I will always visit the main cultural tourist attraction first. Famous cities are famous for a reason. Marseille will never be Paris.
But on a second or third trip to a country, I usually want to explore new cities or lesser-known tourist spots. Maybe you feel the same way or maybe you just don’t like crowds, and high prices. That is where second-city travel becomes interesting.
Because often, the second city is where you find a different – and often more relaxed – atmosphere, the weird museums, the cheaper routes, the hidden gems, and fewer people standing in the background of your selfie – as seen below.
What Is Second-City Travel?
Second-city travel focuses on lesser-visited cities rather than a country’s capital or biggest tourist destination. Instead of Split, you visit Zagreb. Instead of Tallinn, Tartu.
And interestingly, the “second city” is not always literally the second-largest city. Take Poland: Warsaw is the capital, but Kraków is the main tourist city. So in reality, Warsaw feels like Poland’s second city for travellers.
That said, it does not work equally well everywhere. Marseille is just not Paris. In countries with less tourism infrastructure — like North Macedonia — I would still recommend visiting the main highlights first before heading somewhere like Bitola. Smaller cities can be interesting, but not always enough to build an entire first trip around.
Why I like second cities
Many second cities may not have the “bucket-list” status of their capitals, but they can be just as memorable.
These places often give you:
* fewer tourists
* lower prices
* more local life
* less curated experiences
* and, sometimes, more personality
10 Top Second Cities for Cultural Travels
Favourite Second Cities in Europe
Greece: Thessaloniki – instead of Athens
Italy: Naples – instead of Rome
Denmark: Aarhus – instead of Copenhagen
Bulgaria: Plovdiv – instead of Sofia
Sweden: Gothenburg – instead of Stockholm
Croatia: Zagreb – instead of Split
Poland: Warsaw – instead of Kraków
Estonia: Tartu – instead of Tallinn
Germany: Munich – instead of Berlin
Valencia – instead of Barcelona
Thessaloniki, Greece
Thessaloniki might actually be one of the most overlooked second cities in Europe. In some ways, it is a contestant to the capital of Greece, Athens.
Athens has the Acropolis and so many ruins, obviously. But Thessaloniki feels more layered and lived-in. Roman ruins sit between apartment buildings, Byzantine churches hide behind cafés, and Ottoman history still shapes parts of the city.
For cultural travellers, it is a goldmine and gives a completely different vibe than Athens.
Thessaloniki offers a fascinating mix of Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman history. The UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches are some of the earliest Christian monuments in Europe, and unlike many famous sights elsewhere, you often have them almost to yourself.
Its Byzantine walls and churches reveal centuries of religious and cultural significance. Landmarks like the Rotunda, the Arch of Galerius, and the bustling Ano Poli district give visitors a deep sense of the city’s layered past. Thessaloniki’s vibrant markets, music scene, and street life make it a cultural hub that feels far more local than Athens.
But don’t get me wrong. Athens is legendary and has sights for a lifetime. Thessaloniki does not.
Top Tip
Do a full UNESCO route through the city. Especially visit the Rotunda, originally built as a Roman mausoleum and later turned into a church and mosque. And unlike the Pantheon in Rome — nobody is here.
Go deeper
In Greece, the island of Crete is the place I’ve been the most. The east side is the “second side” of the island: Summer Like a Local on Eastern Crete.
Naples, Italy
So – Italy has a lot of second cities. The second largest city i Milan, but I would rank it way further down the list for a cultural traveller. I could also have picked Florence, but this almost also feel like a first city. And I love Naples.
I recently visited for the second time and was not disappointed. Naples feels chaotic, loud, dirty, beautiful, historic, and slightly collapsing all at once. Which is exactly why I like it.
The historic center is UNESCO-listed and packed with churches, courtyards, faded palaces, and underground history. Then you add nearby attractions and natural sights like Vesuv suddenly one city contains several thousand years of history. And if you visit the Archaeological Museum, do not skip the secret room filled with erotic Pompeii mosaics. Apparently the Victorians needed censorship warnings.
Rome may have more famous landmarks, but Naples has pizza and the incredible Pompeii.
Top Tip
Book ahead for the incredible Sansevero Chapel. If you only see one statue of Jesus ever, this should be the one. And I’ve seen many.
Many of the B&Bs have first class view across the bay. I stayed at Pizzasleep B&B (I know stupid name, but who cares – watch the view in the last picture).
Go deeper
I am still writing on an article for Naples, Pompeii and Herculaneum, but until then you can get a glimpse as Pompeii is part of my most popular article: 20 Dark Tourism Sites: From Pompeii to Ground Zero. I could also have chosen Bologna as a second city and you gotta got o Bologna for ragu.
Aarhus, Denmark
Denmark is so tiny it almost only has one city. But being recognized internationally several times, Aarhus has to make the list. As a Dane, I have been to Aarhus countless times and I can always go back.
Aarhus is smaller, younger, and quaint. The city combines history with a youthful energy from its university and cultural festivals, making it an immersive experience in Danish art, music, and heritage.
The city mixes Viking history, modern Scandinavian architecture, universities, brutalist corners, and one of the best museums in Northern Europe. Visitors can step back in time at Den Gamle By, an open-air museum recreating Danish life across centuries, and explore the Moesgaard Museum, with its Viking-era artifacts. I always visit the Moesgaard Museum for its temporary exhibitions.
Top Tip
This is seriously insider tips: I usually end up eating Georgian food at Bardok. Slurp some soup dumplings and wash it down with local vodka. Shopping for retro clothing at Dress the Bird.
Go deeper
For more of Denmark’s cultural attractions, dive into Must-Visit UNESCO Sites in Denmark
Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Plovdiv is one of my biggest travel surprises.
I visited while the city was preparing to become European Capital of Culture, which unfortunately also meant construction sites everywhere. Still, underneath the scaffolding was one of the most charming cities in the Balkans.
Plovdiv is one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, and you constantly move between Roman ruins, Ottoman-era houses, communist remnants, and Bulgarian Revival architecture. It feels messy in the best possible way. Cities with a long and culturally changing history is always more interesting.
Its Old Town, Roman theatre, and historic houses are UNESCO-listed, reflecting Thracian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences. The city’s cobblestone streets and art galleries create a charming atmosphere, perfect for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Bulgaria’s layered cultural history.
Top Tip
Walk uphill through the Old Town in the late afternoon when most tour groups disappear.
And do not miss the Roman theatre. Yes, it is touristy. It is also genuinely impressive.
Go deeper
I really liked travelling in Bulgaria. I tried to share my enthusiasm in Be Surprised by Plovdiv, Bulgaria: Culture Capital. But I will also recommend the first city: Explore Sofia: A 24-Hour Cultural Journey
Gothenburg, Sweden
Stockholm is prettier and has more museums. But Gothenburg is more relaxed, less expensive, and a nice change from the capital, I’ve been to so many times. It also feels less polished than Stockholm, which I mean as a compliment.
The city grew wealthy through trade and industry, and you still see that history in the canals, warehouses, and harbour areas.
Gothenburg is Sweden’s lively port city with a rich industrial and maritime history. Its 17th-century canals and historic districts reflect centuries of trade and urban planning. Cultural highlights include historic theaters, and vibrant music and food scenes. Gothenburg offers a more authentic Swedish experience compared with Stockholm, with plenty of history and contemporary culture to explore. Gothenburg is also one of the greenest cities in Europe.
Top Tip
I am a museum lover. So I mostly remember the Göteborg Museum of Art. Its acclaimed exhibition Apokalyps was awarded the 2025 exhibition of the Year award.
Go deeper
As living in a neighbouring country, I have been to Sweden countless times. If you haven’t visited the biggest city Stockholm I would. I ws lucky to explore A Different Stockholm: Behind the Scenes at the City’s Cultural Icons.
Zagreb, Croatia
Technically Zagreb is Croatia’s capital and largest city. But culturally, Split and the coast dominate tourism completely.
I have visited Zagreb twice and still barely encountered international tourists.
The city feels Central European rather than Mediterranean — Austro-Hungarian facades, old trams, faded buildings, cafés everywhere, and a slightly melancholic atmosphere I always enjoy. Compared with Dubrovnik or Split, Zagreb feels much more local and far less exhausting. But compared to Belgrade, it’s definitely also more boring.
Its historic Upper Town, cobbled streets, and the iconic St. Mark’s Church showcase centuries of history. Museums, galleries, and theaters highlight Croatian art and heritage, while open squares and cafes give the city a relaxed, everyday charm. Compared with Split, Zagreb provides a cultural alternative that is less tourist-focused but equally rich in history and character.
Top tip
Zagreb doesn’t really have an iconic attraction. You gotta see St. Mark’s church. But I recommend the weird Museum of Broken Relationships. I thought it would be tacky, but the sharing of heartbreak stories was surprisingly great.
Go deeper
While Zagreb might not be my favourite city, it is one of the cities on my list: 12 Budget-Friendly European Cities for Culture Lovers. Croatia in general just have a lot to offer like. Live Like an Emperor in a Roman palace in Split.
Warsaw, Poland
Warsaw may officially be Poland’s capital, but Kraków completely dominates tourism. Which is a shame because Warsaw is fascinating.
Almost the entire historic center was destroyed during World War II and later reconstructed in extraordinary detail. The result is a strange mix of reconstructed old town, communist boulevards, glass skyscrapers, and deeply layered war history.
For travellers interested in architecture, socialism, Jewish history, or dark tourism, Warsaw is far more interesting than people give it credit for.
Warsaw, Poland’s capital, is a remarkable story of resilience and rebirth. Its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, meticulously reconstructed after World War II, and is filled with colorful townhouses, historic churches, and the Royal Castle. Warsaw also offers a vibrant arts scene, museums chronicling Poland’s history, and modern architecture alongside historic streets. Compared with Kraków, it is less of a tourist magnet, giving visitors a chance to experience Polish culture in a more local way.
Top Tip
Do not only stay in the Old Town. Some of Warsaw’s most interesting areas are the communist-era districts and post-industrial neighbourhoods outside the center.
Go deeper
For exploring the culture and history of the city, find inspiration in Cultural in Warsaw: Top 6 Must-See Museums. Poland is one of my favourite countries and definitely overlooked. Gdansk for instance is perfect for a solo trip.
Tartu, Estonia
Tallinn is not yet overwhelmed by tourism, but it is definitely heading in that direction. Tartu, meanwhile, felt almost empty. I took the train south and often found myself completely alone at major sights.
Tartu is Estonia’s intellectual and cultural hub. Tartu is Estonia’s university city, and it feels intellectual, quiet, and slightly melancholic. There are museums, Soviet remnants, cathedral ruins, and old academic buildings scattered around town. The historic University of Tartu and medieval town hall square reflect the city’s long-standing role in education and culture. Museums, theaters, and libraries celebrate Estonia’s literary, scientific, and artistic heritage.
Tartu is a calm, culturally rich alternative to the busier capital, Tallinn. It is not dramatic tourism. It is thoughtful tourism. Take the train from Tallinn instead of driving. The slow approach somehow fits the city better.
Top Tip
Tartu is linked to UNESCO World Heritage List through the University of Tartu Old Observatory. Struve Geodetic arc is one of the most difficult to understand sites, but also extremely important for travellers like us.
Stay at central Lydia Hotel (affiliated link. You pay the same, but I get a commission to travel for).
Go deeper
I haven’t written on Tarty yet. But Tallinn is one of my 12 Budget-Friendly European Cities for Culture Lovers or if you’re not sure about it yet, check out Vilnius vs Riga vs Tallinn: Best Baltic Capital for Cultural Trips?
Munich, Germany
Berlin may be Germany’s capital and its coolest city, and Germany’s second city is technically Hamburg, but if you’re travelling for culture, I’d actually recommend Munich.
Yes, there’s beer. Lots of it. Munich’s beer halls and beer gardens are part of the city’s identity, and even if Oktoberfest isn’t your thing, sitting down with a giant beer in a traditional beer hall is an experience in itself. But Munich is much more than beer.
The city has some of Germany’s best art museums, particularly the Alte Pinakothek, with works by Dürer, Rubens, Rembrandt and other European masters. Then there are the churches. The twin towers of the Frauenkirche dominate the old town, while the incredibly ornate Asamkirche proves that sometimes more really is more.
Top Tip
Add the Residenz, the former palace of Bavaria’s rulers, grand squares, historic streets and easy access to several excellent day trips, and Munich has enough culture to fill several days.
Go deeper
If you are not sure if I am right, read on in my Guide to 48 hours in Hamburg. or another UNESCO listed place. Explore the Enchanting Rhine Valley: Wine, Castles, and Myths
Valencia, Spain
Barcelona and Madrid get most of the attention, but Valencia is the Spanish city I think more cultural travellers should consider.
It’s just a really cool city. It has history, striking modern architecture, beaches, green spaces and very good food, but without quite the intensity of Spain’s two biggest city-break destinations.
Valencia has that combination I love: plenty of history without feeling stuck in the past. You can wander through the old town, see the medieval Serranos and Quart Towers, visit historic churches and squares, and then suddenly find yourself surrounded by some of Europe’s most futuristic architecture at the City of Arts and Sciences.
And then there’s the green space. The former Turia riverbed has been transformed into a huge park running right through the city. The contrast between all that greenery, the historic centre and Santiago Calatrava’s gleaming white architecture makes Valencia feel completely different from either Barcelona or Madrid.
Top Tip
Valencia is also the birthplace of paella, so this is the place to try the real thing. But don’t skip the UNESCO listed Silk Exchange La Lonja. From the 15th to the 18th century, Valencia was a key Mediterranean hub for the silk trade, creating a golden age of wealth, craftsmanship, and civic architecture.
Go deeper
I am behind on my Spain articles. But a visit to Spain should include another iconic UNESCO Site Discover the Majestic Alhambra: A Must-Visit in Granada.
My final thoughts on the second cities
For me, second-city travel is not about avoiding famous places. I travel for highlights and would never visit India without seeing Taj Mahal. Sometimes the famous city really is the best one.
But once you begin exploring beyond the obvious capitals and tourist centers, Europe becomes much more interesting. Slower, stranger, and often more culturally diverse. At least for travellers like me who enjoy history, architecture, faded grandeur, and cities that still feel like places people actually live in.
And honestly, I do enjoy sitting alone in a half-empty Byzantine church in Thessaloniki rather than queuing for three hours for the Eiffel tower.
No matter if you’ve already explored the first cities or you are looking for something lesser crowded and cheaper, I hope you found inspiration in trying someplace new.