Capital cities, viral TikTok spots, and places with their own Netflix shows are popular destinations for tourists visiting Europe.

But what if you want somewhere a little less crowded, but still boasting that “wow” factor?

Well, Time Out have you covered, having come up with a list of the most underrated travel destinations to visit in 2026.

Introducing the list, the travel experts said: “There’s a downside to these big, bustling, bucket-list-worthy travel destinations.

“If you’ve ever queued an hour for a pastry, spent your day’s budget on a coffee or had to book a museum three months in advance, you’ll know it as well as us: it’s the crowds. 

“And following years of anti-tourism measures, Airbnb restrictions and demonstrations in response to overtourism, there’s never been a better time to think outside the box for your travels – especially when so many incredible European spots are getting overlooked.

“This is our ultimate guide to Europe’s best hidden spots, from culture-packed city breaks to under-the-radar national parks. 

“If you’re travelling on a budget, searching for quiet or just desperate to try somewhere new, these are the most underrated places to visit in Europe right now.”

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Most underrated destinations in Europe

The most underrated destinations in Europe to visit in 2026, according to Time Out, are:

  1. Izola (Slovenia)
  2. Machynlleth (Wales)
  3. Tilburg (Netherlands)
  4. Ulcinj (Montenegro)
  5. Terracina (Italy)
  6. Gothenburg (Sweden)
  7. Plovdiv (Bulgaria)
  8. Aarhus (Denmark)
  9. Banja Luka (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
  10. Isle of Scilly (England)
  11. Vilnius (Lithuania)
  12. Cluj-Napoca (Romania)
  13. Vestmannaeyjar (Iceland)
  14. Levi (Finnish Lapland)
  15. Gozo (Malta)
  16. Geres (Portugal)
  17. Bergen (Norway)
  18. Tartu (Estonia)
  19. Imotski Lakes (Croatia)
  20. Emilia-Romagna (Italy)
  21. Extremadura (Spain)
  22. Landes (France)
  23. Dordrecht (Netherlands)

Why Machynlleth is one of Europe’s most underrated travel destinations

While Machynlleth may look like any other “picturesque Welsh market town” on the surface, if you look closer, you will find something “truly special”, the experts at Time Out said.

“For a start, the nature isn’t just your bog-standard valley; that’s the UNESCO-protected Dyfi Biosphere we’re talking about, a treasure trove of marshes, woodlands, waters, and wildlife,” Time Out explained.

“Mach holds a vital place in Welsh history, as it was here that Owain Glyndŵr set up parliament in 1404 as the last true Prince of Wales.

“Throw in a celebrated annual comedy festival and a contemporary art museum in a chapel, and you’ve got a treat.”

The travel experts also recommended paying a visit to the Centre for Alternative Technology when visiting Machynlleth, describing it as “a love letter to innovation”.

Visit Wales agrees that Machynlleth is passionate about art and nature, while it also boasts independent shops, a market, and delicious local food.

Independent shops and market

Overlooked by the town’s iconic Victorian clock tower, and featuring a mixture of independent retailers, is Machynlleth’s bustling high street – Heol Maengwyn.

Visit Wales says: “The town has done an incredible job of staying independent over the years, giving it an energy and vibrancy.”

The experts on all things Wales recommend visiting:

  • Dyfi Wholefoods – local produce
  • Penrallt Books – a “wonderful” bookshop
  • Wheeler’s Fabrics – home decor
  • Elin Angharad – “beautifully” hand-crafted leather accessories

Visit Wales adds: “Don’t miss the market held every Wednesday. The street comes alive with a great community feeling with the stalls featuring local produce, crafts and vintage items.”#

Machynlleth Comedy Festival

If you are visiting over a May Bank Holiday weekend, don’t miss the Machynlleth Comedy Festival.

The event brings together “the cream of rising and established comedy talent” for a weekend of “experimentation, fresh material, and good times”.

Visit Wales continues: “Over the past decade ‘Mach Fest’ has grown from a well-kept secret into what’s widely regarded as the best alternative comedy festival in the UK.”

You can find more information on the Machynlleth Comedy Festival via its website.

Attractions and outdoor activities

The must-visit attractions in Machynlleth, according to Visit Wales, include:

MOMA Machynlleth

  • Owain Glyndŵr Centre
  • Corris Craft Centre
  • Corris Steam Railway & Museum

A guide to safe and responsible hiking

While for those that are looking for something more outdoors, there is:

  • RSPB Ynys-hir and Glaslyn Nature Reserves
  • Dyfi Osprey Project at Dyfi Wildlife Centre
  • Mountain biking in the Dyfi Valley
  • Walks on Glyndŵr’s Way and Wales Coast Path

If you are looking for inspiration for walks in the area, be sure to visit the AllTrails website (or app).

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Food that “puts Mach on the map”

There is a range of food and drink options available in Machynlleth, whether you’re looking for fine dining or something more casual.

But arguably the most famous restaurant in the Powys town is the award-winning Ynyshir.

It boasts two Michelin stars and is regularly featured among lists of the best restaurants in the UK.

Ynyshir also has a sister restaurant, Gwen, which is located on the Machynlleth high street.





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