8 Most Overrated Places in Europe (Where to go Instead)

Europe has always-been-in-demand tourist destination. The continent is all rich with history, culture, and stunning architecture. However, let’s agree to the fact that not every popular destination lives up to the hype! There are attractions in Europe which are so crowded and highly overpriced that they leave visitors feeling more stressed than happy or inspired or fulfilled!
So if you are also planning to visit Europe, here are eight of the most overrated places in Europe—and the underrated gems you should visit instead.

Overrated: Let’s just agree that the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, despite being iconic, are two of the most overcrowded places in Paris! Exploring the famous attractions in Paris can be chaotic and exhausting as long queues, high prices, and sometimes (rude behaviour) toward tourists can just show you the less-talked side of the “City of Love.”

Visit Lyon Instead Did you know that Lyon is France’s culinary capital It is a lesser-known and lesser-crowded city of France that is home to charming old quarters and has a colourful food scene. It’s also cheaper and more relaxed.

Overrated: Amsterdam is picturesque but overrated for sure. The place is again struggling with overtourism and has introduced several strict measures to avoid tourists. Central regions remain packed with tourists and the cost of accommodation is rocket high!

Visit Utrecht Instead Never heard of Utrecht Well, this university city is also brimming with beautiful canals, has a colourful atmosphere, minus tourists. Just 30 minutes from Amsterdam by train, this place will give you all the Amsterdam vibes without tourist buzz.

While Rome’s history is inspiring, it’s also an over-crowded place. Summers are unbearable and tourist scams are unavoidable. The restaurants are simply overpriced.

Visit Lecce Instead Lecce, also known as the Florence of the South, has baroque architecture, fewer tourists, and excellent food scene but no crowds.

Overrated: Reykjavik is the first stop for Iceland visitors because it’s the capital city. But the city is overpriced.

Visit Akureyri Instead You can explore Akureyri instead which is in the north. Being the second-largest town in the country, it makes for a perfect base to explore geothermal attractions, fjords, and whale-watching.

Overrated Dubrovnik shot to fame after being featured in globally-famous ‘Game of Thrones’ series. Today, the city is overwhelmed with a heavy influx of visitors, especially from cruise ships. Prices are just too high.

Visit Sibenik Instead Try Sibenik. It’s a gorgeous coastal town with an old city, scenic waterfalls nearby in Krka National Park, and a more relaxed pace. It’s Croatia without the chaos.

Overrated Barcelona is happening, but it’s also chaotic. Locals don’t enjoy the company of tourists. Mass tourism, and petty crime is a real concern in Barcelona.

Visit Valencia Instead Yes, head to Valencia instead! The pretty city is dotted with gorgeous beaches and old architecture. The local food scene is absolutely awesome. Valencia offers everything Barcelona does—without photographer crowds.

Overrated Santorini is like a picture-postcard. The place is noted for its white-and-blue buildings which become so buzzy with touristy and commercial crowds which only come here for pictures. The place is highly expensive. It’s true that the island feels more like a photo op than a serene escape.

Visit Naxos Instead Naxos is only a short ferry ride away. This stunning island has silent beaches which offer the much-needed escape. The villages here are more charming and people are more warm.

Overrated: There’s no doubt that Venice is beautiful, but the country is suffering with overtourism. The beautiful canals we see in pictures are actually crowded, highly priced, and souvenir shops overshadow its magic. The peak season is the worst.

Visit Bologna Instead: Bologna is a hidden Italian gem which is rich in culture and cuisine. The city offers a more authentic Italian experience minus the touristy crowd. The city’s historic center is simply incredible, and is home to the oldest university in Europe. Here goes the fun fact!