'It feels like Italy with the volume turned down': readers’ favourite (smaller) city breaks in Europe
You share your low-key alternatives to overcrowded hotspots, from an island city in the Med to a Norwegian art nouveau gem. Tell us about your trips in Europe’s mountains – the best wins a £200 holiday voucher.
TL;DR
- Ferrara, Italy offers Renaissance art at the Palazzo dei Diamanti with few crowds, alongside local cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Hanover, Germany boasts world-class museums, baroque gardens, extensive city forests, and vibrant districts.
- Loulé, Portugal is recognized for its preservation of traditional crafts through community-driven initiatives.
- Arras, France features two Unesco world heritage sites, a network of historical tunnels, and large Flemish-style squares.
- Malmö, Sweden provides contemporary art, unique architecture like the Turning Torso skyscraper, and cultural experiences such as the Disgusting Food Museum.
- Cagliari, Sardinia offers a beautiful city beach, a bustling produce market, historical districts with scenic views, and affordable seafood.
- León, Spain is noted for its stunning cathedral with exceptional stained glass and a less-visited Romanesque church.
- Ålesund, Norway, rebuilt in art nouveau style, is accessible via scenic routes and offers museums, cafes, and outdoor activities.
- Saint-Malo, France is a historic walled city with diverse beaches, a tidal pool, and a pleasant climate.
- Leiden, Netherlands, despite a less appealing station approach, reveals itself as a charming canal city with historic architecture and a festive Christmas market.