One of the world's smallest countries, San Marino is enclosed within Italy between the regions of Emilia-Romagna and Le Marche. You don't need a passport to enter from Italy and Italian is spoken in San Marino. Its medieval heart can be explored on foot and within the capital there is the Government Palace, Basilica, and ancient churches to explore. Take in the views from the Piazza della Liberta and discover the eight tiny villages outside the capital. ebookers.com offers holiday packages to San Marino.
Beautiful lake views and hearty national cuisine awaits in Macedonia, where you can really escape the crowds in this overlooked country. The rugged interior contains mountain forests that are excellent for hiking and Lake Ohrid's waters rival the clarity of Croatia's. The city of Ohrid has 365 churches, one for every day of the year. Explore the Mavrovo National Park and walk to the Duf waterfalls to see some of the country's best natural sites. Intrepid Travel offers a Real Food Adventure in Montenegro and Macedonia, taking in the culinary delights while touring the countries.
Ideal for pioneering travellers, Kosovo is Europe's newest country after only declaring independence in 2008, and boasts snow-capped mountains, open plains, gorges and waterfalls. The towns and villages are influenced by Islam and Orthodox Christianity, with a wealth of mosques and monasteries, and buzzing capital Prishtina is home to the National Museum, Grand Mosque and sprawling Germia Park. Regent Holidays offers a luxury Kosovo short break for visitors to discover the traditional wines and cuisine, while touring the country as you stay at the only five-star hotel in Kosovo.
Lying on the edge of eastern Europe, Belarus is a country covered by forests and lakes, dotted with picturesque villages, ancient castles and monasteries. Perfect for viewing wildlife, visitors could be lucky enough to spot wild boars, wolves, lynx and European bison. Minsk is a must-see and ideal for those interested in Soviet period architecture, trendy cafes and art galleries. Southern Belarus is dominated by gentle plains and forests, while the north features the cities of Minsk and Vitsebsk. Cox & Kings offers tailor-made tours to Minsk.
Compact Liechtenstein is sandwiched between Austria and Switzerland, and is just 25km from north to south and 6km from east to west, making it possible to walk across the country. It is characterised by medieval castles, alpine chalets and villages. Vaduz, the capital, is more like an Alpine and offers a charming atmosphere and magnificent mountain views. Visitors can collect a passport stamp at the tourist office and in winter, check out the Malbun and Steg ski resorts, which are good for beginners and cross-country skiers. Leger Holidays offers a tour of Switzerland, Austria, Bavaria and Liechtenstein.
Tucked between Romania and Ukraine, Moldova is a hidden gem that offers more than just Moldovan wine. The capital Chisinau boasts 20th century Soviet architecture, tree-lined boulevards and numerous parks. Visitors should check out the Soviet throwback self-proclaimed republic of Transnistria and be sure to experience the thriving nightlife of Chisinau. Regent Holidays offers an Essential Moldova trip which takes you to Chisinau, Cricova, Tiraspol and Orheiul Vechi.
Avoid the crowds and feel like an explorer rather than a tourist by visiting picturesque Slovakia, where you can soak up the diversity while discovering this little-known corner of Europe. From the peaks of the Tatras, to the cultural life of Bratislava, Slovakia offers a unique holiday. Explore castles, caves, hot springs and folk architecture, while getting to know the cultural traditions, folklore and friendly locals. Responsible Travel offers a Slovakia cultural tour, which includes visits to old mining towns, a thermal spa, a traditional market and experience traditional lace making.
One of the last undiscovered regions of southeast Europe, Bosnia and Herzegovina is a beautiful country with a vast array of landscapes, cultures, traditions and people. From Mostar's Old Bridge to the sunny seaside resort of Neum and Sutjeska National Park, home to Bosnia's highest peak, there is plenty to see and do in the country. Exodus offers a Walking in Bosnia & Herzegovina holiday with a chance to walk in primeval forests, climb the country's highest peak and discover Sarajevo and Mostar.
This tiny, unknown country bordered by Germany, Belgium and France offers a multitude of fascinating landscapes spread over five regions with a rich cultural, historical, architectural and industrial heritage. Some of its best attractions include the vineyards along the Moselle River, the rock formations of the Mullerthal Region and the old city of Luxembourg and its fortress. Logis offers a selection of boutique hotels in Luxembourg, while Easyjet flies to Luxembourg City from London Gatwick.
With great natural beauty, rich culture and heritage, Serbia is an intriguing and varied country. Visitors can experience walking, cycling, bird watching and music festivals, while the food is exceptional and the wines receive international recognition. Serbia's capital Belgrade, situated on the confluence of two major rivers, offers many attractions for an alternative weekend break. Explore offers a Highlights of Serbia tour taking in Belgrade, the Tara National Park, Sargan Eight railway and Uvac Special Nature Reserve.