Europe's least visited cities in winter: where to hide from the crowds and relax

It's not just Paris, Rome, or London that can make a great travel destination. Beyond these glittering capitals, there are quiet centers waiting for their intrepid travelers. Thus, today we're going to step away from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan areas and plunge into the magical world of European cities.

Venice, Italy

Venice is located in the northeast of the country on small islands in the Venetian Lagoon of the Adriatic Sea. The city is considered one of the major cultural centers of the Renaissance.

In the summer months, the location turns into a place of mass pilgrimage for tourists. Such a large number of travelers even forced the authorities to introduce an entrance fee of €5. In winter, however, there are practically no crowds here.

We recommend visiting St. Mark's Basilica, one of the most beautiful in the world. The cathedral is built in the style of Byzantine architecture with domes and columns. It houses the relics of the apostle. We recommend paying attention to the Pala d'Oro (Golden Panel), which consists of more than 80 icons.

Take a walk along the Grand Canal, which runs through the whole of Venice. There are ancient buildings and popular palaces along it.

And be sure to visit Accademia Gallery, which houses the largest collection of paintings from the XIII-XVIII centuries.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

A port city on the Adriatic coast of Dalmatia. It is located in the southern part of the country. Since the Middle Ages, maritime trade has flourished here.

In winter, the average temperature ranges from +8°C to +13°C. During this period, there are significantly fewer tourists.

Visit the Prince's Palace on the main square. It was built in the Gothic and Renaissance styles in the XV century. The building served as the residence of the prince of the Dubrovnik Republic. It housed a prison, courtrooms, and weapons depots. By the way, there was an order that the ruler could leave the house only to perform official duties or because of illness.

Next, go to the Lovrijenac Fort, which was built as a defensive fortress around 1301. Interesting fact: some scenes for the TV series Game of Thrones were filmed here.

Take a stroll through the Lodge Square, where a 30-meter clock tower was built in 1444. On either side of it are two bronze figures of bell ringers - Baro and Maro - who are an integral part of the mechanism. Every day at noon, it informs Dubrovnik about the beginning of a new hour.

Barcelona, Spain

It is located on the Mediterranean coast. The city serves as an important seaport.

Barcelona has a Mediterranean climate. In summer, the heat is unbearable. Huge crowds of tourists, especially from cruise ships, come ashore every day. In winter, the average temperature ranges from +12°C to +14°C. During this period, there are several times fewer people.

First, go to Parc Güell. The center was designed by the Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi. Its area is about 17 hectares. The attraction is famous for its winding shapes and curved lines.

Next, take a walk up Mount Montjuïc. It is over 173 meters high. You can visit the National Art Museum of Catalonia, botanical gardens, the Magic Fountain, and more. In 1992, the Summer Olympics were held here.

And, of course, do not miss the Gothic-style Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Santa Eulàlia. Its construction began in 1298. You won't believe it, but 13 white geese live in one of the chapels of the shrine, symbolizing the age of the martyr.

Göteborg, Sweden

The city is located in the Kattegat sea area on the west coast. Every year in January and February, it hosts the Göteborg Film Festival, the largest in Scandinavia, with up to 60 countries participating.

We recommend visiting the Maritiman Maritime Museum on the shores of Göta Älv, where 15 historic ships belonging to the military and civilian heritage of Sweden are moored. Tourists can see the sailors' cabins, engine room, and torpedo port.

Also, go to the Masthugget Church. It was built in 1914 in a romantic style. Today, the shrine is considered a symbol of Göteborg.

Be sure to visit the amusement park Liseberg. The attraction has been operating since 1923. Its area reaches more than 25,000 square meters. There are many attractions for both children and adults. In winter, there is a skating rink and a Christmas market.

Choose your refuge and go on a trip!

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