Europe's Hidden Gems: The 10 Destinations with Minimal Tourists
At Riviera Travel, we believe the most rewarding journeys often take us to less-travelled locations, where the local culture thrives and authentic opportunities await at every turn. While many flock to Europe's famous capitals and iconic landmarks, we've been exploring a different side of the continent, where crowds are scarce, offering extraordinary experiences off the beaten path.
To help travellers enjoy a holiday away from the crowds, we analysed Eurostat’s latest ‘Nights spent at tourist accommodation establishments’ report to uncover the 10 destinations where tourists spent the fewest nights.
These figures tell a fascinating story of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, to help you find a holiday away from the crowds.
Escape the Crowds: The 10 Least-Travelled European Destinations
| Rank | Destination | The number of nights tourists spent in 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Liechtenstein | 228,579 |
| 2 | North Macedonia | 2,180,510 |
| 3 | Luxembourg | 3,684,469 |
| 4 | Latvia | 4,692,213 |
| 5 | Montenegro | 5,200,576 |
| 6 | Estonia | 6,645,908 |
| 7 | Albania | 7,445,714 |
| 8 | Lithuania | 8,640,124 |
| 9 | Malta | 11,320,179 |
| 10 | Serbia | 12,662,151 |
1. Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein is the ultimate hidden gem. Tucked between Switzerland and Austria, this diminutive principality is Europe's fourth-smallest country, and according to the latest Eurostat figures, it has the fewest crowds, too. The 2024 findings reveal that tourists spent just over 200,000 nights in Liechtenstein, the lowest figure amongst European countries.
Although the country is sparse in crowds, it is full of charm. Liechtenstein offers an extraordinary blend of Alpine beauty and sophisticated culture. The capital, Vaduz, houses cultural attractions like the Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein, a modern and contemporary art museum, and the Liechtenstein National Museum, which offers a fascinating insight into the region’s history. Visitors can also admire the medieval Vaduz Castle, which perches dramatically above the Rhine Valley. For travellers who appreciate fine experiences, the country's vineyards produce exceptional wines, and the pristine hiking trails offer unparalleled views without the crowds found elsewhere in the Alps.
2. North Macedonia
North Macedonia is in second place, with a dramatic increase in the number of tourists spending the night in 2024 (2,180,510) compared to Liechtenstein.
Despite the low visitation figures, a trip to North Macedonia offers plenty to do and see. This Balkan gem boasts Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site whose ancient lakeside setting rivals anything in more famous European destinations. The country is a treasure trove of Byzantine churches and Ottoman architecture, perfect for those seeking to indulge in culture amidst grand surroundings. The capital, Skopje, has a fascinating blend of ancient and modern architecture, while the country's wine regions produce some of the Balkans' finest vintages.
3. Luxembourg
Luxembourg, previously the least-travelled destination in Eurostat’s 2023 tourism statistics, ranks third in the latest findings. Tourists spent 3.7 million nights in Luxembourg in 2024, nearly 200,000 more than in 2023 (3,485,954). Despite being one of Europe's wealthiest nations, Luxembourg remains remarkably under the tourist radar.
This European country has historic and modern attractions, such as ancient fortresses and contemporary European institutions, agencies, and bodies, including the European Parliament's General Secretariat and the Court of Justice of the European Union. There’s also a pristine countryside just minutes from cosmopolitan Luxembourg City, ideal for winding down after an afternoon exploring the capital. The Old Quarter's medieval fortifications earned UNESCO recognition, whilst the Mullerthal region, known as Luxembourg's Little Switzerland, offers some of Europe's most scenic walking trails, with landscapes of forests, sandstone formations, and waterfalls.
4. Latvia
Previously the second-least visited country in 2023, Latvia secures fourth spot, with tourists spending almost 4.7 million nights in 2024, more than 300,000 additional nights than the previous year (4,370,854). Situated on the Baltic Sea, this European country is a gem for travellers wanting an enriching holiday away from the crowds.
Latvia's capital, Riga, is renowned for having the world’s most extensive collection of Art Nouveau architecture. Visitors can admire the whimsical buildings while roaming the city, exploring the beautifully preserved medieval Old Town, or wandering through the vibrant Central Market in former Zeppelin hangars. The country also offers some breathtaking nature, with its pristine coastline along the Baltic Sea.
5. Montenegro
Montenegro rounds off the top five destinations with the fewest tourists. In 2024, tourists spent just over 5.2 million nights in this Balkan country.
Allowing travellers to enjoy an uncharted experience, Montenegro’s dramatic Adriatic coastline is a sight to be celebrated, and its interior mountains offer some of Europe's most spectacular scenery. Visitors should venture through the medieval marvel of Kotor, with its fjord-like bay and perfectly preserved stone architecture, and into Durmitor National Park, where pristine lakes reflect snow-capped peaks. Montenegro's Mediterranean charm and rugged mountain beauty create an incredibly diverse landscape within a small nation.
6. Estonia
Estonia is in sixth place, dropping three spots since 2023. Despite an increase in visitors, with tourists spending almost 300,000 more nights than in the previous year (6.4 million), Estonia is still among the European countries seeing the fewest visitors.
The northern European country has a rich medieval heritage. Tallinn’s Old Town, located in Estonia’s capital, remains one of Europe's best-preserved medieval centres, and the country's islands, particularly Saaremaa, offer unspoilt nature and ancient culture. Estonia also has a sophisticated culinary scene and a charming community, maintaining strong traditions despite rapid modernisation.
7. Albania
Ranked seventh is Albania, with tourists spending over 7.4 million nights in 2024.
Albania offers breathtaking landscapes and historic sites. From stunning Albanian Riviera beaches that rival any in the Mediterranean to dramatic mountain landscapes in the north to the remarkable UNESCO World Heritage sites of Berat and Gjirokaster, this Balkan country is a true hidden gem. The capital, Tirana, has a colourful atmosphere perfect for creatives, while the Albanian Alps offer some of Europe's most spectacular hiking opportunities.
8. Lithuania
Lithuania is eighth in our hidden gems rankings. In 2024, tourists spent over 8.6 million nights in the country, securing Lithuania a spot among Europe’s quieter destinations.
A baroque masterpiece, Lithuania’s capital, Vilnius, consistently enchants visitors with its stunning Old Town and vibrant cultural scene. The Curonian Spit, a unique 98-kilometre sand dune peninsula shared with Russia, along with the Soviet heritage and proud Baltic identity, provide fascinating attractions, adding to the country’s unique charm. Lithuania's craft beer revolution and innovative restaurants have created a culinary scene that surprises even the most experienced food enthusiasts.
9. Malta
In 2024, tourists spent over 11.3 million nights in Malta. Despite gaining nearly two million stays since 2023 (9.8 million), the Mediterranean country remains among Europe’s least-visited destinations.
Malta is a stunning destination rich in history. Visiting this Mediterranean country will allow travellers to discover ancient megalithic temples, the spectacular baroque architecture in Valletta, and crystal-clear waters, perfect for diving. Romans, Greeks, Arabs, Normans, French, and British have occupied Malta, resulting in this hidden jewel’s rich and diverse culture.
10. Serbia
Serbia rounds up our top 10 European hidden gems. Last year, tourists spent more than 12.6 million nights in this Balkan country; over 200,000 additional nights than in 2023 (12,440,935). However, Serbia remains among Europe’s quietest destinations, making this the perfect time to visit ahead of rising tourism rates.
Serbia's vibrant capital, Belgrade, offers one of Europe's most dynamic nightlife scenes alongside significant historical sites. The country's renowned hospitality, exceptional wine regions, and the dramatic beauty of places like Đavolja Varoš make Serbia a must-visit hidden gem.
As overtourism continues to burden Europe, travellers seeking a quiet getaway must find alternative destinations to the usual holiday hotspots.
The latest top 10 includes some familiar destinations, including Luxembourg, Latvia, and Estonia, which have seen an increase in the number of nights tourists spend while remaining among Europe’s “under-the-radar” destinations. However, we’ve also spotted new entries: Liechtenstein, North Macedonia, Albania, Lithuania, and Montenegro.
While these 10 countries experience an increase in tourists, the findings reveal the hidden gems that offer a unique taste of Europe, away from the crowds.
