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New Report Reveals 5 European Hidden Gems Americans Will Flock To This Summer

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CNN just claimed “overtourism” was the buzzword of 2024, but just because the calendar has flipped to 2025 doesn't mean that's going to change.

Not to be biased, but perhaps the 2025 buzzword will be “off-path” since more travelers are seeking out alternatives to steer clear of fellow tourists and locals up in arms who have essentially swapped out their welcome mats for ‘”do not disturb” signs.

Tourist visiting Naxos, Greece

The question remains: where should you go if the world's icons need a breather?

Having just released ‘Summer 2025's Key Travel Trends & Destinations, HomeToGo has you covered.

Spoiler alert: Americans still love Florida beaches, Italian cuisine, and the captivating marvels of London.

The real surprise, based on their own insightful data are 5 European hidden gems Americans have shown a keen interest in flocking to this summer, and here they are:

It's Brittany, Beach!

Brittany encompasses a large swath of northwestern France, boasting over 1600 miles of scenic shores.

Pink Granite Coast - Brittany, France

One of the most unique beaches is Pink Granite Coast. Just as it sounds, the rosy rocks and peaceful surroundings are truly postcard-worthy, especially during puffin season.

There are dozens of stunning stops along the coast, but what's most fascinating about Brittany is you can study your Rosetta Stone lessons all you want, but you're likely learning the wrong language.

Yes, French is still spoken but Brittany has its own language (Breton) and a rich Celtic heritage too.

One of the best ways to indulge in Celtic delights is to partake in a traditional Fest Noz for a night full of music and dancing.

Brittany doesn't have any well-known major cities; Rennes and Brest are the two biggest blips on the map.

Woman visiting Fougeres Castle in Brittany.

So, what is it that Americans are searching for in Brittany? Well, keep in mind these are summer results – no better time for an epic beach getaway.

As the French Riviera continues to rise, Brittany still flies under the radar, making it a great alternative for less crowds and more authentic castle-hopping and beach-hopping adventures.

Plus, it's so much cheaper than, say, St. Tropez. Score the luxe Thalasso Concarneau Resort for just $142 in July.

So Long, Santorini! Americans Are Scoping Out 3 Lesser-Known Islands

Old Town walkway in Naxos, Greece

There are so many Greek Islands to visit that it's impossible to check them all off. I've had the fortune to visit Crete and Santorini.

While I loved visiting both, I was surprised to come back home hanging on to more memories of Crete than tourist-ravaged Santorini, but in that lies the answer to why Crete was so much more enjoyable.

Albeit this was 7 years ago, and my, how the world has changed since then! Greece has skyrocketed in popularity, including more islands, so it's only natural for Americans to seek out new places when paradises like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete are now all household names.

Egremni Beach in Lefkada, Greece

HometoGo revealed 3 lesser-known Greek islands that are piquing American's interest for an unforgettable summer escape:

  • Naxos
  • Lefkada
  • Zakynthos

Naxos has seen the largest increase, and speaking of size, it's the largest island of the Cyclades, offering visitors picturesque villages, jaw-dropping, vibrant beaches, and pure island bliss away from the crowds.

Lefkada's surge in popularity is quite impressive, too, and most likely the least known of this trio. Home to numerous picture-perfect beaches like white-walled Egremni Beach, venturing here is worth the trek for the ultimate relaxation, especially hiking inland to the hidden Nydri Waterfalls.

Woman on a boat enjoys the view to the famous shipwreck beach, Navagio, in the island of Zakynthos, Greece

Zakynthos has continuously been on the rise on travelers' radars and is one of Greece's most unique islands, as it's laden with shipwrecks and wondrous caves.

Make sure to eat at Keri Lighthouse Restaurant for phenomenal elevated views rivaling Santorini and mouth-watering Mediterranean cuisine.

Lake Garda: The Cheaper Alternative To Lake Como

First off, Lake Garda ranked 9th among HomeToGo's trendiest summer destinations, largely in part due to the affordability factor compared to Lake Como, which does not sacrifice gorgeous landscapes.

Gorgeous scenery surrounding Lake Garda

Lake Garda is a stunner. Whether it be crystal clear waters, majestic mountain backdrops, or Medieval castles, there's more than enough to see and do to feel comfortable leaving Lake Como in the dust.

Lining the vivid lake are ample cliffside villages, such as Sirmione, boasting Roman ruins, timeless streets, and the aforementioned castle, Castello Scaligero (only $6 admission.)

Some visitors to Lake Como consider it to be a bit on the curated/inauthentic side, but not so much for Lake Garda, where you can wander freely without the fear of falling for tourist traps.

Eat all the pasta, sip all the wine, and cap it off with tiramisu amidst some of the most under-appreciated vistas in Italy.

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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.


Salah jandoubi

Sunday 26th of January 2025

Me