In a continent bursting with postcard perfect destinations, is it even possible that a beautiful European city still flies under the radar? While travellers flock to Paris, Rome, or Dubrovnik, there’s a much quieter city tucked away among sun-drenched mountains, ancient stone streets, and tree-lined riversides that rarely, if ever, makes it onto top travel lists. According to one Redditor, the most beautiful European city no one talks about is Trebinje, a serene, sun-soaked gem in the very south of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Located near the borders of Croatia and Montenegro, Trebinje is a city that feels almost frozen in time. Despite being just a short drive from tourist-heavy hotspots like Dubrovnik, this charming town remains wonderfully overlooked by the crowds.
While Trebinje is far from overrun, it’s quietly gaining traction. In 2024, the city marked a historic milestone, recording over 230,000 overnight stays, its highest number ever.
Still, compared to the millions of tourists who descend each year on European giants like Paris, Barcelona, or Venice, Trebinje remains blissfully peaceful and untouched by mass tourism.
First mentioned in the 10th century as Travunia, Trebinje was a key stop on ancient caravan routes linking the Adriatic coast to the Balkans. Through centuries of Byzantine, Ottoman, and Austro-Hungarian rule, it has absorbed layers of cultural influence, visible today in its stone bridges, Orthodox churches, and vibrant town squares.
The city enjoys 260 sunny days a year, with a Mediterranean climate perfect for vineyards and open-air cafes with the beautiful Trebišnjica River running through the city.
The Arslanagić Bridge, Hercegovačka Gračanica Monastery, and the quaint Old Town with its stone walls and cobbled streets are must-sees, and just nearby, the breathtaking Kravica Waterfalls, often called the “mini Niagara” offer a beautiful and peaceful escape from the city.
One TripAdvisor wrote about Trebinje: “Fantastic city, rich history and culture, many beautiful places and hidden details. Fantastic food, wine and sun, and above all good and hospitable people.”
Another Tripadvisor user described Trebinje as “great for the English to visit” and “incredibly cheap compared to the UK.”
Someone else wrote: “We LOVED our visit to Trebinje. The Old City is a beautiful place to go for a stroll. This walled area has stone buildings, beautiful medieval churches, fountains and quaint shops.
“The area just outside the walled section is a great spot to stop for lunch or have a drink. People were friendly and the atmosphere is relaxed.
“Prices are reasonable here. It’s only a half hour away from Dubrovnik, and honestly we enjoyed Trebinje more than we did Dubrovnik. I highly recommend spending time in Trebinje.