Slow travel in Europe: 10 places you must visit by 2025

Slow travel is a form of travel that encourages travelers to slow down and explore the culture and nature of their destination in depth. By choosing destinations that are ideal for slow travel, you can truly develop a deep connection with the local life, landscape and history. Here are the 10 best destinations for slow travel in 2025 to help you enjoy a unique travel experience in a laid-back atmosphere.

1. Tuscany, Italy

Background

Located in central Italy, Tuscany is known for its rolling hills, vast vineyards and ancient towns. Every corner here exudes a strong artistic flavor, and the perfect combination of historical sites and stunning natural beauty makes it a paradise for slow travelers.

Slow travel suggestions

• Countryside Ride: Rent a bike and ride along the countryside trails of Tuscany. Choose a ride from Chianti to San Gimignano, stopping to sample the local wines and olive oils on the way. Such a ride will not only allow you to enjoy the beautiful scenery, but also provide insight into the local agricultural culture.
• Cooking Classes: Take a local cooking class and learn how to make authentic pasta, pizza and local specialties. Many farms and restaurants offer such classes, where you can learn about Italian food culture by experiencing every step of the process, from ingredient selection to cooking.
• CULTURAL EXPLORATION: Don't miss the famous cities of Florence, Pisa and Siena to visit the Uffizi Gallery, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Duomo to learn about Renaissance art and history. You can join a local guided tour to learn more about the historical background and cultural stories of these cities.

Notes

• Mode of Transportation: Renting a car is recommended to allow flexibility in moving between the countryside and the cities. Tuscany's towns are far from each other and public transportation may not be convenient.
• ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS: By choosing agritourism in the countryside, you can experience the traditional Tuscan way of life and enjoy fresh produce and warm hospitality.

2. Algarve, Portugal

Background

The Algarve is a stunning region in the south of Portugal, known for its spectacular coastline, warm climate and rich seafood cuisine. It is the ideal place to enjoy the sun, sea and relax.

Slow Travel Suggestions

• Relax on the beach: relax on one of the Algarve's beautiful beaches, such as Praia da Rocha (Dream Beach) in Lagos. The beach's fine sand and crystal clear waters make it the perfect vacation spot. You can soak up the sun, swim on the beach or try out water activities such as surfing and kayaking.
• Gourmet Experience: Take a cooking class at a local seafood market and learn how to make traditional Portuguese paella (Arroz de Marisco). Interact with local chefs and learn about the Algarve's food culture and specialty ingredients.
• Town Exploration: Visit the historic towns of Albufeira and Faro to see the old castles and churches and experience the local culture and traditions. You can sit down in one of the town's cafes, sip a glass of local wine and enjoy the leisurely pace of life.

Notes

• Transportation Options: Car rental is the best choice for exploring the Algarve, you can easily visit the major beaches and towns and enjoy the freedom of travel experience.
• Accommodation options: Choose a homestay or a small hotel close to the beach and enjoy a comfortable stay with friendly service.

3. Provence, France

Background

Provence is a picturesque region in the south of France known for its purple lavender fields, sunny climate and rich history. Its rural scenery and rich culture attract countless slow travelers.

Slow travel suggestions

• Lavender Field Walks: During the lavender blooming season (usually June to August), stroll through the lavender fields of Provence and experience the combination of floral scent and nature. Recommended locations include Valensole and Arles, where you can photograph the fantastic scenery.
• Gastronomic experience: Attend a local market to buy fresh produce and learn how to prepare Provencal-style dishes such as tart and herb stew (Ratatouille). Cook with a local chef and learn about Provence's food culture and traditions.
• Cultural Discovery: Visit historic cities such as Avignon and Nîmes to see ancient Roman ruins and Renaissance architecture and learn about the history and culture of Provence.

Notes

• Mode of Transportation: We recommend renting a car to make it easier to explore the countryside and small towns and enjoy the freedom of driving.
• Accommodation options: choose a country manor or a small hotel to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and beautiful nature.

4. Interlaken, Switzerland

Background

Interlaken is a famous tourist city in Switzerland, situated between the Alps, popular among tourists for its magnificent natural beauty and abundant outdoor activities. It is an ideal place to enjoy nature and relax.

Slow travel advice

• Hiking: Take an Alpine hiking tour to explore lakes, mountains and stunning rural landscapes. Recommended hiking routes include trails around the Jungfrau, along which you'll enjoy picturesque landscapes and fresh air.
• Gastronomic experience: Sample Swiss cheeses and chocolates and learn about Swiss food culture by attending a local food festival. You can visit a cheese factory and experience the cheese making process yourself.
• Cultural Discovery: Visit local museums to learn about Swiss history and traditions, and participate in local cultural events such as concerts and festivals.

Notes

• Mode of transportation: Switzerland has a very convenient public transportation system with extensive train and bus coverage for slow travelers to explore.
• Accommodation Options: Choose a local B&B or small hotel to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and beautiful nature.

5. San Sebastián, Spain

Background

Located in the Basque Country of Spain, San Sebastián is known for its beautiful beaches, rich cuisine, and unique culture. It is ideal for slow travelers to explore the Basque Country.

Slow Travel Suggestions

• BEACH ACTIVITIES: relax on La Concha beach or take a surfing lesson to get a feel for the ocean. The beach's sand is perfect for sunbathing and swimming, so you can enjoy a leisurely beach day.
• Gastronomic experience: Sample the local pinchos (tapas) and take a gastronomic tour to learn about Basque food culture. We recommend trying the local cider (Sidra) and interacting with the locals in an authentic bar.
• CULTURAL EXPLORATION: Visit the old town to see the local architecture and art, attend cultural events and festivals and experience the warmth of San Sebastian. You can also visit local museums to learn about the history and culture of the Basque Country.

Notes

• Transportation options: The city is small and most of the sights can be reached on foot, cycling is also a good option.
• Accommodation options: Choose a homestay or hotel close to the beach for a comfortable stay.

6. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Background

Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic”, Dubrovnik is famous for its ancient city walls and beautiful sea views, often listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it an ideal place for slow travelers to enjoy the sea and history.

Slow Travel Suggestions

• Ancient City Walls Walk: take a walk on Dubrovnik's ancient city walls to enjoy the sea view and panoramic city views and learn about the city's history. Climbing different parts of the walls will give you different perspectives, especially at sunset when the views are breathtaking.
• Gastronomic Experience: Sample seafood and Croatian specialties at a local restaurant and enjoy a dinner by the sea with the unique flavors of the Mediterranean. You can also take a cooking class and learn to prepare traditional Croatian dishes.
• Cultural Discovery: Visit historical sites in the Old Town to learn about Dubrovnik's culture and traditions, and participate in local festivals to experience the rich local customs.

Notes

• Transportation Options: Dubrovnik has a convenient public transportation system and walking is also a good option, especially within the Old Town area.
• ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS: Choose a B&B in the Old Town for a historical experience or a hotel by the sea for a tranquil setting.

7. Lofoten Islands, Norway

Background

Known for its magnificent natural beauty and unique maritime culture, the Lofoten Islands are located in northern Norway and are ideal for slow travelers exploring the Arctic for those who enjoy nature and outdoor activities.

Slow travel advice

• OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES: Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature by taking part in outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing and whale watching. Recommended hiking trails include Reinebringen and Kvalvika Beach with breathtaking scenery along the way.
• Gourmet Experience: Taste fresh seafood, learn about the local fishing culture, participate in local food activities and experience traditional fishermen's life. You can try your hand at making dried and smoked fish and learn about traditional fishing techniques.
• Cultural Discovery: Visit a local museum to learn about Sami culture and history, experience making traditional handicrafts, participate in local cultural activities and learn about the daily lives of the residents.

Notes

• Mode of Transportation: Renting a car is recommended to make it easier to explore the various islands and natural attractions and enjoy a free travel experience.
• Accommodation Options: Choose to stay in a traditional fishing house (Rorbu) to experience the local lifestyle and culture and feel the charm of the sea.

8. Kerkey, Ireland

Background

Known for its magnificent natural beauty and rich cultural history, Kelkai is the ideal place for slow travelers to enjoy the Irish countryside. Its beautiful lakes and mountains provide the perfect backdrop for slow travel.

Slow Travel Suggestions

• NATURE EXPLORATION: Take a hike in Killarney National Park to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the lakes and mountains and explore the beautiful Muckross Island. You can choose from a variety of hiking trails with different levels of difficulty for all levels of travelers.
• Gourmet Experience: Learn about the local food culture by attending a local food festival and sampling traditional Irish dishes such as lamb stew and Irish pudding. Sample authentic Irish beers in local pubs.
• Cultural Discovery: Visit historical sites, learn about local folklore and traditional music, and attend local concerts and cultural events for an in-depth experience of Irish culture and traditions.

Notes

• Transportation Options: Renting a car is the best way to explore the countryside with easy access to major attractions.
• ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS: Choose a countryside B&B or homestay to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and warm hospitality.

9. Lapland, Finland

Background

Known for its magnificent natural beauty and unique culture, Finnish Lapland is the ideal place for slow travelers to enjoy the Northern Lights and winter sports. The natural beauty and serenity of the area are inspiring.

Slow travel advice

• WINTER ACTIVITIES: Experience the wonders of the Arctic during the winter months with activities such as skiing, snowshoe hiking and dog sledding. You can experience traditional reindeer sledding in Sami villages and get a taste of the local way of life.
• Gastronomic experience: Taste local reindeer meat and berries, take part in a local gastronomic event and learn about Finnish food culture. Experience a traditional Finnish sauna and relax while savoring the local cuisine.
• Cultural Discovery: Learn about the Sámi culture, visit local museums and craft markets, experience traditional handicraft making and gain insight into Finnish history and culture.

Notes

• Transportation options: Rent a car or join a local tour for easy access to major attractions.
• Accommodation Options: Choose an igloo or a unique countryside bed and breakfast to experience the local lifestyle and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

10. Lucerne, Switzerland

Background

Known for its beautiful lakes and Alpine mountains, Lucerne is an ideal place for slow travelers to enjoy nature and culture. It is a picturesque and culturally rich place.

Slow travel advice

• Lake activities: go boating on Lake Lucerne, take a cruise and enjoy the surrounding nature and mountains, especially the beautiful scenery of the lake shore. In summer, you can choose to enjoy the tranquillity of nature with a picnic by the lake.
• Gourmet Experience: Taste Swiss cheese and chocolate, attend a local food festival and learn about Swiss food culture. Visit a cheese factory and experience the cheese making process yourself.
• Cultural Discovery: Visit Lucerne's historical sites such as the Kappel Bridge and the Lion Monument to experience local traditions and history. You can also attend a local concert or cultural event to experience Lucerne's artistic atmosphere.

Notes

• Mode of transportation: Switzerland has a well-developed public transportation system with convenient trains and buses for slow travelers.
• Accommodation Options: Choose a lakeside homestay or a small hotel to enjoy the peaceful environment and beautiful nature.

Summary

These are the top 10 European destinations for slow travelers in 2025. These places offer not only beautiful nature, but also a wealth of cultural experiences and culinary options, making them especially suitable for travelers seeking slow travel. In these places, you can slow down, savor every moment, and truly connect with the local culture and nature. We hope that this detailed information will help you with your travel plans so that you can enjoy every leisurely moment as you explore Europe!