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According to Kepnes, these countries see “not nearly as many tourists as other parts of Europe.” Each has a unique landscape and culture, from beautiful mountain terrain to picturesque lakes and rocky beaches, that is unlike what you’ll get from the typical list of must-see European destinations. The architecture in the villages and old towns will make you feel like you’re in a storybook, as will the castles and cathedrals. And with a “fraction of the crowds” of other European cities, you’ll be able to enjoy everything you do just that much more.
Matt Kepnes, better known by his online alias Nomadic Matt, has been traveling the world for over 10 years and has made a career out of inspiring others to do the same, even when pinching pennies. His blog hosts travel guides for places from Asia to South America, and he’s written three travel books—the most recent of which, How to Travel the World on $75 a Day, is a New York Times best-seller. On his website, you can find travel guides for Slovenia, Estonia and Bulgaria.
Can’t-Miss Activities in Slovenia, Estonia and Bulgaria
You probably haven't heard as much about these countries or what they have to offer as you have about more mainstream tourist spots in Europe. In any of these spots, you can find architecture, nature, food, history and culture just as interesting as any other European destination.
Slovenia: A Nature-Lover's Dream
Triglav National Park: Slovenia's only national park, it's inside the Julian Alps. The vibrant turquoise Soča River runs through it.Lake Bled: A picturesque lake town with views to take in and charming restaurants.Vintgar Gorge: This gorge is located at the edge of Triglav National Park.Postojna Cave Park: Explore the 24.34 km long karst cave system.Predjama Castle: This medieval castle is suspended within a cliff.
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Estonia: Like a Step Back in Time
Estonia will give you a glimpse into medieval times. Its capital city, Tallinn, is home to a well-preserved Old Town with charming architecture that makes you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. You can explore old-growth forests and take in the scenery of the rocky coastlines outside of town.
Tallinn: The capital city is on the Baltic Sea and has a cobblestone Old Town with old-time shops and cafes.Eat Kohuke: A traditional snack consisting of pressed cheese curds covered in a sweet caramel or chocolate sauce.Tartu: The second-largest city, it's known as the country's "cultural heart." Spot Wildlife: Book a wildlife tour and keep your eyes peeled for bears, moose, eagles and lynxes.Sooma National Park: Walk or kayak through this land of forest swamps.Bulgaria: Rich Culture From Mountains to Coast
Rila Monastery: A large and famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in the Rila Mountains.Seven Rila Lakes: You can hike through this group of glacier lakes in the same area as the monastery. Sofia: The capital city of Bulgaria with beautiful churches, cathedrals and other historical landmarks.Balchik Botanical Garden: Explore the various plant species and the palace of the past Bulgarian queen. Plovdiv Old Town: Step back in time while strolling through this architectural reserve full of historical monuments, museums and galleries.
All three countries are super affordable compared to the more touristy destinations in Europe, but it also pays to do some advance planning; during the on-season, some accommodations can fill up, so last-minute reservations will be more expensive. While the countries aren’t right next to each other, travel throughout the continent can also be done at a low cost, so you might even try to hit all three in one trip for the ultimate budget European vacation.
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