5 adventures in Europe without the crowds

If last summer is any indication, and if bookings for 2024 are any indication, parts of Europe will be just as packed with crowds as they were in 2023. The best way to avoid hordes is to go to secluded areas and look for corners. Europe without mass tourists. Here are his five European trips for those seeking respite from the noisy crowds.

Lithuania and Latvia: from Vilnius to Riga

Country Walker combines two of the Baltic states’ most fascinating destinations on this eight-day journey that blends rural tradition and history. The “easy/moderate” rating includes visits to castles and historic palaces, and exploring scenic trails to the national parks of Trakai, Curonian Spit, Cemaitya, Gauya, and Kemeri. Visit the Amber Museum and tour Europe’s largest market, guided by a Latvian chef. Rooms are available in June, July, and August, and his rate is $4,545 (price listed is his double occupancy, his per person rate based on land only).

Albania

Hinoki Travels chose Albania for its farm-to-table excellence, lesser-known mountain trails, and warm hospitality. We organized a small group trip to Southern Albania with a provenance theme. Celebrating the region’s diverse culture, food and agriculture, and vast landscapes, his nine-day trip focuses on hosting local farmers, food producers, shepherds, local guides, and small business owners. I’m guessing. Accommodation will be in a village guesthouse, and the highlight will be local food and wine tasting. The adventure involves his 5-6 hour daily hikes on rough and uneven terrain at various elevations. There are also rafting trips on the wild Villosa River. This trip supports the efforts of his EcoAlbania and the Albanian people, who are dedicated to protecting this river, one of the last free-flowing rivers in Europe. One flight departs from September 14th to 22nd, 2024, and costs $3,250.

A hidden village in northern Greece

While the Greek islands may attract large crowds, you’ll encounter far fewer tourists as you head north. A stone village built above the Vikos gorge, Zagoria retains a traditional Greek feel. This 12-day Wilderness Travel trip includes hiking along shepherd’s trails and crossing arched stone bridges over valleys. The itinerary also includes the monasteries of Meteora, which date back to the 13th century. The trip ends with a hike to Mount Olympus, the home of the gods for the ancient Greeks. Rated Level 4+, moderate to strenuous, this trip features accommodation in hotels and simple pensions, and daily hikes. Hikes are primarily on old mule trails and range from 3 to 5 hours each day at elevations ranging from 3,000 feet to 9,403 feet. It has an October 2024 departure and costs $4,595.

Poland and Slovakia Walking and Hiking Tours

Backroads has designed a six-day national park adventure from Krakow to the Tatra Mountains, the dramatic natural border between Slovakia and Poland. Rated 1-4 (out of 5), this hike takes you through the mountain passes and lakes of the region, where the 25 peaks of the Tatra Mountains rise over 8,000 feet above sea level. Cross from Poland to Slovakia on foot exploring the dramatic scenery of the Pieniny Mountains, exploring the region known as Lesser Poland, and hiking among the mountain lakes, waterfalls, and sheep fields of Slovakia’s High Tatras . The journey ends in the World Heritage city of Krakow. There are departures in August and September, and the price is $4,499.

Romania: Transylvania and beyond

This journey from Wild Frontiers begins in Romania’s capital, Bucharest, and enters the heart of the vast mountain range of the Carpathians. Romania, which for centuries was a crossroads for the cultures of Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe, is full of well-preserved medieval towns, castles, and churches. This journey crosses the Transalpina River, visits the World Heritage-listed Holez Abbey, and passes through the old Saxon heartland of Transylvania. After visiting the well-preserved town of Sibiu and the rural village of Maramures, the tour includes a trip back across the Carpathian Mountains to visit the pictorial monastery of Bukovina. In Moldavia, guests hear the legends of Sighisoara and Bran and the myth of vampires. The latter is associated with Bram’s stalker and the Dracula legend. You’ll also have time to explore the medieval centers of Biscri and Brasov, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This 15-day trip he leaves in September has a low/medium fitness rating and costs $4,138.