Popular destinations like Venice and Paris are wonderful, but they are usually overrun with tourists. We get it, they are must-see destinations. However, most people miss out on hidden gem destinations.
Yes, we know, planning a trip takes hours as it is, but planning a trip to a hidden gem can take longer. But, not anymore. Meet Piri Guide, your travel planning made easy. Your personal AI travel guide can create your ideal itinerary in seconds. No more endless hours of planning. All you have to do is download Piri Guide! Now let’s take a look at some of the hidden gems you can explore with Piri Guide.
Meteora, Greece
Meteora is a surreal place, with a landscape of towering rock formations and ancient monasteries perched atop them. Which makes it a true hidden gem. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is often overshadowed by other beauties of Greece. Meteora was built on a rock formation by monks between the 14th and 16th centuries. Considering the possibilities of the time, the construction of the monasteries is considered almost miraculous. As the monasteries developed, they attracted the attention of philosophers, poets and painters. Only 6 of these monasteries, out of a total of 24, have survived to the present day. Although many monks have left the region, it is still home to monks and nuns who wish to retreat.
What makes Meteora so special are the monasteries built on rock formations called sandstone towers. According to experts, these towers are exactly 25 million years old. In fact, the name ‘Meteora’ means ‘floating in the air’ in Greek. With its unique architecture, Meteora is a place that should definitely be on your list!
Graz, Austria
Graz, Austria’s second largest city, is an underrated gem of cultural and architectural diversity. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Graz boasts one of the best-preserved historic centres in Europe, with Renaissance and Baroque buildings, red-tiled roofs and charming squares. But it’s also a modern, youthful city with a vibrant arts scene and trendy cafes.
Among the city’s highlights is the stunning Schlossberg hill, crowned by the iconic Uhrturm (Clock Tower), which offers a panoramic view over the rooftops of Graz. Graz is also has an impressive culinary scene. You can find all sorts of local food in its market full with Styrian specialities, including pumpkin seed oil and local wines.
Why visit? Graz is the perfect blend of old-world charm and a modern, urban vibe. In addition, Graz is often referred to as Austria’s ‘City of Design’ due to its cutting-edge architecture and creative energy. If you need more suggestions for where to visit you can plan your travels with Piri Guide’s AI Travel planner.
Civita di Bagnoregio, Italy
Located in central Italy, Civita di Bagnoregio is often referred to as ‘the dying town’ because its fragile cliffs are eroding and threatening its very existence. But don’t let the nickname fool you – this medieval hilltop village is full of life and history.
Founded 2,500 years ago, Civita di Bagnoregio was built on a volcanic hill overlooking the Tiber River. Centuries ago it was much larger. But landslides, earthquakes, cracks and erosion have reduced its size considerably.Due to the rapid population decline and unresolved landslides, it is now known as the ‘Dying Town’.
So why do people still go there? One of the main reasons why the town has started to attract a certain amount of tourists again is the film ‘Castle in the Sky’ by Studio Ghibli. Hayao Miyazaki drew inspiration for the film from the town.
Pico Island, Portugal
Pico Island is part of the Azores archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. It is a natural paradise thanks to its lush vineyards and Mount Pico, the highest mountain in Portugal. The island is also known as the ‘Black Island’, after the Portuguese poet Raul Brandão. Brandão was inspired by the black volcanic soils that nourish the vineyards, one of the main sources of livelihood of the island. The vineyards are so special that they are also included in the UNESCO list.
On the island, you can find various activities such as whale watching, hiking and wine tasting. When you visit here, do not forget to climb Mount Pico for sunrise views.
The Lofoten Islands, Norway
The Lofoten Islands are one of the rare routes where you can find nature at its most pristine. The region, an archipelago in the Norwegian Nordland, consists of 5 islands: Vestvågøy, Moskenesøya, Gimsøya, Austvågøya and Flakstadøya. One of the most interesting things about Lofoten is that it is one of the rare places where you can experience the ‘Midnight Sun’ because it is close to the Arctic Circle.
The Lofoten Islands also offer travellers dramatic landscapes with mountain peaks rising from the sea, quaint fishing villages and fjords. In fact, it is a place that has influenced many writers and painters such as Jules Verne with its uniqueness. If you are looking for adventure on your holiday, the Lofoten Islands are for you. Whether you go canoeing, hiking or fishing, it is very difficult to get bored on this island.
Liked any of these destinations? Then start planning your trip with Piri Guide! Download the app, now!
If you need more inspiration, check out our article on Fairytale Cities in Europe!
