6 Less Known Countries to Visit in Europe as a Canadian Traveler
Why is Europe on the List of Places to Visit?
Among the countries to travel in Europe, there are many destinations for Canadians to choose from. Europe is known for its rich history and culture for centuries. It is also the most popular travel destination globally.
Europe is on the list of places to visit because of its rich history and culture. It has a lot of historical sites and monuments that are worth visiting. It also has a lot of natural beauty in the form of mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, and beaches. Some of the most popular attractions in Europe include the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, and the Acropolis in Athens.
There are many reasons to visit every country on this list. But we decided to distinguish between the common top destinations for Canadian travellers and 6 lesser known countries which should be on top of the list for Canadians who are looking to more exotic destinations.
Europe’s Top Destinations for Canadians
Europe is a popular destination for Canadians. Canada’s neighbor to the south has a lot to offer, including some of the world’s most beautiful cities and breathtaking natural landscapes. It provides a wide range of cultural activities, great food and wine, and a lot of interesting historical sites to visit.
With that said, some European countries stand out as Canadian destinations. These are the top five European destinations for Canadians:
- France
- Belgium
- Spain
- Greece
- Italy
Lesser-Known European Destinations You Should Visit as a Canadian
Most Canadians are familiar with popular European destinations like Paris, London, or Rome. However, many lesser-known European destinations can be just as enjoyable for Canadians who don’t want to miss out on these hidden gems. These are the best lesser known countries to travel in Europe for Canadian travellers.
- Georgia
- Croatia
- Montenegro
- Moldavia
- Denmark
- Malta
Georgia
Georgia is one of the oldest countries in the world and has a long history that is not often discussed. It’s not an obvious destination for Canadians, but it offers visitors a unique experience.
Georgians are known for their hospitality and will go the extra mile to make sure you enjoy your time there. You’ll find them warm and welcoming people who want to share their culture with you.
Georgians also have a rich history, so you can learn more about their country’s past while you’re there.
The capital of Georgia is Tbilisi, the largest city in the country, with a population of 1,100,000. Other major cities include Kutaisi, Batumi, and Poti.
The most visited cities are Tbilisi and Batumi, with millions of visitors each year.
Top places to visit in Georgia:
- Tbilisi – Capital city of Georgia,
- Metekhi Church – one of the oldest churches in Georgia,
- Svaneti – mountain village which offers spectacular views and hikes,
- Mtskheta – a medieval city with many old churches and monuments.
Lithuania
The Baltic country of Lithuania is sometimes forgotten and placed off of lists of the best countries to visit in Europe, but it’s a rapidly growing touristic destination and its easy to see why. Travel to Lithuania from Canada is easy and there are many attractions to see in the country.
The capital, Vilnius, is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Europe. Kaunas, the biggest center in the country, also sports incredible attractions.
Croatia
Croatia is a lesser-known European destination that is perfect for Canadian travelers. It has a rich history and beautiful landscapes, but it also has much less tourist traffic than other destinations in Europe. Croatia
Croatia is a country on the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe. It borders Slovenia, Bosnia, and Herzegovina, while its southern tip lies near the Adriatic Sea. The country offers some of the most breathtaking stays in the world, many of them overlooking the spotless blue Adriatic seashore.
It was an important center of culture and learning during the Middle Ages when it was part of the Byzantine Empire. Still, it became part of Hungary for about 450 years until Austria liberated it in 1918.
If you’re looking to visit Croatia, here are some of the best things to do:
- Visit Plitvice Lakes, National Park
- Go on a wine tour of Croatia’s stunning coastline
- Take a boat tour around Lake Bled
Montenegro
Montenegro is a lesser-known European destination that you should visit as a Canadian. It is located in the Balkan Peninsula and shares borders with Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Herzegovina, and Montenegro.
Montenegro has a rich history of being an independent country for over 700 years. It was part of Yugoslavia until 1991 when it seceded from the government to become an independent country.
Montenegro is known for its unique architecture and its beautiful landscapes. Its culture has been influenced by both the East and West, making it a great place to visit as a tourist or vacationer.
Some of the top places that are worth visiting in Montenegro are:
- The Bay of Kotor
- The Old Fortresses of Kotor
- The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon
Moldova
Moldova is a lesser-known destination in Europe that can be easily visited by a Canadian. It is an Eastern European country that has a diverse culture and history.
Moldovan cuisine is also worth trying out if you travel to the country. It’s well-known as one of the cheapest countries to travel in Europe, but this doesn’t mean you’ll get a subpar experience. The people of Moldova are warm and welcoming to tourists and foreigners, and committed to showing you the best their country has to offer.
Denmark
Denmark is one of the lesser-known European destinations you should visit as a Canadian. The country is called the “Switzerland of Scandinavia” and offers a lot from its beautiful scenery, exciting culture, and delicious food.
Visiting Denmark as a Canadian can be exciting because there are few other Canadians around during the winter months. You can enjoy all Denmark offers without competing with other tourists for what they want to see or do.
Copenhagen is the perfect destination for travelers who want to explore the country’s culture and history.
The top places to visit in Denmark include:
- The Little Mermaid statue at the harbor
- The Danish parliament building
- Tivoli Gardens
Malta
Malta is an island country in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Italy. It’s a popular destination for Europeans, with a population of about 400,000 people.
Malta’s rich history and culture make it one of the most popular destinations in Europe. It’s also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. And all of this at a fraction of the price you would pay in Italy or Spain. Malta is one of the most affordable travel destinations in Europe, with plenty of activities for people on a budget.
Malta is also known for its cuisine – you’ll find lots of fresh fish dishes and seafood on menus all over Malta.
There are many places in Malta that you should visit. This list is just a selection of Malta’s best places to visit.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Malta:
- Azure Window, St. Paul’s Bay
- Blue Grotto, Għar Dalam
- Tramuntana Mountains, Mellieħa
- Golden Bay, Golden Bay
- Valletta, Valletta
- Mdina, Mdina
- Marsalforn Cliffs and Caves, Marsalforn
- Għajn Tuffieha Nature Reserve and Fort St Elmo Tower, Mellieħa
- Spinola Bay Nature Reserve and Fort Ricasoli
ETIAS for Countries to Travel in Europe
Starting from 2025, the new ETIAS visa waiver will go live. Canadian travellers will need ETIAS to travel to many of the countries in this list. The ETIAS requirements for Canadian applicants are simple: a biometric passport, a valid email add
ress, and enough funds to pay the ETIAS cost. Learn more about ETIAS and how it contributes to improving the traveller experience for foreign visitors to the European continent on our homepage.
