Europe's secret locations revealed
10 June 2014 10:04
Horni Namesti in Olomouc is filled with stunning architecture
Olomouc in the Czech Republic has been named Europe's best-kept secret.
The historic city, which used to be the old capital of Moravia, topped Lonely Planet's list of 50 overlooked destinations across Europe.
Its lesser-travelled charm saw it finish just ahead of Cabo de Gata, Spain, and Krakow, Poland, in second and third respectively.
Lonely Planet described Olomouc as "practically unknown" to the vast majority of holidaymakers.
The city, which is located on the Morava River in the east of the Czech Republic, offers travellers a very different view of the country.
Its main square - Horni Namesti - boasts a jaw-dropping roll call of stunning architecture, including Olomouc City Hall, the Holy Trinity Column, the Hercules fountain and the Caesar fountain, hence the reason it is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Visitors should also take the time to gaze upon St Wenceslas Cathedral - one of the most beautiful and famous cathedrals in Europe. Its main tower is the highest church spire in Moravia, while it is the fourth-tallest building in the Czech Republic.
Cabo de Gata, meanwhile, ranked highly thanks to its beautiful and sparsely populated beaches that run for miles.
Monsul beach is probably the best undeveloped stretch of coast in the region, with its vast sand dunes and volcanic rock making it one of the most eye-catching and individual bays you're likely to see.
Krakow, on the other hand, made it into the top three because of its tucked-away bar scene dotted around its narrow streets.
The cobbled lane of Ulica Kanonicza in the city is one of the best places to stop for a drink after a day of sightseeing.
If you fancy travelling to any of these destinations to see what all the fuss is about, make sure you purchase travel insurance before you jet off, just to give you that added peace of mind to enjoy your trip.