There are so many reasons to discover new destinations. While we’ll always have Paris and it’s usually Barcelona or Bust, Europe offers myriad off-the-beaten-path cities and towns. Explore four Eastern European metropolises brimming with history and art and an Italian walled city that doubles as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Only a stone’s throw from Vienna, Bratislava is a true mishmash of different cultures. Winding alleys lead through the Old Town, past baroque edifices and historic sites. The four-towered landmark, Bratislava Castle, reigns over the city, while the Church of St. Elisabeth casts a blue shadow over the landscape.
The Bratislava Castle is enthroned, high above the city. Credit: Shutterstock 
The Slovak Radio building is reminiscent of an inverted pyramid. Credit: Shutterstock
Bratislava, which has had 19 names over the years, is a city of curiosities. The Danube Bridge with its viewing platform reminds one of a UFO on a pillar, the Slovak Radio building gives the impression of an inverted pyramid and the city almost got a Chuck Norris Bridge. At Michael’s Gate, you’ll find the narrowest home in Europe with a width of a little more than four feet. So if you like your towns charmingly curious, lively and with a turbulent history, Bratislava is the place to be.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Also known as “Europe’s Green City,” the Slovenian capital captivates with an unusual mix of Austrian beauty and Mediterranean flair.
For a first orientation, head out on a boat on the Ljubljanica River. You’ll pass the three most famous bridges (Tromostovje) and the iconic Dragon Bridge as you admire baroque and secession architecture and the works of Jože Plečnik, a local hero. The vibrant food market Odprta Kuhna takes place every Friday just behind the central market square. So grab a bite to go and savour it on the steps of the castle, which peacefully watches over the city. The enchanted Tivoli Park is an oasis of calm while the cosy pubs in Metelkova offer a funky contrast. The latter is an art colony boasting numerous sculptures and art installations during the day.
A boat trip on the Ljubljanica is the perfect way to get to know the Slovenian capital. Credit: Shutterstock 
The dragon, the heraldic animal of the city, can be found everywhere. Credit: Shutterstock
Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi straddles the line between Europe and Asia, which makes the Georgian capital a two-culture wonder. While not as unknown as some of the other cities—tourism has increased tenfold in recent years—Tbilisi has managed to retain an authentic edge. Modern buildings such as the Peace Bridge sit adjacent to old homes. While the Old Town is rapidly becoming gentrified, you can still admire villas with picturesque balconies overlooking the squares.
Relax in the sulphur spas in the Abanotubani bathing district and take a walk to the Legvtakhevi fig tree gorge. The latter offers a pleasing respite from the hustle and bustle of the city and a place to admire waterfalls and bees and butterflies floating by.
Tblisi is quickly becoming a foodie destination thanks to a mix of Central Asian and European flavors. Try local delicacies such as eggplant rolls with nut filling or tasty vegetable pastes.
The Peace Bridge is a particularly popular photo spot and shows the modern side of the Georgian capital. Credit: Shutterstock 
Tbilisi has been shaped by many different cultures and eras, so it is worth taking a closer look. Credit: Shutterstock
The sulphur baths in the spa district are a wonderful place to relax after a long day of sightseeing. Credit: Shutterstock 
Discover the unusual in Tbilisi. Credit: Shutterstock
Urbino, Italy
Situated in the eastern Italian region of Marche, Urbino is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not far from the shores of the Adriatic, Urbino is not only culturally and historically valuable, but also scenically attractive. The city lies between two hills, which afford breathtaking views of red-tiled roofs, churches and the Metauro and Foglia valleys. Culture aficionados are particularly drawn to the Church of San Domenico, the former monastery of Santa Chiara and the imposing Palazzo Ducale with its magnificent treasures.
Like most Italian towns, Urbino prides itself on its food so expect delicious Verdicchio wines and seasonal and regional specialities such as olives all’Ascolana and vincisgrassi, a pasta similar to lasagne.
Wroclaw, Poland
“Witamy we Wrocławiu”—welcome to Wroclaw! Considered by many to be the prettiest city in Poland, Wroclaw boasts an imposing gothic town hall, neatly gathered around the medieval marketplace. Numerous restaurants, cafés and rustic breweries invite you to linger.
Wroclaw, built on 12 islands, will enchant you with its beauty. Credit: Shutterstock 
Look out for one of the 600 small dwarves around the city. Credit: Shutterstock
“The Flower of Europe” was built on 12 islands and is connected by nearly 100 bridges. The famous Cathedral Island, which is actually no longer an island, houses the Old Town. Dreamy alleys wind their way past baroque, Renaissance and Art Nouveau masterpieces. Watch your step as you might stumble upon the more than 600 Krasnale (small, cast-iron dwarfs), which were used to protest communism in the 1980s.