Dale Peterson has visited every single European capital city – but there are three he’d never return to. He’s not convinced by the likes of London and Amsterdam
Dale has shared his thoughts on European cities he’d skip(Image: Milamai via Getty Images)
With Europe’s most enchanting cities a mere hop, skip and a jump (or train ride) from the UK — some just an hour away — city breaks have never been more tempting. Paris and Barcelona are popular spots, but for only £20, why not uncover hidden gems and underrated urban havens?
A seasoned globe-trotter has tirelessly charted every European capital, offering fresh perspectives on your potential next jaunt. Dale Peterson wrote an article in Business Insider, sharing that despite his extensive European journeys fuelled by his career as a travel writer, a trio of capitals failed to impress, leaving him unequivocally “underwhelmed”.
Savvy holidaymakers know well that research is key to fulfilling getaways. Moreover, selecting less busy travel periods can vastly improve your experience beyond the bustling summer months.
Dale has shared his thoughts on European cities he’d skip, despite the allure of Prague’s medieval charm, Berlin’s historic art, and Rome’s ancient ruins, reports the Express.
Dale finds London “overhyped and expensive”(Image: Getty)READ MORE: British tourist says ‘we’re being had in the UK’ after seeing supermarket prices in SpainREAD MORE: Thailand holidaymaker floored by cost of their breakfast, lunch and dinnerLondon
Despite London’s world famous tourist attractions attracting roughly 20 million international visitors annually, Dale finds it “overhyped and expensive”.
He suggests that there are “so many other worthwhile destinations in the UK”, highlighting the “UK’s picturesque countryside” with gems like the Cotswolds or the Lake District as better options.
In contrast, another adventure blogger known as The Bucket List Mermaid believes London is “absolutely” worth the excitement.
Amsterdam
Dubbed the Venice of the North for its extensive canals and having more bicycles than residents, Amsterdam appears on Dale’s list of places to avoid.
Despite drawing around 20 million tourists each year, he was left unimpressed, describing the city centre: “Unfortunately, though, I thought the center of Amsterdam felt like an overpriced theme park full of souvenir shops and crowds.”
Despite drawing around 20 million tourists each year, Dale was left unimpressed with Amsterdam(Image: Alexander Spatari via Getty Images)
One Tripadvisor user heaped praise on Amsterdam, calling it a “wonderful city” with “helpful citizens”.
They remarked: “It is small and compact – easily navigated on foot and when needed, an efficient public transportation system. Combine this with great museums, interesting neighborhoods and LOTS of places to eat and drink.”
Helsinki
Helsinki, nestled in the world’s happiest country, not only offers an entryway to Nordic sauna culture but also received accolades from Condé Nast Traveller last year for being the world’s most sustainable travel destination.
However, according to Dale, the city didn’t hit all the right notes, mentioning: “There’s no denying Helsinki is a clean city. But in my opinion, it feels a little too sterile, lacking in liveliness and exciting things to do.”
Yet for those like Jessica, who manages the Bon Traveller blog, Helsinki exudes perfection as a place for “slowing down, being connected to the outdoors, and of course, that incredible design scene”, making visits “an experience to remember”.