumstances might prevent you from seeing the most important thing.
Tired of over-crowded tourist cities where the beaches are filled with vendors selling kitschy crap? Still, want to enjoy the Croatian coastline? With so many things to do in Rijeka, this is one off-the-main-drag city that just might be what you needed.
Rijeka is located to the east of Croatian Istria, the mountainous/beachy peninsula that’s easily accessible from Slovenia. A port city, Rijeka was once a major hub for the Austro-Hungarian Empire and is still largely an industrial port town.
Walking along the seaside, you’ll notice that the marina lines up next to the city center. Just south of the town is a boat “yard” for building and repairing large ships—both barge and cruise. Yet, fear not, there are still beaches for swimming! Check out the beaches of Rijeka which you can access by car, bus, or bike.
Since Rijeka in Croatia has a technical college, there’s a fairly young population. In and around the city center, you’ll find plenty of trendy bars and cafes where locals grab an outdoor seat.
Rijeka, Croatia – Filled with History
If history is a main draw, Rijeka doesn’t lack in beautiful architecture. One of the best things to do in Rijeka is simply walk around finding the churches. For example, one church features a legend of the cursed hand:
A man was gambling outside of the church, drinking, and blaspheming. Not having luck, he began to curse. Picking up a stone, he threw it at the crucifix inside the church. Suddenly, the ground opened and the mand disappeared; leaving only his hand behind.
Taking a look inside, you’ll see the stone brightly embedded on Christ’s left side and, allegedly, the man’s hand at the foot of the crucifix.
Near the city center, you can also find Roman ruins surrounded by cafes. Sometimes it seems that having Roman ruins is a prerequisite to being a cool city in Europe!
Things to Do in Rijeka, Croatia
Visit the Rijeka Castle
To get in your daily dose of hiking and views, follow the river to the hundreds of stairs leading up to the castle. Note: there’s free drinking water at the top of the steps and a fantastic viewpoint where you can catch your breath!
The castle is well-utilized as a restaurant and also has great viewpoints, especially from the round tower where you can really feel like royalty looking over the city.
Go To The Harbor
Personally, one of my favorite things to do in Rijeka was just sitting on a bench by some boats. Plus, wandering the harbor buildings always promises unique local surprises.
Shopping Mall Rijeka
Shopping Mall Rijeka is not just a shopping destination; it’s a cultural and social hub. With a diverse array of international brands and local boutiques, it offers a complete shopping experience. You can find the latest fashion trends, accessories, electronics, and more. The mall also caters to a variety of culinary tastes, with a selection of cafes and restaurants that offer a perfect break from shopping. Its central location and modern ambiance make it an ideal spot for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re looking for high-end brands or unique local finds, this mall has something for everyone.
Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Littoral
The Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Littoral, housed in the magnificent Governor’s Palace, offers a deep dive into the region’s rich maritime history. The museum’s extensive collection spans from prehistoric times to the 20th century, emphasizing the area’s naval and shipping heritage. Visitors can explore displays of ship equipment, nautical instruments, and even ship reconstructions. The museum’s setting in a historic building adds to the charm, providing context and atmosphere that enhance the experience of exploring Croatia’s maritime past.
City Clock Tower
The City Clock Tower in Rijeka is more than just a timepiece; it’s a symbol of the city’s history and culture. Situated along Korzo, the city’s vibrant pedestrian street, the tower is a popular meeting point and landmark. Its architecture reflects the city’s past, and its position in the heart of Rijeka makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the city. The area around the clock tower is lively, with a blend of historical buildings, shops, cafes, and street performances, offering a snapshot of the city’s bustling urban life.
Golden Island of Krk
The Golden Island of Krk, accessible via a tour from Rijeka, is a treasure trove of cultural and natural beauty. Known for its mild climate, the island offers a blend of historical landscapes, ancient monuments, and stunning seascapes. Visitors can indulge in authentic Krk cuisine and locally produced wine, adding a gastronomic delight to the experience. The island’s quaint villages, historical sites, and beautiful beaches make it a perfect destination for those looking to explore beyond the mainland.
Risnjak National Park
Risnjak National Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. The park’s diverse landscapes range from dense forests to rugged peaks, including the impressive Veliki Risnjak. Hiking trails of varying difficulty offer visitors the chance to explore the park’s natural beauty, with opportunities to encounter wildlife such as bears, deer, and a variety of birds. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a challenging hike to the summit, Risnjak National Park offers a refreshing escape into nature.
Sablicevo Beach
Sablicevo Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters, is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. Easily accessible from Rijeka, the beach offers a relaxing seaside experience. Its location in the eastern part of the city means it’s less crowded, providing a peaceful setting for those looking to enjoy the sun and sea. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Sablicevo Beach is an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Adriatic coast.
Buy Local Croatian Souvenirs
Ah! That reminds me. This is a great town for buying local Croatian souvenirs! It seemed like there was a higher density of locally-producing/selling shops than I have seen in many cities and very few tacky souvenir-only shops.
No recommendations for hostels for you this time, as I was fortunate enough to stay with a Couchsurfing.com host. She was amazing. A professor of Naval Architecture and a co-creator of this dope-ass notebook (Chameleonize…basically reusable notebook without the ugly, pinching binder rings!), my host showed me the city and made me feel very much at home.
Haven’t heard of Couchsurfing? Oh my goodness. Stop reading. Go look it up. Make a profile. This is hands down the best travel website/application in current existence.
What other things to do in Rijeka should you make time for? Eating seafood!! Duh. One of the specialties is blue fish—little fish that are easy to de-bone, eaten with olive oil and salt.
Hot Budget Tip
This city is very affordable. You’ll have no problem finding budget-friendly things to do in Rijeka. If money is super-tight, then pop into the Pekara for a fresh sandwich or a burek. Filling and less than 3 euros.
Transportation and Stay
Rijeka is accessible by air, with the airport located on nearby Krk island. It’s also well-connected by train and bus, with direct connections to major cities like Zagreb, Ljubljana, and Budapest. The city’s attractions are mostly central and walkable, but a network of city buses is available for farther sites.
For accommodation, consider staying in the central part of Rijeka to be close to major attractions. Recommended places include:
Old Town Inn: Highly rated for its location and amenities.
Tre Re Inn: Offers comfort and convenience.
Studio Apartman Baronessa Adriana: Known for its excellent facilities and location.
Additionally, Airbnb offers various options ranging from condos to studio apartments, with prices starting as low as USD 35 per night.
Conclusion on Rijeka, Croatia: Authentic Port City
Rijeka’s blend of historical, cultural, and natural attractions, combined with its evolving urban landscape, makes it a compelling destination. The city caters to a range of interests, from shopping and museums to natural parks and beaches. With its improved accessibility and accommodation options, Rijeka is poised to offer a memorable experience to visitors seeking a blend of urban charm and coastal beauty.
Ever wonder how long you’d last living in a one-shop village with no WiFi?
I lasted 20 days. If I’d had internet and a means of mobility, tho, I think I could have stayed in Vuno, Albania for the rest of my days. Of course, it’s no secret that I love small towns (like Zdair, Slovakia).
Even if you aren’t a village enthusiast, there are still multiple reasons to include Vuno in your Albania itinerary! First of all, the southern region of Albania is freaking gorgeous. You got mountains. You got sea. Not just any sea, either. Really clear, really turquoise, perfectly temperature-d Ionian sea.
How did I end up in a tiny village in southern Albania? Volunteer labor at the Shkolla Hostel. Turns out, the Tirana Backpackers had too many volunteers while I was there…so they asked me to head 5 hours south to their lil baby hostel.
Luckily, for me, a tiny kitten had crawled out of the bushes and made its home at the hostel just two weeks before I arrived, so I got to spend my days in reception lounging around with a cute little nugget curled up in my lap.
Anyways….if you’re heading south and want to go somewhere with practically 0 tourists, no internet access, lots of donkeys, and a beautiful view, here’s a list of the best things to do and see in Vuno, Albania:
Gjipe Beach – the best in the region surrounding Vuno, Albania
This is the best beach in the region surrounding Vuno, Albania. I’m not biased. The fewest tourists, clearest waters, and overall the main reason people go to Vuno at all. You can hike 1.5 hours to the beach from the hostel and then hitchhike back. The stone beach is at the mouth of a lush canyon, which also has a great hike.
Like cliff jumping? Just to the right of the caves you can swim into is a great beginner cliff jumping spot…braver people can climb higher. Since the water is instantly deep and clear, there aren’t any rocks to worry about.
Lots of people who came to the Shkolla Hostel left their bags for a night, hiked down to Gjipe, and camped the night there. Since several restaurants and a campsite have set up shop, all the amenities are provided.
Gijipës beach by Vuno, Albania.
Gjipe Beach – the hike to Shkolla is on the opposite hill
Charming Vuno Village and the Animals!
As mentioned, there are animals. The donkeys will come into the campground to see if you’ve forgotten to hide your apples. Friendly stray dogs would appreciate some belly rubs (and might even act as your guide on hiking trails).
If you get lost on the way back from the beach, maybe you’ll run into the shepherd’s flock of 100+ goats and sheep. Be ready to have a full conversation with the locals…in which you might not have any clue what’s being said.
Café Vuno or “Lula’s Place”
In the village (5-10 min walk from the hostel) is “Lula’s Place.” A magical bar/café/restaurant/grocery/bus-stop-location. They have all the basic foods—pasta, veggies, eggs—that you need to make your meals or (better idea) you can simply ask Lula to make you some food.
No having to decide what you want, she just whips up a fresh, delicious meal. When I was there, it was usually stuffed pepper, burek, and a Greek salad. Let me tell you, I thought I knew how to chop tomatoes and cucumbers to make a salad. I was wrong. Fresh, local olive oil and sheep cheese and love.
Olive Grovesin Vuno, Albania
This region has some of the oldest olive trees you’ll ever see. Groves and groves of them. No one minds if you take a stroll. In fact, if you meet one of the farmers, he’ll probably tell you his whole life story….in either Albanian or Greek, doesn’t matter if you understand.
Goats in Vuno, Vlorë District, Albania. Source:
Old Churches Around Charming Vuno, Albania
Walk around Vuno, Albania and you’ll find lots of old buildings. The ones that are most impressive are located just next to the Shkolla—two old Greek Orthodox churches with Byzantine frescoes aged over 200 years! Ask the hostel peeps if they have the key to let you in the big church.
Jale Beach – a 5-minute drive from Vuno, Albania
More of a party-beach, Jaleit is a 5-minute drive from Vuno (again, an easy hitchhike) and is perfect when you just need to jump in the sea one more time.
Himare beaches…apparently they don’t bleach n dye the water
Himare – The Largest Nearby City
The largest nearby city of Himare is an easy hitchhike away. Or just a 15-minute drive. There, you can check out the local castle and, what else, beaches! Plus, anything you can’t get in Vuno (coughcough WiFi) you can get in Himare. If you stay a night there, the Himare Hostel looked dope or Himare Camping is across the street from a good beach.
Guess what, there’s even a ‘secret’ beach (which involves a bit of manageable trekking). No restaurants or lounge chairs. Ask a local, they’ll tell you.
Porto Palermo
Further south of Himare, if you have a car or motorbike, is the cool bay of Porto Palermo. Keep your eyes open along the way, as there are usually nice spots just off the road for a swim. The bay also has an old military vacation complex. Allegedly, there’s one person living there to make sure you don’t trespass. Looks really tempting tho.
