Hungarian city among Europe’s most underrated ones

Europe is home to numerous hidden gems that receive far less attention from tourists than they deserve. Dutch traveller and influencer Luke Hoogmoed, who has 393,000 Instagram followers, recently shared his top ten most underrated European destinations. It’s great to see that Esztergom made it onto his list.

Esztergom, Hungary

Esztergom is one of Hungary’s oldest cities, rich in history and stunning architecture. The city’s most prominent landmark is the Basilica, the largest church in the country and the center of the Esztergom-Budapest Archdiocese.

Built in a neoclassical style, the basilica stands 100 meters tall, measuring 118 meters in length and 49 meters in width. Its dome reaches 71.5 meters inside, with a diameter of 33.5 meters, and is adorned with 12 windows. The interior is breathtaking, especially the altar painting by Girolamo Michelangelo Grigoletti, depicting the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Beyond the Basilica, the Christian Museum is also worth a visit. It houses Hungary’s largest collection of ecclesiastical art, featuring European and Hungarian masterpieces from the 13th to the 19th centuries, including significant Hungarian, Italian, Dutch, German, and Austrian paintings. The museum’s permanent exhibition is located on the second floor of the Esztergom Primate’s Palace, overlooking the Danube.

Trenčín, Slovakia

Trenčín is a charming Slovakian town known for its cleanliness and fairytale-like atmosphere. The city’s main attraction is its well-preserved and massive castle that towers over the town. While Trenčín is relatively small, two nights are enough to explore it thoroughly, making it a worthwhile destination, Luke told MailOnline Travel.

Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

For history lovers, Veliko Tarnovo is a real treasure. Often referred to as the “City of the Tsars,” Bulgaria’s former capital boasts a stunning fortress and a rich past. The fortress is one of the best-preserved medieval structures in Europe, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Herceg Novi, Montenegro

Herceg Novi is a beautiful Montenegrin town on the Adriatic coast. While most tourists flock to Kotor, Herceg Novi remains an underrated gem with a charming old town and an impressive fortress that provide a unique travel experience.

Gjirokastër, Albania

Also known as the “Stone City,” Gjirokastër stands out for its unique architecture and well-preserved fortress. It is one of the best places to experience authentic Albanian culture, offering visitors a true taste of Albanian life.

Jajce, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Few have heard of Jajce, yet its main attraction—a massive waterfall—is absolutely breathtaking. The town itself is picturesque and features a well-preserved old town that invites further exploration.

Olomouc, Czech Republic

Olomouc is the perfect alternative to Prague for those looking to avoid the crowds. The city’s historic astronomical clock is a must-see, and because it is not a major tourist hotspot, the locals are particularly friendly and welcoming.

These cities offer unique experiences for travelers seeking something new and different in Europe. Esztergom, in particular, has every reason to be proud of making this prestigious list, as its historical and cultural significance makes it a truly compelling destination.

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One comment

missioniledelacite

March 11, 2025 / 20:24 Reply

It’s fascinating to see Esztergom highlighted among Europe’s underrated destinations by Luke Hoogmoed. The city’s rich history and magnificent Basilica truly deserve recognition, offering visitors a profound cultural experience. This list beautifully showcases lesser-known treasures across Europe, inviting travelers to explore beyond the usual paths.

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