Forget Paris, London, or Rome and head instead to some of the lesser-visited hidden gems in Europe. We’ve pulled together 13 of the most beautiful places in Europe that are a wee bit off the beaten track. You’ll find coastal towns, old cities, stunning nature, and more. These amazing European hidden gems offer everything from modern cities with world-class cuisine to hiking far from the rest of civilization. From the Baltic States to the Balkans, and everything in between, there are some intriguing destinations more than worthy of your bucket list! These European hidden gems also include picturesque old towns, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, beautiful coastal villages, and much more!
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What are the Best Hidden Gems in Europe?
The major sites and cities of Europe are incredible but take a step a little off the beaten track and you’ll find some magical places to visit on the continent. These European hidden gems are perfect for exploring smaller, less well-known places in Europe. So come on in, here are my favorite hidden gems of Europe with the best things to do there.
1. Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi is a simply glorious city. From the views down from the Narikala Fortress to the amazing food in small underground places and the bathhouses. There’s amazing history here (and the walking tours are fantastic!).
Top things to see and do in Tbilisi
- Tbilisi Old Town
- Narikala Fortress
- Botanical Gardens
- Sample Georgian food and wine – this food and wine tasting tour is GREAT value.
Why visit Tbilisi
Nestled beneath the imposing Caucasus Mountains that divide Europe from Asia, Tbilisi is a vibrant city of orthodox churches, soviet monuments (Stalin was born in nearby Gori), a stone fortress, and cobbled streets. Georgia is also famous for its cuisine and wine, and while in Tbilisi you will eat (and drink) like a king but pay no more than a pauper. My guide to visiting Tbilisi is here.
You can explore more of Tbilisi – and take in a wine tasting too with this small group tour and tasting – see the availability and dates here.
Tbilisi makes a fantastic jumping-off point to head off into the wild Caucasus mountains where old monasteries perch atop mountain peaks and shepherds tend their flocks as they have for centuries. Tbilisi is definitely one of the hidden gems in Europe!
How to get to Tbilisi:
Tbilisi International Airport has flights to and from most major European cities. You can reach Tbilisi by bus from Istanbul in Turkey and by train from Yerevan in Armenia and Baku in Azerbaijan. Prebook your travel to Tbilisi here.
Where to stay in Tbilisi:
Tbilisi has a huge selection of hostels and hotels to cater to every budget, it’s hard to know where to look, so here are my tips on the best places to stay in Tbilisi.
Head to the House Hotel, Old Tbilisi for a great stay. The architecture here is amazing, they have comfortable clean rooms, yummy breakfasts and above all else, a superb location near the Clock Tower. – check room rates and availability here.
If you’re on a budget, we recommend the Envoy Hostel. – Dorms are spacious and air-conditioned and come with lockers. Take a padlock. Breakfast is a good selection. Some double rooms are available. You can book or check prices here.
2. Head to little visited Cadiz in Spain
This ancient port city in Andalusia often is forgotten, unless you’re stopping by on a cruise ship. It’s a great place to come and explore and it has some amazing history.
Top things to see and do in Cadiz
- Swim at the city’s beaches
- View the camera obscure – get a skip the line ticket for it here.
- Explore the magnificent Roman theatre ruins
- Sample the seafood and tapas – take a food walking tour – learn while you eat!
Why visit Cadiz:
Forget grubby Costa Del Sol hell-holes, and while you definitely should visit the neighboring Andalusian cities of Granada and Seville, you should come to Cadiz for that real Andalus flavor. Explore the tiny backstreets as wafts of seafood and garlic carry through the air. Get yourself to the market and stuff yourself silly on local tapas. Stroll around the (free) botanical gardens or even go for a dip at the small but quiet beach in the city center. There’s much more on what to do in Cadiz in our guide here.
Cadiz makes a great base to explore the rest of the Costa del Luz (Coast of Light) and nearby scenic spots such as Cape Trafalgar (of Nelson fame) and Bologna with the ancient Roman fish processing plant. Visit the incredible camera obscura in the Torre Tavira for panoramic views of the city and coastline. One of Europe’s real hidden gems!
How to get to Cadiz:
The closest airport is Jerez (famous for its Sherry bodegas) and the journey is around 30 minutes by taxi or car. Cadiz is well connected on the high-speed Spanish train network. You can also take direct trains from XRY to Cadiz. These trains take 50 minutes and you can check timetables and prices here. The next closest airport at Seville (SVQ) is bigger, and about 1 hour and 10 minutes by car from Cadiz. It’s 130 kilometers (81 miles) from Cadiz from SVQ. Trains run from the Seville Santa Justa station, taking 1 hour and 20 minutes to get to Cadiz – see the timetables to Cadiz here.
Where to stay in Cadiz:
You’ll want to pick a great location in Cadiz, and if you’re visiting in the summer months some super air conditioning. Here are my picks of where to stay in Cadiz.
The Soho Boutique Columela hotel is set in the heart of Cadiz and comes with a seasonal swimming pool, free WiFi, and a terrace. It’s the perfect location to explore Cadiz. Check rates at this luxury hotel in Cadiz here.
Converted from a 17th century convent in the heart of Cadiz, the Hotel Boutique Convento Cádiz is built around a glorious inner courtyard. This mid-range Cadiz hotel is truly lovely – a unique place to stay in Cadiz. Check room rates and dates at this spectacular Cadiz hotel here.
The hotel Plaza de la Luz Cádiz is great budget accommodation and if you’re wanting to self-cater in Cadiz this is a great option as the apartments come with kitchenettes. Check rates for self-catering and this budget hotel in Cadiz here.
3. Discover Lake Bled, Slovenia
Come to Bled for stunning lake views, fabulous hikes, an amazing castle, and the picturesque church on an island in the lake. Stay for peace, quiet, and relaxation! Bled is one of the best places to visit in Slovenia, read more about others in my guide here.
Top Things to See and Do in Lake Bled, Slovenia
- Lake Bled
- Bled Castle
- The Assumption Church of Bled
Why visit Bled, Slovenia:
The beautiful small town of Bled is a true hidden gem of Europe. You’re unlikely to have heard the name of the town mentioned with the word “lake” in front of it. That’s because the town of Bled sits on the shores of picturesque Lake Bled in northern Slovenia. Bled town is also famous for Bled Castle which sits perched on a rocky outcrop high above the lake.
Another major attraction in Bled is the Assumption of Mary Pilgrimage church which is picturesquely located on a small island in the middle of the lake. There is plenty to do in Bled from walking or cycling around the lake to enjoying the many cafes, bars, and restaurants on the lakeside. Walking the circumference of Lake Bled is a fabulously easy and delightful thing to do in Bled.
How to get to Bled:
There are hourly buses from Slovenia’s capital city, Ljubljana, that go via the airport. From Ljubljana, the journey is 75 minutes, and from the airport, it takes around 45 minutes. The cost of the bus from Ljubljana to Bled is around 15 Euros. Hourly trains go from Ljubljana to Lesce-Bled Station which is 4km from the town. From Lesce Bled Station to Bled town there is a shuttle bus every 30 minutes.
- Book a Shuttle directly from Ljubljana to Bled here
- You can’t book Slovenian trains online, but you can check the timetable here
- Take a day trip to Bled from Ljubljana and get a guided tour of the lake and the castle
Where to stay in Bled:
There are several options – from lakeside hotels to quiet homestays, as usual book early to get the most options. Here are my picks for places to stay in Bled.
Stay lakeside in the stunning Adora Luxury Hotel – where private suites come with an incredible view of Lake Bled. Reserve early, these suites are amazing.
The gorgeous Old Bled House has marvelous architecture and is just steps from the lake and the old town. It’s charming and comfortable, and the staff are so helpful. Check rates and availability at Lake Bled here.
For the budget traveler, Rudi Hiti’s Guest house is just fabulous. It’s a little walk to the lakeside, but it more than makes up for it in hospitality, great rooms, and friendly warmth. There’s more here.
4. Explore Budapest, Hungary
Despite being Hungary’s capital city, Budapest is still relatively undiscovered by the majority of travelers. There are great rail links, fabulous cheap airlines, and easy bus services to get there.
Top Things to see and do in Budapest, Hungary
- Take a River Danube cruise – this is a fabulous way to see the city!
- Visit the Budapest Bathhouses
- Lose yourself in Budapest’s Ruin pubs
- Explore Buda Castle – don’t miss the caves under the castles, they’re magical!
Why visit Budapest
It’s nowhere near as busy as nearby Prague in the Czech Republic, Budapest is truly worth a visit for its incredible architecture. Budapest is famous for its hot springs and bathhouses, making it the perfect destination if you’re looking to kick back and soak up some of the health-giving waters! (If you like hot springs, you’ll love our content on hot springs to visit in Korea)
The River Danube flows through Budapest and cuts the city into the old medieval Buda on the west side of the river and more modern Pest on the east. Be sure to explore the city’s derelict ruin bars, definitely some of Europe’s hidden gems! Budapest is also a popular destination in winter for its Christmas markets.
How to get to Budapest:
There are direct flights to Budapest from most major European capitals as well as international flights to some Asian destinations. Budapest is easily reached on Wizzair or Ryanair if you’re looking for budget flights. Budapest is also easily connected by train and bus from other European destinations.
Check trains to Budapest here (there are great connections to Vienna, Berlin & Bratislava)
Budapest has some great international bus connections too. You can check the timetables here.
Where to stay in Budapest:
The Aria Hotel Budapest by Library has an unsurpassable location in Budapest. Rooms and suites include bathrobes, slippers and a fabulous sound system, Nespresso coffee machines and so much more. You’ll never want to leave! Check rates and availability here.
You’ll find gorgeous clean rooms and a fabulously friendly staff here at the Beletage Boutique Hotel. The rooms are very spacious and extremely comfortable. You can check availability and rates here.
The Boutique AK7 Suites are in a fabulous location in Budapest. All rooms here have A/C and this is really cool neighbourhood with some fabulous places to eat. Check room options and availability here.
5. Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Bosnia & Herzegovina’s Mostar is a true gem. There are fabulous views in most places you look, great places to eat, and some interesting, and also harrowing history to check out here.
Top things to see and do in Mostar
- Stari Most Bridge
- Mostar Old Town
- Kravice Waterfalls – Get there on this day trip from Mostar
- Blagaj Spring
Why visit Mostar:
With its quaint old town, amazing food, and stunning architecture, Mostar is one of the real hidden gems of Europe. Walk the narrow streets of the old town along the fast-flowing Neretva River where some brave souls dive off the famous Stari Most (Old Bridge) into the greeny-blue waters below. Most people come here for a day trip from Sarajevo (our guide to Sarajevo is here) and miss seeing the city at night, or first thing in the morning (which is truly, truly lovely). So come for a few days and get to experience these quiet times.
Sit and eat cevapcici or burek at one of the many restaurants and cafes that line the river or take a hike into the nearby mountains (heed the signs and be careful of landmines and other unexploded ordnance).
How to get to Mostar:
Trains and buses link Mostar from the capital Sarajevo and you can also reach Dubrovnik in Croatia by bus (4 hours). You can book train tickets online from Sarajevo to Mostar with the National Rail provider here. You will need to go to the station beforehand and print the tickets out though.
You can check bus timetables to Mostar from Sarajevo here.
Where to stay in Mostar:
There’s nothing more magical in Mostar than being by the Stari Bridge, and the Hotel-Restaurant Kriva Ćuprija is located right by the UNESCO-protected bridge. You’ll sleep with the sound of the river below! Rooms come with views, AC, mini-bars, and cable TV. This is a fabulous place to stay in Mostar. You’ll need to reserve early and room rates are here.
The Appleline Apartments are a fabulous place to stay in Mostar, especially if you have a car. We stayed here when we went on our “Old Yugoslav” road trip and there’s great (free) parking right outside and the folks are so friendly and helpful. Its a great place to stay on the outskirts of Mostar, but easily walkable into the center – and, yes they even have a pool! Check room rates and availability here.
The Hotel Emen is an extremely well-located hotel in Mostar it’s just a short walk from the Old Bridge, in the main street, and the building itself is UNESCO protected too. The rooms are a good size, comfortable and the staff are great. Book a room here to be right in the center of Mostar!
6. Ohrid, North Macedonia
The North Macedonian town of Ohrid is found in such a pretty place it’s hard to believe that it’s still not overrun with visitors. Come now before every one does! We truly loved our stay in Ohrid, it was laidback, we got to walk around the old city, taste Macedonian wine and enjoy the food too!
Things to see and do in Ohrid, North Macedonia
- Take a FREE Walking Tour around Ohrid – book your (FREE) place here
- Hike around Samoil Fortress
- St John the Theologian Church
- Hellenistic (pre-Roman) amphitheater
- Lakeside beaches, bars, and restaurants
Why visit Ohrid:
The charming town of Ohrid sits perched on a large lake of the same name. The town itself is built on the hillside that leads up from Lake Ohrid culminating at the impressive Samoil fortress that overlooks the lake towards Albania on the far shore.
After getting lost and exploring the cobbled streets and ancient churches you can make your way along the lakeside path (some of which is on a wooden walkway above the water) to the impressive St John the Theologian orthodox church, a real hidden gem in Europe, sitting on the cliff-side above the lake. You can continue further to some hidden beaches with pristine cool waters.
How to get to Ohrid:
Ohrid has a small airport with some international flights in the summer. Buses connect the capital Skopje and the journey time is around 4 hours. It’s also possible to reach Tirana in Albania (7 hours) by bus (you will need to take a taxi/shared taxi to nearby Struga first). Flixbus is one of your best options for this part of the world and you can check timetables and prices here.
Where to stay in Ohrid:
For quite simply stunning views, and a fabulous location you can’t go far wrong with the gorgeous Casa Germanoff in Ohrid. There are breathtaking views from the balcony, and the rooms are sublimely comfortable. Reserve your rooms here.
The Villa Dudanov has to have the highest rating I’ve ever seen for this many reviews of a place to stay in Ohrid. It’s beachfront, well-appointed, and with stunning views. It’s the perfect place to stay in Ohrid. Check rates and book a room here.
My last choice here in Ohrid is the City Palace Hotel for those who prefer a traditional hotel. This hotel is in a great location and has fabulous services. You’ll want to opt for a lake view, as its a super place to watch the sunset. Check rates and availability here.
7. Riga, Latvia
This charming capital city is often overlooked by the most obvious charms of some of our other hidden gems but truly deserves a visit. It’s perfect for a long weekend at any time of the year. Riga was one of the first places that we visited when we set off on our journey in 2014!
Things to see and do in Riga
- Old Town – explore Riga on a FREE Walking Tour – check your options here
- Cathedral
- Swedish Gate
- Wagner Concert Hall
Why visit Riga
Riga is the capital city of Lithuania in the Baltics. This charming destination boasts a quaint medieval old town full of brightly colored buildings. It’s a perfect hidden gem, great for long weekends in any season. Christmas markets are magical here and the city is packed with hidden corners and stunning sights. One of the best ways to explore Riga is to take a free walking tour – you’ll get all the local aspects and advice and some great places to eat too. The tour is free, but you’ll need to book your spot here.
You’ll find a mixture of architecture from European to Russian thanks to the city’s history as part of the Soviet Union and then independence. Riga was once the home of composer Richard Wagner and it is now possible to watch a performance in his former home.
How to get to Riga:
Riga has a small airport with connections to the rest of Europe. The city is easily reachable by both bus and train from nearby Estonia, Lithuania, and also Poland, and Russia a little farther afield. I recommend Lux Express coaches for any trip around the Balkans! You can check all the bus and train options for getting to Riga here.
Where to stay in Riga:
Riga has a huge selection of hostels and hotels to cater to every budget. You’ll want to pick a great location, right in the center of the old town – here are my top picks of Riga’s best accommodation.
The Grand Poet Hotel is just across the street from Bastion Hill. It’s a perfect location for exploring the city. (the Spa in the hotel is usually included in the price – so you’ll want to take a look at availability here. The rooms are stunning here, the breakfast is amazing and the staff are super helpful. Check availability now.
Location, location, location is important in Riga, after all, most people only stay here for a short time – so the Old Riga Boutique Hotel is perfect. It’s located in a 15th-century building and is stuffed full of charm – reserve your room here.
The Monika Centrum Hotel is a great option in the center of Riga, but it’s also in a quiet part – near the embassies. It oozes with the charm of the 1883 building, has a super sauna in the hotel, and well-sized rooms. Book your Riga hotel here!
8. Sighisoara, Romania
This is such a glorious old town to visit – you will honestly feel like you’re in a fairytale. Colored houses, gothic churches, and, of course, Dracula…
Top things to see and do in Sighisoara
- Charming Old town
- Clock tower
- Birthplace of Vlad Tepes – visit on a guided tour here
Why visit Sighisoara:
This hidden gem of Europe is straight out of a Brothers Grim fairy tale. The charming medieval old town of brightly colored houses and gothic church spires sits nestled beneath the rolling forested hills and mountains of Transylvania.
Sighisoara is famous as the birthplace of Vlad “Dracul” Tepes; the bloodthirsty warlord and inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. There are many wonderful street-side cafes and restaurants serving hearty European fare for a very reasonable price.
How to get to Sighisoara:
There are daily trains from Brasov and Bran, and the city is also well-connected by bus. It’s also a great option for a road trip that takes in Transylvania (which we’ve done and it was fabulous!). To check bus options to get to Sighisoara, use BusBud here.
You can book trains in Romania through CFC the State Railway – and their site is here.
Where to stay in Sighisoara:
Located right in the Sighisoara citadel the Fronius Boutique Residence is simply lovely. It’s stuffed full of character-filled rooms, antique furnishings, and modern appliances and comforts as well as a really warm Romanian welcome. They also offer free transport to and from the train station! Snap this one up asap!
9. Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn was one of the first places that we visited when we set off traveling 8 years ago and it still holds a magical place in my heart and I do try to convince people to go there. It is glorious. Perfect for a long weekend, especially during the Christmas market season.
Top things to see and do in Tallinn
- Explore Tallinn on a FREE Walking Tour – reserve a place here
- Charming Old town
- Clock tower
- Go to the KGB Museum Tour in the Hotel Viru – you’ll learn more on the FREE Communist Walking tour here.
Why visit Tallinn:
Another of the Baltic states, Tallinn has one of the most picturesque old towns in all of Europe. The UNESCO-listed old town is surrounded by medieval walled fortifications leading to the central marketplace. Here you can find the gothic-looking town hall surrounded by restaurants and bars.
Tallinn is also home to Toompea Hill which overlooks the terracotta rooftops of the city and out across the Gulf of Finland.
How to get to Tallinn:
Tallinn has a small airport with connections to the rest of Europe. The city is easily reachable by both bus and train from nearby Estonia, Lithuania, and also Poland, and Russia a little farther afield. I recommend Lux Express coaches for any trip around the Balkans! There are also daily ferries between Tallinn and nearby Helsinki in Finland, with the journey taking just two hours.
You can check out bus, train, and flight options for how to get to Tallinn here.
Where to stay in Tallinn:
Tallinn has a huge selection of hostels and hotels to cater to every budget. For a truly magical experience right in the old town, head to the Hotel Telegraaf. This gorgeous hotel right in the center is located in a historic building dating from 1878! Breakfast here will keep you going for the entire day! Check rates and availability here.
10. Tirana, Albania
Tirana is, these days, remarkably cosmopolitan – and there are heaps of places to eat and hang out – the history here is interesting (be sure to take a walking tour), and exploring the BunkArt museums is an absolute must! Read about Tirana and other beautiful palces to visit in Albania here.
Top things to see and do in Tirana
- Skanderbeg Square – learn about the history of Tirana in the Tirana FREE Walking Tour (book a place here!)
- BunkArt museum
- The Tirana Pyramid (Piramida) – is currently under renovation
- Mount Dajti
Why visit Tirana:
Until not long ago, Albania was a closed and reclusive state similar in many ways to North Korea. Although Dictator Enver Hoxha loved brutalist concrete architecture and bunkers, much of the concrete has now been painted in warm, welcoming colors that radiate under the southern European sunshine.
Tirana has many interesting museums, churches, mosques, and great places to eat and drink. If the summer heat of the city is getting to you, then you can reach the Adriatic seaside resort of Durres in under an hour or alternatively head up Mount Dajti (1,613m/5,292ft) in the cable car for stunning views of the city. While you’re in Albania, why not head to the Albanian Riviera? It’s glorious.
How to get to Tirana:
You can reach Tirana by air via the international airport. You can also arrive by bus from Macedonia, Serbia, Kosovo, Greece, and even Turkey. Check on timetables and ticket prices to get to Tirana here.
Where to stay in Tirana:
Tirana has a huge selection of hostels and hotels to cater to every budget. You’ll want to stay centrally to ensure that you don’t waste time going backwards and forward each day. I recommend the Soin Rooms – this hotel is in a great location and has super rooms. You can check rates and book a room here.
11. Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius was actually the first place that we visited when we set off traveling, back in May 2014, as we waited for our Russian visas to kick in. And I remember the place fondly (despite the rain). Vilnius is a lovely city, with a great old and lots to explore.
Top things to see and do in Vilnius
- Vilnius Old Town
- Visit Gediminas Castle
- Vilnius Cathedral
- Hill Park
Why visit Vilnius:
This fairy-tale city which serves as the capital of Lithuania is packed with street-side cafes that give the town a somewhat French feel, while the hilltop castle affords panoramic views across the city.
The old town is one of the most charming hidden gems of Europe and has a cozy feel to it. There are plenty of museums, churches, and parks to explore before sitting at one of the many cafes for a bit of relaxing and people-watching.
How to get to Vilnius:
Vilnius International Airport is only 6km from the center of town. The city is easily reachable from other Baltic destinations such as Tallinn and beyond with Lux Express buses. You can book buses and transfers to get to Vilnius with Bookaway here.
Where to stay in Vilnius:
You’ll want to stay in Vilnius Old Town to be at the center of what to see in Vilnius. I recommend the Hotel Vilnia, it has a great location, superb rooms and their buffet breakfast is superb too. Check rates and availability here.
12. Zabljak, Montenegro
Zabljak is definitely a ski town (it reminds me in lots of ways of our home base, Bansko in Bulgaria). Off-season – i.e. the rest of the year apart from ski season it’s a glorious place to visit. There’s super hiking here, some amazing rafting, and some incredible outdoors.
Top things to see and do in Zabljak
- Hike around Crno Jezero (Black Lake) – this is a fabulous short hike and really easy too.
- Raft in the deepest canyon in Europe
- Cycle through the mountains
- Climb Durmitor Peak.
Why visit Zabljak:
For fans of the outdoors, Montenegro’s Durmitor National Park is a fantastic destination, with access to hiking, mountain biking, rafting, and mountain climbing. Zabljak is a small town a few kilometers from the stunning Crno Jezero or Black Lake. Even if you’re not an outdoor fan, then the short hike around Black Lake is glorious. It’s a relatively easy hike, but it’s very uneven underfoot, and I’d recommend a set of hiking poles.
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And the road trip through Durmitor National Park from Zabljak to Pluzine is just stunning (if the weather is good!), The hike at Black Lake is one of the best things to do in Montenegro.
Although small, Zabljak has all the facilities you need to make it a base for exploring the national park. Montenegro really is one of the true hidden gems in Europe!
How to get to Zabljak:
Zabljak is easily reachable from Kotor and Podgorica within Montenegro with bus links to Croatia and Serbia beyond. You can book many buses online with Bookaway, here’s the options.
Where to stay in Zabljak:
The accommodation in Zabljak is pretty spread out, and if you want to be able to eat at one of the restaurants in town, you’ll need to stay centrally or have rented a car to get backwards and forwards. The Hotel Soa is just a 10 minute walk from both the center (and the restaurants in town) and the main bus station. It’s a perfect location and gets excellent reviews. Check rates and book now.
13. Explore the European Hidden Gem of Zlarin, Croatia
This lovely island off the Dalmatian coast of Croatia is loved by boaters and those seeking a quiet life. It is famous for its coral jewelry.
Top things to see and do in Zlarin, Croatia
- Hit the beaches of Croatia’s hidden gem, Zlarin
- Walk around Zlarin’s harbor
- Hike Zlarin’s island trails
- Go kayaking around the coast of Zlarin
Why visit Zlarin?:
The tiny island of Zlarin off the Dalmatian coast in Croatia is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Europe. Zlarin is just 6km by 2km across and contains a small village, secluded beaches, a good selection of restaurants and bars, and a series of inland hiking trails.
The small, pebble beaches on the island are perfect for swimming and the water is exceptionally clear. You can hire bicycles, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards to explore farther afield. You’ll be able to get far away from the madding crowd of coastal Croatia.
How to get to Zlarin, Croatia:
The only way to reach the island of Zlarin is by ferry from the mainland town of Sibenik, which lies about halfway between Zadar and Split. There are four to five ferries each day to Zlarin (three on Sundays). The cost is €3.00 and the journey time from Sibenik to Zlarin is 30 minutes. It’s also a car ferry and you can check current prices and timetables here.
If you don’t want to stay on Zlarin Island you can take a Kornati National Park tour from Sibernik – it’s a full-day tour and you’ll also visit Kornat Island – you can see your options here.
Where to stay on Zlarin Island, Croatia:
There are no hotels on the island but plenty of apartments for rent on Booking and Airbnb. While the food here is excellent this is a great place to do a little self-catering too. Here are my top picks for where to stay on Zlarin.
Stay at Diana Holiday Home on Zlarin: with a terrace and a garden, this 2-bedroom holiday home on Zlarin is just delightful. Check rates and availability here.
Holiday Home Subasic has 3 balconies, with magnificent views, 3 separate bedrooms, and is just a 6-minute walk from the beach on Zlarin. It’s a fabulous Zlarin holiday home that you won’t want to leave. Book your dates early here.
The Best Ways to Explore Europe’s Hidden Gems
One of the best ways to discover these wonderful European attractions is to take a road trip. We’ve explored these hidden gems on buses, trains, and in our car (before we sold it). If you need to rent a car to explore Europe, then Discover Cars is one of the premier car rental agencies in Europe.
Final Words on 13 of Europe’s Hidden Gems
Having visited almost every country on the continent, I can safely say these are the most beautiful places in Europe. You’ll be able to see smaller cities, explore slightly off-the-beaten-track locations, and get more of a local vibe.
Stock images in this article are courtesy Deposit Photos.
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