Why European Cities Are Growing in Popularity for Travellers

Image by Arian Zwegers

It used to be that travelling was all about how far you could go, on a shoestring budget and carrying a backpack. Nowadays, travellers are much more interested in exploring the sights that are much closer to home. Europe has become a hotspot for those who have found Asia has becoming far too mainstream in recent years. We take a look at why European cities are growing in popularity and which ones are topping the traveller charts.

Mainstream Asia

Many places in Asia, that travellers used to frequent, have now become tourist hotspots. For those who prefer taking the beaten track, Asia is now far too busy to be considered a worthy place to visit. India is full of tourists wielding cameras, and Thailand is full of teenagers experiencing their ‘gap year’. What used to be places of mild tranquility are now full of hustle and bustle; something us travellers tend to steer clear of. It now seems that those Eastern European cities and once popular tourist destinations are dying down, as everyone books their flights to Asia instead.

Penny Pinching

Another reason Europe has become so popular for travellers is simply the economic crisis. Even those who work for years on end to save up for their next adventure are finding it difficult to afford trips around the world. Flight prices are rising to places that used to be the ultimate traveller destinations, probably because there’s now a higher demand from tourists. Many European cities have dropped in price, as they try to lure back the visitors they once had. All of us who love to travel, but don’t have the funds, have found that Europe is much more suited to our price range.

Top European Cities

We can now see why Europe has become so popular; so where are the places to go? The cities tend to hold the most culture, with small towns and beaches located just further down the beaten track. Here are our top suggestions for travellers:

• Belgrade, Serbia – There’s something instantly alluring about Serbia and all its Eastern European charm. This is one city you won’t have to fight with holidaymakers to enjoy, nor will it cost an arm and a leg.

• Paris, France – Believe it or not, Paris is no longer just the romantic getaway it used to be. Travellers from far and wide visit for the incredible museums, landmarks and Jim Morrison’s grave. Visiting Paris with Venere is a lot cheaper than it used to be too.

• Zagreb, Croatia – If you want a wonderful mix of history, culture and fun, then Zagreb in Croatia is the place to go. You can also reach many other Eastern European cities easily from here, such as Sarajevo and Budapest.

• Athens, Greece – Long gone are the days when tourists would queue up to see the Acropolis, as far too many people are put off by the Greek economy. This makes it a must-visit destination for travellers.

We think Europe is a travellers’ paradise, if you know the right places to look. No wonder it has become such a popular place for those who have constantly itchy feet.