{"id":1300,"date":"2025-07-29T15:45:34","date_gmt":"2025-07-29T15:45:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mickeyshannon.com\/articles\/?p=1300"},"modified":"2025-08-15T19:57:37","modified_gmt":"2025-08-15T19:57:37","slug":"rick-steves-europe-iconic-destinations-hidden-gems","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.mickeyshannon.com\/articles\/rick-steves-europe-iconic-destinations-hidden-gems\/","title":{"rendered":"In the Footsteps of Rick Steves: Iconic Destinations of Europe and Hidden Gems"},"content":{"rendered":"

On my first trip to Europe back in 2009, I remember talking with some parents of friends who let me borrow a few old Rick Steves<\/a> videos. They had traveled Europe extensively over the years and highly recommended Rick\u2019s books and shows to help uncover places worth visiting. One segment stood out to me: Gimmelwald, Switzerland. Growing up visiting Colorado, I\u2019d always had a fascination with mountains, and the Alps had long been a dream. When I finally made it, I followed the trail above Lauterbrunnen through M\u00fcrren and Gimmelwald before descending into Stechelberg. Wandering that valley was an experience I\u2019ll never forget\u2014one of many “once-in-a-lifetime” moments I’ve been fortunate to experience. Since then, I’ve traveled to Europe multiple times over and like Rick Steves, I’ve found many favorites that are both iconic European locations and hidden gems that one in like Gimmelwald I visited so many years ago.<\/p>\n

In the spirit of those early Rick Steves videos that fueled my desire to travel more of Europe, I\u2019ve created a list of top European destinations that I’ve been to, including many that Rick himself popularized. I’ve paired them with similiar, usually lesser-known counterparts that share a similar magic. These lesser-known locations aren’t meant to replace the icons, but instead, should give you more inspiration to visit hidden gems as well and are designed to give suggestions to those looking to dive a little deeper.<\/p>\n

With that said, let’s get to it!<\/p>\n

Venice & Annecy: Waterway Wonders of Europe<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tVenice, The City of Water - Prints Available<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tVenice: The City of Water | Soft evening light makes the canals of Venice glow. Fine art prints available.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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Venice, Italy<\/h3>\n

Venice is one of Europe\u2019s most romantic and recognizable cities. From the labyrinthine canals to gondola rides under the Bridge of Sighs, it\u2019s an iconic destination full of beauty and history. Yet with that fame comes crowds\u2014especially in high season. Still, there\u2019s no replacing the sensation of stepping out into St. Mark\u2019s Square or catching a quiet moment in a misty alley at dawn.<\/p>\n

Related Gallery | The Italy Collection<\/a><\/p>\n\n\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tAnnecy Sunrise - Prints Available<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tAnnecy Sunrise | The Venice of France at sunrise! Fine art prints available.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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Annecy, France<\/h3>\n

Annecy offers a different but equally enchanting kind of waterway charm. Often called the “Venice of the Alps,” it\u2019s a lakeside town threaded with narrow canals and pastel-colored buildings. Unlike Venice, you\u2019re surrounded by mountains and alpine air. It\u2019s a peaceful retreat for travelers who want the old-world feel without the foot traffic.<\/p>\n

Related Gallery | The France Collection<\/a><\/p>\n

Neuschwanstein & Ch\u00e2teau de Chillon: Fairytale Castles<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tMagical Neuschwanstein Castle - Prints Available<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tMagical Neuschwanstein Castle | Sunset at Germany's famous Neuschwanstein Castle. Fine art prints available.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany<\/h3>\n

Towering above the Bavarian forest, Neuschwanstein is the quintessential fairytale castle\u2014complete with turrets, alpine backdrops, and an almost mythic status. It\u2019s no wonder Disney modeled Sleeping Beauty\u2019s castle after it. A visit here feels like stepping into a dream, but it\u2019s also firmly on the tourist circuit.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tChateau de Chillon Sunset - Prints Available<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tChateau de Chillon Sunset | Sunset over Lake Geneva and Switzerland's Chateau de Chillon with the Alps as a stunning backdrop. Fine art prints available.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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Ch\u00e2teau de Chillon, Switzerland<\/h3>\n

Set beside the shimmering waters of Lake Geneva, Ch\u00e2teau de Chillon is just as scenic but far more grounded in history. This medieval stronghold has been beautifully preserved and offers an intimate, atmospheric experience. Exploring its ramparts and vaulted dungeons evokes the feel of real European history rather than fantasy.<\/p>\n

Related Gallery | The Switzerland Collection<\/a><\/p>\n

Reflections of the Matterhorn: Riffelsee & Lago Blu<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tRiffelsee Reflections - Prints Available<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tRiffelsee Reflections | A subdued sunset over the backside of the Matterhorn at Lago Blu in Italy. Fine art prints available.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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Riffelsee & the Gornergrat, Switzerland<\/h3>\n

For classic views of the Matterhorn, few spots rival Riffelsee\u2014a small alpine lake that perfectly mirrors the mountain at sunrise. The nearby Gornergrat railway offers sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. It\u2019s one of the most photogenic places in the Alps, and understandably popular.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tMatterhorn Reflections at Lago Blu - Prints Available<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tMatterhorn Reflections at Lago Blu | A subdued sunset over the backside of the Matterhorn at Lago Blu in Italy. Fine art prints available.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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Lago Blu, Italy: The Lesser Known View of the Matterhorn<\/h3>\n

Just across the border in Italy\u2019s Aosta Valley lies Lago Blu\u2014a tranquil spot with striking Matterhorn views of its own. The lake is much smaller and less visited than Riffelsee, but the reflections on a still day are just as magical. It\u2019s a hidden favorite for photographers looking for quiet beauty.<\/p>\n

Dubrovnik & Omis: Croatia\u2019s Coastal Charms<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tPearl of the Adriatic - Prints Available<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tPearl of the Adriatic | A beautiful sunrise over the walls of Dubrovnik with the blue waters of the Adriatic below. Fine art prints available.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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Dubrovnik, Croatia<\/h3>\n

Dubrovnik is the crown jewel of the Adriatic. Enclosed in stone walls with red-tiled rooftops, it has become internationally famous thanks to its beauty and its role as King\u2019s Landing in Game of Thrones. It\u2019s stunning, but often packed with tourists, especially during cruise season. Staying the night is a great option to enjoy the city without the crazy amounts of tourists from cruise ships.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tPirates Nest of Omis - Prints Available<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tThe Pirates Nest of Omis | Lookout from high above the ancient pirate town of Omis, Croatia! Fine art prints available.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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Omis, Croatia<\/h3>\n

Omis offers a refreshing contrast to Dubrovnik. Cradled between the sea and steep cliffs, this former pirate haven has dramatic scenery, a charming Old Town, and far fewer visitors. While nowhere near the size of Dubrovnik, Split or Zadar, it has an amazing Croatian charm without the heavy tourism. Seeing the town at sunset or when the lights of town start glowing from one of the pirate lookout towers above the town is truly a remarkable experience. The Cetina River adds kayaking, ziplining, and hiking opportunities, making Omis a haven for adventure lovers. The Cetina River canyon itself, where pirate ships used to lie in wait for merchant ships to attack, offers stunning beauty.<\/p>\n

Related Gallery | The Croatia Collection<\/a><\/p>\n

Tuscany\u2019s Timeless Beauty: Val d\u2019Orcia & the Tuff Towns of Pitigliano and Sorano<\/h2>\n

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tUnder the Tuscan Sunset - Prints Available<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tUnder the Tuscan Sunset | A beautiful sunset at an iconic Tuscan scene! Fine art prints available.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tDreaming of Tuscany - Prints Available<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tDreaming of Tuscany | A beautiful sunrise at another iconic Tuscan location! Fine art prints available.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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Val d\u2019Orcia and Pienza, Italy<\/h3>\n

The Val d\u2019Orcia is Tuscany at its most iconic\u2014rolling hills, cypress trees, and golden light. Pienza, a Renaissance gem perched above the valley, is rich with architecture, food, and panoramic views. It\u2019s the Tuscany many travelers dream of.<\/p>\n

Related Article | Tuscany Photography Guide | 5 Top Photo Spots<\/a><\/p>\n

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tThe Walled City of Pitigliano - Prints Available<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tThe Walled City of Pitigliano | Sun-drenched light bathes the walled city of Pitigliano. Fine art prints available.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tSorano Nights - Prints Available<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tSorano Nights | The Milky Way rises behind the beautiful town of Sorano. Fine art prints available.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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Pitigliano and Sorano, Italy<\/h3>\n

Further south, Pitigliano and Sorano offer a different kind of Tuscan charm. Built into volcanic tufa cliffs, these towns feel untouched and timeless. Winding alleyways, ancient Etruscan roots, and a lack of big tour buses make them atmospheric and deeply authentic.<\/p>\n

Related Article | Sorano and Pitigliano: Two of Italy\u2019s Tuff Towns<\/a><\/p>\n

Alpe di Siusi & Foroglio: Mountain Drama and Meadow Peace<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tDaybreak at Alpe di Siusi - Prints Available<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tDaybreak at Alpe di Siusi | Warm morning light and hints of low fog and mist showcase the beauty of Alpe di Sisui and the surrounding Dolomites. Fine art prints available.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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Alpe di Siusi, Italy<\/h3>\n

Alpe di Siusi is one of the crown jewels of the Dolomites. This expansive alpine meadow is framed by towering peaks and dotted with wooden huts. Its open space and dramatic scenery attract photographers and hikers alike.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tPanoramic Foroglio - Prints Available<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tPanoramic Foroglio | The stunning village of Foroglio set in it's fairytale setting! Fine art prints available.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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Foroglio, Switzerland<\/h3>\n

Hidden in the Bavona Valley, Foroglio is a tiny stone village with a stunning waterfall pouring down beside it. Unlike Alpe di Siusi, it feels undiscovered\u2014quiet, mysterious, and magical. It\u2019s ideal for travelers drawn to storybook villages and raw nature.<\/p>\n

Related Article | Foroglio, Switzerland | A Village Frozen in Time<\/a><\/p>\n

Lauterbrunnen & Rosenlaui: Switzerland\u2019s Valley Magic<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tLovely Lauterbrunnen - Prints Available<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tLovely Lauterbrunnen | A beautiful morning in the stunning Lauterbrunnen valley! Fine art prints available.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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Lauterbrunnen Valley, Switzerland<\/h3>\n

With its soaring cliffs and ribbon-thin waterfalls, Lauterbrunnen is one of Europe\u2019s most photographed valleys. It\u2019s a hub for hiking, cable cars, and mountain excursions. Rick Steves helped popularize it, and rightly so\u2014it\u2019s unforgettable.<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tRosenlaui Sunrise - Prints Available<\/a><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tRosenlaui Sunrise | Sunrise over the Rosenlaui River with dominating Swiss Alps in the background. Fine art prints available.<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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Rosenlaui Valley, Switzerland<\/h3>\n

Just beyond the more famous trails lies the Rosenlaui Valley. Rosenlaui might just be my Gimmelwald. Shadowy forests, mist-shrouded peaks, and a thundering glacier gorge make it feel like a lost world. It\u2019s a quiet place, perfect for introspection and immersion in nature.<\/p>\n

Related Gallery | The Switzerland Collection<\/a><\/p>\n

Who is Rick Steves, and Why Does He Matter?<\/h2>\n

As one of the most beloved voices for traveling to Europe, Rick Steves guidebooks and PBS series inspired millions of Americans to explore Europe in new ways that emphasize the local culture, people and getting off the tourist trails. I have to agree with him and it’s why I sometimes advocate for driving at least part of a Europe trip, to get away from the main places that the trains or cruises go and see something different. Rick Steves helped popularize places like Gimmelwald, which were completely off the radar before, helping travels realize how beautiful and authentic an area just beyond the famous destinations can be. I hope this blog inspires you to visit some of the places that might not always be the super famous tourist hot-spots. I will continue to update if I think of other local hotspots that are comparable to the beautiful big-name tourist destinations.<\/p>\n

Related Gallery | The Europe Collection<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

On my first trip to Europe back in 2009, I remember talking with some parents of friends who let me borrow a few old Rick Steves videos. They had traveled Europe extensively over the years and highly recommended Rick\u2019s books and shows to help uncover places worth visiting. One segment stood out to me: Gimmelwald, […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[231],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1300","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-europe"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mickeyshannon.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1300","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mickeyshannon.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mickeyshannon.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mickeyshannon.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mickeyshannon.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1300"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/www.mickeyshannon.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1300\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1318,"href":"https:\/\/www.mickeyshannon.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1300\/revisions\/1318"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mickeyshannon.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1300"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mickeyshannon.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1300"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mickeyshannon.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1300"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}