Numerous stunning European cities lie just a flight — or occasionally even a train journey — away from Britain. Indeed, some destinations can be reached within a single hour. While hotspots such as Paris, Lisbon, and Barcelona remain firm favourites among holidaymakers, there is an abundance of overlooked cities and concealed treasures worth discovering, particularly when you can arrive there for merely £20.
For those feeling daring — or simply seeking to experience somewhere fresh — one seasoned globetrotter has undertaken the considerable task of visiting every European capital. While you may be reconsidering your upcoming holiday plans, particularly as demonstrations against overtourism’s impact on local communities persist across several major European destinations, there are three additional locations this travel authority recommends you might wish to avoid, reports the Express.
Writing for Business Insider, Dale Peterson disclosed that following his visits to every European capital, courtesy of his role as a professional travel journalist, there are three cities he wouldn’t be eager to revisit as they left him feeling “underwhelmed”.
Conducting thorough research before embarking on any holiday remains crucial to prevent disappointment, and visiting cities during busy periods can frequently prove a somewhat less peaceful experience compared to travelling during quieter months.
With such a wealth of destinations across the continent, from wandering through Prague’s ancient cobbled streets to admiring street art along the Berlin Wall or discovering historical remnants in Rome, these are the cities Dale would steer clear of.
London
Celebrated for its Royal palaces, countless traditional watering holes and internationally acclaimed galleries, the capital welcomes approximately 20 million overseas tourists annually, yet Dale branded the metropolis as “overhyped and expensive”.
The travel expert contended there are “so many other worthwhile destinations in the UK”, particularly within the “UK’s picturesque countryside”, citing locations such as the Cotswolds or the Lake District.
However, another globetrotting blogger behind The Bucket List Mermaid held a contrasting view of London, declaring the capital was “absolutely” worth all the fanfare.
Amsterdam
Boasting over 100km of charming waterways that have earned it the nickname Venice of the North, plus more bicycles than residents, Amsterdam also featured on Dale’s roster of cities he wouldn’t revisit.
Despite drawing an estimated 20 million holidaymakers annually, the travel correspondent remained unconvinced.
“Unfortunately, though, I thought the centre of Amsterdam felt like an overpriced theme park full of souvenir shops and crowds,” he remarked. One globetrotter took to Tripadvisor to extol the virtues of Amsterdam, describing it as a “wonderful city” with “helpful citizens”.
They praised its compact size and walkability, efficient public transport system, and wealth of museums, interesting neighbourhoods, and plentiful dining and drinking options.
Helsinki
Situated in the world’s happiest country, Helsinki offers an ideal base for delving into Nordic sauna culture. Last year, Condé Nast Traveller announced that the Finnish capital had been crowned the world’s most sustainable travel destination.
However, Dale found something lacking in the city, stating: “There’s no denying Helsinki is a clean city. But in my opinion, it feels a little too sterile, lacking in liveliness and exciting things to do.”
While Helsinki may not be everyone’s cup of tea, Jessica from the Bon Traveller blog believes it’s the perfect place for “slowing down, being connected to the outdoors, and of course, that incredible design scene”, making a visit here “an experience to remember”.