Travel Inspirations – Off the Beaten Path in Europe

I love Paris, Rome, and Barcelona as much as the next traveler—but let’s be honest: Europe’s hidden corners are where the magic really happens.

This year, why not skip the crowds and discover the charm of Europe’s lesser-known gems? I’ve rounded up a few unforgettable destinations that offer all the beauty, culture, and cuisine—without the selfie-stick mobs.

Take Annecy, France, for example. Nicknamed “The Venice of the Alps,” its pastel facades and winding canals are postcard-perfect. You can actually kayak through town, cycle lakeside trails, or browse one of France’s top street markets for alpine cheese and artisan pastries.

In Ascona, Switzerland, Italian soul meets Swiss calm. Expect lakeside jazz festivals, saffron risotto under lemon trees, and art galleries tucked into cobblestone lanes that once drew avant-garde thinkers from across Europe.

Then there’s the Faroe Islands—dramatic, windswept, and wildly remote. Picture puffins perched on sea cliffs, turf-roofed cottages, and restaurants so good they’ve earned Michelin stars in the middle of the Atlantic. It’s raw nature, elevated.

Finally, Formentera, Spain—Ibiza’s barefoot, boho sister. With no airport, this island stays blissfully off the radar. Explore rose-tinged beaches, pedal to secret coves, and savor seafood with your toes in the sand.

Whether you’re planning a summer escape or dreaming ahead for 2026, these destinations deliver the kind of authentic experiences that you might crave.

Ready to go off the beaten path? Let’s chat—I’d love to help you design a trip with brag-worthy stories and zero regrets.