Hidden Gems of Europe: A 6-Country Interrail Route Off the Beaten Track
Forget Paris, skip Berlin—Europe’s hidden gems are where the real adventure lies. If you’re interrailing and want a route full of authentic charm, fewer crowds, and unforgettable culture, this off-the-beaten-track journey is for you.
It takes you through six countries and six underrated destinations, each packed with personality and easy to reach by train. Perfect for adventurous travellers looking for something a little different.
Start: Sibiu, Romania
Kick things off in one of Transylvania’s most beautiful cities. With colourful buildings, cobbled streets, and mountain views, Sibiu is a dream for fans of history and folklore.
What to Do:
- Cross the Bridge of Lies and explore the charming Old Town squares.
- Visit the Brukenthal Museum, one of Eastern Europe’s oldest art collections.
- Hike or take a cable car into the nearby Făgăraș Mountains for stunning alpine views.
Next stop: Train via Timișoara and Zagreb to Osijek, Croatia (overnight stop recommended).
Osijek, Croatia
Swap the Adriatic coast for Croatia’s quiet northeast. Osijek sits peacefully on the Drava River, with Baroque architecture and a relaxed student-town atmosphere.
What to Do:
- Explore the Tvrđa Fortress, home to museums, cafes, and nightlife in historic buildings.
- Cycle the Drava promenade, lined with parks and scenic river views.
- Sample Slavonian cuisine, including spicy kulen sausage and local graševina wine.
Next stop: Direct train to Pécs, Hungary (approx. 3 hours).
Pécs, Hungary
This southern Hungarian gem blends Roman ruins, Ottoman history and vibrant street life—perfect for creatives and culture lovers.
What to Do:
- Visit the Mosque of Pasha Qasim, now a church and mosque hybrid in the heart of town.
- Stroll through the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter, full of ceramics, galleries, and street art.
- Grab drinks on Király Street, the main social strip buzzing with bars and terrace cafés.
Next stop: Train via Budapest and Zvolen to Banská Štiavnica, Slovakia.
Banská Štiavnica, Slovakia
A hilltop town with pastel houses, mining history and natural swimming lakes, this Slovak secret feels like a real-life fairytale.
What to Do:
- Tour the Old and New Castles, offering panoramic views and quirky exhibitions.
- Swim in the tajchy, turquoise lakes originally built for miners, now perfect for summer dips.
- Enjoy coffee in rock-carved cafés, hidden in the narrow alleys of the old town.
Next stop: Train via Zvolen and Brno to Olomouc, Czech Republic.
Olomouc, Czech Republic
Olomouc is a quieter, more authentic alternative to Prague, known for its elegant old-town streets, intricate monuments, and strong cultural heritage.
What to Do:
- See the Holy Trinity Column, a UNESCO monument towering over the main square.
- Taste local brews in cosy beer halls and sample tvarůžky, the famously pungent regional cheese.
- Soak up the lively atmosphere, from underground gigs to garden cafés.
Next stop: Train via Brno and Maribor to Ptuj, Slovenia.
Ptuj, Slovenia
Finish your journey in Slovenia’s oldest town, a peaceful riverside spot full of historic charm and spa-town serenity.
What to Do:
- Explore Ptuj Castle, filled with armour, musical instruments, and incredible views.
- Unwind at Terme Ptuj, with thermal pools, saunas and outdoor jacuzzis.
- Sample haloze wines and watch the sunset over the Drava River.
Next stop: Visit more of Europe or head home with countless memories made.
All of the destinations in this route are easily accessible with a Global Interrail Pass, giving you flexible, borderless travel across Europe’s rail networks. Just hop on, sit back, and enjoy the ride.
Wherever your Interrail adventure takes you, make sure you’re protected every step of the way with Alpha Travel Insurance. From medical emergencies to lost luggage, we’re built for backpackers, explorers, and long-haul wanderers alike.
Get your Alpha Travel Insurance quote here and travel with confidence.
