Lake Ohrid is considered the most beautiful destination in Europe.

Over a million tourists visit the Lombardy region of Italy each year to visit Lake Como and its stunning villas, and while we're never one to argue for an Italian vacation, it's worth noting that there are dozens of other stunning lakeside landscapes across the continent waiting to be explored (and many of them with far fewer crowds).

Take Lake Ohrid, a hugely underrated body of water that lies between two equally underrated destinations, Albania and North Macedonia, which was just named the most beautiful place in Europe by Time Out travel writers.

While Lake Como attracts crowds and celebrities alike, Lake Ohrid - one of Europe's oldest and deepest lakes - offers a quieter and more affordable alternative without skimping on the scenery.

Think glassy blue water, mountainous backdrops, and a coastline dotted with historic towns that feel frozen in time.

On the North Macedonian side, the lakeside town of Ohrid is the star of the show with cobblestone streets, hundreds of medieval churches (the city is famous for once having 365 churches, one for each day of the year), and terracotta roofs that spill down to the water. It's the place to spend the day swimming and exploring ancient ruins, and the evening watching the sun set behind the mountains - all without the exorbitant prices of Lombardy.

Cross over to the Albanian side and you’ll find more rugged landscapes and sleepy villages. The village of Lin is home to mosaic ruins and picturesque campsites that can be reserved by the water, complete with sun loungers.

Here are the 10 most beautiful places in Europe, according to Time Out travel writers

Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia
Saturnia Hot Springs, Tuscany, Italy
Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland
Alberobello, Puglia, Italy
Počitelj, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Norwegian Fjords, Norway
Kew Gardens, London, United Kingdom
Prinsengracht Canal, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Mosel Valley, Germany
Casa Batlló, Barcelona, ​​Spain

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