Curator’s statement
Are you dreaming of a luxurious European escape without the typical tourist crowds? While cities like Paris, Rome and Barcelona are renowned for their opulence, there are countless hidden gems across Europe that offer equally luxurious experiences in more serene settings. Here, I explore some of Europe’s less-traveled towns where you can indulge in high-end accommodations, gourmet dining and exclusive activities.
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Tivat and Kotor, Montenegro
Montenegro’s coastal towns, Tivat and Kotor, are perfect examples of hidden gems that offer luxury without the bustling crowds. Tivat, known for its upscale marina and lavish waterfront properties, features the Regent Porto Montenegro Hotel, offering luxury suites, an infinity pool, and fine dining.
In Kotor, the medieval old town’s charm combined with high-end accommodations like the Hotel Forza Mare provide a unique experience. Explore the Bay of Kotor with a private yacht charter, savor seafood delicacies at the exclusive Galion Restaurant and take a private tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kotor Old Town.
Puglia, Italy
The region of Puglia, located in the heel of Italy's boot, is a treasure trove of luxury and authenticity. Known for its trulli houses and stunning coastline, Puglia offers a mix of rustic charm and high-end experiences. Stay at Borgo Egnazia, a luxury resort that combines traditional Apulian architecture with modern comforts. Indulge in gourmet cuisine at restaurants like Grotta Palazzese, which offers dining in a cave overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Explore the charming towns of Alberobello and Ostuni, and take a private wine tour in the famous Valle d'Itria, known for its excellent vineyards.
Rovinj, Croatia
Located on the Istrian peninsula, Rovinj is a coastal town that combines stunning beauty with luxury. Known for its picturesque old town and pristine beaches, Rovinj offers high-end accommodations like the Monte Mulini Hotel, which provides breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.
Charter a private yacht to explore the surrounding islands, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants such as Monte and enjoy the town’s vibrant arts and cultural scene. Rovinj’s romantic ambiance and luxurious offerings make it a perfect destination for couples seeking an upscale retreat.
Matera, Italy
Matera, an ancient city in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, is renowned for its unique cave dwellings known as "sassi." This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a fascinating blend of history and luxury. Imagine staying in a luxurious cave hotel, where modern comforts meet ancient architecture. Boutique hotels like Sextantio Le Grotte della Civita provide an unforgettable experience, blending rustic charm with five-star amenities.
For dining, enjoy gourmet meals in ancient grottos at restaurants like Ristorante Francesca, where traditional Italian flavors are elevated to new heights. Explore the city's rich history with private tours of the cave dwellings and rock churches, offering a unique glimpse into Matera’s past.
Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled in Slovenia is renowned for its stunning scenery and serene atmosphere. This picturesque destination offers luxury in a tranquil setting, with lakeside resorts like Adora Luxury Hotel providing elegant accommodations and panoramic lake views.
Take a private boat ride to Bled Island, enjoy fine dining at restaurants like Restavracija 1906 and relax in the town’s thermal spas. Bled’s combination of natural beauty and upscale experiences makes it a perfect choice for a luxurious and relaxing getaway.
Lugano, Switzerland
Lugano, located in the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland, combines Swiss efficiency with Italian charm. Known for its luxurious lakeside resorts and exclusive shopping, Lugano offers a sophisticated escape.
Stay at high-end hotels such as Hotel Splendide Royal Lugano, explore designer boutiques along Via Nassa and dine at Michelin-starred restaurants like Principe Leopoldo. Lugano’s beautiful lake views and elegant atmosphere make it an ideal destination for luxury travelers.
Évora, Portugal
This UNESCO World Heritage city in Portugal’s Alentejo region offers rich history and luxury without the tourist crowds of Lisbon or Porto. Évora’s historic charm and high-end accommodations, like Convento do Espinheiro, provide a unique and upscale experience.
Explore ancient Roman temples, stay in historic hotels and savor traditional Alentejo cuisine at gourmet restaurants such as Fialho. Évora’s blend of history and luxury makes it a hidden gem worth discovering.
Arosa, Switzerland
Arosa, nestled in the Swiss Alps, offers an exclusive and serene mountain retreat. Known for its luxury ski resorts and stunning alpine scenery, Arosa is perfect for both winter sports enthusiasts and summer hikers. The Tschuggen Grand Hotel provides top-notch amenities, including a private mountain railway and a world-class spa.
In winter, enjoy skiing on pristine slopes or take a romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy landscape. In summer, explore the scenic hiking trails and enjoy gourmet Swiss cuisine at the hotel’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant, La Brezza.
Porto Ercole, Italy
Nestled along the Tyrrhenian Sea in Tuscany's Maremma region, Porto Ercole is a coastal town that promises scenic beauty and upscale accommodations without the crowds of the Amalfi Coast. Luxurious resorts such as Il Pellicano offer breathtaking sea views, private beach access and top-notch service.
Spend your days lounging at exclusive beach clubs, sailing the azure waters or dining on exquisite seafood at local favorites like Ristorante La Sirena. Porto Ercole combines the charm of a quaint fishing village with the luxury of a high-end resort, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking tranquility and sophistication.
Need to know
These hidden gem towns across Europe offer luxurious experiences in serene and less-traveled settings. From the ancient cave dwellings of Matera to the picturesque canals of Rovinj, each destination provides a unique blend of history, charm, and opulence. So, if you’re looking to discover luxury away from the usual tourist hotspots, consider exploring these gorgeous European towns for your next unforgettable getaway.
This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Europe. In need of further inspiration? Check out my guide, La Dolce Vita: A Dreamy 2-Week Honeymoon Itinerary in Italy.
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