With many of Europe’s top destinations just a short flight – or even train ride – from the UK, holidaymakers looking to experience new landscapes, cultures and culinary delights are often spoiled for choice.
While iconic hotspots like Paris, Lisbon, and Barcelona continue to draw crowds, some lesser-known gems also offer charm and affordability for as little as £20 per flight – but not every capital lives up to the hype.
As concerns about overtourism grow in popular cities, one experienced travel writer is urging tourists to consider their choices carefully.
Dale Peterson, a travel expert who has visited every capital city in Europe, has shared the three destinations he wouldn’t rush back to – describing them as ‘underwhelming’ with Business Insider.
Some of the most ‘surprising’ cities that hold a place in Peterson’s heart include the ‘quirky and cool’ Bucharest, Romania, ‘picturesque’ Lisbon, ‘charming’ Athens and ‘underrated’ Vilnius, in Lithuania.
Here are three popular European capital hotspots you might want to think twice before booking:
London, UK
Despite London’s reputation for royal landmarks, world-class museums, West End theatre, and a rich blend of history and modernity, Dale says the British capital never fully clicked with him.
Dale Peterson has visited every European capital city. He said London’s size and cost can make it feel overwhelming
He says: ‘Though it’s undeniably iconic and has a lot going for it – such as incredible free museums and a diverse food scene – London feels overhyped and expensive to me, especially when there are so many other worthwhile destinations in the UK.’
Dale adds that the city’s size and cost can make it feel overwhelming, especially when compared to the UK’s more tranquil and equally beautiful regions.
He says he prefers to spend time in the Cotswolds or the Lake District – or travel to Scotland to experience Edinburgh’s Gothic architecture or rugged Highlands.
Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Despite the capital of the Netherlands welcoming millions of visitors a year, Dale found the city centre of Amsterdam disappointing
Praised as one Europe’s most charming capitals, Amsterdam is known for picturesque canals, historic houses and its laid-back cycling culture.
But despite the capital of the Netherlands welcoming millions of visitors a year, Dale found the city centre disappointing.
He says: ‘Unfortunately, I thought the centre felt like an overpriced theme park full of souvenir shops and crowds.’
Although he enjoyed wandering the quieter residential neighbourhoods beyond the tourist zone, he says the city overall lacked the authenticity he looks for in repeat destinations.
Helsinki, Finland
Dale says Helsinki feels ‘a little too sterile, lacking in liveliness and exciting things to do’
It might be renowned for its clean urban design, cutting-edge architecture, Nordic saunas, and a thriving tech scene, but Finland’s capital, Helsinki, didn’t offer enough to keep Dale engaged.
He says: ‘It feels a little too sterile, lacking in liveliness and exciting things to do.
‘After experiencing the most popular tourist attractions in a single day, I struggled to fill my time in the capital.’
He recommends other Nordic capitals instead, such as Copenhagen and Stockholm, which Dale says offer more vibrancy, culture, and things to do.
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