Underrated European Capitals: Valletta to Helsinki Route

Explore 10 underrated European capitals across 7,661 km spanning from Malta to Iceland. This route connects lesser-known capital cities including Valletta, Bern, Belgrade, Helsinki, Sofia, Riga, Dublin, Copenhagen, Reykjavik, and Tallinn - each offering rich history, culture, and architecture without the crowds of major tourist destinations.

Mode
Places
Start
Valletta
End
Riga
Stops
6
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. Valletta
  2. Bern
  3. Belgrade
  4. Helsinki
  5. Sofia
  6. Riga

Useful for your trip

Tip
Valletta is Malta's smallest capital on the continent but has 320 national monuments packed in a very small space, making it extremely dense with history.
Tip
Valletta's entire city is a UNESCO world heritage site founded in 1566 with strong fortified buildings that shimmer under the Mediterranean sun.
Food
In Bern, enjoy traditional Swiss fondue while strolling along the River Aara and below the Zytglogge Clock Tower.
Tip
Bern's Old Town is a UNESCO world heritage site with architectural wonders dating back to the 12th century, featuring zigzagging streets and green squares.
Food
In Helsinki's Design District, you can test traditional reindeer meat and Finnish pastries at a huge local market.
Transport
Helsinki is surrounded by beautiful islands that can be explored by ferry.
Save money
Sofia offers incredible food and accommodation at a fraction of the price of other European cities.
Tip
Riga's Old Town is a protected heritage site with ancient churches, cobblestone streets, and open squares, featuring rich Art Nouveau and Gothic history.
Food
Dublin is known worldwide for its pub culture featuring Guinness beer and Irish whiskey, with buzzing pubs throughout the city.
Food
In Copenhagen, try a smørrebrød board to experience the Danish dining scene.
Tip
Reykjavik is the gateway to Iceland's glaciers, volcanoes, geothermal springs, and northern lights, with cozy cafes and colorful houses in the city itself.
Timing
Visit underrated European capitals to avoid crowds and skyrocketed seasonal prices of major capitals like Rome, London, and Paris.

Video on this route

10 Most Underrated Capitals in Europe - Travel Video

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