5 European Cities To Visit In 2020, And Why Now Is The Time…

Like fashion, things are “out”, then they’re “in”, and sometimes they swap back around a few times. Timing is everything in travel, from planning tips to avoid overpriced peak seasons to when monsoons typically hit and sometimes a destination is just right. These five European cities and regions are having their time in the proverbial sun in 2020, so it’s high time to visit…

Frigiliana, Spain

Greece is always a thrill, but accommodation prices and summer crowds require a chill pill these days. Despite becoming the second most visited country in the world in 2019, Spain still some areas which manage to capture idyllic charm and Mediterranean vibes without insane crowds.

There’s perhaps no place that screams “perfect” better than Frigiliana. With nearby beaches like Playa De Burriana and hikes in the Sierra De Tejada, you can pretty much have whatever you like, all while enjoying low key meals and photogenic towns while avoiding crazy prices. Fly into Malaga or Granada and bring your sunglasses, this place is cool.

Basilicata, Italy

You’re right – this isn’t a city, or even a town, it’s a region in Southern Italy. But it’s noteworthy right now because it’s was named by the European Union as the cultural capitol of Europe for 2019 and you should get there in 2020, before the rest of the world does.

This is a region with striking juxtaposition to the overcrowded streets of Rome and Venice, where true rural Italian charm shines and cliffside living rivals the most charming spots in Greece. Fly into Bari and explore by car or train, but don’t expect too much hospitality in Matera, where the mayor proclaimed the town doesn’t want any tourists…

Krakow, Poland

Hipsters really excel in the arts of cocktails, coffee and fun and medieval history has nothing to do with hipsters, but somehow they all come to work together in Krakow. The city has developed a reputation as one of the best spots for nightlife, daytime adventure and great drinks both with alcohol and sans at any time.

On top of welcome libations and buzz, there’s immensely potent history and stunning medieval architecture to explore. With easy flights from most European hubs, it’s an easy weekend trip and one that offers extremely good value for money at the moment.

Cornwall, United Kingdom

Whether this gorgeous part of the world remains a part of “Europe” remains to be seen, but if you’re smart, you’ll go see it in 2020 regardless. Cornwall and its surrounding towns bring the England most tourists don’t expect, but will totally love.

Gorgeous sandy beaches and epic cliffs like something out of Game Of Thrones are just the start, and Michelin starred fine dining pubs like Paul Ainsworth’s No. 6 in Padstow win over even the least forgiving foodies. You can train or drive, but there are also flights from Gatwick in London, which make turning this an easier side trip easier than you might expect. Go in summer and pray to whatever god or dog you worship for sunshine.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Vilnius went viral last year by declaring itself the “G-Spot” of Europe. They went a step further too, clarifying that “Nobody knows where it is, but once you find it, it’s amazing”. Yeah, they did that. But honestly, it’s true. Vilnius is a little slice of baroque heaven, away from the never ending crowds of Dubrovnik and other more popular areas in neighbouring countries, with its own youthful excitement.

Food draws inspiration from the best of the Mediterranean and Scandic countries, with Russian twists and up and coming chefs are everywhere, at prices anyone can get behind. Day trips to towns like Trakai are absolutely stunning too, with views that rival Lake Bled in Slovenia, with a fraction of the already fractional crowds you’d find in Lake Como. Go now, people will figure this one out soon…