Europe is a bucket-list destination for many travelers, but let’s be real—some places just don’t hit the same when it comes to diversity, inclusivity, and a welcoming vibe for Black travelers. While there are plenty of European cities that celebrate multiculturalism, others still lack representation, cultural awareness, and an overall sense of belonging for Black visitors.

If you’re planning your next Euro trip and want to be mindful of where you’ll feel the most comfortable and embraced, here are a few countries (and cities) that might not be at the top of your list.

Austria – Vienna

Vienna is stunning with its imperial architecture, rich history, and classical music legacy—but let’s talk about the elephant in the room. Austria, and specifically Vienna, isn’t exactly known for its diversity. The Black population here is minimal, and while tourism is strong, many Black travelers report feeling like an anomaly when walking through the city.

While Austria doesn’t have widespread reports of outright hostility, microaggressions and stares are common, and the lack of Black-owned spaces or cultural representation can make it feel isolating. If you do visit Vienna, be prepared for a more homogenous environment where you may stand out more than blend in.

Czech Republic – Prague

Prague is an architectural dream with its fairytale-like streets and medieval charm. But when it comes to diversity? Not so much. The Black community here is tiny, and travelers often experience excessive staring, occasional ignorant comments, and a general sense of “otherness.”

While Prague is a safe city, the cultural homogeneity can make it feel unwelcoming at times. Don’t expect to find many Black-owned businesses, hair care products suited for textured hair, or a strong Afrocentric community.

Poland – Warsaw & Kraków

Poland has a complex history, and while cities like Warsaw and Kraków are rich in culture, Black travelers often report feeling out of place. The country has one of the lowest levels of diversity in Europe, and because of its history and demographics, Black visitors might experience curiosity, ignorance, or even discomfort in some situations.

While outright racism isn’t rampant, there have been enough reported incidents to make some travelers think twice. If you’re looking for a destination where you can easily find community and representation, Poland might not be the best fit.

Hungary – Budapest

Budapest is an architectural masterpiece with a vibrant nightlife, but its diversity? Lacking. Black travelers often report being stared at, questioned about their nationality, and sometimes feeling unwelcome in certain spaces. While Hungary is a beautiful country, the cultural homogeneity can feel overwhelming if you’re used to more inclusive destinations.

Additionally, some travelers have reported instances of discrimination at nightlife venues, with certain clubs or bars being less welcoming to Black patrons. If you do visit, it’s best to stick to well-reviewed tourist-friendly areas.

Baltic States – Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania

These countries are rising in popularity for their untouched landscapes and medieval cities, but diversity isn’t their strong suit. The Black population in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania is extremely small, and representation in media, business, and everyday life is nearly nonexistent.

Many Black travelers report stares, curiosity, and occasional ignorance from locals who may have never interacted with Black people before. While safety isn’t a huge issue, it can still be an isolating experience if you’re looking for a destination with a strong Black expat or traveler presence.

Final Thoughts

Traveling as a Black person means considering not just the sights and attractions, but also the overall experience and comfort level in a destination. While no country should ever be completely written off, it’s important to be aware of the environments you’re stepping into.

If you’re looking for European destinations with more diversity and inclusivity, cities like London, Paris, Lisbon, and Amsterdam are great alternatives with thriving Black communities, cultural representation, and Black-owned businesses to support.

Have you traveled to any of these places? What was your experience? Drop a comment and let’s talk about it! 🖤✈️ #BlackTravelExperiences #TravelWhileBlack #KnowBeforeYouGo