'I'm a travel expert who has visited every European capital — 3 are so underwhelming'
There are countless beautiful European cities just a short flight or train ride away from the UK, with some destinations reachable in under an hour. While popular spots like Paris, Lisbon, and Barcelona continue to draw crowds, there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered — especially when you can get there for as little as £20.
For those feeling adventurous or simply looking for something new, one seasoned traveller has taken on the mammoth task of visiting every European capital. As protests against overtourism continue to affect many major European destinations, you might be reconsidering your holiday plans.
However, this travel expert suggests three additional places you might want to steer clear of.
Dale Peterson, writing for Business Insider, revealed that after visiting every European capital in his role as a professional travel journalist, there were three cities he wouldn't rush back to as they left him feeling "underwhelmed".
It's always important to do your homework before setting off on any holiday to avoid disappointment, and visiting cities during peak times can often be a less relaxing experience than travelling during quieter periods, reports the Express.
With such a wealth of destinations across the continent, from wandering through Prague's ancient cobbled streets to admiring street art along the Berlin Wall or discovering historical remnants in Rome, these are the cities Dale would steer clear of.
London
The travel expert argued there are "so many other worthwhile destinations in the UK", particularly within the "UK's picturesque countryside", highlighting spots such as the Cotswolds or the Lake District.
Nevertheless, another globe-trotting blogger behind The Bucket List Mermaid held a different opinion of London, insisting the capital was "absolutely" worth all the hype.
Amsterdam
Despite attracting an estimated 20 million tourists each year, the travel writer remained sceptical.
"Unfortunately, though, I thought the centre of Amsterdam felt like an overpriced theme park full of souvenir shops and crowds," he observed.
However, one traveller posted on Tripadvisor to praise Amsterdam's qualities, calling it a "wonderful city" with "helpful citizens".
They highlighted its manageable size and walkability, excellent public transport network, and abundance of museums, fascinating districts, and numerous dining and drinking venues.
Helsinki
Situated in the world's happiest country, Helsinki offers an ideal base for delving into Nordic sauna culture. Last year, Condé Nast Traveller announced that the Finnish capital had been crowned the world's most sustainable travel destination.
Yet Dale found the city somewhat disappointing, explaining: "There's no denying Helsinki is a clean city. But in my opinion, it feels a little too sterile, lacking in liveliness and exciting things to do."
Whilst Helsinki might not appeal to everyone, Jessica from the Bon Traveller blog reckons it's the ideal destination for "slowing down, being connected to the outdoors, and of course, that incredible design scene", making a trip there "an experience to remember".
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