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Europe's Best-Kept Secrets Revealed

Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal | © Visual Intermezzo/Shutterstock

This guide to some of Europe’s local hotspots will have you feeling like a native in no time, so what’s stopping you from jumping behind the wheel, putting the pedal to the metal and getting out there on your own European road trip? If you’re looking for more local insights head to smart magazine, the official online magazine for smart car, where you’ll find more on what some of Europe’s leading lights have to say about the cities they call home.

La Musa Latina, Madrid

If you love tapas then you’ll love La Musa Latina, where classic dishes are given a contemporary twist. Try the carilleras (pork cheeks) with mushroom and aioli honey and Spanish omelette in Iberian snout stew. Japanese dumplings and hoisin-glazed short ribs add an oriental twist to this classic setting. For more information about what to do around the Spanish capital check out Local Secrets Madrid.

La Musa Latina, Madrid, Spain

LX Factory, Lisbon

If you want to connect with Lisbon’s creative scene then head to LX Factory in Alcântara. The converted textile mill is home to some of the city’s best independent cafés and galleries, not to mention some amazing street art. Lisbon is renowned for its graffiti and this is one area you don’t want to miss. For more tips, head to Local Secrets Lisbon.

Street art, Lisbon, Portugal

Le Labo, Geneva

Summer shopping in Geneva? Then you’ll want to visit Rue Henri-Blanvalet, one of the city’s most interesting streets. While you’re there check out Le Labo for some amazing bespoke sunglasses, many of which were designed by founder Leila Krir. If you’re looking for more on how to make the most of your time in Switzerland’s second-largest city then head to Local Secrets Geneva.

Le Labo, Geneva, Switzerland

Teatern, Stockholm

Hungry in Stockholm but looking for something unfussy and off the beaten track? Look no further than Teatern. The food court in the middle of an unassuming shopping centre – bear with us – has food from some of Sweden’s best chefs. Be sure to try Adam & Albin’s Scandinavian-style ramen noodles, and you can head to Local Secrets Stockholm where you’ll find a plethora of other options to explore.

Teatern, Stockholm, Sweden

Michelle Records, Hamburg

This award-winning vinyl store is just one of many reasons to visit Hamburg. Mingle with the crowds, leaf through records new and old, catch one of their shop window concerts, or simply talk about your favourite bands with locals. Looking for more tips on how to spend an afternoon? Then check out Local Secrets Hamburg.

Shopping in Hamburg, Germany

Philibert, Toulouse

A skateboarding graffiti artist and butcher have partnered to create one of Toulouse’s best kept secrets. Try Philibert’s trademark faux filet with fries and a delicious, mousse au chocolat that’s good for the soul. Don’t be dissuaded by its inconspicuous surroundings, this is the lunch venue you won’t forget. Don’t forget you can find more great recommendations on Local Secrets Toulouse.

Philibert, Toulouse, France

About the author

Alex Jordan is a travel writer based in London.

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