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Booking Reveals Europe’s 4 Most Welcoming Destinations For Travelers

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Who is to blame for a wide range of overtourism concerns?

Is it simply bad timing from a rush of cooped-up travelers resisting their wanderlust itch during the dark days of the pandemic?

Is it the craze of digital nomads flocking wherever they please at leisure, ultimately driving a spike in housing costs?

Is it more flights than ever making the world not as far-fetched as it may seem?

Or perhaps all of the above?

Vibrant town center of Quedlinburg, Germany

No matter the answer, the bottom line is 2024 was a wild roller-coaster ride of twists and turns when it came to numerous countries seeing anti-tourist protests, ‘stay away' campaigns, and new rules and fees implemented to both deter and alleviate hordes of tourists.

When it comes to Europe, some travelers may question whether or not to visit icons such as Barcelona, Amsterdam, and multiple Spanish islands, all well-documented destinations partaking in anti-tourism strategies, for better or worse.

But there have to be some awesome places travelers still feel welcomed with open arms, right?

Right.

Booking.com just unveiled the ‘World’s Most Welcoming Cities for 2025'.

These are the 4 most welcoming cities in Europe:

Chester, U.K.: A Lesser-Known Medieval Marvel

Traditional Tudor architecture in Chester, U.K

A city claimed to be' more beautiful than Rome and Venice' has one other aspect surely to delight travelers – simply being welcomed.

While London is always buzzing with travelers from all over the world with elbow-to-elbow sidewalks trying to capture the perfect Big Ben selfie, we reported on Chester last fall as one of the UK's biggest sleepers.

Boasting far fewer crowds, Chester is a true joy to wonder, especially come spring when the UK's notorious gloomy skies transform into bright, sunny days by May.

People walking through Chester U.K. town center

Discover a maze of eye-catching traditional Tudor-style structures and ageless marvels like Chester Cathedral anchoring the scenic townscape.

Of course, no visit to any U.K. city is complete with a pint of local brew accompanied by fish and chips. Chester Street Fish Bar knocks out both.

Thank me later.

Cazorla, Spain: An Enchanting Mountain Town Off Most Tourists's Radar

If you've listened to all the hubbub regarding Spain's misguided notion that they are banning tourists, you might have already given the boot to Spain this year in favor of other European gems.

Cazorla, Spain townscape

Truth is, yes, Spain has seen a large scale of anti-tourism protests in major cities and islands, but that should simply be viewed as an invitation to venture into this iconic country's hidden gems.

2025 is destined to be the year travelers seek more authentic- off-path experiences, and Booking believes the enchanting mountain town of Cazorla is just the place to enjoy all the delights of Spain while not interfering with the aforementioned chaos.

While places such as Barcelona may feel iffy to some, Cazorla, nestled in the Sierra de Cazorla mountain range, is teeming with history, especially the well-preserved streets of Old Town.

Cazorla Castle in Spain

Visit staggering castles like Castillo de la Yedra and wander cobbled streets lined with cozy cafes, boutique shops, and, of course, Spain's notoriously sinfully delicious restaurants, where Cazorla specializes in a variety of meat platters and locally-produced olive oils.

Feast at Restaurante Alfonso X el Sabio and stay at Hotel Sierra de Cazorla & Spa with epic mountain views from the hot tub.

Quedlinburg, Germany: One Of Germany's Most Picturesque Hideaways

You won't need a filter applied to any photos taken in Quedlinburg, a relatively unknown mountain hideaway lined with over 1,000 picturesque half-timber homes amidst astounding natural landscapes.

Timber homes in Quedlinburg, Germany

Quedlinburg is truly magical; it is also a foodie and history buff's dream. Old Town is UNESCO-protected and rightfully so.

Home to must-visit Quedlinburg Castle, among other sightly landmarks and inviting cafes, bars, shops, inns, and Airbnbs reminiscent of gingerbread houses, this is an idyllic, slower-paced side of Germany opposite of Oktoberfest shenanigans.

Feel free to leave your Lederhosen at the dry cleaner this time.

Orvieto, Italy: A Vibrant Hidden Gem Blending Food, Art & Architecture

Italy is another country with a good problem to have – too many tourists. Both Venice and Rome have seen travelers and locals both cry foul over in their own regards to the matter.

Duomo di Orvieto

Good news is visiting a welcoming town like Orvieto won't have anyone up in arms on either side. This stunning hilltop city located roughly 90 minutes north of Rome beholds a treasure trove of wonders in the fields of art, food, and timeless architecture.

Anchoring the city is the unmissable cathedral known as the Duomo, a Gothic masterpiece you'll want to see inside and out, as it's only $8 to enter.

Beyond the Duomo is a cityscape boasting unmatched cuisine, ample art galleries and museums, and endless winding streets of medieval and Renaissance buildings.

Narrow cobbled walkway in Orvieto, Italy

To eat like a local, find a cozy sidewalk eatery and order white wine, truffles, and believe it or not, chickens are not the bird of choice here; it's actually turtle doves, wood pigeons and ring doves.

But hey, at least you can't question if these beady-eyed freaks are government drones.

For those who may not want to pigeonhole their palate, Orvieto is also known for spectacular dishes derived from wild game, such as wild boar.

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Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.