I traveled to every European capital – and there is a destination for bucket list that I would never visit again

With many of Europe’s top destinations, only a short flight – or even train ride – from the UK, looking for searchers looking for Experience new landscapes, cultures and culinary delights are often spoiled for choice.

While iconic hotspots such as Paris, Lisbon and Barcelona continue to draw crowds, some less well -known gems also offer charm and affordability for only £ 20 per flight – but not every capital lives on the hype.

As the concern about overtourism grows in popular cities, an experienced travel writer urges tourists to carefully consider their choices.

Dale Peterson, a travel expert who has visited every capital in Europe, shared the three destinations that he would not run back – they describe as ‘underwhelming’ with Business insider.

Some of the most ‘surprising’ cities that have a place in Peterson’s heart are the ‘quirky and cool’ Bucharest, Romania‘picturesque’ Lisbon, ‘Charming’ Athens and ‘underestimated’ Vilnius, in Lithuania.

Here are three popular hotspots from the European capital that you may want to think twice before booking:

London, UK

Despite the reputation of London for Royal Sights, Museums of World Class, West End Theater and a rich mix of history and modernity, says Dale The British capital has never completely clicked with him.

Dale Peterson has visited every European capital. He said that the size and costs of London can make it feel

He says: “Although it is unmistakably iconic and has a lot for it – such as incredible free museums and a diverse food scene – London feels overhyped and duration for me, especially if there are so many other valuable destinations in the UK.”

Dale adds that the size and costs of the city can feel it overwhelming, especially in comparison with the more quiet and equally beautiful regions of the UK.

He says he would rather spend time in the Cotswolds or the Lake District – or travel to Scotland to experience the Gothic architecture or rugged highlands of Edinburgh.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Despite the capital of the Netherlands who welcomed millions of visitors a year, Dale found the city center of Amsterdam disappointing

Praised as a most charming capitals in EuropeAmsterdam is known for picturesque canals, historic houses and the relaxed cycling culture.

But despite the capital of the Netherlands who welcomed millions of visitors a year, Dale found the city center disappointing.

He says: “Unfortunately I thought the center felt like an expensive theme park full of souvenir shops and pressed.”

Although he enjoyed wandering through the quieter residential areas outside the tourist zone, he says that the city generally missed the authenticity he is looking for in repeated destinations.

Helsinki, Finland

Dale says that Helsinki feels a bit too sterile, lacks in liveliness and exciting things to do ‘

It may be known for its clean city design, advanced architecture, northern saunas and a thriving technical scene, but the capital of Finland, Helsinki, did not offer enough to keep Dale involved.

He says: ‘It feels a bit too sterile, without liveliness and exciting things to do.

“After experiencing the most popular tourist attractions in one day, I had difficulty filling my time in the capital.”

Instead, he recommends other Nordic capitals, such as Copenhagen and Stockholm, of which Dale says it offers more liveliness, culture and things to do.