Discover 2024's Hidden Gems: Slow Travel Destinations that Will Steal Your Heart!
It’s time to escape the fast lane and discover one of the best slow travel destinations in Europe, that you need to see in 2024. Buckle up and prepare your travel planner!
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What is slow travel?
Slow travel is a mindful approach to exploring the world that encourages us to see less and feel more, to slow down instead of rushing around, and to connect with nature and people instead of constantly seeking comfort and convenience.
Slow traveling is all about going with the flow and relinquishing the need for strict control and detailed itineraries. It’s about truly immersing yourself in a destination while remaining mindful and present. It signifies a departure from the fast-paced rhythms of our daily lives, favoring the less-traveled paths over the well-trodden ones and opting for sustainable destinations instead of popular resorts.
Often, we treat our trips like marathons, feeling the pressure to see everything everywhere with no time to spare.
I invite you to release that control, let go of your bucket lists, and join me in this adventure as I introduce you to some of Europe’s finest slow travel destinations. It’s time to unearth hidden gems and embrace the journey over the destination.
The growing popularity of slow travel destinations in 2024
After the pandemic people were desperate to travel again in order to make up for the “lost time”. I think that was an era of “revenge travel” because there was this urgency to book more trips and see as many places as possible.
I know this because I was one of those people. The thing that I missed most during lockdowns was exploring the world and the uncertainty of the future of travel made me go nuts.
That being said, I feel like 2024 is the year of slow travel destinations. After the “revenge travel” we need to get back to authentic experiences and mindful trips.
I feel like the new trend in 2024 is choosing a more sustainable way of traveling that will focus on unplugged vacations, building connections, being present while supporting local economies and family businesses.
In this article I will present to you one of the best slow travel destinations in Europe that you need to see in 2024.
Slow Travel Destinations in Europe
Bled, Slovenia
The scenic beauty of Lake Bled and all those beautiful surroundings makes this the perfect place for leisurely exploration.
There is nothing like a gorgeous lake with a cute pontoon to embrace that slow travel life.
You can enjoy lunch near the lake, rent a boat, hike to epic view points, or visit the splendid Vintgar Gorge, located 4 km from Bled. This place is perfect for keeping you present and unplugged from your hurried lifestyle.
While exploring Bled, there is no need for any rushing, or urgency to do things. If you want to, you can book outdoor activities, like paragliding Lake Bled or a self-guided E-bike tour to Vintgar Gorge.
Also, if you want to spend a day admiring the beauty of Slovenia, you can go on a 7 Alpine Wonders Tour. This will take away the stress of driving yourself, so you can relax and enjoy the journey over the destination. Hiking and being in nature is the best way to slow down and breathe the amazing air (literally).
If you want to read more about all the things that you can do in Bled, then check out this article here.
Bohinj, Slovenia
Bohinj happens to be one of my favorite slow travel destinations – and believe me, it’s the kind of place that might have you contemplating retirement even if you’re only in your thirties!
You’ll find quaint, cozy houses adorned with lovely gardens, lining narrow pathways adorned with blooming flowers, lush trees, and inviting benches. Bohinj is a picture-perfect village that beckons you to extend your stay for weeks.
During my time there, I experienced an unusual detachment from my hectic daily life. Everything felt simpler, quieter, and more peaceful.
If you’re seeking the ideal unplugged vacation, Bohinj deserves a spot on your list of slow travel destinations.
While there are plenty of outdoor activities available, there’s absolutely no pressure to do them all. The region offers delectable locally sourced cuisine to savor, exciting road trips to embark on, and captivating hiking trails to explore.
And for those who relish stunning sunsets, Bohinj Lake is the ultimate spot to witness a beautiful and unforgettable sunset.
If you’re on the lookout for hidden gems, you’re in luck. Along the shores of Lake Bohinj, there’s a truly remarkable spot that boasts one of the most breathtaking scenic overlooks you’ll ever encounter. For precise details about its location, I invite you to check out this article.
Speaking of things to see and outdoor activities to engage in, this list will provide you with some ideas:
- Visit Lake Bohinj and walk around
If you want to witness beautiful and serene sunset moments, walk around the lake during evening time. Also, don’t forget about that special spot I already mentioned.
The hike is so easy to do, you can bring your kids too. The path is relaxing, peaceful and the perfect way to connect with yourself and the nature surrounding you.
- Eat locally-sourced-cuisine
I recommend you try out the food at Koca na Vojah, which is located in Voje Valley. The soups and pies are simply incredible!
- Visit Savica Slap
This is one of the most impressive waterfalls that I have ever seen. The path that leads to Savica Slap is gorgeous, with several scenic overlooks. If you want a more detailed travel guide about Savica Slap, then check out this article.
A truly mindful travel experience in Bohinj wouldn’t be complete without the perfect accommodation, and I can’t emphasize enough how much I recommend House Jager. With rooms that offer stunning mountain views and a villa tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the main village, you’re guaranteed a serene and peaceful environment. Plus, their homemade breakfast is absolutely delightful. If you’re skeptical, just click on the link and take a look at their pictures.
The leisurely walk from the villa to the village and Bohinj Lake is a mesmerizing journey filled with breathtaking views and lush greenery. This place has the magical ability to make you visualize yourself purchasing a house here, spending your retirement tending to a lush and vibrant garden, all while gazing at the majestic mountains.
I think that Bohinj is one of those slow travel destinations that is very underrated, and I feel like we should keep it that way in order to preserve all its beauty. But at the same time, I can’t stop telling people about it, because it is indeed one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia.
Skradin, Croatia
We stumbled upon this gem while searching for accommodation near Krka National Park. It was a fortunate addition to our two-week itinerary spanning Slovenia and Croatia. However, once we arrived in Skradin, it became abundantly clear why this is one of the finest slow travel destinations in Croatia.
Our itinerary was packed with a lot of things to see and do and we were always on the run to check out the next landmark. Staying in Skradin was the perfect way to slow down, unwind and recharge.
Skradin is a small town near Krka River and very close to Krka National Park (like 5 minutes drive).
While in Skradin you can walk around the river, take phenomenal photos close to sunset and watch the beautiful swans displaying their beauty and elegance for their audience.
I also recommend walking around this picturesque town with historical sites. There are a lot of great places that offer delicious food and a cool ambience.
Of course, you can miss out on visiting Krka National Park. You can book a Krka Waterfalls tour with a boat ride and swimming.
If you are looking for quiet and awesome accommodation in Skradin, then you need to check out Ruza. This place is all about the slow travel lifestyle. It’s secluded from the main town, in a way that it may seem deserted. You are going to enjoy a delicious breakfast with pies and great coffee, while sitting in a peaceful environment.
Perast, Montenegro
Much like Bohinj, Montenegro stands out as one of Europe’s most stunning yet underrated slow travel destinations. Interestingly, I didn’t initially have it high on my travel bucket list, but after experiencing two of the country’s most captivating towns, Montenegro has now become synonymous with mindful traveling and the first destination that comes to mind when asked about slow travel in Europe.
My introduction to Montenegro’s unspoiled beauty began in Perast. This charming coastal town exudes a laid-back atmosphere that’s ideal for those seeking authentic experiences and unhurried exploration. It feels like a natural retreat, offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor and two picturesque islands.
Perast boasts cozy cafes along the bay where you can savor a snack while gazing at nature’s hidden treasures. During my visit, I found it impossible to tear my eyes away from the surroundings, and I felt that my camera couldn’t quite capture the full essence of its beauty. It’s an experience that reminds you of the core principle of mindful traveling: slowing down and unwinding.
Things you can see in Perast:
- St Nicholas Church;
- Climb the Bell Tower for the best view of the town (I highly recommend this one);
- Perast Museum;
- Lady of the Rosary Church;
- Enjoy lunch with the seashore view.
If you add to this list also a boutique accommodation with waterfront charm, then it’s settled that you won the golden ticket in the slow travel destinations lifestyle.
Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor is another gem in Montenegro’s territory and also an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The stunning bay views combined with the medieval architecture will transport you mentally in a place of peace and serendipity. I loved everything about Kotor, from the beautiful landmarks, the boutiques with handmade souvenirs, to the restaurants with delicious recipes.
There is something about Kotor’s atmosphere that makes you feel welcomed and cherished. I remember that I wanted to walk around the narrow streets in the Old Town for hours and didn’t feel bored or tired. Kotor is one of those slow travel destinations that makes you enjoy every second of your leisurely explorations.
You can also support the local economy, if you want to adopt a responsible and sustainable travel style. There are local shops located in the Old Town that offer mugs or collection items that are handmade by locals using their regional materials.
Things to see in Kotor:
- Old Town
- Hike Kotor’s Fortress
- Walk the Old City Walls
- Cathedral of Saint Tryphnon
- Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave
- Shop for handmade souvenirs
- Kotor Beach
- Go on a boat tour.
- Visit Perast
Bucovina, Romania
If you don’t know this about me, I’m Romanian and one thing that I’m proud of my country is its unfiltered beauty, warm people and delicious food.
I can’t recommend Bucovina enough, as one of the most gorgeous slow travel destinations, not only in Romania, but also in Europe. Bucovina isn’t a city or a village, it’s one Romania’s important regions.
Bucovina is distinguished by its rich cultural heritage, and it has gained fame for its exceptional painted monasteries, which have turned this region into a true gem.
If you’re on the lookout for slow travel destinations that exude countryside charm, then Bucovina is the place for you. Here, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of traditional villages, indulge in locally sourced cuisine, and revel in the serene atmosphere while surrounded by breathtaking vistas.
In Bucovina, life appears to move at a gentler pace, and you’ll constantly encounter picturesque corners and landscapes to admire. There’s no need to craft elaborate plans or adhere to a strict itinerary; instead, take your time, explore leisurely, and uncover hidden gems at your own pace.
Connect with the locals and eat in places that offer real and wholesome foods. If you are interested in the food culture that is representative of Bucovina, then check out this article here, with the best places to eat traditional recipes.
There are things to do and to see in Bucovina and most of them are relaxing and mindful. I wrote a detailed article, with all the things to do in Bucovina, you can check it out here.
That being said, I will also leave a summary for you to make an idea:
- Visit the painted monasteries, like Sucevita, Moldovita, Voronet, Putna and Humor;
- Explore the breathtaking road Transrarau;
- Visit the picturesque Tihuta Pass;
- Visit Castle Dracula Hotel (which isn’t the same with the famous Bran Castle);
- Visit Ciocanesti Village;
- Visit Dorna Arini and The Wooden Monastery (such a peaceful place);
- See The Museum of Painted Eggs by Lucia Condrea (the best way to support the local economy and sustainable travel);
- Go on a trip with Mocanita Hutulca (the food at the end of the trail is simply amazing!);
- Eat traditional and locally-sourced-food
If you are looking to explore more of Romania, then I recommend you book a private guided tour that will take you to all the wonders that my country has to offer.
In this way you are going to forget about driving, planning and finding your next destination. If you are interested, then check out this 12 Days Private Tour in Romania from Bucharest (it included Bucovina as well) or this Private 8-Day UNESCO Tour Maramures and Bucovina Painted Monasteries.
If you want to learn more about Romania, before you plan your trip, then check out this article here, or reach out to me. I would be more than happy to help you out.
As for places to stay, Bucovina is one of those slow travel destinations that offer a lot of sustainable accommodations. To make this experience authentic and mindful, you need to check out Luisenthal Conac.
I’m going to let the pictures speak for themselves, but I think that I can write an entire article featuring my impression about this sustainable accommodation.
From the charming thematic decor to the delectable locally sourced cuisine, this place ensures you feel not just welcomed but genuinely happy. The culinary experience here is a daily delight, with ingredients either sourced from their own resources or obtained from their friendly neighbors. The flavors are nothing short of incredible!
What’s more, they offer a selection of local beverages, including “visinata,” a traditional alcoholic drink crafted from berries. It’s remarkably sweet but carries quite a punch, as my husband can attest—having had to deal with my jovial tipsy self every evening!
The view from the rooms is stunning and incredibly peaceful. The property is somewhat secluded, making it the ideal escape for a tranquil slow travel experience.
Honestly, our stay there (it was during our honeymoon) felt like a fairytale. And if you see the room’s decor you are going to feel regal for sure. The atmosphere is romantic and welcoming and the hosts are kind and happy to help you out. During a rainy day they made me hot cocoa because I was craving it. How amazing is that?!
Tuscany, Italy
Great wine, exquisite pasta, and mouthwatering pizza—sounds absolutely fantastic, doesn’t it? Isn’t this the perfect recipe for choosing the finest slow travel destinations? Oh, I wholeheartedly believe it is!
I don’t think I need to make a strong case for including Tuscany on my list of the best slow travel destinations in Europe. The travel community has already done an excellent job of showcasing just how stunning and captivating Tuscany truly is. And, having spent a week exploring every hidden gem and charming small village, I can personally vouch for its allure.
How can I possibly capture the essence of Tuscany in words? It’s a tapestry of rolling vineyards, picturesque medieval cities, charming colorful towns, exceptional wine, and the most delectable pasta and ice cream I’ve ever had. These are the memories that linger from my unforgettable journey.
Tuscany is one of my favorite slow travel destinations and one of my most cherished travel memories.
I still haven’t written any content on Tuscany and I have so much to share, from itineraries, best places to see, where to stay, to eat and other important travel tips (like free parking spots). So, if you are planning a trip to Tuscany, stay around, or follow me on Instagram to see when my Tuscany content is life.
That being said, here is a list with places to see in Tuscany:
- Florence;
- Arezzo;
- Val d’Orcia (my personal favorite in the slow travel destinations category; so many peaceful and gorgeous places to see);
- San Gimignano (the best ice cream I ever had);
- Lucca;
- Pienza (i feel like this is one of the most picturesque small town in Tuscany);
- Siena (if you like Florence, you are going to love Siena for sure).
As you can see, Tuscany offers a plethora of incredible destinations to explore (and this list isn’t even exhaustive). However, if I had to pick the perfect slow travel destinations in Tuscany, I’d undoubtedly choose Val d’Orcia, San Gimignano, and Pienza. The landscapes surrounding these areas are among the most breathtaking in all of Tuscany. The cuisine is exceptional, and the atmosphere exudes serenity and warmth. You can spend your days leisurely wandering, uncovering hidden gems, or taking in spectacular vistas.
Another invaluable tip I can’t stress enough is to consider booking your stay in one of Tuscany’s Agriturismo accommodations, which are incredibly popular. These unique establishments provide the ideal escape for those seeking to slow down, unwind, and immerse themselves in a picturesque environment nestled amidst the vineyards.
We had the pleasure of staying at Bagnaia Agriturismo, and it easily ranks among the top five accommodations I’ve experienced in all my travels. This place was wonderfully uncomplicated, exuded charm, and possessed that quintessential Italian ambiance that I absolutely adored. In fact, we even set aside an entire day to simply relax, savoring takeaway pizza and indulging in wine (well, my husband did, as I was pregnant at the time). We spent the day capturing countless scenic photos, relishing the breathtaking views. To top it off, the owner graciously showed us the wine-making process, and we couldn’t resist purchasing some bottles to bring home as cherished souvenirs.
Please check out this beautiful Agriturismo accommodation and make your Tuscany trip glorious and memorable.
If you are looking on letting go of the stressful planning part, but still want to see Tuscany’s beauties, then you should consider booking a guided tour, like the ones below:
I hope you are planning a trip to Tuscany very soon, because the slow-paced lifestyle and the farm-to-table culinary experiences are so dreamy and perfect to get away from your fast paced lifestyle.
Lefkada, Greece
This list with the best slow travel destinations in Europe can’t be complete without putting a Greek Island on here.
If you are looking for the perfect combination between stunning beaches and beautiful mountain landscapes, then Lefkada is the place to be.
I have a feeling that this island is fantastic whether you’re seeking an active trip or the perfect destination for slow travel. Lefkada boasts an abundance of unspoiled natural beauty, and I strongly encourage you to start planning your summer vacation there.
Here are my main tips on designing the perfect unplugged vacation with a touch of leisurely explorations and mindful travel in Lefkada:
- Choose the beaches where you want to spend your relaxing days.
Lefkada has a lot of amazing beaches, I suggest you choose only a few. You don’t want to transform this trip into a beach marathon. You can choose your favorites from this article.
- Book an accommodation that is secluded from tourist towns.
I suggest one that is uphill because it will come with amazing views perfect for slowing down;
- Have items that will ensure you will unwind while sitting at the pool or at the beach (like your favorite book, Kindle or tablet);
- Book boat trips that will take you sailing around Lefkada’s most beautiful seashore sections;
- Eat in the places that offer the best Greek food;
- Spend an evening at Amente Restaurant and bar and witness one of the best sunsets that you ever saw. If you are on a budget then you can go and just have drinks at the bar. This restaurant is a bit expensive, but you will want to go for the outstanding sunset view.
- See the sunset at Cape Lefkada. Have a small snack bag with you and go there at least an hour before sunset. You can read more about this place in this article;
- Check out all the content that I have on my blog about Lefkada. There you are going to find information about most popular beaches, places to eat, where to stay, what to visit, when to visit and how to plan the perfect itinerary with recommended private tours.
Speaking of private guided tours, if you want to explore more of Lefkada, but don’t fancy the idea of renting a car, then check out this tour here.
Follow this recipe and prepare to have one of the best trips!
Reasons why you need to book more slow travel destinations in 2024
As I already said, slow travel destinations are predicted to be one of 2024’s most popular trends, but this isn’t the only reason for you to book trips in unplugged locations.
Here are the main reasons why you should consider slow travel destinations:
- Reflection, connection, meditation and mindfulness are very important for our mental health and all of them are part of slow traveling;
- Taking a break from a fast paced lifestyle can be very refreshing;
- Slow traveling can be a way of supporting sustainable places and family businesses;
- Slow traveling is a source of happiness and a reminder that this world is beautiful and worthy of your time and money;
- Depression can be ameliorated or help during mindful traveling;
- Eating locally-sourced cuisines, connecting with the locals and discovering hidden gems are all exciting activities that will improve your mood;
- Recharging your batteries during slow traveling is very useful if you are leaving a stressful life;
- Many of the slow travel destinations will transform in time into crowded and touristic landmarks, because their popularity will increase in time. So, visit them now and cherish their unfiltered beauty while you can.
I really hope you find this article inspiring and motivating enough in planning more trips in slow travel destinations. I’m curious what other places you discovered by mistake and recommend as the perfect getaway for unplugged vacations. Let me know in the comments below, I would love to add more slow travel destinations to my list.