The Most Underrated Cities in Europe to Spend Ramadan

Halal-friendly destinations are a rising trend in the travel space, with many Muslim travellers keen to stay in hotels and experience different cities, whilst remaining in line with their beliefs.

For many destinations across Europe, this can present quite a challenge. However, there are a variety of destinations that fly under the radar when it comes to considering where to travel next. Halalbooking, the world’s leading hotel search and booking site for halal-friendly travellers, has shared a number of destinations that have been underrated by travellers looking for a getaway.

Cordoba, Spain

Halal Hotels in Cordoba, Spain: 198

Average price per night: £27

Number of halal-friendly restaurants: 213

Cordoba is the once-thriving capital of the historically famous Moorish kingdom of Al-Andalus. Dubbed by many as “The City of Flowers”, it is truly a stunning place to visit. With a rich history of Islam, visitors can discover the beauty of the magnificent architecture built during Islam’s Golden Age, including the significant Great Mosque of Cordoba. During Ramadan, travellers can visit Mezquita de Los Andaluces and Al-Morabito Mosque to take part in daily prayers. Explore Halal Hotels here.

Oslo, Norway

Halal Hotels in Oslo, Norway: 150

Average price per night: £163

Number of halal-friendly restaurants: 360

Scandinavia is often referred to as one of the happiest places in the world to live, so it is no surprise that it offers a great travel opportunity for Islamic travellers. The capital of Norway, Oslo, offers plenty of halal-friendly opportunities for Muslim travellers to enjoy the sites of the city. There are more than 40 mosques across the city, offering travellers a place to take part in daily prayers.

Bucharest, Romania

Halal Hotels in Bucharest, Romania: 355

Average price per night: £87

Number of halal-friendly restaurants: 421

A true hidden gem for halal-conscious travellers, the capital city of Romania is a great place to explore for Muslim tourists. With 355 halal-friendly properties, it allows tourists to stay in hotels that align with their beliefs. There are five mosques across Bucharest, but many more prayer rooms where people of Islamic belief can join in daily prayers.

Glasgow, Scotland

Halal Hotels in Glasgow, Scotland: 243

Average price per night: £188

Number of halal-friendly restaurants: 756

The vibrant and colourful city of Glasgow can only be described as a multi-faceted marvel. The Scottish port city is known for its fusion of futuristic and historical architecture, intertwined with lush green gardens, a hub of museums and an art walking trail. There are multiple mosques in Glasgow, most notably Glasgow Central Mosque and Al-Furqan Mosque.

Most mosques will prepare iftar meals that are available to attend for all Muslims such as Central Mosque which is hosting iftar meals throughout Ramadan.

    Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

    Halal Hotels in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina: 181

    Average price per night: £100

    Number of halal-friendly restaurants: 96

Sarajevo is fast emerging as the place to be for halal holidays in Europe. The historic city centre is surrounded by rolling green hills and perfectly blends East and West cultures. Although many of its buildings were damaged during the Yugoslavian wars, they have now been restored to their former glory. Unlike many areas of Europe, over half of the population of Bosnia and Herzegovina is Muslim, which means there is an excellent understanding of the needs of Muslim guests. Halal food is readily available and there are plenty of alcohol-free restaurants.

Sarajevo also has a unique Ramadan atmosphere, where the old town (Baščaršija) comes alive at night with food stalls and gatherings.