Europe's 20 Most Underrated Destinations for 2025 Part-3

If you're looking to explore Europe beyond its popular tourist destinations in 2025, consider these underrated destinations that promise unique experiences:

List of Europe's 20 Most Underrated Destinations for 2025(from 8 to 9)

Contents

More information about Bled, Slovenia. 1

1. Lake Bled. 1

2. Bled Castle (Blejski Grad) 1

3. Outdoor Activities. 1

4. Local Food. 2

5. Pilgrim Church of the Assumption of Mary. 2

6. Celebrations and Festivals. 2

7. Access and Accommodation. 2

Tips for Visiting Bled. 2

More information about Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina. 2

1. Satari Most (Old Bridge) 3

2. Chil Town (Starigrad) 3

3. Koski Muhammad Pasha Mosque. 3

4. Neretva River. 3

5. War and Genocide Museum.. 3

6. Traditional Food. 4

7. Balaj Tech (Bolaj Monastery) 4

8. Kriva Ćuprija (Crooked Bridge) 4

9. Festivals and Events. 4

10. Practical Information. 4

Tips for Visiting Mostar. 5

8-Lake Bled, Slovenia – Known for its picturesque island church and serene waters.

More information about Bled, Slovenia

Bled, Slovenia, is a magical town that has become a popular tourist destination not only for the enchanting Lake Bled, but also for its serene natural beauty, historic sites, and outdoor activities. Here's a closer look at what makes Lake Bled unique and why it's a must-see.

1. Lake Bled

• Overview: Lake Bled is a glacial lake with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the Julian Alps and forested hills.
• Bled Island: The focal point of the lake is a small island with the famous Church of the Assumption of Mary. Visitors can reach the island on traditional palatna boats, unique to the lake, which are moored by local boatmen. The church itself is a popular wedding venue and features a "wishing bell," which visitors ring to make their wishes come true.
• Swimming and Boating: Lake Bled is popular for swimming in the summer, and boats can be rented to explore the lake at a leisurely pace.

2. Bled Castle (Blejski Grad)

• Historical Significance: Bled Castle, situated on a 130-metre-high cliff overlooking Lake Bled, is over a thousand years old, making it the oldest castle in Slovenia.
• Architecture: The fort is a mix of Gothic and Romanesque architecture, with additions from various periods. The views from the top of the castle are stunning, offering panoramic views of the lake, Bled Island and the Alps.
• Activities: The castle includes a museum showcasing the history of the area and the castle's medieval heritage. There is also a wine cellar where visitors can sample Slovenian wines and a printing press with traditional printing demonstrations.

3. Outdoor Activities

• Hiking and Cycling: The area around Bled is full of scenic trails suitable for all fitness levels. One of the most popular hikes is the Augstrica, a viewing point that offers a spectacular view of the lake, islands and mountains.
• Vintgar Gorge: Just a short drive from Bled, this spectacular gorge features a 1.6km wooden walkway that meanders along the emerald-green Radona River, past narrow canyon walls and waterfalls.
• Winter Games: During the winter, Blade is transformed into a snowy paradise. Winter sports enthusiasts can ice skate on the lake (when frozen), nearby ski slopes and cross-country ski trails.

4. Local Food

• Blejska kremna rezina: Known simply as kremšnita, this dessert is a must-try. It is a puff pastry and custard tart that originated in Blades and has become a local specialty.
• Traditional Slovenian Dishes: Restaurants around Bled offer hearty Slovenian dishes such as žlikrofi (dumplings) and kranjka klobasa (Carniolan sausage).

5. Pilgrim Church of the Assumption of Mary

• The Church of the Assumption on Bled Island is steeped in legend. The church's "Bell of Wishes" dates back to 1534 and is a popular attraction. Legend has it that wishes can come true by ringing the bell.

6. Celebrations and Festivals

• Blade Days and Blade Night: Held annually in July, this festival celebrates local culture with food, crafts, and a magical show where thousands of tiny lights float on the lake.
• Okarina Festival: This summer festival is dedicated to world music and features musicians from around the world who come to perform in Bled's beautiful open spaces.

7. Access and Accommodation

• Location: Bled is located approximately 35 km from Slovenia's capital Ljubljana and is easily accessible by car or public transport. It is also within easy reach of the borders with Austria and Italy, making it a convenient stopover for traveler’s exploring Central Europe.
• Accommodation: Bled offers a variety of accommodation near Lake Bled, from luxury hotels to cosy guesthouses and budget hostels. Many accommodations offer rooms with lake views, allowing guests to enjoy the natural beauty of the area from within.

Tips for Visiting Bled

• Best Time to Visit: The lake is stunning year-round, but summer (June to September) is ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking and boating. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter offers opportunities for snow sports.
• Getting Around: The town of Bled is compact and walkable, and you can rent bikes to explore the area. Local buses connect Bled with nearby towns and popular tourist destinations.
• Souvenirs: Traditional souvenirs include locally made wooden objects, leaf honey and of course leaf cream cake.

9- Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina – Famed for the Stari Most bridge and its blend of Ottoman and Mediterranean architecture.

More information about Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mostar, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city rich in history and one of the architectural wonders of the Balkans. Known for its magnificent Ottoman-era bridge and the fusion of Eastern and Western cultures, Mostar is a place that epitomizes the resilient spirit of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Here is a detailed look at what makes Mostar special.

1. Satari Most (Old Bridge)

• Historical significance: Built in 1566 by Ottoman architect Mimar Hayreddin, Satari Most is an arched bridge that has become a symbol of unity and communication between East and West. Destroyed during the Bosnian War in 1993, it was meticulously rebuilt in 2004, using traditional techniques and stone quarried from the Neretva River.
• Diving Bridge: The 24-meter-high bridge is famous for diving. Locals take a dip in the river, a tradition that dates back centuries, and an annual diving competition is held in the summer.
• Symbol of resilience: Today, the bridge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Mostar's resilience, bridging not only the Neretva River but also the cultural divide between the city's diverse communities.

2. Chil Town (Starigrad)

• Architecture and setting: Mostar's Old Town is a fascinating mix of Ottoman, Mediterranean and Slavic influences. Cobbled streets, narrow alleys and traditional stone buildings make the area feel like a step back in time.
• Markets and craft shops: The area around the Old Bridge is filled with markets selling local crafts, traditional fabrics, copperware and handmade jewellery. The colourful bazaar, known as Kujundžiluk, is one of the oldest in the region and has retained its Ottoman charm.
• Restaurants and Cafes: Several riverside restaurants offer traditional Bosnian cuisine with a view of the bridge. It's a great place to enjoy ćevapi (grilled meat sausages) or boreč (delicious pastries).

3. Koski Muhammad Pasha Mosque

• Historical and Cultural Significance: Built in the 17th century, this mosque is one of the best-preserved Ottoman structures in Mostar. Located near the riverbank, it provides a serene environment for pilgrims and is still used for worship today.
• Tower Views: For a small fee, visitors can climb the tower for one of the best views of the Old Town, the Neretva River, and Satari Most.

4. Neretva River

• Color and Beauty: The Neretva River, with its stunning emerald-green waters, flows through Mostar and contributes to the beauty of the city. It is especially fascinating from the perspective of the riverbanks and the bridges that span it.
• Swimming and Sunbathing: In the summer, locals and tourists alike swim and sunbathe on the river beaches. The water is cool and refreshing, especially during the hot summer months in Bosnia.

5. War and Genocide Museum

• Purpose: This small but mighty museum documents the suffering and impact of the Bosnian War. The exhibition includes photographs, documents, and personal stories from those affected by the war, with the goal of educating visitors about the horrors of the conflict and the importance of reconciliation.
• Inspiring Experience: It provides a sobering perspective on Mostar’s recent history and the ongoing efforts to rebuild the city and bridge the divide.

6. Traditional Food

• Cevapi: A staple of Bosnian cuisine, these grilled sausages made from minced meat are served with flatbread and raw onion.
• Borek and pita: Savory puff pastries filled with minced meat, cheese, or spinach. These dishes are often accompanied by a traditional yogurt drink.
• Baklava and Turkish Coffee: The influence of the Ottoman Empire remains in the desserts and drinks, and locals take pride in their skillful preparation of baklava and richly brewed Turkish coffee.

7. Balaj Tech (Bolaj Monastery)

• Overview: Located a short distance from Mostar, this 16th-century dervish monastery is perched on a cliff at the source of the Buna River. Its peaceful location and unique blend of Ottoman and Mediterranean architecture make it a tranquil retreat.
• Scenic Spot: The emerald blue water of the Buna River, combined with the white stone structure of the monastery, creates a picturesque scene. You can take a boat trip to the cave where the river originates and dine at a nearby restaurant serving fresh trout.

8. Kriva Ćuprija (Crooked Bridge)

• Overview: Built in 1558, Kriva Ćuprija is a smaller version of the Stari Most and is often considered the "prototype" of the larger bridge. Located in a quiet part of the Old Town, this charming stone bridge
  • a offers a quiet alternative to the often-busier Satari Most.
• Legend: Locals say that if two lovers stand on opposite sides and walk towards each other, they will surely be together forever, adding a romantic touch to this historic spot.

9. Festivals and Events

• Mostar Summer Festival: a multidisciplinary arts festival held in July, featuring music, theatre and dance performances by local and international artists.
• Mostar Sevdah Reunion: an event dedicated to sevdah music, a traditional form of Bosnian folk music known for its soulful and moving melodies.
• Bridge Diving Competition: held annually in July, this is one of the oldest diving traditions in the world. Competitors from around the world dive into the Neretva River below Satari Most, demonstrating courage and skill.

10. Practical Information

• Getting there: Mostar can be reached by car, train and bus from major cities such as Sarajevo, Split and Dubrovnik. The train from Sarajevo is particularly beautiful and follows the river through gorgeous scenery.
• Best time to visit: Summer (June to September) is the best season to visit, with warm weather and lively events. Spring and fall are also beautiful times to visit, offering milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
• Accommodation: Mostar offers a variety of accommodation, from budget hostels to boutique hotels and guesthouses, many within walking distance of the Old Town.

Tips for Visiting Mostar

• Cultural Etiquette: Bosnia is a multicultural country, with both Islamic and Christian communities. Visitors should dress respectfully at religious sites.
• Explore the City: Mostar is small and walkable, with the Old Town being the main attraction. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking its streets.
• Photo Spots: The best views of Stari Most are from the riverside and from the rooftops of nearby restaurants. The view of the sunset from the minaret of the Koski Muhammad Pasha Mosque is very appealing.