Tag Europes

Share The Article

No chain restaurant eyesores, no glitzy name-brand resorts, and certainly no curated nonsense taking away from its red-tiled townscape’s authentic charm and immaculate scenery.

It’s rare to find a true hidden gem anymore, but that’s what I found in 2023 as I galavanted around Europe with no clear plans.

Hearing the hype of Albania through social media, the neighboring country of North Macedonia, was a throw-in after I ate my way through Tirana.

Seeing a bus ride to Ohrid was only a couple of hours and cost a little more than my daily coffee budget, I decided to venture off to a town I’d never heard of — Ohrid.

It’s one of the best travel decisions I’ve ever made, and not one of the typical “I could live here” spur of the moment impulses we all have.

No. I could really live here. And so could other travel experts, who recently claimed Ohrid as one of Europe’s top spring getaways.

It is stunningly beautiful, very affordable, and crowd-free, minus a select few expats from neighboring countries.

Having yet to reach mainstream status, this serene lake town is still a secret to most. If you’re looking for an unexpected paradise, you’ve found it in one of Europe’s least visited countries, but that’s all part of the appeal.

No Crowds & Pure Serenity In The Balkan’s Prettiest Lake Town

I’ve never been to Lake Como, but I’d bet a spicy meatball 🤌 Ohrid is prettier. There’s no way there’s any body of water more mesmerizing in the Balkans; that’s for sure.

When I arrived, the first thing I did was put my backpack up and walk through town, and I couldn’t believe how open the timeless cobbled streets and maze of alleyways were.

Having just left Albania, I thought to myself, “people pick that over this?!”.

This way under-hyped city stands as a time capsule, including interactions with locals, where baristas might need to finish their smoke break before taking your order (#priorities) and the cab driver (no Uber here) might have a few paragraphs left in the newspaper before starting the meter.

Somehow, even as a spoiled American, neither of these instances bothered me. It was actually kind of refreshing in a way; a small reminder to enjoy the little things.

Old Town is the highlight of town as far as the urban attractions go and there’s no better place to watch the sunset than sitting lakeside on the pier, or a sidewalk cafe near the water. as the whole town of red-tiled buildings illuminates an orange glow across the vast hills you won’t mind traversing when you see what’s in store.

365 Churches: One For Each Day Of The Year

If I have one piece of advice visiting Ohrid, it’s to pack comfortable walking shoes.

Perusing Old Town is no issue, but once you turn the corners and venture uphill, your midday stroll certainly turns into a full-on hike.

Samuel’s Fortress is undoubtedly worth the trek, especially if you reward yourself at the cozy cafe outside the entrance.

The views are incredible from here and so is the craftsmanship of the fortress itself, still holding strong from its inception in the 11th Century.

History runs deep in this town and you can’t miss it. There were once 365 churches and the ones that remain today are mostly well-preserved, some are set cliffside making more amazing photo-ops.

On the flip side of the same coin, there are also grand mosques.

Lake Ohrid: Maldives-Like Water Conditions

Lake Ohrid is one of the most beautiful bodies of water I’ve ever laid eyes on, and I live in San Diego!

The waters are crystal clear up close, but the shade of blue it takes on from afar is so unique and inviting, Crayola should name a color after it.

Its only knock is there’s a bit of controversy on if it’s same to swim. When I was there in 2023, there were a few swimmers, and the internet’s general consensus seems to agree it’s safe, but just know it is one of Europe’s deepest lakes.

Another great way to enjoy the lake is by booking a boat tour, such as top-rated Lake Ohrid Cruises, starting out at $26.

Whatever you do, don’t skip the secret boardwalk to bypass some hills. You’ll thank me later!

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

↓ Elevate Your Travel↓

Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!

✈️Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum: Where travelers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel buddies!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

Share The Article

Travelers are fickle. At one moment, we’re in search of winter sun, and the next we’re totally cool packing extra layers as long as we can witness Northern Lights, indulge in Christmas market delights, or hit the slopes in a magical mountain town.

Iceland may not tick off the latter as a ski destination, but it’s long been both mystical and mysterious to travelers worldwide, especially with easier connectivity over the last decade.

As such, more and more travelers couldn’t stifle their wanderlust impulses anymore, ultimately flocking to Iceland’s stunning waterfalls and famous Blue Lagoon and exploring the charming, vibrant streets of Reykjavik.

I had a blast the first time I visited Iceland, and I still consider this wondrous island to be my favorite country.

On my second trip, though…ehh, let’s just say the magic was lost when sharing space at waterfalls and black sand beaches as if I was a fish swimming upstream against a current of selfie sticks.

The good news is there’s a perfect alternative. Just as captivating with similar culture, otherworldly landscapes, and yes, unpredictable weather (so be ready), lies Europe’s lesser-known Faroe Islands, just highlighted by Yardbarker as a 2025 must-visit.

Europe’s Best Alternative To Iceland

The Faroe Islands boast all the same charm you find in Iceland except for a few quirks like Reykajvik’s museum dedicated to the male anatomy.

But, like Iceland, there are some shared quirks too, such as folklore legends of hidden elves living within society and endless streets with unpronounceable names like Tinghúsvegur.

As for similar attractions, expect to find unimaginably beautiful waterfalls like Múlafossur, rolling landscapes reminiscent of a Lord of the Rings film, hobbit-like homes, and yes, you can even get up close and personal with miniature horses.

One notable missing piece in comparison to Iceland is the famous Blue Lagoon, but as a visitor myself, I’d say you can skip it in favor of Iceland’s new hotspot Akureyri, where spas’ entry fees are slashed in half.

The Faroes don’t have any geothermal spas, but you can check out Varmakelda, known as “The Healing Spring,” which is said to ‘increase love and passion’ if you’re into that woo-woo stuff.

Some other notable plusses for The Faroes are:

• Saksun has black sand beaches similar to Iceland’s Vik
• There’s no ‘Ring Road’ like Iceland, but there’s an impressive Eysturoy Tunnel to connect islands
• For cheap eats, try a Faroese ‘French-style ‘hot dog, comparable to Iceland’s gas station staple
• Deeply-rooted Viking heritage; check out The Faroe Islands National Museum ($11 admission)
• The capital Torshavn; a spitting image of Reykjavik’s multi-colored rows of delightful streets

Reaching The Faroes & Where To Stay

The Faroe Islands might be blushing brighter than their vibrant, postcard-worthy red townscape.

Following Iceland’s footsteps, their flagship carrier Atlantic Airways launched the first-ever direct flight to the States in 2023, but has since been discontinued due to lack of interest.

One could argue serving New York’s lesser-known New York Stewart International Airport was a mistake, but the historic route never took off like Iceland’s Play Airlines.

The good news is there are still a variety of ways to reach The Faroes, including Atlantic Airways, with popular connecting hubs such as London, Paris, Barcelona, and yes, even Reykjavik, to double dip in similar destinations.

The Faroe Islands welcomed their first name-brand hotels in 2020, so you can use your points at Hilton Garden Inn Faroe Islands or opt for a more authentic feel, such as the aforementioned hobbit-like homes.

If I’m not cashing in Hilton points, I’d choose The View in Bøur, with astounding waterfront views in traditional sod-roofed houses.

The Faroes’ Stunning Coastal Villages

Torshavn makes a great base, just like Reykjavik would in Iceland, but paying a visit to the Faroes’ tiny villages might be the highlight of your trip.

Anyone who’s done deep research on where to go in the Faroes has to have Gjógv at the top of their list.

Named after a 200-meter-long sea-filled gorge, this blip on the map packs a punch with natural beauty as one of the best photo-worthy spots of Denmark’s autonomous nation.

Next would be Nólsoy, an island of its own just a half-hour ferry ride from Torshavn, beholding epic mountain views.

Mykines (open late spring through summer) is home to a fruitful Puffin population, a popular sightseeing excursion both here and in Iceland.

For the adventurous, the coastal village of Tjørnuvík is known as a surfer’s paradise. Pack a wetsuit!

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

↓ Elevate Your Travel↓

Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!

✈️Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum: Where travelers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel buddies!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

Share The Article

Last Updated 9 mins ago

There’s no shortage of paradises to choose from for digital nomads to pack their bags and jet off to, but there’s one more to add to the list, with a new airport expected to put this coastal gem on the map.

The Mediterranean is teeming with blue-water shores and laid-back communities embracing the nomad lifestyle, but not all of them can be crowned the best of Europe.

Fortune just released their list of ‘Best European Cities for Digital Nomads 2024′ and the top dog was a real surprise.

Albania has seen an influx of digital nomads since issuing an unofficial digital nomad visa in 2022, but many have opted to plant roots in the capital city, Tirana, among other quaint beach towns.

One is an absolute stunner, Vlorë. But we’ll go with the English version, Vlora, so I don’t have to keep inputting those weird dots.

Where In The World Is Vlora?

Vlora is Albania’s third largest city, located along pristine shores overlooking the Bay of Vlorë (those pesky dots again!), a passage almost a straight line from Italy’s trendiest escape, Lecce.

But this side of the passage will soon be Albania’s trendiest escape as the country continues to gain steam, largely in part to more hidden gems such as Vlora being uncovered.

This resort town is oozing potential as there are already ample upscale accommodations to enjoy for a serene vacation, but more notably, apartments can easily be scored for $400 per month.

Surrounded by more turquoise than a Santa Fe necklace, this delightful town is truly postcard-perfect when lounging at one of many idyllic beaches once you’re free from unnecessary Zoom calls.

According to TripAdvisor, these are Vlora’s top 3 beaches to scope out:

1. Gjipe Beach
2. Dhermi Beach
3. Pulabardha Beach

Being a rather large city, Vlore is decked out with charming Old Town cafes as well as co-working spaces, such as top-rated CoWorkingVlora, just a few blocks from the scenic Lungomare promenade.

While there’s already been an uptick in remote workers flocking here, expect even more cushy amenities to pop up once Vlora’s highly anticipated new airport opens.

Vlora’s New Airport Opens In March 2025

It’s important to note not all of Albania is well-developed. In other words, the backroads should be left to the pros.

Reaching Vlora will be so much easier come March 2025 when the new airport is slated to take flight for the first time.

Albania’s flagship carrier, Air Albania is leading the charge and you can surely expect other suitors as well.

Heck, if Ryanair is launching flights to Dakhla, Western Sahara of all places, don’t you think Vlora is on their radar?

For now, the easiest way to reach Vlora is by bus from Tirana, which is a well-connected city as Albania’s hype has soared.

For a more adventure option, you could also fly into Corfu or various Italian ports (Bari, Brindisi, and Lecce, as previously stated) and take a ferry.

Although, the more reasonable avenue may be simply to wait on more news regarding Vlora’s new flights.

Albania’s Digital Nomad Appeal

Albania as a whole is a great blend of cultural experiences, cheap living, and unbounded natural beauty. Oh, and the food is pretty top notch too comparable to Greek’s most notable dishes.

There are a multitude of reasons for general travelers to visit, but digital nomads can soak up the most benefits here.

Albania’s nomad-catered ‘Unique Permit’ was a nice selling point for remote workers, but what you may not know is you don’t need a visa at all up to one year.

That’s right; American tourists can stay within Albania’s border up to 12 months without the hassle of bureaucratic paperwork – just a stamp and you’re good to go.

The Unique Permit is a straightforward application process and offers nomads the options to stay up to 5 years.

Narrowing down to Vlora; there’s no better place to call home.

With $400 apartments, comfortable co-working spaces, and delightful cafes in one of Europe’s most underrated Old Town districts, your day-to-day backdrop couldn’t be more enchanting when perusing timeless streets or enjoying a beach day.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

↓ Elevate Your Travel↓

Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!

✈️Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum: Where travelers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel buddies!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

Share The Article

Last Updated 2 weeks ago

When it comes to Europe, it’s almost impossible to pick just one place to visit.

It’s a beautiful, culturally diverse continent where almost every city has its own unique look and feel. 

Europe is also a destination with a reputation for knowing how to get your wallet out of your pocket! 

But visiting Europe doesn’t have to be expensive. You just have to choose the right destination!  

Spending time in London, Paris, or Copenhagen isn’t going to come cheap.  

But according to new research from Omio, the best low-budget destination for travelers in Europe is the beautiful and historic Spanish city of Granada.  

Free Things To See And Do 

One of the main reasons Granada ranked so highly in the Omio report is the abundance of free things to see and do in the city. 

In fact, the report states that there are a whopping 112 free attractions in the city. This includes 10 free-to-enter museums.  

The best of these include The Federico García Lorca Center, which is an arts and culture center hosting regular events and changing exhibits.

The center also includes a permanent exhibit of one of Granada’s most famous sons: The poet Federico Garcia Lorca.  

Close to the Alhambra you will find the Carmen de los Mártires which is a beautiful building with an orchard and European-style garden. A great place to take a moment of calm and relaxation.  

The Outstanding Alhambra

The most significant thing to do in the city is visit the iconic Alhambra: by far the most famous building in Granada.  

The Alhambra is a palace and fortress complex. It is built in Islamic style, and is the best and most well-known example of Islamic architecture not only in Spain but in Western Europe.

There is an entrance fee to see the main palace complex in the Alhambra (with prices starting from 10.60 euros or $11.50 per person) but if you only visit one sight in Granada, this should be it!  

The Palace is famous for its stunning fretwork, perfectly maintained courtyards, and numerous fountains.

But the Nasrid building, which is considered the heart of the complex, is where the royals actually lived and is the most ornate as a result.  

If you want to visit the site without spending a penny, then you can visit The Palace of Charles V, which houses the Alhambra Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts within the Alhambra complex, completely free of charge.  

Incredible Architecture 

The architecture in Granada is so outstanding that it should be considered an attraction in its own right.

Granada was the last city to be reconquered by the Catholic Monarchs in 1492 so many of the buildings here have a distinctive Moorish influence.

In fact, you’ll wonder if you’re in Europe or in North Africa at certain points!  

Be sure to see the Catedral de Granada, even if you only admire the exterior architectural details.

Then go inside the Monasterio de San Jerónimo, which was built in a Renaissance style and is as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside.  

This was the first Christian monastery to be constructed after the reconquest of the Catholic Monarchs and it exudes a spirit of celebration.  

You will need a ticket to enter, which you can buy in advance and each ticket is priced at 6 euros ($6.50) 

Granada isn’t the most walkable city in Europe. But the good news is that you can get a sightseeing bus tour ticket for just 6 euros ($6.50), meaning that you can hop on and hop off between all the city’s main attractions.

This is one of the most affordable sightseeing buses in Western Europe.  

Granada’s Nightlife 

Finally after all that sightseeing, it’s time to hit the town. Because Granada has a very active (and affordable) nightlife scene. According to Omio, there are a whopping 86 bars and nightclubs in the city where you can buy a beer for just over $2.  

What’s more, there’s no need to fork out for a pricey meal before you hit the bars.

Granada has a long-standing tradition of offering free tapas with each drink ordered, adding to the value of your night out even more!  

In most bars, you won’t have a choice of the tapas you are offered: a small plate will just be brought to your table with your drinks.

Other bars will have a chalkboard on a bar, and you can choose from several options, which often change on a regular basis.  

Some of the best free tapas dishes to try in Granada include calamares (squid), gambas (shrimp), Jambon iberico, or croquettes.  

Tor Brierley

Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.

↓ Elevate Your Travel↓

Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!

✈️Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum: Where travelers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel buddies!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.