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Slow Travel Europe – [30 EPIC European Destinations Curated by Laid Back Travelers]

Slow traveling across a country is my favorite way of exploring a new place – at my own easy, lazy pace. When I think about slow travel Europe, so many lovely fairytale towns, quaint villages, and countrysides pop into my mind.

This got me wondering where fellow travelers head to in Europe to enjoy a laid-back pace of travel.

So, I curated this list from fellow slow travelers and established travelers who have spent so much time on the road, that their tips are golden. Check this out and I am sure you will be adding a ton of new destinations to your travel bucketlist.

Slow Travel Europe – Where to go?

Lugano, Switzerland By Zoe from Together In Switzerland

Lugano Switzerland
For a lesser known European destination for slow travel, consider a stay in Lugano, Switzerland. Located in the South of Switzerland below the Alps, this Mediterranean destination is a small city surrounded by the stunning scenic mountains.

Take your time visiting Lugano with your sunglasses and comfy walking shoes. You can stroll and explore the local parks and gardens (like Parco San Michele and Parco Ciani), visit local cafes or a grotto for Ticinese cuisine and even take a dip in the lake for a swim. A suggestion for a swimming spot is at the garden park area of Villa Heleneum. You’ll spot palm trees in every direction!

A suggested slow day exploration you can consider is to walk the Olive trail from Lugano to Gandria, a quaint but pretty car-free village along the lake side. It’s very photogenic, peaceful and plenty of stops along the way for a drink or rest. Upon return to Lugano, taking the public boat back is the best way for the scenic views of the city!

Lugano is great to visit all year round with lots of local events and activities. We suggest visiting Lugano in Spring time best when everything is reopening (funiculars, beach locations, hiking routes) and all the flowers wake up.

A long weekend is already nice to get a great impression of Lugano, but for slow traveling a minimum 2 week stay would be most ideal. This gives you plenty of time to explore the city, surrounding nature spots and enjoy local cuisine without any need of rushing.

Ystad, Sweden By Anjali from Travel Melodies

Ystad, Sweden

Hidden on the southern coast of Skåne county in Sweden, in the heart of Scandinavia, Ystad is an unassuming gem perfect for the art of slow travel. The soul of Ystad lies in its unhurried pace, inviting you to immerse yourself and connect with the essence of a place. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a more meaningful and reflective travel experience.

Its cobbled streets, lined with historic half-timbered houses, transport you through time. Cafes here are cozy nooks where time pauses, inviting you to linger over a fika. Fika is a traditional Swedish coffee break. It’s more a ritual of relaxation and heartfelt conversation than a mere caffeine fix.

The area around Ystad is a paradise of natural beauty. From beautiful beaches and gentle hills to whispering forests and lovely villages, there’s always something peaceful to do. Whether it’s a serene walk along the beach at sunset, a bike ride through the countryside, a long, reflective walk in the forest, exploring a rustic hamlet, or simply lounging under the midnight sun with a glass of wine in hand – Ystad defines slow travel.

We discovered our perfect getaway in a traditional cottage at Löderups Strandbad, about 20 minutes away from Ystad, an idyllic spot surrounded by forest and a five-minute walk from the stunning Sandhammaren Strand Beach. Conveniently close was a delightful food van, ideal for those nights when a cozy takeaway is all you need. The sense of peace and freedom you’d experience here is something I believe you’d appreciate.

As for how long to stay, remember it’s not about counting days but making days count. A week gives you a good immersion into its unique charm, but even after a month, you might feel like there’s much more to uncover. It’s hard to get enough of this place. The laid-back lifestyle here is so captivating that you’ll wish to take a piece of it back home with you.

Zadar, Croatia by Tom of Tom Henty’s Travel

zadar croatia

Zadar is Croatia’s idyllic dream destination for travellers who prefer to explore new places at a slower pace.

As modernity sweeps through Zadar’s Old Town, it manifests itself through quirky coffee shops and pocket-sized art galleries. The small Croatian coastal town is becoming home for many international tourists, as it fulfills one’s slow travel needs.

The Old Town is abundant with bistros, restaurants, and contemporary bars, which make a great spot for relaxation, or remote working. On an evening, the Sea Organ at the edge of town makes for the ideal spot to enjoy the daily Adriatic sunset, while listening to the melodies created by the waves crashing off the sea instrument.

If relaxation is your priority when travelling, then heading to one of the many popular beaches that Zadar has to offer is a great way to spend your days. However, if you are more of an explorer, then island hopping is the ideal activity for you!

The archipelago of Zadar is home to hundreds of islands, so your itinerary will be filled with beautiful islands, regardless of your duration of stay. The most popular island is ‘Ugljan’, also known as ‘Olive Island’, and it is home to some of the most beautiful nature in Zadar. Pine forests, olive trees, and private beaches make it a secluded spot to bake in the Balkan sunshine.

The Croatian town is the perfect Balkans destination for your slow summer getaway.

Vis Island, Croatia by Shweta of Zest in a Tote

vis island

If you are looking for a calm vacation spot to spend a week in Croatia, it is Vis island. Vis is the furthest island in the Adriatic Sea from the popular Dalmatian coast. From 1950 until 1989, it served as the Yugoslav National Army’s base, out of bounds to foreign visitors. Even now, it has an unhurried vibe and local feel.

You can stay either in Vis town or Komiza village and explore this island in a relaxed way. Besides relaxing on beaches, there are many things to do in Vis island. Because of its unique history, Vis island has many interesting sites that can be visited as part of a Military tour.

A visit to a nuclear bunker to protect Marshall Tito and the erstwhile Yugoslavia’s ruling class from nuclear attacks was the highlight of our Tour.

You could easily spend a few days living the laid-back island life with nothing more than reading, visiting its pristine beaches, snorkelling in the crystal clear waters and eating at local spots. For the more active and adventurous, there is cycling which is hugely popular on the island.

Vis is not on a direct ferry route from either Split or Dubrovnik, so do check the ferry routes and timings carefully before your travel.

Bassano del Grappa, Italy by Martina of Places of Juma

Bassano del Grappa

The beautiful town of Bassano del Grappa is located in Northern Italy and is considered a true gem of the region. This is the place where one can fully indulge in slow travel.

One highlight is its location, nestled at the foot of high mountains and surrounded by picturesque natural landscapes.

The historic center with its charming narrow streets is enchanting, offering many small and charming things to discover. The most famous landmark is the Ponte degli Alpini, also known as Ponte Vecchio.

It is a beautiful red wooden bridge dating back to the 13th century, which has now become the symbol of the city of Bassano del Grappa.

But there is also much to explore near the Ponte Vecchio. While strolling through Bassano del Grappa, one is captivated by the Brenta River, the mountains, and the old town of Bassano del Grappa.

The historic city center with its historical buildings is absolutely worth seeing. A true hidden gem is also a visit to Grapperia Nardin, located right at the entrance of the bridge and considered the oldest Grappa distillery in Italy.

In Bassano, you can easily plan for a 5-day stay. During this time, you can enjoy beautiful hikes or bike rides in the picturesque surroundings.

For those interested, exploring the small villages nearby or savoring the many culinary highlights in Bassano del Grappa and the region is highly recommended.

Galway, Ireland by Janelle of Make the Trip Matter

galway

The country of Ireland is wonderful as a whole to slow travel in, with plenty of excellent small towns, gorgeous natural sites, friendly people, and pleasant weather year-round. However, there is a particular magic to Galway – a city that’s practically begging you to hit the brakes and embrace the art of slow travel.

Picture this: cobblestone streets, vibrant colors, and an undeniable Irish charm. Galway isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience, and it’s the ideal spot for those who want to savor every moment without a care in the world.

Immerse yourself in the culture, from traditional Irish music echoing through the streets to cozy pubs inviting you in for a chat with the locals. Explore the Latin Quarter and Eyre Square, take a stroll down the Saltway Promenade, stumble upon a lively market or street faire, or get outside of the city into the boundless natural landscapes that are nearby.

Within an easy day trip distance from Galway you can enjoy the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, unique Aran Islands, or the peaceful Connemara National Park. There are many neighboring villages and less explored natural sites surrounding Galway if you prefer to spend most of your time outside of the city.

At a minimum, it’s recommended to stay in Galway for a week. However, for slow travelers, staying for a month or more will give you a true chance to settle in, find a routine, and to explore at a leisurely pace and stumble upon hidden gems.

Dubrovnik, Croatia by Abbie + Jack of A Couple’s Calling

dubrovnik

As one of the most popular destinations in Croatia, Dubrovnik has a lot to offer. Most famous as ‘Kings Landing’ from the TV show Game of Thrones, this awesome city is located along the Mediterranean.

Nicknamed the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik is known for its charming old town, glittering coastline, and historic sites. You’ll also find lots of things to do, like walking along the walls, exploring Fort Lovrijenac, or riding on the Dubrovnik Cable Car.

Although many people choose to spend just one day in Dubrovnik (or a couple of days), this amazing city is the perfect destination for slow travelers.

Home to a variety of quaint Airbnbs and holiday lets, there are plenty of great options for long-term stays. The atmosphere is also fantastic in Dubrovnik, with no day feeling the same, so you certainly won’t get bored while staying here.

Thanks to the wide variety of things to do, you can explore at a relaxed pace too. There are also plenty of charming bars and restaurants, where you can try Croatian cuisine or enjoy a local beer.

Of course, thanks to the city’s location, you can feel the sea breeze in your hair as you go about your day-to-day. Not to mention, there are some great water-based activities on offer such as kayaking and paddleboarding, to help you relax and take it easy.

For slow travelers, you could easily spend 2-3 months in Dubrovnik. Not only is the city beautiful, but there are also ample day-trip opportunities to other destinations within Croatia and even neighboring countries.

Bath, England by Sophie of Delightful Travel Notes

bath uk

Bath is a small city in South West England with a rich cultural heritage and stunning Georgian architecture. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city is perfect for slow travelers. You can wander around and soak in the architecture, visit shops, or enjoy a meal in a café without feeling rushed.

The city is most famous for the Roman Baths, an ancient bathing complex still flowing with natural hot springs. It is also home to the Royal Crescent, a striking example of Georgian architecture, and Bath Abbey, a magnificent medieval church. Visiting those sites will make you feel like you are being transported to a different era.

Bath’s compact city center has a mix of historical attractions, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. The area is easily walkable, making it an excellent destination for those who prefer to explore at a leisurely pace. Don’t forget to stop by Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House to try their famous buns.

A two-night stay will allow you to take your time as you visit the main attractions in Bath. With a longer stay, you can take day trips to charming villages and historic sites in the surrounding areas.

Algarve, Portugal by Natali of She’s abroad again

algarve portugal

The south of Portugal is one of the most popular summer holiday destinations. However, the weather In the Algarve is excellent most of the year, so you can avoid the crowds and visit in the off-season for a fantastic slow travel experience!

Visiting the Algarve outside the peak summer months allows you to explore the stunning landscapes and experience the warm local hospitality in a calm and relaxed manner.

While driving is the easiest way to get around, you don’t need to rent a car. Public transport works great, ensuring easy access to virtually every corner of the Algarve.

When deciding where to stay in the Algarve without a car, you can choose from lively towns like Faro, Portimao, Lagos, and Albufeira to quaint seafront villages like Carvoeiro, Silves, or Ferragudo.

Wherever you choose to stay, you don’t need to worry about your itinerary. You can simply spend a week in the Algarve hiking along the coastline, soaking in the sun on the beaches, or learning to surf. Also, you’ll have easy access to fresh local produce and delectable Algarve cuisine!

Madeira, Portugal by Justine from Wanderers of the World

Coastal views near Porto Moniz in Madeira

How does a trip to “The Hawaii of Europe” sound? When thinking about slow travel in Europe, I can think of nowhere better than the Portuguese archipelago of Madeira aka “The Hawaii of Europe”.

In Madeira, you can escape into nature through walks and hikes, following the island’s Levadas across mountain ranges and past waterfalls.

You can join boat tours that sail slowly past whales and dolphins and you can wander at a relaxed pace through botanical gardens.

On the island of Madeira, you also have plenty of opportunity to pause for a moment or two wherever you are and admire the incredible views from a clifftop, across a gorge or while looking out to sea.

And when you’ve finished exploring for the day, you can relax in a casual restaurant or cafe and enjoy some of the most delicious food in Europe (in my opinion, anyway).

However you choose to spend your time in Madeira, I’d recommend spending at least a week here. This will give you ample time to appreciate the stunning natural beauty and day trips on offer – without rushing and with time to just breathe and take it all in.

Ideally, you would stay close to Funchal, the capital city of Madeira, during your trip. While there’s some hustle and bustle associated with the city, it’ll be easier for you to get around the island from here. That way, you can enjoy day trips at a relaxed pace – whether you drive yourself, join coach tours or catch a bus.

Marienbad, Czech Republic by De Wet Jin of Museum of Wander

Marianske Lazne Czech Republic

Marianske Lazne (perhaps better known by its German name, Marienbad) is a beautiful town in West Bohemia, Czech Republic. The town has been a place to come and unwind for hundreds of years, yet it remains blissfully unspoilt and relaxed despite its beauty and fame.

Marianske Lazne is one of the UNESCO-recognized spa towns of Europe, with serene parks and stunning Neo-Baroque architecture. There are over 40 natural springs in town, and walking from one spring to the next to drink from them for their health benefits is what visiting Marianske Lazne is all about.

This naturally carbonated spring water is also used in various health and spa treatments. Visitors come to Marianske Lazne for a few days, a few weeks or even a few months to relax and reset themselves while enjoying spa treatments, sweaty sauna sessions, refreshing hikes in the surrounding hills or simply just to be.

The best way to get with the programme is to book yourself into a nice spa hotel where you can unpack and settle in. Your spa hotel is the perfect staycation, with everything under one roof – from nutritious meals and health treatments to a spa to entertainment.

After a few days, once you’re fully reset, you’ll see why visitors to Marienbad return year after year. The natural beauty of the area, the stunning architecture and the gurgling springs all make for the perfect slow travel experience. Places like this are becoming increasingly rare to find, so let’s keep it a secret, okay?

Trentino by Lavina D’Souza of Continent Hop

trentino italy

A serene and picturesque area in the North of Italy, Trentino is a place for visitors who are keen on embracing slow travel. Situated among the stunning Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trentino incorporates breathtaking natural attractions, cultural heritage and a tranquil lifestyle that makes it simply ideal for just existing.

Trentino’s untouched countryside along with its slow lifestyle attracts slow tourists. Lush valleys, clear lakes or small villages to stroll around are at your disposal while you are on holiday there. Trentino opens doors to deep connections with nature and Italian traditions with every step you make. Your 12 days Italy itinerary should include Trentino for a superb mix of cultural immersion and natural beauty.

This region is well-known for its mouth-watering cuisine consisting of local dishes such as polenta, truffles and outstanding wines from different parts of the world. Eating out in Trentino goes beyond having food; it’s about tasting every morsel and honouring local produce.

Additionally, historic castles, ancient churches and museums contain the cultural wealth of Trentino within them. The contrasting Italian-Austrian architectural style and rituals create a special cultural experience for tourists here.

To fully immerse yourself in the experience, it is recommended that you stay for at least a week. This way, you can go to the popular places and also find some secret ones at your own pace. Interact with local people, engage in traditional practices and let the rhythm of Trentino carry you along. You can take long walks, hike the mountains, ride bikes beside lakes or sit quietly in a small village café during the afternoon. Trentino invites you to take your time, breathe deeply and appreciate life itself.

Transylvania, Romania by Kami of My Wanderlust

Transylvania

Transylvania region is one of the most amazing places to visit in Romania. Famous for its ties with Dracula, the area has so much more to offer than the stories of the bloody ruler and is a perfect place for relaxing holidays in the spirit of slow travel.

There are so many things to enjoy in Transylvania: picturesque historical towns, an idyllic landscape with its rolling hills, numerous cultural events, and delicious local cuisine.

You can spend your time there lazily driving around towns and villages and exploring the sites. The best places to base yourself are Sighisoara, Brasov, or Sibiu.

From there, you can set off to some of the best attractions of Transylvania, such as numerous Fortified Churches, castles like Bran, fortresses, or the exceptional salt mine Salina Turda, which is like the underground amusement park.

Even if, in recent years, Transylvania has become more and more popular among visitors, it still feels like the time has stopped there, and there is no better place to rest when also immersing in local culture and history.

Tourists are not the only ones who appreciate the slow travel vibe of the region. In the charming village of Viscri, between Sighisoara and Brasov, one of the traditional houses belongs to King Charles of England, who likes to spend his holidays here. When he is not visiting, everyone can stay on this royal property!

Salisbury, England by Sarah of Slow Travel

salisbury

Salisbury in the south of England is the ideal location for the Slow Traveller – a small city packed full of remarkable heritage and surrounded by countryside, from the high chalklands of Salisbury Plain to the verdant woodland and roaming ponies of the New Forest.

It is a place to stroll through the streets admiring the medieval buildings, including the famous Salisbury Cathedral, and to sit in the 13th century market square in one of the many hostelries as you watch the world go by.

From the city centre it is only a ten minute walk in any direction to find country life – thatched cottages, water meadows fed by the five rivers which run into the city, and endless expanses of fields and woods.

While there is plenty of public transport on offer, it is not really needed, and you can even walk to Stonehenge from the city in just a few hours, really getting to know that famous landscape in a way that few other visitors manage.

Salisbury has a theatre, Arts Centre, two cinemas, including one in a medieval house, and all manner of entertainment on offer.

Salisbury is the ideal place to spend a week just relaxing without the stress of rushing around and ticking things off a bucket list; it is a place to amble, explore and de-stress, while still having all of the conveniences of modern life right on your doorstep.

Lyon, France by Latifah of Gimme Confetti

lyon france

Compared to other hustle and bustle cities in France, I find Lyon to be one of those cities that screams “take it easy” and lets you soak up the local vibes.

It’s not about doing the next big thing on the checklist, but just existing. As you wander through the cobblestones of the Vieux Lyon (old town), try out local cuisines, and get lost in the traboules or secret passages. Absorb all the wisdom and local culture. Just go with the flow and see where you land- it’s part of Lyon’s charm.

Once you’re done take the funicular up to the Fourvière cathedral where you will be met with the most stunning view of the city. At the highest point of the city, I want you to take in the moment and just breathe in the view.

Then head to the Parc des Tetes d’Or, a local’s favorite parc. It’s right at the heart of the metropolitan city but an absolutely stunning haven of greenery.

As you enter, it’s hard to imagine you are in the middle of a city. It’s really your moment to connect with nature. Walk through the botanical garden, visit the greenhouse, and have a picnic by the lake. There are also small boats you can rent on the lake to slow down the pace, breathe in the moment and really feel like the world is yours.

Overall, 4 days is a good time scope to visit Lyon at a relaxed pace. With more time you can explore day trips from Lyon by train, for even more slow- paced travel.

Peneda-Geres National Park, Portugal by Sonia of Happy Little Traveler

Peneda-Geres National Park by Happy Little Traveler

North of Portugal is a perfect destination for slow travelers who love spending time in nature. And there is probably no better part of this region to do that than Peneda-Geres National Park. It’s Portugal’s first and only National Park that stretches between three districts and consists of four mountain ranges: Peneda, Geres, Soajo, and Amarela.

Peneda-Geres is filled with unspoiled nature and spectacular landscapes that can be admired from many viewpoints. There are also some traditional remote villages, and lots of ancient remains like castles, granaries, or megalithic tombs. Thanks to many hiking trails it’s a great place for outdoor activities lovers.

The best and easiest way to move around Geres is by driving your car. Roads connect the most important places, viewpoints, and villages. Unfortunately, public transport is very challenging and you won’t reach many points by it.

Slow travelers who wish to get to know the area can choose to stay in one of the remote and traditional villages inside the park (like Lindoso or Soajo) or choose one of the towns located at the foot of Peneda-Geres (like Ponte da Barca – which I recommend, or Arcos de Valdevez).

There are many places to discover in Peneda-Geres National Park and you could probably spend a few days there non stop and still have plenty left to see. I stayed in the area for two months and found it a perfect period of time.

Isle of Mull, Scotland Francesca Brooking of Little Lost Travel

isle of mull

The Isle of Mull lies off the west coast of Scotland. It’s the second-largest island in the Inner Hebrides, an archipelago made up of 35 inhabited and 44 uninhabited islands. Mull is characterised by rolling moorlands and rocky coastlines, mirror-like lochs and its one solitary peak, Ben More. Small, quiet villages dot the landscape and its main hub, Tobermory sits on the northeast coast.

Mull lets you enjoy slower-paced holidays. You can easily spend a week or more lolling about on white-sand beaches or strolling along its many scenic hiking trails. It’s a particularly good place to go for nature lovers thanks to its abundance of wildlife.

Bring your binoculars and roam with a wildlife expert in search of golden eagles, hen harriers, crossbills, otters and red deer. Take a boat offshore to the nearby Treshnish Isles where puffins spend their summers. On the way, look out for dolphins, grey seals and minke whales. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a basking shark. Don’t worry, they’re harmless!

The Isle of Mull is the place to just sit back and relax. It’s less busy than neighbouring Skye so you can easily escape the crowds and go at your own pace. The best time to visit is between April and June when the weather is mild and (mostly) dry. September-October is another good time as it’s less busy than the summer months.

Andalucia, Portugal by Joanna Of Andalucia in my Pocket

white villages andalucia

If you are looking for a fantastic slow travel experience, you should consider spending some time in the mountains around Malaga and Cadiz.

Dotted with the most charming white villages in Andalucia, the area is composed out of several National Parks where you can spend a quiet time enjoying the local way of life, the traditional food, as well as the trails going deep in the heart of nature.

You can pick any of the villages to settle in. Casares is a wonderful white village very close to Marbella, which offers that peacefulness of the nature, but it’s close enough to the coast and the big cities so you don’t feel isolated.

Grazalema on the other hand is a village in the heart of the mountains, harder to reach, with only small shops and local restaurants that are open only during the Spanish lunch and dinner time. Grazalema is in the heart of the Grazalema National Park, which offers so many hiking and wildlife spotting opportunities.

These villages are small and offer limited accommodation options. You will probably stay in a local guesthouse above a café, and make friends with the locals, even learn some Spanish. You can spend as much as you’d like in this area, as there are plenty of things to do and explore.

Albanian Riviera By Mal & Robin of Raw Mal Roams

albanian riveria

The Albanian Riviera is a perfect destination for slow travel, offering a mix of incredible beaches and interesting historic sites.

Get a rental car at Tirana Airpot and head south to spend a week or more to truly soak in the beauty of this region, but we won’t be surprised if you decide to stay much longer. Albania is a very affordable and hugely underrated travel destination in Europe, which is perfect for a long-term stay.

In Ksamil, enjoy the white-sanded, turquoise beaches such as the Monastery Beach and visit the nearby historical site of Butrint, which offers a glimpse into the Ottoman heritage.

Dhermi offers a long stretch of pristine beach dotted with lively beach clubs that come to life during the summer. There is also a quaint old town perched on the nearby hill, not to be missed.

For a longer stay, head to Sarande. This picturesque bay town boasts great nightlife, delicious seafood restaurants, and a lovely promenade for evening strolls. It’s delightful to watch fishermen return with their daily catch in the morning and a simple small city life.

Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland by Ela & Beata from Stunning Outdoors

dumfries uk

While Scottish Highlands experience high influx of visitors, Dumfries and Galloway in the southwest of Scotland is a winner for slow-paced travel and a stunning area to be embraced by visitors seeking to relax and enjoy a somewhat undiscovered local nature and cultural curiosities.

There’s so much to be discovered! Keen eye will notice the ever-present evidence of Victorian era influences, including remains of baths, stone bridges, even the 19th century rock-carved graffiti- now considered a historic curiosity.

But there is more; the amazing Galloway Forest Park – the biggest in the UK, offers walking and cycling paths for all abilities, endless possibilities for foraging, wildlife spotting and star gazing (one of the best Dark Sky Areas in the UK!)

Rolling hills and rocky shoreline are fantastic playground for walkers offering great hiking options across whole of Dumfries and Galloway. Keen swimmers will find fine beaches and lochs tempting and inviting not only in the summer, but offering full year-round cold dips, if you dare.

Dumfries is the region’s largest town and offers great number of amenities, but smaller towns like Kirkcudbright, Wigton or Moffatt are equally charming while also being a great base for exploration of Dumfries and Galloway. It can easily take a couple of months to embrace the region and enjoy what it has to offer.

Soča River Valley, Slovenia by Adri of Traveltipzone

soca valley

The Soča River Valley in Slovenia is a stunning and increasingly popular destination, ideal for a slow trip. In its unspoilt natural surroundings, you can experience peace, quiet, and fresh mountain air amidst breathtaking alpine landscapes full of wonderful natural and historical sights.

Popular attractions in the Soča Valley are the Great Soča Gorge, Virje Waterfall, a hidden gem near Bovec, Kozjak Waterfall near the town of Kobarid and Tolmin Gorge.

The ideal duration of a visit to the Soča Valley varies for each person. The main attractions can be explored in 3-4 days, but if you like to travel slowly, you can spend as much time as you like along the riverbanks and doing other outdoor activities. Popular activities include hiking, photography or simply sitting on the riverside, reading, relaxing, or, during the summer, taking a refreshing swim.

For those looking for an active pastime, the Soča Valley also offers hiking, rafting, kayaking, canyoning and even paragliding. It is a paradise for nature lovers, photographers and adventure lovers alike.

The Soča Valley is rich in history, as it was the site of major battles in World War I. During your trip, you can explore World War I bunkers, old fortresses like Fort Kluže and fascinating memorial sites like Javorca.

Overall, the Soča Valley is recommended to everyone as an excellent destination for a slow trip in Slovenia.

Personally, it’s one of my favorite places to relax, unwind, take photos and enjoy various outdoor activities. So, if you’re in Slovenia, don’t miss it – it’s almost guaranteed to give you an unforgettable experience.

Malaga, Spain by Cristina of My Little World of Travelling

Ronda-Malaga-Spain

One of the best places to experience slow travel in Europe is the whitewashed towns of Malaga in Southern Spain.

Although Malaga is becoming more and more popular, it is possible to experience the local culture and travel slowly, especially in its nearby towns.

The beach towns get crowded in summer, but they are quiet in winter, so if you want to slow travel by the coast, you can do so – from joining a yoga retreat in Marbella to going on scenic hiking trails like Dunas de Artola and wandering the picturesque old towns like the one in Estepona.

However, the mountainside towns and villages are also a great escape. Learn all about the local wines in Ronda, savour local products like sugar cane honey in Frigiliana, hike in La Concha or go birdwatching.

Or simply enjoy staying in a peaceful countryside house near Malaga. Alhaurin de la Torre, Alora and Antequera are ideal for this.

The options are endless; however, avoiding the peak season and events like Semana Santa (Holy Week) is important. By doing this, you will find more accommodation options and fewer crowds.”

York, England by Sinead of York Travel Expert

york england

The northern City of York, U.K is a perfect destination for slow travellers. There are lots of historic, fun and cultural things attractions for all ages that you won’t get bored on an extended stay. There are also lots of free things to do in York, which is ideal for budget conscious slow travellers.

York is a compact city that can easily be explored on foot so you won’t need to hire a car if you don’t want to. Plus, Yorkshire people are renowned for their welcoming and friendly nature so you will quickly feel at home. Visit a cafe, pub or restaurant a few times and you will soon become a familiar face.

In addition, York has good rail links to London and Edinburgh; London is 2 hours by train, Edinburgh is 3 hours. There are also good bus and rail links to other Yorkshire destinations. If you want to get into the countryside, you can easily visit the castles and waterfalls of the Yorkshire Dales, the heather covered hikes on the Yorkshire Moors, or the Jurassic era North Yorkshire coast, all of which are just 1 hour away by road or rail.

To fully explore everything that York and Yorkshire has to offer but at a slow pace, I recommend staying for at least one month. Many visitors to York never leave!

Cordoba, Spain by Linn Haglund of Andalucia Hiking

Zuheros Cañon del Rio Bailon Sierras Subbeticas hike

The Cordoba region in southern Spain is one of the most underrated areas for slow travel with charming whitewashed villages and the dramatic Sierras Subbeticas Natural Park, home to some of the best hikes in Andalucia.

Spending 3 weeks to a couple of months in the region gives you time to immerse yourself in the culture, and spend significant time in different towns like Priego de Cordoba, Cabra, Rute, and Zuheros, while hiking in the surrounding mountains.

There are so many beautiful hiking routes in all of these villages from easy to advanced and besides, there are parks, markets, and local fiestas that tourists normally don’t get the chance to experience when they just pass by.

The best way to travel around the area is either by bus (which requires slow travel because they are not that frequent) or by campervan or RV. Most villages in the region have free campervan parking with water and toilet dump area.

Malta by Linn Haglund of Brainy Backpackers

malta europe

Malta is a fantastic place to slow travel. It is a small island – actually, it’s 3 small islands – but there is so much to do.

Spending a month or two in Malta allows you to spend time in different towns and truly immerse yourself in the culture. The country might not be famous for its hiking trails, but you can basically walk between each city or town, and walking across the islands is a fantastic way to get to know it.

There are so many reasons why you should visit Malta for an extended period of time. They have a fantastic camping and barbeque culture, especially on Sundays. Bring a tent and hike around the island and set up camp on top of the cliffs and you will meet mainly locals.

The Maltese people are wonderful people, especially when you meet them in nature, it is easy to make new friends and learn about their culture.

Ericeira, Portugal by Marga by Discover Portugal

ericeira beaches

If you’re into slow travel, you might already know Portugal is a top destination! Certain coastal towns are especially popular for rewinding and recharge. Ericeira is known as a surfer’s paradise and yoga heaven.

The world really stands still here while you can ride the waves or enjoy vinyasa yoga with a view. Aside from the historic town, there are no major sights to visit. Perfect for a relaxing time in Portugal!

Many travellers stay in the fishing village of Ericeira for several weeks, and there are many co-working places to stay. Whether you want to stay in a private room or embark on a hostel life, Ericeira has it. You can make your stay as lively as you want, and especially in the summer, there will be groups of travellers to hang out with.

Ericeira is located north of Lisbon, the Portuguese capital and it takes less than an hour to get to the coastal town. Besides, there are many fun places to visit during your stay in Ericeira. Discover the places in Sintra, and enjoy the beautiful city of Mafra and its huge palace! You can also walk near Mafra in Tapada Nacional de Mafra, a park with wild deer!

Rome, Italy by Nausheen of Globe Gazers

rome italy

You might not consider Rome when thinking of the perfect destinations for slow travel, but as someone who has spent months there I highly recommend it. Usually, visitors spend 3-5 days in Rome during which time they hustle about to all the major sites. Colosseum, check. Trevi Fountain, check. Vatican, check. And so on.

But when you extend your time in this historic city, you are rewarded with a richer experience. I recommend spending at least 3 weeks to 2 months in Rome to allow yourself to delve deeper, beyond what meets the eye. Even better if you do so during a shoulder season. Tourism is always high in Rome, but visiting in an off season and for a longer period of time will allow you the opportunity to increase familiarity with the popular city.

Wander aimlessly through the side streets as you explore all of Rome’s various neighborhoods, off the beaten path of key landmarks. Discover your own favorite restaurants and cafes by stumbling in out of curiosity, rather than tracking down specific ones based on guidebook recommendations.

Become a regular at your nearby coffee bar, and strike up a conversation with the owner. Join a language exchange group, get to know new people and ground yourself even if it’s only for a month or two.

When you allow yourself an extended period of time in a bustling city like Rome, you free yourself of having to quickly see it all in a short span of time. Instead, you allow yourself to simply observe, experience, and become part of the tapestry of local life for a while.

Tenerife, Spain by Anya of Road is Calling

tenerife

One of the discoveries for me last year became Tenerife, the largest of the seven main islands that make up the Canary Islands, not far from the shores of Morocco. It is a perfect destination for slow travel as the island hides so much beauty and unique activities for a traveler.

Northern Tenerife with many things to do in particular can keep one busy for at least a few weeks if traveling continuously without any major breaks. Thanks to its diverse ecosystems and a range of microclimates, it creates a feeling that you are visiting a couple of different places simultaneously.

On the one side, there is a laurel forest Anaga National Park with an extensive trail network, deep ravines, and trees with persistent cloud cover. In another direction, there are wineries, aloe very farms, and banana plantations followed by volcanic black sand beaches with natural swimming pools great for swimming and relaxation.

Between them, there are also dramatic cliffs with breathtaking views (similar to those you can find in Hawaii) where villages and towns stand today. Many towns by the way (including those by the coast) have a centuries-old history with traditional Canarian architecture, cobbled streets, and interesting museums. One of such towns, named Garachico, was significantly affected by volcanic activity in 1706 and is a good representation of the resilience and adaptability of communities in the face of natural challenges.

You’d need to dedicate at least a week to northern Tenerife (not to mention the south) to get a good idea of what it is like and get memories for a lifetime!

So this was our handpicked curation of top destinations to slow travel Europe. Perfect additions to your Europe itinerary.

Jo
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