Calm mornings spent reading books and indulging in all the sweets the area has to offer; afternoons spent meandering beside the river or discovering peaceful districts; evenings spent sipping rosé in squares illuminated by the sun. Yes, that’s a typical Europe in the summertime.

The only thing that could spoil Europe’s unadulterated summertime happiness is the possibility of crowded streets, packed pubs, or overbooked restaurants—a situation that is, regrettably, all too typical in the most well-liked locations on the continent. We’ve suggested some of their best substitute European travel spots for this summer.

Portugal’s Braga
One of Portugal’s most underappreciated cities is also its oldest. Even while Braga is not as well-known as its neighbour Porto, it is nonetheless a worthwhile trip. Discover eateries offering platters of classic Portuguese fare by meandering through tiny, cobblestone lanes. Tabique, for instance, specialises in slow-cooked meat and thick, rich sauces that go well with potatoes for mopping. Dona Júlia, located outside the city, is well-known for its modern decor and farm-to-table cuisine. Visit Sé, Portugal’s oldest church, which dates back to 1070, or spend a day at Bom Jesus do Monte, a gorgeous staircase with opulent chapels and lovely fountains, to get a taste of Braga’s past.

Bordeaux, France

This city might not be as well-known, but considering how many people visit Paris in the summer, we think it is still important to include in this list. There are over 350 historical structures and sites to explore, world-class wine, and the sea is close by. Because most of it is pedestrianised, visitors can explore on foot to dispel the hazy confusion that descends after a few wine tastings. Take a moment to appreciate sights like the Basilica of Saint Severinus, the Grand Théâtre, and the Gothic Tour Pey-Berland. Alternately, go into the hinterlands to see some of the best châteaux and wineries in the nation, which are strewn along the Gironde.

The Netherlands’ Rotterdam
Finally, Amsterdam is receiving the recognition it so richly deserves. The once-industrial port town of Rotterdam has gradually transformed into a centre for design and culture. Its view on climate change is another draw for tourists searching for a fresh summertime city break. Over the past few years, Rotterdam has gradually introduced new green areas, eco-friendly architecture, and pedestrianised streets as part of its commitment to decrease its CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2029.

Norway’s Bergen
Beneath Oslo’s glossy exterior lies Bergen, a naturalist’s dream come true. The city is renowned for its vibrant wooden homes, which are arranged along the coastline in a charming manner. The houses are a rainbow of hues, including rusty red, royal blue, sunny yellow, and earthy green. But go past the homes for even more stunning splendour; snow-capped mountains can be seen throughout the summer, casting long shadows across glistening fjords and hiking paths that make the ideal setting for a summertime adventure getaway.

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Mostar
Head further inland to Bosnia and Herzegovina instead of the stunning but crowded Dalmatian coast; you can revisit Croatia’s beachfront in the shoulder season, when temperatures are lower and there are less tourists. With its fairytale-like alleyways, rugged slopes, and historic stone bridges, Mostar is a charming city getaway. There are also neighbouring wineries, waterfalls, and mountain walks.