Top 14 'Second-City-Gem' European Destinations to Discover for Avoiding the Crowds on a Budget - Goh Ling Yong
Ah, the classic European dream. We picture ourselves sipping espresso in a sun-dappled Italian piazza, wandering through centuries-old French alleyways, or gazing at majestic architecture that has witnessed history unfold. The reality, however, can often involve selfie sticks, snaking queues, and prices that make your wallet weep. The world's most famous cities are famous for a reason, but their popularity comes at a cost—both literally and figuratively.
But what if you could have the magic without the madness? What if you could experience the rich culture, incredible food, and stunning scenery of Europe without the overwhelming crowds and exorbitant costs? Welcome to the world of second-city travel. These are the destinations that fly just under the radar, offering a more authentic, relaxed, and affordable alternative to their bustling big sisters. They are the unsung heroes of European travel, packed with charm and character.
Here, we'll journey off the beaten path to explore 14 of the best "second-city gems" in Europe. These are places where you can connect with local life, discover hidden corners, and stretch your travel budget further than you ever thought possible. Get ready to update your bucket list.
1. Lyon, France (Instead of Paris)
While Paris is the city of love and lights, Lyon is the undisputed capital of French gastronomy. This city offers a more intimate and arguably more delicious slice of French life. Nestled at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon's rhythm is relaxed, its streets are a joy to explore on foot, and its charm is woven into the fabric of daily life, not just put on display for tourists.
Lose yourself in the enchanting traboules (hidden passageways) of Vieux Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels like a step back into the Renaissance. For a view that rivals Montmartre, take the funicular up Fourvière Hill to the stunning Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. The real magic, however, happens in the bouchons—cozy, traditional eateries serving hearty, authentic Lyonnaise cuisine that will change your life.
Pro Tip: For an unforgettable meal, look for restaurants with the "Les Bouchons Lyonnais" official plaque. This seal of approval guarantees an authentic experience, steering you away from tourist traps and towards culinary bliss. A pot of Lyonnais wine and a plate of quenelle de brochet is a must.
2. Bologna, Italy (Instead of Rome)
Rome is a magnificent open-air museum, but Bologna is Italy's vibrant, intellectual, and culinary heart. Nicknamed 'La Dotta, La Grassa, La Rossa' (The Learned, The Fat, The Red), this city is home to the Western world's oldest university, a food scene that will spoil you for life, and a stunning cityscape of red-tiled roofs and terracotta buildings.
The city's most defining feature is its nearly 40 kilometres of beautiful porticoes, or covered walkways. They make strolling through the city a pleasure in any weather, connecting grand piazzas, bustling markets like the Quadrilatero, and hidden canals. Climb the Asinelli Tower for a breathtaking panoramic view, and absorb the scholarly energy in the air around the ancient university quarter.
Pro Tip: Forget Spaghetti Bolognese. The real deal here is tagliatelle al ragù, a rich, slow-cooked meat sauce served over fresh egg pasta. You owe it to yourself to try the authentic version in its birthplace. Also, Bologna is a perfect base for day trips to other foodie hotspots like Modena and Parma.
3. Seville, Spain (Instead of Barcelona or Madrid)
While Madrid has the regal grandeur and Barcelona has the Gaudi glamour, Seville, the capital of Andalusia, offers the fiery soul of Spain. This is the city of flamenco, bullfighting, and sun-drenched plazas where the air is scented with orange blossoms. Seville is passionate, historic, and impossibly beautiful, with a more manageable and laid-back feel than its larger counterparts.
Explore the breathtaking Alcázar of Seville, a Moorish royal palace that is a masterpiece of Mudéjar architecture. Wander through the charming, labyrinthine streets of the Santa Cruz quarter and climb the Giralda bell tower for stunning views over the city. In the evening, head to the Triana neighbourhood across the river to catch an authentic, soul-stirring flamenco show in an intimate tablao.
Pro Tip: The best time to visit is in the spring (April-May) to experience the famous Feria de Abril or Semana Santa, but be warned, it gets crowded. For a quieter visit, try late autumn. To beat the intense summer heat, adopt the local custom of a long afternoon siesta.
4. Porto, Portugal (Instead of Lisbon)
Lisbon's seven hills are captivating, but Porto's riverside charm is utterly intoxicating. Portugal's second city has a gritty, authentic character that feels both ancient and incredibly cool. Built on the steep banks of the Douro River, its colourful, tiled buildings tumble down towards the water, creating one of Europe's most picturesque cityscapes.
The main event is, of course, the port wine. Cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can tour the historic port cellars and enjoy tastings with incredible views back across the river. Don't miss the São Francisco Church with its jaw-dropping gold-leaf interior or the stunning Lello Bookstore, rumoured to have inspired J.K. Rowling.
Pro Tip: You absolutely must try a Francesinha. This monstrous and delicious sandwich is a Porto specialty, layered with ham, sausage, and steak, covered in melted cheese, and doused in a rich, beer-based tomato sauce. It’s an experience in itself.
5. Leipzig, Germany (Instead of Berlin)
For years, Leipzig has been dubbed "the new Berlin," but this vibrant city in eastern Germany has a unique identity all its own. With its rich musical heritage (Bach, Wagner, and Mendelssohn all lived here), burgeoning art scene, and rebellious spirit, Leipzig offers a dose of cool without the overwhelming scale of the capital.
Dive into the city's creative heart in the Spinnerei, a former cotton mill now housing galleries, studios, and workshops. Explore the historic city centre, where peaceful protests in 1989 helped bring down the Berlin Wall. Music lovers can follow the Leipziger Notenspur (Leipzig Music Trail) to see the homes and workplaces of legendary composers. When I, Goh Ling Yong, last visited, the energy of the city's young, creative population was palpable.
Pro Tip: Rent a bike or a kayak to explore the city's extensive network of canals and waterways. It’s a wonderfully unique and relaxing way to see a different side of Leipzig, especially the lush Plagwitz district.
6. Ghent, Belgium (Instead of Brussels or Bruges)
Bruges is a fairytale, but it can feel like a theme park. Brussels is the political hub, but it can lack charm. Ghent is the perfect balance: a living, breathing medieval city that is as beautiful as Bruges but with a vibrant, unpretentious energy thanks to its large student population.
The city centre is a stunning panorama of medieval and Renaissance architecture. Take a canal boat tour for the best views of the Graslei and Korenlei, two streets lined with historic guildhalls. Climb the Belfry for a bird's-eye perspective, and marvel at the exquisite "Adoration of the Mystic Lamb" altarpiece in Saint Bavo's Cathedral. At night, the city's buildings are artfully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Ghent is a haven for vegetarians. The city officially promotes a meat-free day every Thursday ("Donderdag Veggiedag"), so you'll find an incredible array of delicious vegetarian and vegan options at nearly every restaurant.
7. Glasgow, Scotland (Instead of Edinburgh)
Edinburgh has the castle and the Royal Mile, but Glasgow has the swagger and the soul. Scotland's largest city is a former industrial powerhouse that has reinvented itself as a hub of art, music, and culture. Its people, known as "Glaswegians," are famously friendly and have a wicked sense of humour, making a visit here feel incredibly welcoming.
Architecture buffs will love the unique "Glasgow Style" of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, visible throughout the city. Art lovers can get lost in the world-class Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. For a grittier, creative vibe, explore the street art in the city centre, particularly the incredible murals on the City Centre Mural Trail. Glasgow is also a UNESCO City of Music, with legendary venues and an unbeatable live music scene.
Pro Tip: Explore the West End neighbourhood, centred around the University of Glasgow. It's full of quirky boutiques, vintage shops, cozy cafes, and excellent pubs, offering a more bohemian and relaxed atmosphere than the city centre.
8. Utrecht, Netherlands (Instead of Amsterdam)
Imagine Amsterdam's charming canals, but without the hordes of tourists. That's Utrecht. This vibrant university city has a unique two-level canal system where wharves have been converted into lively waterside cafes and terraces. It's quintessentially Dutch, but with a more laid-back and authentic local feel.
The heart of the city is the Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands. Climbing its 465 steps is a rite of passage and rewards you with spectacular views. Spend your days exploring the compact, pedestrian-friendly city centre, discovering hidden courtyards (hofjes), and relaxing at a canal-side cafe.
Pro Tip: Rent a canal bike (a small pedal boat) or an electric boat to explore the Oudegracht (Old Canal) from the water level. It’s a fun, active way to see the city's unique wharf system up close and is far more peaceful than the crowded boat tours in Amsterdam.
9. Krakow, Poland (Instead of Warsaw)
While Warsaw is a resilient and fascinating capital, Krakow is Poland's cultural and historical jewel. Miraculously spared from destruction during WWII, its Old Town is a perfectly preserved UNESCO World Heritage site that feels like walking through a living history book. It's a city of legends, kings, and scholars.
The heart of Krakow is Rynek Główny, one of Europe's largest and most beautiful medieval market squares. Dominating the square are the magnificent St. Mary's Basilica and the Cloth Hall. Explore Wawel Royal Castle and Cathedral, the historic seat of Polish kings, and wander through the winding streets of Kazimierz, the former Jewish quarter, now a bohemian district brimming with art galleries, quirky shops, and atmospheric bars.
Pro Tip: While in Krakow, a sobering visit to the nearby Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a profoundly important historical experience. It’s essential to book tickets or a guided tour well in advance, as spots fill up quickly.
10. Graz, Austria (Instead of Vienna)
Vienna has imperial palaces and classical music, but Graz, Austria's second city, has a relaxed Mediterranean flair and a passion for culinary excellence. Its historic old town is one of the best-preserved in Central Europe, a delightful blend of Renaissance courtyards and Baroque palaces, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status.
The city's symbol is the Uhrturm (Clock Tower), perched atop the Schlossberg, a forested hill in the city centre that offers panoramic views. Contrasting with the historic architecture is the futuristic Kunsthaus Graz, an art museum affectionately known as the "Friendly Alien." Graz is also Austria's "Capital of Culinary Delights," with bustling farmers' markets and a fantastic farm-to-table dining scene.
Pro Tip: Visit the Kaiser Josef Market in the morning. It's a vibrant, colourful farmers' market where you can sample local Styrian products like pumpkin seed oil (a regional specialty), cured meats, cheeses, and fresh produce.
11. Gothenburg, Sweden (Instead of Stockholm)
Stockholm is regal and spread across many islands, while Gothenburg, on Sweden's west coast, is its laid-back, effortlessly cool cousin. It has a friendly, down-to-earth vibe, a world-class food scene focused on fresh seafood, and a strong design and cultural identity.
Embrace the Swedish concept of fika (a coffee and cake break) in the charming Haga district, known for its picturesque wooden houses and giant cinnamon buns (hagabullen). Explore the city's archipelago by hopping on a local ferry, or get your adrenaline fix at the Liseberg amusement park. The Gothenburg Museum of Art boasts an impressive collection of Nordic art.
Pro Tip: Buy a Gothenburg Pass if you plan on visiting multiple attractions and using public transport, including the archipelago ferries. For the best seafood, head to the Feskekörka ("Fish Church"), an indoor fish market where you can also find excellent lunch restaurants.
12. Cork, Ireland (Instead of Dublin)
Dublin has the literary pubs and the Guinness Storehouse, but Cork, the heart of Ireland's "rebel county," has a fiercely independent spirit and a food scene that is leading a culinary revolution. Situated on an island in the River Lee, this compact, walkable city is a fantastic base for exploring the stunning coastline of West Cork and the Wild Atlantic Way.
The best place to start is the English Market, a magnificent covered food market that is a feast for the senses. Stroll along St. Patrick's Street, listen to the bells of Shandon at St. Anne's Church, and explore the haunting history of the Cork City Gaol. The city is brimming with traditional pubs where you can catch live music any night of the week.
Pro Tip: Take a short bus or train ride to the nearby port town of Cobh (pronounced 'Cove'), which was the final port of call for the Titanic. The beautifully preserved Victorian town and its poignant Titanic Experience museum make for a fascinating day trip.
13. Brno, Czech Republic (Instead of Prague)
Prague is a fairytale city, but it can feel overwhelmed by tourism. Brno, the capital of Moravia, offers a more authentic and offbeat Czech experience. It's a buzzing student city with a hidden-in-plain-sight coolness, a fantastic bar scene, and a wealth of surprising attractions, both above and below ground.
Explore the imposing Špilberk Castle, which looms over the city, and the magnificent Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul. For a quirky experience, visit the Capuchin Crypt to see the mummified remains of monks, or descend into the Labyrinth Under the Vegetable Market, a network of medieval cellars. I, Goh Ling Yong, find that the city's functionalist architecture, particularly the UNESCO-listed Villa Tugendhat, offers a fascinating contrast to the historic centre.
Pro Tip: Brno has a legendary and creative cocktail bar scene. Seek out "The Bar That Doesn't Exist" (which ironically, very much does) for world-class drinks in a super cool setting. It’s a perfect example of the city’s quirky charm.
14. Gdansk, Poland (Instead of Krakow/Warsaw)
While Krakow has the medieval history, Gdansk, on Poland's Baltic coast, has a unique and powerful story of its own. This port city was at the centre of 20th-century history—it was where WWII began and where the Solidarity movement that led to the fall of communism in Eastern Europe was born. Rebuilt meticulously after the war, its Old Town is a stunning tapestry of colourful, narrow merchant houses.
Walk the Royal Way through the heart of the Old Town, admiring the ornate facades and ending at the Green Gate overlooking the Motława River. Stroll along the waterfront, Crane, a medieval port crane that is one of the city's most iconic symbols. The European Solidarity Centre is a world-class, must-visit museum that tells the inspiring story of the fight for freedom.
Pro Tip: Use Gdansk as a base to explore the "Tri-City" area. Take a short train ride to Sopot, a chic seaside resort town with a long wooden pier and sandy beaches, and Gdynia, a modern port city with a great aquarium and naval museums.
The magic of Europe isn't confined to its most famous postcodes. The soul of the continent often lives in these second cities, where life moves at a more human pace, where traditions are cherished, and where a sense of discovery awaits around every corner. By daring to step off the main tourist trail, you not only save money and avoid crowds but also gain a richer, more authentic travel experience.
So for your next European adventure, consider swapping the Colosseum for a portico in Bologna, or the Eiffel Tower for a bouchon in Lyon. Your wallet, your sanity, and your sense of adventure will thank you.
Which of these second-city gems has caught your eye? Or do you have a favourite underrated European city to add to the list? Share your thoughts and discoveries in the comments below!
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
Stay updated with the latest posts and insights by following on your favorite platform!