10 underrated European cities for solo travel and girls’ trips: from Valletta to Bucharest

If there is one thing I’m glad I spent money on, it is traveling in general, but especially traveling across Europe in my university days. Unlike other students, I rarely went out partying; instead, I spent that money on flight tickets and museum entries (anyone can relate?). And since I had work and academic commitments, I only had 3-4 odd days here and there to escape. So, I kind of mastered making the most of a long weekend and turning it into a city getaway, sometimes solo and sometimes with friends. As a result, I now have a collection of places that I could highly recommend for you, whether you plan to go alone or with your girls. These places are perfect, even if you only have a couple of days. I could obviously talk about places like Barcelona or Paris (they’re also wonderful), but in today’s post, I actually wanted to bring your attention to the less popular and more underrated ones. So, in particular order, let's look at the most underrated European cities for solo travel and girls’ trips I would recommend.

Quick note: if you’re reading this because you’re about to organise a girls' trip, make sure you read one of my previous blog posts on the topic. It may save you some time, effort, and headaches. 

Athens, Greece

Most people only really think of visiting Athens for a day as a gateway to the Greek islands. But it is a fun and diverse city with amazing nightlife and plenty of restaurants to choose from. It is very affordable and even has some nice beaches and beach bars within reach (which a lot of people don’t realise). It may not be as appealing on photos if you do a quick search, but I can be a city that grows on you the more you explore it. If you want to give this city a chance, make sure you read my two blog posts about it, one for the foodies and one for the beach lovers. 

Seville, Spain

This is possibly my favourite solo, city break destination to date. Sevilla is perfect if you only have a few days off to explore, it is walkable, welcoming and friendly. Full of beautiful streets and great restaurants to choose from. I would highly recommend this of you want a break in the winter time, you’re still likely to catch some sunshine even in January. Even though I did this solo, I think it would also make the perfect location for a trip with friends too!

Tallinn, Estonia

Definitely an underrated city compared to other capitals in Europe. But it is a city that is worth your attention, it has a fairytale charm, affordable prices and a very friendly atmosphere. The medieval town is full of Instagrammable spots and is easy to explore on foot and considered safe, not to mention how budget friendly of an option this city is. So, it can be the perfect destination for both solo travellers and girls trips. 

Valletta, Malta

Most tourists skip the little island of Malta in favour of places in Italy and Greece, but it is a destination that deserves a spot on everyone’s bucket list. I know I listed it as a city break, but given how small Malta is, you can easily explore the whole of it from Valletta. The capital city is compact and walkable, with beautiful views of the sea. It is also a location that is likely to be sunny and have relatively good weather all year round, making it a perfect destination for winter escapes. 

Bucharest, Romania

Another capital that made the list due to it’s affordable, safe and vibrant nightlife nature. Although I have to admit, my personal favourite feature of the city is the Therme Spa. I mean what says girls trip better than a spa day with multiple sauna and stream room options, a massage and cocktails? No wonder it also made it to my list for 'top wellness destinations worldwide'.

Lisbon, Portugal

Might be a little bit more popular than the ones above, but Lisbon I could not be missed from this list. This was actually the first city where I organised a girls trip to (it was a huge success followed by many more girls trips). Lisbon has a natural charm, can be an ideal destination all year round and is very affordable. Whether you’re going solo or with friends, you can definitely find something you enjoy. Before you visit, make sure you read my post about my 13 favourite food spots in Lisbon, you might find a hidden gem or two in there. 

Budapest, Hungary

If someone wanted to make a list of what makes a city ideal for a city break with friends, I am pretty sure Budapest would tick all the boxes. Walkable, tick. Affordable, tick. Great nightlife and beautiful rooftop bars, tick. Endless list of thermal spas, tick. Beautiful architecture and rich history, tick. If you’re convinced, make sure you check out my blog post on my favourite food spots in Budapest. 

Nice, France

I love this location because it offers a mix of beach, city and nightlife, making it perfect for a city break with your friends. It is easy to get around either by tram or foot. And if you have an extra day or two, luxurious places like Monaco or Cannes are within reach. 

Basel, Switzerland

Probably a city break that not many would consider, but let me give you a few reasons why it’s perfect whether you’re planning on travelling solo or in a group. It is small and walkable, you have a beautiful view of the river Rhine, cobble streets, medieval buildings and lots of museums to choose from. It is easy to reach for a short city break and is considered very safe. Oh, and have I mentioned the Swiss chocolate shops? They are worth a visit on their own! 

Prague, Czech Republic

Another rising star, Prague is becoming famous for its fairytale architecture, cobbled streets, and picturesque bridges. It is also very walkable and safe, making it an ideal choice to explore solo. Accommodation, food and attractions are also budget-friendly, making it the ideal destination for a girls trip. 

Well, that brings me to the end of my list. I hope you enjoyed my list, I tried to curate it based on affordability, safety, accessibility and overall experience mixed with my own experiences travelling to some of these locations solo and some on girls trips. 

I hope this guide to underrated European cities has given you inspiration for your next solo trip or a fun girls’ city getaway. Whether you’re wandering cobbled streets, soaking up local culture, or simply looking for safe, unique destinations, Europe is full of hidden gems waiting to be explored.

And if you want to feel more grounded while travelling (whether you're going solo or with others), don’t forget to grab my free Travel Wellness Routine Builder. Inside, you’ll find a printable checklist, self-care prompts, and easy rituals to keep you energised and balanced on the road. It’s the perfect tool to help you feel at home—no matter where your journey takes you.