underrated travel destinations international

The Most Untapped Destinations in the World—and How to Travel Them in Style

From remote islands to unexplored deserts and jungles teeming with wildlife...

Tom Marchant is the co-founder of luxury travel company and trip planner, Black Tomato , which delivers luxe experiences around the world via inspiring itineraries and access to the globe's up-and-coming, remote destinations. Marchant's finger on the pulse of travel trends and the world's best in hotels, restaurants, destinations and honeymoons is unique and incomparable–and he's sharing his expertise and curated lists of where to visit, stay, eat and more with BAZAAR.com.

The true wonder of travel inherently lies in coming face to face with the unknown and getting lost in the beauty of a place on the very brink of discovery. There is no more rewarding feeling than being among the first few to reach and explore a destination that others haven’t yet had the pleasure of witnessing. From remote islands to unexplored deserts and jungles teeming with wildlife, this glorious planet is constantly at the ready with new untapped destinations to make even the most intrepid traveler swoon in awe-struck delight. For the true adventurers out there, get out and discover this latest trove of unspoiled global treasures and find an inspiration all your own.

Puglia, Italy

Puglia, the heel of Italy’s stylish boot, has a wonderfully distinct allure stemming from its rural landscape and patchwork past of Norman, Spanish, Greek, and Byzantine influences. The region is quickly rivaling Tuscany’s gourmet title, offering a glimpse into true Italian traditions and values.

With miles of bountiful coastline, replete with verdant landscapes of olive groves and vineyards, this pristine region produces some of the country’s best, oft undiscovered wines and olive oils. Treat yourself to sensory overload and savor Puglia’s famed cucina povera, a stripped-back, authentic style of Italian cooking focusing on simple, fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods–it's the slow-food movement at its best.

The region is also home to distinctly luxurious lodgings like the fabulous hideaway, Borgo Egnazia , a stone-carved haven set amongst Puglia’s shady olive groves. The creation of one of the most inspired hoteliers, Aldo Melpignano, and his family, Borgo Egnazia is modeled on a traditional local Apulian borgo (village). Here, the cream-hued estate features romantic suites and villas that are decked out in calming tones and elegantly equipped to meet every creature comfort. While in town, check out their gorgeous sister boutique property, Masseria Torre Maizza , which reopened May 2019 under the estimable Rocco Forte banner and is setting the stage to be a very chic oasis, indeed.

For those seeking a “still relatively off the radar” escape, look no further than wild and virtually unexplored Madagascar. This thriving hotspot of biodiversity is a dream for naturalists and adventurers alike; the island is teeming with endemic wildlife, 80% of which can be found nowhere else on Earth.

Unknown to most, Madagascar has some of the best beaches in the Indian Ocean. Check out Nosy Be, Madagascar’s most scenic coastal spot, where guests can spot humpback whales and lemurs on the shoreline.Located on the north-eastern coast of the island, Miavana is the perfect private escape. With only 14 private villas, staying at this luxurious eco-lodge will feel as though you’ve stumbled upon your own Robinson Crusoe haven. Think days exploring lush tropical rainforests and watching turtles nest on the deserted white sand beaches.

The Himalayan Kingdom of Ladakh is one of the few places on Earth that remains virtually untouched and unexplored. Situated at an average altitude of 11,500 feet, Ladakh is crisscrossed by four mountain ranges, The Great Himalaya, The Ladakh, The Zanskar and The Karakoram. Boasting mesmerizing views at every turn, it’s one of India’s best kept secrets. Enjoy the calm serenity of the fresh mountain air, incredible views, and rich Buddhist heritage throughout the region. Guests in Ladakh can opt to stay in beautiful homestays like the Shakti Village Houses in unknown villages of the Indus Valley and remote luxury tented camps. Tour the city of Leh with local royalty, meet local monks, stargaze to your heart’s content and even catch a game of Ladakhi Polo, all while enjoying the ultimate escapist’s dream.

Salta, Argentina

In contrast to the Italo-Spanish metropolis of Buenos Aires and the surrounding grassy Pampas, Argentina’s north-west boasts a strong Andean and spiritual heritage as a meeting point for South America’s indigenous communities. The region is famed for its spectacular scenery and richly colored landscapes–think red rock valleys, multi-colored and monochromatic hills and terra-cotta peaks magically set against stark blue skies. The diversity of this area makes it a haven for trekking, horseback riding, rafting, driving 4x4s and a plethora of other adventure activities.

The city of Salta boasts some of the best preserved colonial architecture, attractive plazas and regional cuisine in all of Argentina, making it an off-the-beaten-track cultural gem. Feel like you’re being let in on a local secret as you step inside La Merced del Alto, in the heart of the Calchaquí Valley. Built as a traditional manor house with wide interior patios and tall galleries, La Merced del Alto is a beautiful reflection of its rustic surroundings in the heart of the Argentinian countryside.

Faroe Islands, Denmark

Located in the chilly waters between Scotland and Iceland, the Faroe Islands are a real retreat. The dramatic landscapes completely redefine the notion of an ‘untouched archipelago,’ giving travelers access to a wilder side of the Danish Kingdom.

Rugged coastlines once considered Viking territory are home to natural wonders best explored via old fishing boats for a mystical effect. But the Faroes are also beginning to take their first steps towards modernization, with chic shops and the island’s 2 Michelin-star restaurant, KOKS , serving up inspired Faroese delicacies.

Stay at the new boutique Hotel Havgrim Seaside Hotel , a beautifully restored historic home right on the water, full of Nordic charm. Design here is inspired by the calming seas, featuring large glass windows and private balconies with mesmerizing views. The property possesses a palpable sense of peace to remind you this is exactly where you should be. With good reason, the Faroe Islands are limiting tourism to preserve the ecosystem and authentic culture, so plan ahead (far in advance) if this adventure piques your interest.

With the renewed fervor surrounding this country and its importance in the history of the Silk Road, now is the time to head to Georgia while it’s still very ‘in the know.’ Underneath the surface of this mostly rural country lies a unique European culture most travelers have little knowledge of, where hospitality and warmth shine as travelers and guests are considered ‘gifts from God’.

Rich in history, unique culinary traditions, green hilltops, snow-capped mountains, and spring waters, Georgia will easily capture your attention. The birthplace of wine, Georgia’s Signagi, has a history of producing wine as far back as the fifth millennium BC and many vintners still employ the traditional methods of their ancestors. Oenophiles will be enchanted with the rare opportunity to stay at Chateau Svanidze , owned by its namesake family of winemakers, a truly captivating way to discover the importance of wine (and even bring back a bespoke bottle yourself).

Georgia’s indulgent culinary specialties, which include cheese filled khachapuri and mtsvadi skewers cooked on aged grapevine, only leave room after for a glass of chacha, a local whiskey regularly on the menu for Georgians, so hit up the local watering holes.

The art-deco Stamba Hotel in Tbilisi, a converted Soviet printing house headquarters, now serves as a testament to the growing art and design interests of modern Georgia and is an inspiring backdrop to the historic churches, iconic statues, and 11th century castles scattered throughout the city.

Stockholm Archipelago

Located east of Stockholm, the Stockholm Archipelago is the discreet spot where Sweden’s well-heeled flock for the summer. Known by locals as skärgården, setting sail is the best way to see all of the skerries and rocks in this Swedish gem.

Untapped by tourists and preserved by locals, the Stockholm Archipelago is a cluster of 3,000 islands that offer incredible views and access to Stockholm’s scenic soft sand beaches, historic castles, lush forests, and stunning coastlines. Locals and visitors alike can cruise like royalty as you split your time between land and sea, with mornings sailing through the untouched, scenic waters and afternoons exploring storybook villages and Stockholm’s Old Town.

From the calm waters of Grinda to the charm of Wardhaus, the Stockholm Archipelago’s magnificent views from the seas, and cobblestoned streets from the land, are simply enchanting. Post up in the stylish and charming Rival Hotel , perfect for Swedish culture lovers as this property is owned by ABBA’s own Benny Andersson.

Guacalito De La Isla, Nicaragua

Perched on the Emerald Coast of Nicaragua, home to 30 miles of untouched beaches, Guacalito De La Isla is an under the radar Central American haven. Be sure to stay at the Mukul Resort , the brainchild of local entrepreneur Don Carlos Pellas, whose family poured their heart and soul into the region in an effort to preserve its beauty and share it with like-minded travelers. The property's name translates from the Mayan word for ‘secret,’ and it lives up to its status as a hidden gem, comprised of fairy-tale beach villas and ‘bohios’ nestled on the stunning, mile-long Manzanillo beach awash with light powdery sand and glorious Pacific sunsets.

From surfing and ash boarding down volcanos, to nature and bike paths through pristine jungles where monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds abound, the chances for adventure here are endless. Here, the infinite pleasures of doing nothing are also not be underestimated; simply lie back, relax, and take in those panoramic views of the Pacific.

Sao Tome and Principe

In the Gulf of Guinea off the coast of West Africa, the nation of Principe is an intimate, discreet island oasis enveloped by enchanting flora and fauna, ocean breezes, and lush tropical forests.

Ecologically-savvy travelers will relish the pristine, well-protected environment as a remarkable base to explore this lost world of beaches, bays, and jungles. Sundy Praia’s luxe tented accommodations at the wild northwest tip of the island of Principe will help in losing all sense of time and place while searching for turtles, whales, birds, and dolphins. True explorers will enjoy discovering historical churches on biosphere trails hidden throughout the island.

Between September and April, you can check out the incredible hatching of the sea turtles, while year-round you can spot any of the 29 endemic species of birds on the island. When you’re not lounging in a private tented villa or on a four-wheel drive through the local plantations, dine at Sundy Praia’s terrific restaurant that has adapted local traditions and flavors including tuna, wahoo, passion fruit, and pineapple. A dinner (or two) here is a must.

For travelers looking to get off the beaten track and go where few tourists have been before, there are few destinations that rival the Congo. A whole new kind of safari destination, the Congo offers luscious forests, rare and exotic wildlife, and safe cities in between.

The Congolese capital, Brazzaville, is known as ‘The Paris of Africa’; it's a must-see, boasting some of the safest and cleanest streets in Africa. Trek, kayak, and cruise through the heart of the Odzala-Kokua National Park and track endangered Western Lowland Gorillas before you wade through the Lango bais in search of Forest Elephants and Buffalo.

Stay at Odzala Discovery Camps and unearth a leafy green paradise where you can get closer to nature than ever before. These three gorgeous camps in North-West Congo are all about stripped back luxury, and unleashing your inner explorer. For the true globetrotter, this is really adventure at its purest.

Mancora, Peru

Often overlooked, Mancora, Peru is home to the tranquil Mancora Beach and the beautiful stone, wood, and mud boutique hotel, KiChic . Once the personal home of the owner, Kichic is now a destination in and of itself for visitors to retreat and unwind with yoga, fish for the daily catch, and dining on nutritious, pescatarian and vegetarian soul food. Naturally, all the dishes here feature locally produced ingredients and flavors such as coconut and gomasio.

Rooted in its love for the sun, fresh fish, and surfing, Mancora’s barefoot bohemian vibes make it a must-visit destination for those with an uninhibited affinity for the natural world. Seemingly in a constant summer, Mancora is a year-round haven for kitesurfing, plunge pools, and fresh dining options year-round. Humpback whale spotting season is a prime time to visit, and runs from June to October.

Wadi Rum, Jordan

The dramatic and desolate desert landscapes of Jordan have enticed explorers to trek through its unforgiving landscapes for millennia. But what most travelers don’t know is that it’s more accessible than you might think; unlock the area’s hidden gems and Bedouin culture via Wadi Rum, a must on every intrepid traveler’s bucket list.

Planning a comprehensive trekking tour through this historic, otherworldly landscape is highly advised and the best way to explore the very setting that scenes from the film Lawrence of Arabia were staged. For a cultural must, travelers can explore the seven jagged rock columns natural landmark from which T.E. Lawrence’s famed novel, “The Seven Pillars of Wisdom,” takes its names. Thrill-seekers can tour via camel or Jeep, stopping off at Bedouin communities along the way and overnighting in luxury desert camps where traditional meals are served around a fire under the stars.

Andaman Islands

A hidden jewel off the coast of West India, the Andaman Islands are a secluded hideaway known for pristine shores and impressive aquatic life. The tropical jungles and secluded islands are a tranquil (and quite perfect) way to round out a trip after spending time in the mainlands of India.

The newly opened Taj Exotica Resort & Spa in Havelock gives travelers more reason to visit than ever before. Touting its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, the Taj Exotica Resort and its surrounding scenery set the scene for your days quietly exploring the archipelago, and indulging at the hotel’s sun-drenched pool and spa. A few days on the Andamans will help you reset and restore after being immersed in the vibrant colors, bustling crowds, and sensory overload from exploring buzzy Mumbai or romantic Udaipur.

Lofoten Archipelago, Norway

This unrivaled wilderness offers the perfect base for sailing, kayaking, and hiking in the remote Fjords of Norway for intrepid travelers. Spend a few nights at Manshausen , a remote island enclave featuring glass cabins perched above the Lofoten waters, to hike mountain ranges over the islands of Maløya and Grøtøya, rock-climb the red-hued cliffs of nearby Nordskot, or fully unwind with a fresh water soak in your room.

Explore the impressive mountains that dominate the landscape by foot, and take in incredible views of the frozen wilderness’ steep jagged peaks and ocean. For a show-stopping experience, ski down slopes of virgin powder right to the water’s edge, where an antique sailing schooner awaits. While you're out on the arctic waters, be sure to look up–the beauty of the Northern Lights is amplified from the water. There are also some wildlife sightings not to be missed; the Lofoten islands often see white-tailed eagles only visible during the summer, when there is access to steep-sided fjords such as Trollfjorden.

One of Africa’s most fascinating and culturally captivating countries has only recently become more accessible to intrepid travelers. The area has seen a wave of new experiential lodges in (now more easily accessed) remote parts of the country, offering travelers a chance to discover the cultural and natural wonders of Ethiopia (which is home to the most UNESCO world heritage sites of any country in Africa).

Within this stunning backdrop, head on safari in search of the elusive Ethiopian wolf and fully immerse yourself in the local culture, savoring coffee and wild honey at local markets. For the adventurous, sojourn through the Denakil Depression, where guests can trek via camels across lakes of salt, view volcanoes that light up the night sky, and climb the summit of Erta Ale for the ultimate sunrise vista.

For accommodations, check out the unforgettable, rustic Bale Mountain Lodge and the breathtaking Simien Lodge , the highest hotel in Africa, perched above a UNESCO world heritage site.

Southern Namib Desert, Namibia

This remote destination in Namibia is known for its mesmerizing dark skies, making it a tranquil and inspiring backdrop for nightly stargazing (and one of the best spots in the world to do so).

The sophisticated, luxurious, and newly-opened Sonop Lodge tented camp is nestled in the Karis region perched above boulders with sweeping desert views—it is truly the best place to experience this destination. Spend your time here walking, biking, horseback riding, and hot air ballooning, taking in the fragrant scents wafting from the opulent cigar lounge. Aromas and tastes also abound at the lodge's white glove, five-course, gala-style dinner.

Easily hop between other Namibian destinations from this region, like Sossuvlei, Windhock and Omaanda camp, or stay put at the lodge and soak in the majestic surroundings and wildlife. If you're after the ultimate in serene experiences, take a soak in the infinity pool overlooking the enchanting desert of Namibia.

Tom Marchant is the co-founder of luxury travel company and trip planner, Black Tomato , which delivers high-touch experiences around the world via inspiring itineraries and access to the globe's up-and-coming, exclusive, and remote destinations. Marchant's finger on the pulse of travel trends and the world's best in hotels, restaurants, destinations, and honeymoons is unique and incomparable–and he's sharing his expertise and curated lists of where to visit, stay, eat and more in his travel column on BAZAAR.com .  

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12 Most Underrated Travel Destinations Around The World

There is a whole lot of world out there, so how do you decide where to go when you get that travel itch? Sure, you could "eenie, meenie, miny, moe" your way through your bucket list or throw darts at a map. However, if you want a solid vacation spot that comes with unique experiences none of your friends have had yet, you're looking for a hidden gem. While tried and true destinations are popular for a reason, choosing a more low-key option could expand your horizons.

For as many top travel spots as you've envied on social media, some equally impressive places don't get that spotlight. Just because they don't receive the same attention doesn't mean they aren't worthy of it, though. Some under-the-radar destinations are the most life-changing. To create this list of the most underrated locales, we conducted research to pinpoint locations that receive fewer visitors and rarely appear on recommended travel lists. You can learn more about our methodology at the end of this article. Break away from the millions of textbook travelers and visit one of these underrated international destinations.

Budapest, Hungary

Hungary is a popular destination for travelers from neighboring countries and even those on holiday from other parts of the world. However, the Central European country often gets overlooked. Despite this, you shouldn't discount the gorgeous historical land because it is quite a wonder. Its capital city, Budapest, is especially magical, primarily born of another time. Budapest offers an eye-full no matter where your explorations take you in its winding streets. The intricate architectural designs are delicate yet have a timeless strength that has ensured their survival through the ages. You can see various styles — like Art Nouveau, Baroque, Neoclassical, and Gothic — blended in the structural marvels.

The Budapest Parliament Building is one of these awe-inspiring buildings. Baroque features complement the Gothic spires, and the reflective waters below nearly double their beauty. You don't have to look further than local businesses to see the fantastic designs. The Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest and its resident restaurant, Kollázs Brasserie & Bar, are excellent starting points for incredible sights. Meanwhile,  The New York Café and Metropolitan Ervin Szabó Library are great places to take a load off and enjoy the visual overload the architecture provides.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

There are countless coastal destinations to choose from when planning your next trip to the sea, but Croatia is a country that may not be on your radar just yet. You don't need to go to the Maldives or Bora Bora for a luxury beach getaway, as Dubrovnik offers culture, beauty, and a glorious coast waiting for you to explore. It's not called the "Pearl of the Adriatic" for nothing. With a view of Croatia's signature red-roofed Roman buildings over the water,  Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik is a marvelous place to stay to get that luxury feel. The accommodation will put you close to Old Town, where you can walk the walls of the fortress city.

Most of your journey through Dubrovnik will keep you in view of the sea. The beaches there are small but picture-perfect, with open blue waters spreading out in front and cliffsides nestled behind. Sulic Beach is perfect for travelers who have a taste for fantasy, as you'll recognize the view as King's Landing from "Game of Thrones." Pasjača Beach is a popular, more remote option. The crescent-shaped beach is below the city and accessed by a series of carved stairs, but the slight trek is well worth it.

Kathmandu Valley, Nepal

Many travelers visit Kathmandu before making the trek to Mount Everest, as the base camp is located there. But the unique architecture alone is a reason to spend some time at the destination. Nicknamed the "City of Temples," this spiritual locale is home to a fantastic number of pagodas and Hindu temples. One massive natural temple is visible from parts of the city, as Mount Everest towers in the distance.

Evidence of the devotion of the Nepalese people is omnipresent there. The ancient city of Patan in the Kathmandu Valley is powerful. There are over 1,000 Buddhist monuments and several temples that are architectural marvels, like the central Panchasara Parshwanath Jain Derasar. Amongst the temples in Kathmandu Valley are some superior shopping opportunities. Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one such district where vendors with pottery, souvenirs, and other hand-crafted goods can be found by shoppers.

If planning a trip to Kathmandu, brush up on the local customs and etiquette before making the long plane ride. As a highly religious city, specific actions may be normal to you but could be severely disrespectful there. For example, take off your shoes before entering a temple and be mindful about the position of your feet when sitting. Knowing what is expected of you when traveling is one way to ensure you have a great time exploring a different culture!

Bruges, Belgium

Though famous in film buff circles for being incredibly dull, thanks to the cult classic "In Bruges," the titular city is anything but. The area is rich with history, beauty, and brews. Other European destinations consistently overshadow Bruges, as the continent is full of interesting history. However, the Belgian city is a picture-perfect example of an old medieval town with Gothic buildings galore.

If you're visiting Bruges, you either have a taste for history or want a simple, no-stress holiday. Time seems to slow on the old cobblestone streets, and you can spend your hours there taking in the towering buildings and underground beer scene. The city center is a World Heritage Site thanks to its preservation of historical buildings. Check out the shapely cityscape from the top of Belfry Tower — the 366-step climb is worth the view.

When we said underground beer scene, we were talking literally. Bruges has a pipeline under the cobbled streets that beer flows through, which makes it a  great destination for beer lovers . You can't tap this line directly, but Bruges is also home to several beer cellars and underground bars where you can get a pint. 't Poatersgat is one such place to hit after you've taken in the medieval city's above-ground sights.

Nara, Japan

Japan has many popular cities, most of which have huge populations. Nara is much smaller than Tokyo and Osaka and still offers rich Japanese culture. The area is comparable to a mid-sized American city in population, and with far fewer tourists running around, Nara is a much calmer, less crowded destination.

It's not just the benefit of personal space that makes Nara worth visiting, though. The ancient capital of Japan is well preserved and home to gorgeous scenes of nature and wildlife. Wild deer run rampant, with the animal sacred to Nara's people. Nara Park is a must-see attraction, and a large population of the holy deer congregate there.

A visit to Nara isn't complete without viewing some of its ancient shrines and temples. The eight World Heritage Sites are excellent places to start. Tōdai-ji Temple dates back to the 700s and is located on the northern side of Nara Park. It is one of the Seven Great Temples of Nara, most of which are still around today. Kōfuku-ji Temple is another Buddhist Great Temple that displays an impressive five-tiered pagoda and is one of the oldest temples of its kind in Japan. The land here oozes a certain sophistication and gentleness, welcoming visitors in a special way.

Nosy Be, Madagascar

For those travelers who like a taste of luxury but want experiences and photos from a trip none of their friends have been on, Nosy Be in Madagascar fits the bill. The African island is an underrated paradise, with beaches that stretch to meet clear blue waters.

It's not only the beaches of Madagascar that are sold short compared to other beach getaways, but the wildlife around Nosy Be is something to admire as well. The best way to observe what the island offers is by going beneath the water. Scuba diving is a popular activity here, and there are dive spots throughout the surrounding waters. The Mitsio Wreck is one such expedition where you can see a sunken fishing boat and the many species of fish that have made it their home.

There are plenty of hotels and resorts to choose from when planning a trip to Nosy Be. You'll be close to the water and the beach no matter where you decide to stay. However, if you're looking for affordable accommodation that is a little more down-home, Les Bungalows d'Ambonara is separate from the big resorts. It offers cool looks at nature, good food, and relaxing downtime for an island getaway you won't soon forget.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia is probably pretty far down the list when you think of cities in America if it comes to mind at all. The gritty city is like the metropolis black sheep, and it kind of likes it that way. Boston is lauded for its historical relevance and the part it played in early American history, but Philly is considered the birthplace of the United States and was the country's very first World Heritage City for Independence Hall.

Philadelphia is a great city not only for history buffs but also for art lovers. Well over 4,000 gorgeous murals are scattered throughout the city, and one unconventional mural takes up the entirety of half a city block. Magic Gardens is a massive collection of mosaic murals and constructs that can't be missed when visiting.

If there's one thing other than history and art that Philadelphians love, it's food. A combination of all three comes with Reading Terminal Market, one of the oldest public markets in America. Different vendors sell fresh food, ingredients, hand-crafted jewelry, and fiber arts. A stroll through the massive historic market could keep you fed for all meals of the day and satisfy all your souvenir needs.

Snowdonia, Wales

Even though it sounds like a made-up Hallmark Christmas town , Snowdonia is real and doesn't see much tourist activity. More people opt for Scotland or Ireland, but Wales offers a similar experience with a whole different culture. While not a town at all, Snowdonia National Park covers over 800 square miles of mountains, woodlands, and villages.

With over 600 castles in the country, Snowdonia National Park contains two of the most well-known. Conway Castle is well known for its medieval preservation, and Caernarfon Castle is one of the most visited castles in Wales. Both castles sit impressively over the water and offer important looks into the past.

Blaenau Ffestiniog is nestled right in the center of Snowdonia and is a great town to lay your head when visiting. Amazing views of nature from all sides can be expected here, as the slate mountains of the national park surround the town. Biking and hiking is a popular way to explore, but you can also use the railway station and see the countryside from the comfort of a train.

Solvang, California

You could count the popular destinations California offers on both hands, yet still not get to the town of Solvang. The Nordic-inspired town is under an hour's drive from Santa Barbara but sees just a fraction of the visitors. It's the perfect destination if you're itching to get out of the country but lack the funds or time to do so.

Danish immigrants founded Solvang, and the essence of Scandinavia is still very much present in the town. From nightly accommodations to food and shopping, visitors are immersed in traditional Danish building styles. The little Californian town might look more like classic Denmark than the actual country, with windmills and medieval Tudor-style buildings.

The town seems stuck in another time , but the experience is not. You'll find high-end boutiques and hotel rooms on Mission Drive, the destination's central area. Stay at The Mirabelle Inn and be within walking distance of all the must-see Solvang attractions. Stop by Brød & Kage Bakery for a Danish pastry while exploring Mission Drive. Then, head to Elverhøj Museum of History & Art to learn all you can about this town and the culture it reflects.

Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador

Most destinations in South America are underrated. The continent is gorgeous and has some fantastic landmarks, but it has less than 5% of Europe's visitors. For travelers who like an equal dose of nature and culture, the continent's Baños de Agua Santa in Ecuador is a legendary town surrounded by incredible landscapes and natural landmarks.

Steep waterfalls, wooden suspension bridges, and a rope swing at the end of the world all accentuate the natural beauty of Baños. We hope you don't mind heights! One man's leisurely pastime while watching out for volcanic eruptions has become one of the most interesting swings in the world. You can see valleys and mountains for miles from the Swing at the End of the World; you just have to get there first! El Pailon del Diablo, or Devil's Cauldron, will take you on a journey to a magnificent waterfall. You'll be crossing a suspension bridge with a panoramic view, and the stone-carved steps alongside the 265-foot waterfall allow for viewing at every angle.

The actual town of Baños isn't without its charms, either. La Aldea Mágica is a sculpture garden straight out of your most magical fairy daydreams. The area is steeped in myth and folklore. Another attraction that shows off this side of the town is the Basílica Nuestra Señora del Rosario de Agua Santa, a cathedral dedicated to the Virgin Mary and her miracles.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

A journey to Tanzania is gaining popularity but remains a pretty underrated, low-budget trip. Tanzania is one of the most budget-friendly international vacations you can plan, and tourism is helping the country grow. They welcome visitors, and the coastal city of Zanzibar is a great place to start. After all, a Mediterranean vacation is all the rage, so why not visit on the opposite coast?

Zanzibar has a heritage all its own, drawing inspiration from Persian and African influences as well as European and Arabic. The underrated collection of islands was once a significant stop of the Silk Road dealing in rich spices, which brought several different cultures to stay. The white beaches and crisp blue waters certainly can't be missed, but the people and unique culture should be explored here.

Everything from the architecture to the food and traditions set Zanzibar apart. If you can visit during one of their festivals, you should. Mwaka Kogwa Festival around July is the Persian New Year and celebrates the subculture in the archipelago. The festivities include banana stalk fights, performances, and a straw hut burning. Stone Town in Zanzibar City is the place to be to see the side of the destination that is both historic and lively. Find one-of-a-kind sights and taste flavorful dishes here while staying at Emerson Spice Hotel.

Helsinki, Finland

Finland is the "Land of a Thousand Lakes," and they're all breathtaking. As the capital of the snowy country, Helsinki has plenty to do for any traveler. The country boasts a large percentage of natural, untamed wilderness perfect for travelers who love the outdoors, and the coastal city of Helsinki offers some manufactured beauty.

Helsinki is known for art and innovation, consistently putting creativity on a pedestal. The Kallio District is the epicenter of culture in the thriving city. Those who want to immerse themselves and learn what it's like to be a local should spend at least a day here. Visitors should also check out Amos Rex, an eclectic art museum with a one-of-a-kind collection. The museum's interesting, ground-level roof has become a cultural landmark and alone is worth visiting the attraction.

As popular as Europe and Scandinavia are for an exciting holiday, Finland ranks pretty low at 81st in the world for tourism. This could be due to the country's wild, but the statistic is shocking when considering that the destination has consistently been named the happiest in the world. It could be Mother Earth herself making residents so happy or the creativity that seems to run rampant here. Either way, a visit here is one to lift the spirits.

How we chose the world's most underrated travel destinations

While underrated can refer to less than stellar reviews, these destinations have anything but. Instead, we chose places that are under-traveled worldwide and probably aren't on your travel bucket list yet. To find these underappreciated cities, we considered two things. First, we looked for stellar locations outshined by similar or nearby popular travel destinations. For example, Europe is the most traveled continent in the world, but Finland doesn't even make the list of the top 10 most visited countries within it. Then, we looked at destinations with something a little special that are located in places that don't get much travel action.

These destinations are all very different from one another, but they are alike in the ways they have been overlooked. Either they have some neighboring countries or cities stealing the spotlight or are located off roads less traveled. Each one deserves its special trip, though, and we hope you take advantage of a less crowded travel destination.

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20 Underrated Travel Destinations You Need To See

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Traveling to underrated travel destinations reinvigorates our desire to discover. Instead of following guidebooks down the well-trodden tourist trail, we tap into our adventurous ambitions and use local tips to find hidden gems.

Sure, there may not always be iconic sights at off-the-beaten-path locales, but there are fewer crowds and likely a deeper sense of discovery. All at a lower cost, and not just monetarily. While residents in some cities (like Dubrovnik and Barcelona ) understandably bemoan the massive influx of tourists, locals in less-popular towns happily welcome visitors. Some are even outright bewildered why anyone would choose to visit their hometown!

While it’s difficult to argue with the merits of visiting the world’s most popular cities (like London , San Francisco , Paris , NYC and Sydney ), taking a trip to underrated destinations can be equally – if not more – fulfilling!

How To Define Underrated Travel Destinations

While certainly everyone will have their own definition of underrated, our list of less popular locations to visit are unique travel destinations. Places that are not the first to come to mind when it’s time to take that next trip. 

Our list includes a wide range of places – from the most underrated European cities to visit to top underrated US road trip destinations – that will appeal to a broad spectrum of travelers.

We feature under-the-radar cities, small towns nestled in nature and places with difficult histories and vibrant cultures.

20 Best Underrated Travel Destinations

We believe our list features some of the most underrated places to travel in the world. So get ready to make some travel plans and pack your bags – and get excited for an amazing trip to one of the world’s best underrated vacation spots!

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Underrated Travel Destination Guide to plan your next trip!

#1 BARILOCHE, ARGENTINA

While popular regionally, Bariloche, Argentina is one of the top underrated holiday destinations for North American travelers. In fact, visiting Bariloche in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, you could find yourself discovering the area in near complete solitude.

Dotted with tree-covered mountains and glassy lakes, the natural beauty of the Bariloche landscape is simply stunning. The town sits on the shore of a breathtaking lake and is surrounded by the Nahuel Huapi National Park in Northern Patagonia. With numerous hiking trails, Bariloche is an ideal retreat for trekkers, nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Read 10 Things To Do in Bariloche, Argentina

#2 LECCE, ITALY

When people think of a vacation to Italy, they likely have visons of Rome , Milan, Venice and Florence . Lecce, however, is one of the best underrated places to visit in Europe!

Situated in the Puglia region (the heel of Italy’s boot), Lecce has a long history and distinct (and delectable) cuisine . Once a walled city, the historic old town features unearthed Roman ruins, ornate Baroque architecture and a maze of cozy cobblestone lanes. Find the Best Things To Do in Lecce, Italy

#3 WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND

One of the most underrated tourist destinations in the Southern Hemisphere, Wellington, New Zealand is often overlooked in favor of Auckland or Queenstown. We, however, fell head over heels in love with Welly!

Wellington is a Goldilocks city; not too big, not too small, but just right – and yet it remains one of the most underrated holiday destinations. The Capital of New Zealand has a bit of history, plenty of nature and loads of great NZ Craft Beer . Although New Zealand, in general, is an expensive destination, Wellington offers a variety of affordable things to do, too! Read the Top Things To Do in Wellington, NZ

#4 DRESDEN, GERMANY

Dresden stands out for us as one of the top underrated European destinations. Often skipped over in favor of other popular German cities (such as Munich , Berlin and Frankfurt ), Dresden is actually an incredibly fascinating and beautiful place to visit. The old town (completely rebuilt after World War II) is overflowing with charm, while the trendy Neustadt neighborhood offers a hip and edgy vibe. Plan your Dresden Itinerary

#5 LAKE BOHINJ, SLOVENIA

Slovenia is an extremely underrated travel destination, which is such a shame because it is one of the most picturesque countries in the world! Often confused with Slovakia, we think the most beautiful place in Slovenia is Lake Bohinj . Featuring crystal clear blue water and surrounded by towering mountain peaks, Lake Bohinj is blissfully picture-perfect. If you are looking for the most underrated places to visit in Europe for nature, put Lake Bohinj, Slovenia on your list! Read our 3-Day Lake Bohinj Itinerary

#6 WARSAW, POLAND

We think Poland in general is one of Europe’s most underrated travel destinations – and travelers who venture to the country typically pass over Warsaw for Krakow or Gdansk instead.

To be honest, we were not expecting much when we first visited Warsaw…but the city took us by surprise – which is why we think it is one of the top underrated European travel destinations! The colorful old town (which is one of Poland’s many UNESCO World Heritage Sites), opulent architecture and royal past enchanted us. Even more powerful, however, is the Warsaw story; one of resiliency, uprising and rebuilding – which is detailed in Warsaw’s state-of-the-art museums. Plan your Warsaw Itinerary

#7 NUSA CENINGAN, BALI, INDONESIA

Bali, Indonesia has long been a much-touted tourist destination, but just off the southeastern shore is a trio of islands that are considerably less trafficked. Collectively called the Nusa Islands – they don’t get nearly enough praise or the thick crowds of mainland Bali . Of the three Nusa Islands, Ceningan is the smallest and a very underrated beach vacation destination.

Nusa Ceningan is reachable only by a small boat or narrow footbridge from neighboring Lembongan Island. Dirt paths follow the coastline, leading up to scenic overlooks and down to hidden coves. A handful of Nusa Ceningan beach bars offer fine views, cold drinks – and even a chance for cliff jumping or chair swinging.

Visitors looking for a little solitude and relaxation in a province that caters to mass tourism can agree that Ceningan is still one of the most underrated places to visit in the world. Read our Complete Nusa Islands, Bali Guide

#8 LVIV, UKRAINE

Lviv, Ukraine is one of our favorite underrated destinations in Europe – we miss it very much and can’ wait to return someday.

Quaint and quirky, Lviv is a city we loved straight away. Complimented with a beautiful historic old town, passionate citizens and a slew of interesting attractions – Lviv offers a lot for the curious traveler. Lviv’s history is detailed in interesting museums and the amazing Ukrainian Cuisine and lively Lviv Bars were other highlights of our visit. Check out the Top Things To Do in Lviv, Ukraine

#9 SPOKANE, WASHINGTON, USA

We sort of stumbled onto Spokane during our road trip from Montana to Oregon , but quickly realized it is one of the top Underrated Cities in the US .

Surrounded in lush nature and exuding a small-town vibe, Spokane offers visitors a long list of things to do – from scenic strolls in gorgeous parks, to touring historic neighborhoods, along with tasting local wine and craft beer. Read all the Best Things To Do in Spokane, Washington

#10 SARAJEVO, BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA

One of the top underrated places to travel to for vacation in Europe, Sarajevo is a truly fascinating city. It also happens to be one of the top affordable travel destinations in Europe!

Sarajevo has a lengthy and infamous history that stretches back centuries – most recently being under siege for four long years in the 1990’s. Today it is a city of intriguing sights , indulgent cuisine and kind people – all of which make it one of the best underrated places to travel! Read all about Touring Sarajevo

#11 HAARLEM, NETHERLANDS

If you are seeking underrated vacation destinations near top tourist cities, then Haarlem, Netherlands fits the bill! Just a short bus ride from bustling Amsterdam , Haarlem is a true gem.

Similar to Amsterdam – with gabled houses and canals – Haarlem is much smaller and exudes a community feel. That said, Haarlem top sights, like the Molen De Adriaan Windmill, the Corrie ten Boom House and the Grote of St. Bavokerk on the main square are impressive in their own right! Learn more about the Top Things To Do in Haarlem, Netherlands

#12 SIBIU, ROMANIA

Romania was our first “new” country in a very, very long time and the city of Sibiu absolutely charmed us! Even though it is one of the lesser known Europe travel destinations, there are many reasons to visit. Nestled in the Transylvania region, Sibiu features lovely architecture, amazing cuisine and beautiful parks.

The two main squares in Sibiu buzz with pedestrian activity both day and night, and the soaring town towers lure visitors up rickety stairs for impressive views. Read about the Best Things To Do in Sibiu, Romania

#13 PRISTINA, KOSOVO

Perhaps one of the most underrated countries to visit, Kosovo doesn’t see many tourists. In our opinion, however, Pristina, Kosovo ranks as one of the most intriguing places we have ever visited.

Only becoming a capital city in 2008, Pristina is still very much in transition – and its apparent growing pains are obvious throughout town. Still, we marveled at the sights, learned about the history and were smitten by the locals. For travelers looking to get off the beaten path and travel to somewhere nearly devoid of tourists, Pristina is one of the best underrated destinations. Read our Pristina, Kosovo Travel Guide

#14 CHIANG RAI, THAILAND

One of the most underrated vacation spots in Thailand , Chiang Rai is a feast for the senses! Not to be confused with Chiang Mai , Chiang Rai is a busy city in Northern Thailand which is more often toured on a day trip than an stand alone destination. We feel that would be a mistake.

The city’s most famous attraction is the White Temple, which is a highlight – but there are so many more reasons why Chiang Rai is one of the most underrated travel destinations! Visitors can also seek out waterfalls, many other temples, markets and try deliciously spicy North Thai cuisine. See all the Fun Things To Do in Chiang Rai, Thailand

#15 RIGA, LATVIA

Hen and Stag parties aside, Riga, Latvia is still one of the best underrated European cities! In Riga, church steeples soar above the quaint and historic old town, while skyscrapers complete the modern skyline beyond the city center.

Riga emanates a youthful atmosphere, largely due to the many fun Riga Bars ! However, visitors can also travel a short distance on easy Riga Day Trips to lovely Jurmala Beach or into the enchanting forest-covered hills of Sigulda. Read about more Things To Do in Riga, Latvia

#16 OSIJEK, CROATIA

The long, stunningly beautiful coastline of Croatia can hardly be named one of the underrated vacation spots – but the inland region of Slavonia and the city of Osijek certainly are!

We visited Osijek in the wintertime when the vast Kopacki Rit Nature Park was covered in frost and the city’s tight-knit community celebrated Christmas. The highlight of Osijek for us, however, is the outstanding regional cuisine and local wine – making it one of the best underrated places to travel to for foodies! Read about the Several Super Reasons to Visit Osijek, Croatia

#17 BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND

Belfast has depth, intrigue and a sadly sordid past that is still quite discernible. Despite this, Belfast has certainly evolved into a spectacular and safe place to visit. Delicately calm now, Belfast appeals to a wide range of travelers for a variety of reasons, but it remains one of the most underrated travel destinations Europe.

Belfast offers visitors a lively nightlife, an incredible museum dedicated to a very infamous ship and access to beautiful and unique coastline formations. Read our guide to the Best Belfast Things To Do

#18 MONTANA, USA

Montana . Just the name conjures up images of soaring mountains, stunning valleys, crystal-clear lakes and miles and miles of miles and miles . All of which is perfect for feeling far away from it all under bright blue skies in the middle of wide open spaces.

From quaint Montana towns like Whitefish , Kalispell and Missoula to incredible natural landscapes and hiking in Glacier National Park , a visit to Montana is rugged and wild. Admittedly, all of these reasons are quickly pushing Montana out of the underrated travel category. You might want to quietly get there sooner rather than later or go in winter! Get all our tips for a Montana Road Trip

#19 NAXOS, GREECE

Greece is a bucket list destination for travelers around the world – especially the Greek Islands. Naxos Island, however, is often bypassed as visitors rush to the islands of Santorini , Mykonos and Crete . 

In our opinion, Naxos is one of the top hidden gem travel destinations in Europe. The island hosts relics from the ancient past, boasts long stretches of beautiful sand beaches and commands an utterly superb culinary scene. Read our guide of the Best Things To Do in Naxos, Greece!

#20 GLASGOW, SCOTLAND

Glasgow may lurk in the shadows of its very famous neighbor to the east, Edinburgh , but we wouldn’t recommended mentioning that to any Glaswegians!

Truth is, Glasgow was once one of the richest cities in the world. However, those years of industrialization, followed by decades of decline, never earned Glasgow much popularity on the international travel scene.

Well, now you have a chance to get in on the ground floor of a underrated travel city – one that offers incredible museums, a robust food and drink culture and gregarious residents that are always up for a chat. Glasgow may be gritty and a little goofy, but it’s absolutely not boring! Find all the Great Glasgow Things To Do.

Unique Ways to Travel to Any Destination

Looking for more intriguing travel escapades? Get inspired to plan that next vacation with our detailed and completely free travel guides ! You will find full itineraries, city walking tours and lists of prime things to do in amazing locations worldwide. Yes, we feature the popular places as well, but we’ll show you a different way to experience them!

How To Plan Your Next Trip

As you prepare for your trip to that Underrated Destination, keeping track of the details is more essential than ever. Off-the-beaten-path locations tend to not be as developed for tourism, so getting a solid plan together is key. Stay organized with our simple Printable Travel Planner . It contains 26 pages of trip organization! 

We Want To Know: What are your favorite underrated places in the world? Which cities would you add to our list of Underrated Travel Destinations? Give us your advice in the comments below! 

Start planning your next trip ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

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Wander-Lush

35 Unusual Holiday Destinations for Alternative Travellers

The very best quirky, unconventional and unusual holiday destinations for travellers who love to go their own way.

Do you consider yourself an unconventional tourist, or are you happy enough to stick to the path well travelled?

‘Off the beaten track’ is one of the most overused phrases in travel writing. In this day and age, there are few destinations truly worthy of such a title. But it’s also true that there’s never been a better time to break from the crowd and travel off the radar.

Also read: 25 best alternative city breaks in Europe .

Some of these holiday destinations are considered unusual because they’re remote and difficult to reach. Others have a harsh climate or are misunderstood, while some are simply overlooked for more touristy alternatives.

Whether it’s pristine nature, complete solitude or authentic cultural encounters you seek, this list has something for you. Compiled by a list of expert travellers, each of these places is utterly underrated and more than worthy of your consideration as an alternative holiday destination.

Browse the full list or use the links below to find a favourite.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

35 unusual holiday destinations that should be on your radar

With the help of my favourite travel bloggers, I scoured every continent to find the best unusual travel destinations worthy of a mention. Here’s what we came up with!

If you have anything more to add, please leave your suggestions in the comments section at the end!

1. Azerbaijan, the land of fire

Editor’s choice

Azerbaijan is a strong contender for the world’s most underrated holiday destination.

Compared to its more-popular neighbours, Georgia and Armenia , Azerbaijan’s relatively strict visa policy has been a deterrent for many travellers. But an e-visa introduced in 2017 now makes it easier than ever to travel to Azerbaijan .

Baku, the biggest city, is one of the most curious capitals in the world . Enriched by decades of oil wealth, it boasts ambitious architecture and large-scale civic projects including the Bulvar, a massive seaside boulevard along the Caspian, and the world’s largest flag pole. Icherisheher , Old Baku’s historic core, is a complete contrast, with its Zoroastrian tower and stone caravanserais.

Beyond the city, the otherworldly landscape of the Absheron Peninsula includes mud volcanoes and flaming hillsides (a result of all that subterranean oil). Go mountain hiking, visit the small towns of Guba and Lahic where artisans ply their traditional trades, and visit Sheki , home of the legendary UNESCO Site , the Palace of the Sheki Khans.

2. Oman, for a Middle Eastern road trip

The Middle East is the last place most people think of when planning a road trip. But Oman is the perfect place for self-driving.

New highways, cheap fuel and a surplus of things to see make this the perfect spot for an adventurous holiday. If you’re on a budget , you’ll be pleased to know that it’s perfectly legal to pitch a tent almost anywhere you fancy in Oman. A night of glamping in one of the country’s desert camps is also a must.

Start your road trip in Muscat, where you’ll find Oman’s premier cultural institutions and the lively Muttrah Souq, before making your way down the coast. At Ras Al Jinz, the easternmost tip of the Arabian Peninsula, you can visit one of the world’s most active turtle nesting sights.

Inland, Oman offers sweeping deserts, dramatic mountains and valleys for hiking, and a variety of historic fortresses. Drop into some of the many wadis and sinkholes as you go to cool off from the desert heat.

Don’t judge Oman by it’s location on the map – this is an overwhelmingly safe, relatively budget-friendly and abundantly beautiful country with a strong tradition of hospitality and a vibrant, well-preserved cultural heritage.

3. The far north of Vietnam

Aside from super-popular Sapa and Bac Ha , far Northern-Vietnam is home to a number of lesser-visited national parks and alternative trekking spots. Second or third-time visitors to Vietnam should prioritise spending time in the north.

Ha Giang and Pu Luong both offer underrated landscapes largely free of crowds, while the charming colonial port city of Hai Phong has a similar vibe to Hanoi but with a much slower pace of life. Picking tea in Thai Nguyen, trekking in Moc Chau during spring bloom or tea-picking season , taking a boat out on Ba Be Lake and gazing up at the vertiginous rice terraces around Son La are just a few of the totally unique experiences you can have in Northern Vietnam.

Treat yourself to a local homestay while you’re there – this is far and away the best strategy to get an inside look at some of Vietnam’s many ethnic minority cultures. In Da Bac , yet another hidden gem in the far-north, you can stay with the community in traditional wooden houses while using the small villages as a base for trekking.

4. Transnistria, a breakaway state in Eastern Europe

By Luda from Adventures with Luda

Transnistria is an unconventional travel destination for two reasons. First, it’s referred to as ‘a country that doesn’t exist’. Even though it has its own constitution, army, currency, and citizenship, no other sovereign nation actually recognises it as such.

Secondly, Transnistria feels as though it’s stuck in time thanks to the Soviet posters, Lenin statues and 60s-style Khrushchyovka buildings sprinkled around town. Many travellers have called it a ‘Communist theme park’ because of how well-preserved everything is.

Transnistria is the perfect place for travellers who are interested in Soviet history and off-the-beaten-path experiences. It’s easy to reach from Chisinau, Moldova or Odessa, Ukraine and can be part of a day trip or a longer journey.

The majority of things to do in Transnistria are in Tiraspol, the capital. Start off with a walk along October 25th Street, the main road that runs through the city, before stopping at the colourful House of Soviets. See the historical moments on Suvorov Square and take a peek inside the City Library, which still has its Soviet-era murals.

5. Nicosia, the world’s last divided capital

By Helen from Helen on her Holidays

Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, is the world’s last divided capital city.

Since 1983, the city has been split by the ‘Green Line’, a border between the Republic of Cyprus and Turkish-controlled Northern Cyprus.

The border was completely sealed and crossed only by UN peacekeeping forces for decades, but in 2008 the restrictions were relaxed. Today it’s possible to visit both parts of Nicosia . The border crossing and distinct character of the two sides of Nicosia make it one of the world’s most unusual city breaks.

The Greek-speaking Republic side of the border is much like other European capitals, with Starbucks, McDonalds and H&M all present. But at the end of the main shopping street there’s a border crossing, and if you cross into North Nicosia it’s immediately clear that you’ve stepped into a completely different culture.

Both sides of Nicosia have interesting sights, but North Nicosia has the edge in atmosphere and attractions. Don’t miss the stunning mosque set in a former cathedral and the medieval caravanserai.

6. Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley, a hidden gem in Canada

By Lee & Stacey from One Trip at a Time

Most visitors to Nova Scotia will likely visit Halifax, the South Shore, or drive the Cabot Trail. Those who are a little more adventurous might hike the Skyline Trail in Cape Breton , part of the coastal road that encircles the island.

If you’re looking for somewhere less travelled, check out the Annapolis Valley , which may be more than you expect!

History buffs will find places to learn about this part of Canada including the Grand-Pré, a UNESCO World Heritage site that tells the tragic story of Acadian expulsion, and Port-Royal, the first European settlement in Canada founded in 1605.

Food and wine lovers can savour the flavours of the region: Taste hand-picked berries, take a wine tour and tasting at one of the many vineyards, and try the apples the Valley is known for. Locals have been celebrating the annual Apple Blossom Festival here since 1933.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to love. You can go whale watching in the Bay of Fundy, hike along coastal cliffs or forest trails leading to waterfalls, or canoe and back-country camp in one of the province’s parks or wilderness areas.

All of this is just a taste of what this vibrant region of Nova Scotia has to offer.

7. Mississippi Gulf Coast, the ‘secret coast’

By Charles from McCool Travel

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is one of America’s most underrated destinations and should top every intrepid traveller’s wish list.

This relatively undiscovered area – also called Coastal Mississippi (or The Secret Coast) – is located between New Orleans and Mobile Alabama, and highlighted by gorgeous beaches (with magnificent sunrises and sunsets), abundant waterways, fresh seafood, and a quirky culture.

Popular Coastal Mississippi outdoor activities centre around the USA’s largest man-made beach and largest free-flowing river. At 26 miles wide and 200 feet deep, the continuous beach from Pass Christian to Biloxi is a constant enticement for travellers on the Gulf Coast Scenic Byway. Explore the Pascagoula River on a guided McCoy’s Swamp Tour or rented kayak from Pascagoula River Audubon Center.

Mississippi Gulf Coast is a wonderfully unique and rare coastal ecosystem because of its magnificent live oak trees which magically enhance its two phenomenal small beach towns, Ocean Springs and Bay St Louis.

During your Coastal Mississippi visit, try every version of shrimp and grits and savour as many sunsets as you can.

8. Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, the ‘singing sands’

By Dean and Laynni from Routinely Nomadic

Despite being the most popular destination in Mongolia (which really isn’t saying much considering how few tourists make it there), most travellers still know very little about the sprawling natural beauty of the Gobi Desert .

Fascinating and diverse, it features an impressively desolate and atmospheric desert, along with the 300-metre high ‘singing sands’ of Khongoryn Els, the tallest and most picturesque of the country’s extensive series of wild sand dunes. But there is far more to the Gobi than just desert.

The most efficient way to visit is by rustic-but-adventurous jeep tour. On a typical 7-day, 6-night excursion, you can try horseback riding through the steppes and camel riding through the dunes, enjoy cosy nights and typical Mongolian BBQ in traditional gers , and explore the Flaming Cliffs, the Olgiid Khiid monastery, Yolyn Am gorge, and the deceptively named White Stupa (which is actually a set of stupa-like rocks).

Needless to say, the Gobi Desert has a little something for everyone, except maybe those looking for a decent toilet.

9. Lithuania, a history buff’s dream

By Monica from This Rare Earth

Lithuania is a little-known country in Eastern Europe filled with castles and forests, shore line and old-town charm.

The capital city of Vilnius was the first of four places in Lithuania to be named a UNESCO World Heritage Sight. A charming blend of old and new, Vilnius is a city of contradictions that any traveller can fall in love with.

Many of the notable sights in Vilnius, Lithuania are completely free to visit. St. Anne’s Church offers an amazing example of architecture, with its stunning gothic-style facade, and the Cathedral Square with its tall white bell tower is stunning. So much of the city’s history can be discovered on a walk around Old Town Vilnius .

An extensive bus system covers the country and can take you to locations such as Trakai Castle, the port town of Klaipeda, and – reachable by ferry – the unbelievable Curonian Spit.

Thirty percent of the country is covered with forest and nature. Between the unspoiled wilderness and the charm of the historical cities, there is truly something for everyone in unexpected Lithuania!

10. The Bahamas Out Islands, an unconventional island paradise

By Jackie from Enjoy Travel Life

If you’re thinking of a tropical getaway to the Caribbean but feel discouraged by overcrowded beaches and towering resort chains, look to The Bahamas Out Islands. This collection of small islands south of the popular Grand Bahamas offers deserted beaches, unspoiled nature and secluded bungalows.

Here you’ll find an exclusive, unconventional island paradise.

Perhaps you’ve heard about The Abacos or Eleuthera, but as you travel further south along the archipelago, the islands become almost unknown: Cat Island , Crooked Island and Ackins each offer unique island beauty. 

You’ll enjoy the laid-back beach vibe, fruity rum drinks and delicious Bahamian seafood dishes – try Conch and Grouper! If you’re seeking more adventure, you can scuba dive along the islands’ rich coral reef or kayak through the mangroves. You might even try bonefishing or wind-sailing.

Be sure to pack several bathing suits and leave your laptop behind. While some resorts may have Wi-Fi in the common areas, it’s spotty at best. Rest assured, there’s no better place for a digital detox.

11. The High Canadian Arctic

By Mikaela from Voyageur Tripper

Nunavut is a seldom traveled destination, but one that deserves a place on any traveller’s bucket list. The largest territory in Canada, Nunavut covers one fifth of the country and extends into the High Arctic, nearly reaching the North Pole.

This land is vast, characterised by rolling tundra and meandering icebergs, ragged cliffs and frozen sea ice. As one of the most remote regions on the globe, activities out on the land are varied and plentiful, including snowmobiling, dog sledding, hiking and kayaking.

Travellers on a budget can explore the capital city of Iqaluit and experience a taste of life north of the 60th parallel. Those with larger budgets can join wildlife safaris and witness wild animals including polar bears, narwhals, beluga, walrus and caribou.

Regardless of the type of trip, any time in Nunavut will leave you craving more. Its magical environment is one that lingers long after the flight home has landed.

12. Lichtenstein, a tiny country with big heart

By Derek & Mike from Robe Trotting

An amazing destination in Europe that doesn’t attract a lot of tourism is the micro-state of Liechtenstein. One reason this tiny country is so unconventional is the fact that it’s doubly land-locked by Austria and Switzerland. It’s also a mere 25 kilometres long. 

While it may lack territory, there are surprisingly a lot of things to do in Liechtenstein . There are five castles to visit, two of which have been fully restored and three more that are ruins. The royal family also maintains a vineyard and wine cellar in Vaduz, the largest city and capital. Visitors can enjoy a walk-in tasting and wine dinners can be arranged for larger groups. 

In Liechtenstein you’ll also discover beautiful natural wonders. Hiking is one of the most popular activities and Eschnerberg Trail is one of the most-hiked trails in the entire region. The views of the Alpine Rhine and mountains are reason enough to visit Liechtenstein.

13. Iran, the home of hospitality

By Coni from Experiencing the Globe

Iran is often portrayed in the media as a dangerous destination, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s one of the most diverse countries in the world, which makes it a great destination for any kind of traveller.

In Iran, you’ll find rich history, nature, architecture, culture and adventure. But what defines this country is its people. The hospitality you experience has no comparison; it’s simply reason enough to book a ticket.

The country is big, so dedicate as much time as possible to explore it. In a couple of weeks, you can fit in the main sights: Tehran, Isfahan, Yazd, the Silk Road city of Shiraz and Persepolis. If you have more time, add Kerman and the Lut desert to the list, the ancient citadels of Rayen and Bam, and Qeshm and Hormuz islands for stunning nature.

If you want to go absolutely off the beaten path and experience the nation’s hospitality at its very best, also include Iranian Kurdistan in your itinerary.

14. Iraqi Kurdistan, a diverse corner of the Middle East

By Diana from The Globetrotting Detective

Iraqi Kurdistan  is not a well-known travel destination due to the negative portrayal and misconceptions fuelled by the media. First of all, it’s crucial that we understand that Iraqi Kurdistan is an autonomous region recognised by the Republic of Iraq.

It means that Iraqi Kurdistan has its own borders and their own government and military. Therefore, when you hear something about Iraq in the news, that’s most probably not valid for Iraqi Kurdistan.

To see the reality, we have to travel to Iraqi Kurdistan. Iraqi Kurdistan, similarly to Iran, is an extremely safe travel destination.

The first thing that you will learn about in Iraqi Kurdistan is Kurdish hospitality. Hospitality is definitely running in the veins of Kurdish people. They cherish their visitors like a precious jewel and treat them with utmost respect and care. People are so friendly and deeply kind that Iraqi Kurdistan will just get under your skin and you will not want to leave. One feeling that this place can give visitors is that the world would be a much better place just by simply being kind to each other.

In Iraqi Kurdistan, there are tons of mind-blowing places to visit.

Kurdistan offers a plethora of natural beauties such as the Rawanduz Canyon, Halgurd Mountain and Dukan Lake which are perfect hiking destinations as well. You can also witness a lot of cultural diversity in Iraqi Kurdistan. You can learn about Muslim, Christian and Yazidi cultures.

The capital, Erbil, is one of the oldest cities in the world where you can find historical sites, old bazaars, cosy cafés where you can get to know friendly locals.

Some of the oldest Christian monasteries of the world, namely Mar Mattai Monastery and the Rabban Hormizd Monastery are to be found in Iraqi Kurdistan. Another iconic and very important cultural site is Lalish, the most sacred place of the followers of Yazidi faith, where you can only enter barefoot.

15. Pakistan, mother nature at her finest

By Samantha from Intentional Detours

Pakistan might just be the most underrated holiday destination in the world. Dozens of record-breaking mountain peaks, lush green valleys, hundreds of kilometres of coastline, a rich cuisine that constantly awes the tastebuds – plus some of the friendliest people in the world – all make this South Asian destination a traveller’s dream.

Perhaps the best thing about Pakistan is that it yet remains mostly undiscovered by foreign tourists. Though numbers are steadily increasing, it’s not uncommon to go weeks without meeting a fellow foreigner when you’re on the road.

Pakistan’s mountains are its crown jewel, and no trip to the country would be complete with a visit to Gilgit Baltistan. Though the Hunza district gets all the glory, don’t be afraid to get a bit off the beaten path and explore places like Ghizer Valley, a beautiful hamlet filled with the bluest lakes and rivers you could ever dream of.

It’s easy to get lost in the mountains, but skipping out on Pakistan’s historical places would be akin to a crime. The country boasts thousands of years of human history, and cities such as Lahore reveal pieces of the Mughal Era everywhere, from the 300-year-old mosques to summer pavilions, tombs, and vast gardens.

The southern province of Sindh is also teeming with historically and culturally important sites and should not be missed, especially when it cools down come October.

16. Sumba, a Bali alternative

By Sarah from Hotels & Hand Luggage

Sumba is a relatively unknown Indonesian island that’s just an hour and a half flight from Bali.

The landscape is teeming with beautiful photo spots including deserted beaches, dancing trees, rolling hills, traditional villages and hidden lagoons. Unlike Bali however, it’s likely you’ll arrive at these enchanting places without any other tourists around.

Sumba is larger than Bali so hiring a driver is a must if you want to make the most of your time here. The island is divided into east and west, with the locals on each side holding different ancient traditions.

There aren’t many hotel options on the island and most offerings are still very basic, but the lack of comfort is worth it to experience a place still steeped in tradition. One accommodation option well worth a visit is Maringi Eco Resort by Sumba Hospitality Foundation, a small, eco-friendly hotel and restaurant that trains young Sumbanese students in hospitality.

17. Small-town Slovakia, one of the most unusual holiday destinations in Central Europe

By Kami from Kami & the Rest of the World

Slovakia isn’t exactly the most popular country in Europe Even if tourists decide to visit, they usually only go to the capital city, Bratislava. But Slovakia has so much more to offer. There are so many amazing yet lesser-known places to visit in Slovakia that you should visit before everyone else does.

While Bratislava is a nice place to see, the second-largest city, Kosice offers even more attractions – from historical monuments to amazing cultural spaces and a wonderful food scene.

In Slovakia, you can find one of the most beautiful and impressive mountain ranges in Europe, the High Tatras, with its highest peak Gerlachovský štít at 2,655 metres AMSL. The nearby Spiš Castle is one of the largest castles in Central Europe and a truly remarkable site.

If you like to visit charming Central European towns, you’ll find plenty of them in Slovakia. Bardejov, Banska Stiavnica and Levoca are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

18. Grenada beyond the beach, for a unique holiday in the Caribbean

By Michele from A Taste for Travel

Although famous for its white-sand beaches, this fertile mountainous island might be one of the most overlooked destinations in the Caribbean when it comes to outdoor adventure and cuisine. And while beautiful Grand Anse beach does deserve its many accolades, unconventional travellers will discover it’s well worth exploring beyond Grenada’s beaches.

Top things to do include trekking to sky-high crater lakes, jumping into Concord Waterfall or snorkelling among coral-draped statues within the Underwater Sculpture Museum. After a full day of outdoor adventure, it’s possible to relax in comfort at one of the luxury hotels in Grenada where accommodation options include beach bungalows with plunge pools, hilltop suites and contemporary villas overlooking the sea.

Unlike other destinations in the Caribbean where all-inclusive resorts promote mass tourism, many of Grenada’s hotels are independently owned and operated. They offer travellers a way to experience the island’s unique rhythm, character and local cuisine.

Must-try dishes and drinks to try when visiting the ‘Spice of the Caribbean’ include rum punch topped with freshly-grated island nutmeg, oil down (a hearty stew featuring callaloo, root vegetables, coconut milk and chicken), bean-to-bar chocolate and doubles, a savoury spiced snack.

19. Chile’s Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth

By Dalya from Sweet Little Journey

If you love extreme, unique and completely remote holiday destinations, the Atacama Desert should definitely be on your list.

Located on the northern tip of Chile and spanning over 40,000 square-miles, this is the driest place on Earth. Walking through the landscape will make you feel like you’re treading on a completely different planet. In fact, given its uncanny similarity to the surface of Mars, NASA uses this terrain to simulate conditions when testing their rovers!

Aside from the extraterrestrial landscapes, you’ll find various volcanoes, red and pink lagoons , salt lagoons, alpine lakes, and an abundance of wildlife. There’s only one small town in this whole desert, San Pedro de Atacama , which serves as the perfect home base for exploring all the different attractions here.

Given that there are no other settlements for many miles aside from San Pedro, the Atacama Desert has the clearest night skies on Earth.

20. Tajikistan’s Kulikalon Valley, prime hiking country

By Stephen from MonkBoughtLunch

Tajikistan’s Kulikalon Valley is off the beaten track even for a relatively un-touristed country. While most international travellers head primarily to the Pamir Mountains in the east of the country, the Fann Mountains in the northwest offer just as much in terms of scenery – and are arguably even better for trekking.

Of all the treks in the region, camping in Kulilkalon is one of the most popular – and for good reason. A string of sparkling mountain lakes that stretch across Kulikalon are fed by glacial streams that run down the valley, and on every side towering snow-capped peaks and a handful of beautiful glaciers dominate the view.

Though transport options are limited and expensive in rural Tajikistan, Kulikalon is made even more attractive by proximity to a rough road. It’s possible to hike up and back as a day trip from the nearby Artuch camp or to make a multi-day trek over the Alaudin Pass and down to the eponymous lake below, returning to a different trailhead in the Alaudin Valley or pushing on deeper into the heart of the Fann Mountains.

21. Asturias, Spain’s cheese capital

By Dagney from Cultura Obscura

The Asturias region of Northern Spain is definitely one of the most underrated parts of this otherwise highly touristed country.

For visitors from outside of Spain, the most likely reason for visiting is the Camino, which passes through the Asturian countryside. In general, it’s a nature lover’s paradise. The countryside is full of picturesque towns and beautiful lakes.

However, there is so much more to see and do here. Foodies in particular will love Asturias. The region produces over 50 different cheeses, while nearly every town and city has at least one local cider.

Oviedo, the capital of the region, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just outside the city, you’ll find La Iglesia Skate, a church that’s been converted into a skate park and is full of beautiful, vibrant paintings.

In Gijón , another major Asturian city in Spain , you can visit the Universidad Laboral, the biggest building in Spain, or head to the International Bagpipe Museum.

22. Palestine, the heart of the Middle East

By Claudia from My Adventures Across The World

Palestine is a terribly underrated destination, and many who travel to the Middle East decide not to visit for fear that it may be dangerous or unwelcoming. It’s actually quite the other way around.

People in Palestine are the epitome of friendly, and they go above and beyond to make visitors feel like guests of honour. Add to that the rich, intricate history, the archeological sites, the natural wonders and the delicious food (and even wine and beer!), and it’s easy to see why this is a place you should not skip when you’re in the region.

Among the highlights of visiting Palestine there’s exploring the city of Bethlehem, where you will find the Church of the Holy Nativity, the Chapel of the Milk Grotto and the West Bank Separation Wall that has been adorned with many murals. There also are also a few Banksy pieces scattered around. Not far from Bethlehem, the Israeli-controlled Palace of Herodion is another very interesting site.

Hebron, a city terribly fought over by Jews and Muslims, should also be visited. Similarly, Ramallah – the current administrative centre – is a city thriving with life. Finally, make sure to go to the Baptismal Source at the River Jordan for a truly mystical experience.

The easiest way to get into Palestine is from Jerusalem. Take bus 231 from the bus station near Damascus gate. Be sure to bring your passport with you and the Israeli custom slip you get at the airport, as you’ll need it to get back into Israel to continue your journey.

23. Gopeng, Malaysia’s little-known heritage town

By Marco from Penang Insider

Gopeng is only 20 km south of Ipoh , but it’s shamefully overlooked, notwithstanding being one of West Malaysia’s top adventure eco-tourism destinations.

Set on a bend of the Kampar river, Gopeng is tiny but boasts natural wonders including Gua Tempurung and Gua Kandu, two of the country’s biggest caves, and tall waterfalls such as Ulu Geruntum, a popular abseiling spot. There are plenty of eco-friendly activities around, including stand up paddle boarding and a tree-top obstacle courses offered by Nomad Adventure.

Further inland is Ulu geroh, an orang asli (Malaysian aboriginal) village from where you can strike out on a short trek to see the Rafflesia in bloom. The world’s biggest flower can be a bit smelly, but the packs of rare rajah Brooke butterflies you’ll spot along the way make up for the stink big time.

Back in town, don’t forget to visit the Heritage House for a dive into the area’s colonial history, and the Gopeng Museum for a simple yet informative look at the town’s tin mining past.

24. Bhutan, for time-honoured traditions and unspoiled landscapes

By Sonakshi & Mainak from Places In Pixel

Bhutan is a tiny landlocked country perched in the Himalayas. Due to its location and restrictions around tourism, Bhutan remains an under-explored destination even today. But it’s exactly this reality that makes Bhutan scenically spectacular and a must-visit unconventional destination.

Apart from the usual things to do and places to visit in the major cities of Thimphu, Paro and Punakha, Bhutan has a lot to offer travellers who are willing to try something different. The most unique things to do in Bhutan include:

• Hiking up to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery – nestled high on a precarious cliff, it’s said that a Buddhist Master (Guru Rinpoche) flew on a ‘flying tigress’ and meditated here for months.
• Trying Ema Datchi (Chilli Cheese) – the national dish of Bhutan is a deliciously spicy stew made of chilli peppers, onions and locally produced yak cheese.
• Watching the ‘flag down’ ceremony in Thimphu – this takes place every evening at 5pm with great honour and traditional flair.

25. Benin, the birthplace of Voodoo

By Helen from Helen in Wonderlust

Benin is a magical place full of mystery and superstition. Whilst West Africa is a notoriously difficult area to travel to due to the heat, visa restrictions and lack of tourist infrastructure, Benin is an incredibly rewarding destination for the intrepid traveller.

It is also the birthplace of the Voodoo religion.

Voodoo is one of the oldest and most complex religions in the world. It’s often demonised in popular culture, and yet there’s a lot more to this ancient way of life than meets the eye. The word Voodoo itself means ‘spirit’; practitioners believe that everything is alive and connected spiritually.

As well as discovering the ‘secrets’ of Voodoo , there are plenty of other things to do in Benin. You can gain an insight into the trans-Atlantic slave trade on the Route des Enclaves, relax on the beaches of the south coast, see a very different way of life at the Ganvie Stilt Village, and learn about the history of the powerful Dahomey Empire in Abomey. 

Benin is a French-speaking country, therefore having a good understanding of the French language or having a guide that can translate for you is essential.

Go with an open mind and prepare to be blown away.

26. Northern Tunisia, for unusual beach holidays

By Stephanie from The Africa Cookbook

While most travellers think of Sousse and other popular beaches in Tunisia when they start planning a vacation, anyone who heads to the north instead of the south will find a wealth of hidden gems to discover.

The white-washed town of Sidi Bou Said on the water has a Greek-island feel, while Lake Ichkeul is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also head to Cap Angela, the northernmost point in the country, where you’ll find a beautiful lighthouse and a statue of the African continent as well as some gorgeous seascapes.

If you’re interested in Carthaginian and Roman history, you can visit the ancient city of Utica, which you’ll find practically empty for much of the year. Yes, you can walk around a millennia-old city and imagine what it would have been like in its heyday without competing with noisy, modern crowds.

Be sure to enjoy the local Tunisian cuisine, which is both tasty and economical.

27. Greenland, for remote adventures

By Kay from The Awkward Traveller

There are many myths and stereotypes about Greenland , simply because it’s not the first country most people think of for a holiday.

Technically a territory of Denmark, it’s a challenging destination to visit due to expensive flights and limited availability. There are so few visitors that some airports don’t even have a baggage carousel.

However, if you can manage to get there, you’ll find this is a country full of colourful buildings, dramatic landscapes, and unique culture.

Although it’s one of the least populated capitals in the world with only 16,000 residents, Nuuk is the busiest and most active of all Greenlandic cities. Somewhat surprisingly, it’s filled with art and museums as well as nods to Greenlandic history and mythology in its various statues and memorials.

In Greenland, the availability of activities varies entirely based on the seasons. Summer offers hiking and festivals , while winter brings snowmobiling, sledding, and amazing displays of the Northern Lights.

28. The Falkland Islands, for extreme wildlife encounters

By Nadine from Le Long Weekend

The Falklands Islands, or Islas Malvinas as they’re also known, are a destination like no other. They’re a place where you can truly get away from daily life and enter a world that seems unencumbered by modern distractions.

Here, the wildlife rules, and you’ll get well-acquainted with many species as you tour some of the islands that make up this Southern Archipelago off the coast of Argentina. The penguins of the Falkland Islands are the main drawcard, and there are five different species to discover – from the regal King Penguins to the curious little red-eyed Rockhoppers.

Then there are the formidable elephant seals, the talkative sea lions, the hundreds of different birds, and a few unlikely additions too. Both reindeer and foxes roam on two of the islands.

Wildlife aside, the islands are an amazing place to go trekking, explore untouched beaches and enjoy old-school hospitality. Get around by using the Falklands’ dedicated air service, FIGAS, to island-hop.

29. Montenegro’s national parks, beyond the bay

By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

Most visitors to Montenegro spend their time in the Bay of Kotor. While undeniably beautiful, there is so much more to discover beyond the coastline.

Take the scenic and winding Kotor Serpentine to the village of Njegusi to visit the humble home where Njegoš, Montenegro’s most influential poet-philosopher, was born. Head further up to Lovcen National Park where you can hike and visit the mausoleum of Njegoš. Stop by the old Montenegrin capital of Cetinje to visit the iconic monastery and admire the architecture.

Lake Skadar National Park is another must-visit in Montenegro . Boat tours are available from Virpazar or the sleepy village of Rijeka Crnojevica. The surface of the lake is covered with lily pads, and you can see any number of birds here.

Up north, Durmitor National Park , the only UNESCO-designated park in Montenegro, offers stunning vistas and the chance to do some epic hikes. Go river rafting on the Tara River and visit the Tara Canyon Bridge, which spans one of the deepest canyons in the world.

30. The Faroe Islands, A self-governed archipelago in Europe

By Supriya from Fun Travelog

Europe has thousands of island destinations to choose from, but the Faroes still remain relatively unspoiled thanks to their location.

The Faroe Islands is an independent nation comprised of 18 small islands located between Iceland and Norway. Governed by Denmark, it’s a paradise for hikers and birdwatchers particularly.

Begin your journey by flying into the small and vibrant city of Torshavn, the country’s capital, which is connected by short flight from Copenhagen , Paris, Reykjavik, Bergen or Edinburgh . Make your first stop at the Gásadalur to see the famed waterfall from a marked trail.

From there, every moment of your journey in this small country will be replete with awe-inspiring sights. There are lots of hikes in Faroe Islands , but the most beautiful ones are definitely on the coast of Vagar Island and in Gjógv.

For a completely unique experience, take a 30-minute boat ride to the island of Mykines, which is home to thousands of puffins. They aren’t at all perturbed by human presence and watching them in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

31. Ukraine, for budget-savvy travellers

By Inessa & Natalie from Through a Travel Lens

There are only a few destinations left in Europe that still remain under the radar. Ukraine is definitely one of them. 

Geographically one of the biggest countries on the continent, Ukraine offers something for every travel taste, from sunbathing by the Black Sea in Odessa to hiking in the Carpathians, wandering the magical streets of old Lviv, and exploring the caves of the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Pechersk Lavra in Kiev.

It’s best to save at least two weeks to explore Ukraine’s most popular locations. Kiev alone deserves at least four days, let alone the numerous great weekend breaks and trips you can take from the capital. In addition to the aforementioned Odessa, Lviv, and Kiev, smaller towns such as Uzhgorod, Chernihiv, Kamyanets-Podilsky, and Chernivtsi are also highly recommended.

Besides being an underestimated and unconventional destination, Ukraine also remains one of Europe’s most budget-friendly travel adventures, with the daily budget for food, accommodations, transportation, and activities remaining under 30 USD.

32. Latvia, the lesser-visited capital of Art Nouveau

By Eden from Rock a Little Travel

Home to a historic city centre, a thriving arts scene and vast countryside dotted with castles, Latvia is one of the world’s most underrated travel destinations.

Visitors to Latvia should experience Riga , the lively capital city best known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. In fact, Riga has the world’s highest concentration of Art Nouveau buildings, examples of which are on display across the city.

Riga’s walkable centre also features local boutiques, cafes , restaurants, bars, and even a few city parks. Riga Beer District is home to several local breweries that serve a variety of craft beers. This is the perfect destination for a night out and a great opportunity to mingle with the locals.

Outside the capital, visitors to Latvia can tour the country’s many medieval castles and fortifications. Those looking to spend some time outdoors can head to Latvia’s beaches along the Baltic coast, or to one of the country’s many national parks.

33. North Macedonia, home of Europe’s Quirkiest capital city

The tiny nation of North Macedonia is quirky even by Balkan standards. Formerly known as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, it may have undergone several name changes in its recent history, but it’s status as a unique destination in Eastern Europe has endured.

North Macedonia’s capital, Skopje, is a mix of archaic Ottoman architecture (the Old Bazaar is one of the largest in Europe) and brand new, shiny sculptures and facades installed as part of Skopje 2014, a huge project to give the city a facelift. The result is a Disneylandesque mix of styles that pushes the ambit of imagination.

Skopje makes for a wonderfully offbeat city break, but when visiting North Macedonia , you should also explore beyond the capital. Lake Ohrid is the biggest tourist draw, while the second-largest city, Bitola , and the alpine town of Krusevo – with its wonderful spomenik – both promise off-the-beaten-path, history steeped travel experiences.

34. Piacenza, a hidden gem in Northern Italy

By Helga from ShegoWandering

Piacenza is a small Italian city located near the Po river in Emilia Romagna. While still easily accessible by train from Milan or Bologna, it remains a hidden gem.

This town boasts over 1,000 years of local history. Discover the beautiful historic centre of Piacenza with its colourful houses and beautiful passages. Make sure the Piazza Cavalli, home to the town’s most famous landmark, the Palazzo Gotico, is also on your list.

Piacenza has some of the oldest, most important Romanesque churches in the region, including the Duomo di Piacenza, the St. Antoninus Basilica, and the Church of San Francesco. Another important landmark is the Palazzo Farnese, an immense palace now houses a collection of museums.

The region of Emilia-Romagna is famous for its food products. Be sure to sample Salame Piacentini , Coppa Piacentina and Pancetta Piacentina .

35. Brasov, the gateway to Transylvania

By Nicola Rae of See Nic Wander

The Transylvanian town of Brasov, Romania is tucked away in the Carpathian mountains just 2.5 hours from the capital on the way to Transylvania .

Since many people travel to Romania to explore Bucharest or relax on the Black Sea coast, the smaller Romanian city of Brasov often gets overlooked. But for travellers interested in great hiking, quirky historical sites and a bit of Dracula folklore, Brasov can’t be missed. 

Explore the 14th century Black Church, which got its name after being scorched in a fire, a 15th-century citadel that also served as a prison, and Rope Street, one of the narrowest streets in the world.

Brasov is just a short drive from Bran Castle, a fortress that dates back to the 1200s and is famously also known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’.

When in Brasov, make sure to take the Tampa Mountain Cable Car up to the prominent Hollywood-style ‘Brasov’ sign for the best views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Unusual holiday destinations: Share it on Pinterest

Wow, that’s a great guide.

That was an amazing article. Good work Keep it up!

Lichtenstein castle (named after the family) pictured above is in Germany and not in The Principality of Lichtenstein and hence that part of the article is misleading. One visiting Lichtenstein (the country) will not find this castle how hard one looks.

Good pick up, PK! That is my fault – I will update it immediately. Thanks for letting me know!

This was so helpful, I’m doing a school project and I have to find a unique travel destination. Got lots of ideas

Awesome Tshia, glad I could help!

Fantastic list! Considering many of your picks are also on my own list, I have a feeling we are of the same mindset. As I sit at home travel planning for a post-Covid-vaccine world, you have helped to add more places I hadn’t thought of but was searching for in concept.

Thank you and stay healthy!

So glad to hear you found this post inspiring, Nancy! Thanks a lot for the feedback. Happy future travel planning 🙂

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I’ve Traveled All Over The World; Here’s 10 Lesser Known Places You Should Visit

As an avid explorer, I always seek out the less-traveled road. While the heavy-hitting hotspots have their place, some of my most memorable adventures have been in captivating yet under-the-radar locales. Based on my offbeat explorations, here are ten fascinating destinations I highly recommend visiting in 2024 that promise to inspire the intrepid traveler.

With turquoise waters lapping at white sandy beaches framed by lush jungles, this small Central American country’s beauty takes your breath away. I was spellbound snorkeling along the intricate coral reefs of the Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world. Seeing endangered sea turtles and technicolor tropical fish in shimmering schools made this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What Else is There to Do In Belize?

On shore, I was awestruck wandering the ancient ruins at sites like Caracol, surrounded by calling birds and monkeys. The ATM Cave also allows you to delve into fascinating Mayan history while navigating an intricate underground natural cave system. Adventure awaits in Belize!

As a remote volcanic archipelago off the coast of West Africa, Cape Verde remains mysteriously absent from most travelers’ bucket lists. But with stunning beaches, rugged volcanic peaks, and infectious music, this island nation has quickly become one of my favorite destinations.

On Sal Island, I walked miles of pristine sands without encountering another soul, then feasted on the day’s catch at an oceanside restaurant where locals danced the evening away to live music.

Plus It Has Hiking

On Santo Antão, I hiked through the verdant valleys and pastel villages in the island’s interior, overwhelmed by dramatic vistas at every turn. The Cape Verdean people’s warmth and relaxed vivacity give this place its soul.

Wandering the cobblestone lanes of Tallinn’s storybook Old Town makes you feel like you’ve stepped into medieval Europe. This is the first time I’ve encountered such a well-preserved historic capital. Dropping into candlelit cellar taverns and sampling hearty Estonian fare gave everything an otherworldly feel.

Leave the Crowds of Europe Behind

Beyond the capital, places like the mystical bogs and dense forests of Lahemaa National Park seem straight out of a fairytale. Thriving Nordic cities, Soviet relics, and off-the-grid rural villages mean Estonia offers much beyond just its exquisite capital.

Georgia, The Country

Dramatic mountain vistas meet rich history and bold flavors in this tiny Caucasus country that feels anything but small. I could have spent days in the chaotic chic streets of Tbilisi, with its eclectic architecture, cozy cafés, and vibrant nightlife. Exploring hilltop citadels like Narikala Fortress overlooking the city gave insight into Georgia’s storied past.

Take Time to Explore

A side trip to Kazbegi took me deeper into the soaring Caucasus peaks, where views stretch forever. And with culinary treasures like khachapuri cheese bread and dark amber wines made in clay vessels, Georgia tantalized all my senses.

Often overlooked compared to its popular neighbors, Malawi gave me glimpses into untouched Africa. I was endlessly awed by the scale and beauty of Lake Malawi, where I snorkeled with colorful cichlids and watched the sun sink into the vast waters.

Lush mountains, thundering waterfalls, and boulder-strewn landscapes at spots like Mulanje Massif and Nyika National Park exemplified the country’s untamed natural splendor.

A Safari is a Must

Spotting elephants, zebras, and antelope on safari in reserves like Liwonde showed Malawi’s wildlife wonders. And the welcoming people, known as the “warm heart of Africa,” truly made me feel at home.

This Middle Eastern nation remains mysterious to many travelers but offers dramatic desert-scapes mixed with historic allure. Wandering amid the soaring dunes of Wahiba Sands, I felt miniscule surrounded by waves of burnt orange sand. Nights spent bedouin-style under a canopy of stars in the silent desert are unforgettable. Coasting down massive dunes while sandboarding and riding camels added exhilaration.

See All Its Beauty

The labyrinthine souks and towering fortress in Nizwa provide a glimpse into Oman’s storied past at the crossroads of trade routes, with verdant wadis, picturesque fishing villages, and luxury resorts as well, Oman dazzles.

Though this small Central African country still conjures memories of its troubled past, it has emerged as a beacon of hope, resilience, and natural beauty. Trekking through a dense jungle and coming face-to-face with a mountain gorilla family was incredibly humbling. Their human-like expressions and familial interactions left a profound impact.

Don’t Miss Their National Parks

Equally moving was exploring the hopeful energy of Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. The residents’ spirit and optimism after the country’s darkest days are inspiring. For exammple, Akagera National Park and idyllic inland lakes complete the picture of a destination defined by so much more than its history.

From the bustling capital Dakar to remote tropical islands, this West African gem remains off most travelers and travel advisors ‘ maps but has quickly become one of my favorite destinations. Strolling Dakar’s lively beaches and markets, I was struck by the creative arts scene and welcoming spirit.

Taking a ferry to Gorée Island and touring its sobering slave trade sites allowed reflection on Senegal’s role in the global African diaspora. Lazy days spent island hopping to spots like Île de N’Gor, with its wild beaches and hip fishing villages, showed Senegal’s laidback side. At the same time, national parks like Niokolo-Koba offered a look at exotic wildlife.

Few places pack such diversity into a compact country. I was entranced by Sri Lanka’s intoxicating blend of breathtaking beaches, ancient cities, and jungle wilds. Climbing the towering rock citadel of Sigiriya and surveying lush green plains below made me feel on top of the world.

Observing elephants and leopards in their natural habitat in parks like Yala renewed my appreciation for these endangered species. And experiences like learning the intricacies of tea production in the lush highland plantations connected me with the country’s rich traditions. Sri Lanka’s magic stems from its variety.

This Central Asian nation still feels undiscovered, given its wealth of history, architecture, and culture. Exploring the intricate blue-tiled palaces and mosques in storied Silk Road cities like Samarkand and Bukhara transported me to another time. I could have spent days getting lost in the maze-like bazaars.

Equally memorable was encountering Uzbek hospitality while sampling mouthwatering plov lamb pilaf and fragrant green teas in family-run cafés or while staying in local guesthouses. With desert fortresses, Soviet monuments, and expansive landscapes as well, Uzbekistan offers adventure beyond expectation.

Lonely Planet’s 50 Best Places to Travel in 2024

Wanderlust is here, and it’s not going anywhere. 64% of global travelers say they’ll reduce other areas of their personal spending to prioritize trips in 2024. If you’re still searching for a fantastic vacation spot for next year, stop looking.

Lonely Planet’s vast network of local travel experts, writers, and publishing partners named the most sought-after destinations of 2024 across five key categories. Each category features ten destinations chosen for their topicality, unique experiences, ‘wow’ factor, and ongoing commitment to sustainability and community.

The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2024 Unveiled

Travelers Beware: The 8 Most Common Travel Scams Around The World

A shocking 52% of Americans surveyed by Scams.info have either lost money to travel scams or know someone who has, with the average amount lost totaling $380. So keep your money in your pocket by preparing to face these most common scams targeting tourists around the world.

Chris Sky is a 28-year-old travel writer based in New York City. He writes about his experiences exploring over 50 countries around the world. When he's not traveling, he's writing, or photographing the beauty of the world. Chris wants to inspire others to travel and experience the world for themselves.

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The 14 most underrated travel destinations in Europe

As many places across the continent battle with overtourism, these overlooked destinations are waiting to be explored

It goes almost without saying that Europe is full of incredible places. But a lot of those places are also kind of obvious.  Barcelona , Venice ,  Amsterdam , the Amalfi Coast… yes, they’re amazing. But the problem is that everyone and their mums want to go there, meaning many of the continent’s capitals, cultural hubs and beauty spots are majorly overcrowded and eye-wateringly expensive. Some of these major travel destinations have even started  saying that they want tourists to stay away .

But for every place that’s bursting at the seams with visitors, there are a host that are unfairly overlooked: places where you can spend hours and not see another tourist, or at least low-key alternatives to the regular holiday hotspots. So here’s what we’re suggesting: this summer, save yourself the neck crane trying to glimpse the Mona Lisa. Skip the Vatican queues. Step out of the Sagrada Família crowds – and travel to some of the continent’s lesser-known destinations.

From the Balkans to the Baltics, from the North Atlantic sea to the Adriatic coast, we’ve tapped up seasoned travel writers and local experts to uncover Europe’s underrated cities, islands, regions, beaches, towns, lakes – and everything in between.

Looking to venture outside of Europe? Read our guide to the most underrated destinations in the world .

RECOMMENDED: 🏰 The   best city breaks in Europe 💘 The   most romantic places in the world 🚞 The ultimate three-week Europe train itinerary

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Europe’s most underrated travel destinations

1.  faroe islands.

When you think of an island paradise, the rocky, weather-beaten Faroe Islands probably aren’t exactly what comes to mind. But brave the elements and you’ll be rewarded with pinch-me-I’m-dreaming views around every corner: tumbling waterfalls, grassy slopes, quaint towns and towering mountains. Six of the archipelago’s 18 islands are connected by tunnels, making this an ideal road-trip destination . Buckle up for a land where sheep rule the roads, pyramid-shaped peaks offer abundant hiking and seabirds, seals and whales are common sights along the coastline.

2.  Tartu, Estonia

One of the three European Capitals of Culture of 2024, Tartu is the creative, intellectual centre of the Baltics, where city life revolves around its prestigious seventeenth-century university. Wander the streets on the lookout for lively cafés and experimental architecture: the National Archives blends Nordic and Baltic influences with a postmodern exterior, while Snail Tower’s Neolithic-inspired spiral top and irregular windows will catch your eye. In the summer, outdoor festivals take over the city, including Tartuff, a festival dedicated to romantic films, and the IDeeJazz festival. In December, a whole ‘Christmas City’ comes to town, brightening up dark nights with twinkling glass huts and ice rinks.

3.  Pamukkale, Turkey

Pamukkale, neighbour to the ancient Roman spa city Hierapolis, is a town known for the mineral-rich thermal waters flowing down white travertine terraces on a hillside. The Unesco World Heritage Site is made out of luminescent, snowy limestone, naturally formed over thousands of years. Its Turkish name fittingly translates to ‘cotton castle’. Travellers can take a dip in the travertine pools, walk around and take in the wonder, or hop on a hot air balloon ride for an even more breathtaking view. While in town, you might also want to stop by some of Pamukkale’s Roman ruins, including the well-preserved amphitheatre and the antique Roman pool.

4.  Ponza, Italy

An offshore beach playground for Romans escaping the capital in the summer, Ponza has somehow flown under the radar as international travellers flock to the more well-known Italian isles of Capri, Sicily and Sardinia . More fool them. Life on this five-mile rocky island is ruled by the water: swimmers take to natural pools and dip into ancient grottoes; sunbathers fill sandy beaches in crescent-shaped coves; diners enjoy fresh seafood at harbourfront restaurants (you can almost feel the sea lapping at your toes at Cala Feola’s La Marina, where tables are splayed over the rocks in low tide). Ponza is only a ferry ride away from Rome or Naples – though you’ll enjoy a much shorter journey from the coastal city of Terracina, another of Italy ’s overlooked seaside destinations.

5.  Ullapool, Scotland

Despite only being home to a population of 1,500, this tiny village in the Scottish Highlands has a surprising amount to offer. You can lap up the gorgeous scenery at nearby Corrieshalloch Falls, scramble up Stac Pollaidh mountain – or even hop on a ferry to the Outer Hebrides. After all of that fresh air, you’ll probably want to warm up in one of the town’s many cosy pubs, or tuck into its seriously booming food scene. The Seafood Shack serves up some of the freshest langoustines you’ll ever eat, while The Dipping Lugger , a new restaurant on the shores of Loch Broom, already has 3AA Rosettes and spotlights local produce. Our tip: while you’re there, tune into radio station Lochbroom FM for a taste of local life.

6.  Albanian Riviera

Beyond the towering communist hotels in the Albanian beach cities of Durrës, Sarandë, and Vlorë lie unspoilt seaside towns, accessible via vertiginous mountain roads that hug the Adriatic coastline. Among them is the semi-abandoned village of old Qeparo, its picturesque white-stone buildings serving as remnants of the past and glimpses into the future. After most of the villagers left for Italy in the ’90s, Albanians are slowly returning to renovate dilapidated buildings into family homes and boutique guesthouses like Villa Rustic or Las Villas de Qeparo . The sea here is remarkably clean and swimmable even in winter. Don’t miss the Karavasta Lagoon, a coastal national park and haven for pelicans and rare wildlife. Further south, between Vlorë and Sarandë, is Tragjas Vlorë: a fishing town ringed by hills and hiking trails. Try mountain cuisine cooked over an open fire at guesthouse Sofra e Vjeter .

7.  Vilnius, Lithuania

This tiny Baltic capital is celebrating its 700th anniversary in 2023, so this is an ideal time to discover the city’s fascinating and often tumultuous history. Start on Gediminas Hill, named for the city’s founder, and take in views across the Old Town. Next, head down towards the dazzling Gate of Dawn, a mark of the time Lithuania was Catholicised on its unification with Poland (together, they formed one of Europe’s biggest states). The Station District, meanwhile, bears the influence of the Russian Empire. And all over the city, but especially further south, Soviet buildings make for an eerie reminder of the region’s dark recent past. These days, many of them – from clubs Kablys and Loftas to prison-turned-cultural space Lukiškės 2.0 – offer the best nightlife this side of Berlin . Here’s to 700 more years (but with less war, please).

8.  Imotski Lakes, Croatia

Across most of the Dalmatian hinterland that separates Croatia from Bosnia and Herzegovina, you’ll only find goats and old locals wandering the barren terrain. Interrupting this moon-like landscape, two bright lakes are each named after their water colour, fringing the solitary yet thriving town of Imotski. Visitors arrive by car or bus to swim in the Blue Lake (Modro Jezero), a deep sinkhole whose azure waters reach 90 metres in spring, but only a few feet in summer. Nearby, the Red Lake (Crveno Jezero) is admired from above, the rusty-reddish hues reflecting the iron oxides discolouring the sheer cliff faces. Tourist rentals and modest restaurants attest to Imotski’s growing popularity.

9.  Birmingham, England

The UK ’s second-biggest city is shaking off the dust of its industrial image. Go beyond the shopping centres, museums and bars of the city centre and discover a place of surprising beauty: we’re talking leafy strolls along a disused railway route on the Chad Valley walk, towering conifers and sweeping city views at ‘the Lickeys’, the quaint Quaker village of Bournville – and, of course, miles and miles of picturesque canals. A good walk calls for a great meal afterwards, and in Birmingham you’re spoiled for choice. The city has more Michelin stars than any UK city outside London , and buzzy neighbourhoods like Stirchley and Moseley boom with independent restaurants (we recommend Stirchley’s compact, women-run Verbena ). It’s certainly no surprise to Brummies that their beloved city was crowned the country’s most exciting foodie destination by the Good Food Guide 2022.

10.  Dordrecht, Netherlands

As historic and picturesque as the centre of Amsterdam , but with nothing like as many tourists, Dordrecht is the perfect spot for a bite-size Dutch city break. Perched on a broad bend in the Oude Maas river, its medieval harbour is chocolate-box pretty. There are Old Masters aplenty at the venerable Dordrechts Museum and indie shops and restaurants along the lovely stretch of Groenmarkt, while the culture hub of Energiehuis and the garden restaurant at Villa Augustus (a cool hotel in a converted water tower) are well worth the short stroll from the city centre. And if you’re here for long enough to skip town, the Netherlands’ biggest national park – the Biesbosch – is right on the doorstep and easy to reach on an idyllic half-day boat trip.

11.  Extremadura, Spain

In a country known for its beaches , it's difficult for an inland destination to stand out – especially one without any major cities. That’s why you  probably haven’t heard of, much less visited, the western region of Extremadura, on the Portuguese border. It might be miles from the sea, but it’s far from barren – in fact, Extremadura boasts the longest freshwater coastline of any Spanish region, and you can even hit the beach at Isla del Zújar. Spot Iberian pigs roaming around sprawling dehesa woodlands; explore three biosphere nature reserves and a Unesco-recognised geo-park; and discover the region’s heritage sites, including the ancient Roman amphitheatre of Mérida and the enchanting historic district of Cáceres. And then there’s the food: hearty migas , local cheeses, the humble patatera sausage and local cava from Almendralejo. Extremadura truly has it all… except for hordes of tourists.

12.  Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Banja Luka is the capital of Republika Srpska, the lesser-visited Serbian entity of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The lack of tourist traffic means you can admire the Orthodox Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and Ferhadija Mosque at your leisure. Each strikingly rebuilt post-conflict, they form part of a relaxed sightseeing agenda spanning 2,000 years, factoring in the panoramic Roman fortress Kastel and Habsburg façades. Lively café terraces abound, carnivores will have a field day at the many Balkan restaurants, and the hotel stock includes a top-floor pool and a landmark dating back to 1885 . Affordability underscores all areas of hospitality, and despite the lack of international visitors, English-speaking staff are a common feature.

13.  Lake Annecy, France

A speedy, affordable and direct train ride from Paris , the mountainous shores of Lake Annecy are a tempting alternative to the heaving coastline of the French Riviera . After all, who needs the sea when you’ve got the clean, clear, ultra-refreshing waters of an Alpine lake to swim in? The views are also spectacular, especially from the grassy ‘beaches’ at Talloires and Menthon-Saint-Bernard. And if the weather turns cloudy, no problem – just spend a few hours poking around the supremely pretty town of Annecy. It feels like a crazy blend of France , Switzerland and Venice : lakeside gardens, medieval alleyways and canals, and a serious penchant for melted cheese.

14.  Matera, Italy

The city of Matera is a masterclass in reinvention.  One of the oldest Italian settlements, with recent recognition as a Unesco World Heritage site, its peculiar but haunting beauty sits apart from the Amalfi Coast or Naples , three hours away. Carved into rocky mountains in Italy’s southern Basilicata region, Matera was once considered the shame of the country due to the poverty-stricken conditions of its cave-dwelling inhabitants. Now, the serpentine, tumbling town is split into two districts filled with unique exhibition spaces in caves, rock churches, boutique hotels and restaurants. Go back in time in the cavernous, cat-filled old town, see why modern filmmakers find Matera a muse, or soak up the skyline at the Belvedere Pascoli lookout. History is built into the limestone layers of Sassi di Matera, the atmospheric cave dwellings that make up one of Italy ’s most extraordinary destinations.

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36 Incredible Under-The-Radar Destinations Around The World, According To Travel Lovers

Some of these destinations look surreal.

BuzzFeed Staff

There are certain destinations like London, Paris , and Tokyo that draw in huge flocks of tourists...and for good reason. But there are also plenty of under-the-radar destinations that are full of culture, adventure, amazing food, and life-changing experiences.

So redditor u/nuclearwintergames asked "what is an underrated travel destination that you would highly recommend " the responses were plentiful and intriguing. here are some to consider for your next getaway., 1. northern greece.

"Everyone travels to the Greek islands and doesn't really spend time on the mainland, but regions in Northern Greece like Halkidiki are very nice too! And the mainland has a fairly overlooked repertoire of wildlife preserves." — u/Pontios93

"I'm an ancient historian and have spent plenty of time in Greece. The north is overlooked and has some real treasures. It also feels worlds away from the islands. I particularly love Meteora: pictures can't capture how beautiful it is." — u/Deirdre_Rose

2. The south of Chile, from Valdivia to Punta Arenas

"IMHO, Chile is probably the most underrated travel destination on the planet. It feels like an enchanted forest from a fantasy novel." — u/Plantayne

"Chiloé Island in Chile." — u/JzOzuna

3. Nicaragua

"It's incredibly beautiful and very inexpensive. It's often compared to Costa Rica.'" — u/sHockz

4. North Wales, UK

"It has the Snowdon Mountains and so many small steam railways." — u/FarPension2

"Plus excellent cheese and great hikes." — u/matty77

5. Taipei, Taiwan

"It's my favorite city in Asia: a great mix of traditional Chinese culture with Japanese and US influences. There's fantastic food (especially great street food at the night markets). It's modern enough to be convenient, but not expensive. It's big enough to have lots to do, but small enough to be manageable and not overwhelming. And the people are friendly, open, and helpful." — u/gotthelowdown

6. Tallinn, Estonia

"Any of the Baltic states really, but Estonia is an absolutely delightful place. It's super affordable, easy to navigate, the capital city Tallinn is so beautiful and clean, the coast is lovely, the people are friendly, and the food is delicious. I absolutely loved our trip there and it would be a great base camp if you want to check out the nearby countries of Finland, Norway, and Denmark." — u/missluluh

7. The Southern Uplands, Scotland

"Most tourists bypass the south of Scotland and head right to the Highlands, so the Southern Uplands tend to be quieter and less touristy." — u/Steamboat_Willey

8. Maastricht, Netherlands

"Maastricht is a train ride from Amsterdam. I visited on a whim, and it ended up being my favorite part of my trip."— u/no_booms

"Amsterdam is fabulous, but so expensive and crowded. Smaller towns like Haarlem, Alkmaar, Amersfoort, Leiden are equally as beautiful." — u/quintinaturnip

9. Great Basin National Park, Nevada

"It’s known for stargazing and is the least visited state park." — u/_manicpixie

10. Bulgaria

"A lot of people don't realize it's right above Greece, so the climate and food are somewhat similar. It's cheap to stay, eat, and drink, plus it's very safe." — u/coreytrevor

11. Lima, Peru

"I hear so many people say skip Lima or only spend a day there. The historic downtown is gorgeous and it’s on the coast with plenty of beaches. Plus, the food and people are awesome. I spent 4 days there and still wish I had more time." — u/Ninjadwarf00

12. Olympic National Park, Washington

"It's definitely one of the more underrated spots in the US. It's a rainforest in the Pacific northwest and has great hiking, lodges, lakes, etc. ... It's a one-of-a-kind environment in the States." — u/MaizeNBlueWaffle

13. Brazil, beyond Rio de Janeiro

"If you come to Brazil, visit Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Jalapão, Bonito, Chapada dos Veadeiros, or Alter do Chão. All are much less known than Rio and amazing." — u/Intelligent-Newt1925

14. The Azores, Portugal

"They are Portuguese islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. I spent three weeks there island hopping and the city of Furnas on São Miguel was magical." — u/godless-life

15. Lombok, Indonesia

"I enjoyed the time I spent in Bali, but I really loved Lombok, which is only one island over. It felt more affordable and more authentic." u/assynclassy

16. Sicily, Italy

"You get great food, sun, great beaches, beautiful mountains and forests, culture, and history in the form of ancient Greek temples and cities. Unlike many parts of Italy, it's not full of tourists." — u/EnvironmentalAd2655

"Sicily is gorgeous and the food is out of this world. You get to experience a culture that has been inspired by the Italians, Greeks, Normans, Romans, Ottomans, and Spanish. There are beaches, skiing, and Mt. Etna is one of the best wine regions in Europe." — u/RNae75

17. Slovenia

"Everyone goes to Croatia, but I loved Slovenia. Triglav is super beautiful. I never made it to Ljubljana, but I can't wait to go back." — u/d_-_-__p

"I went on the recommendation of an old flatmate who was blown away. Absolutely stunning scenery and an excellent holiday destination if you like the outdoors." — u/beckylou67

18. Bratislava

"A lot of people traveling through this part of Europe tend to skip it and go straight to Vienna, Prague, and/or Budapest, but I recommend stopping in Bratislava for a day or two. It's really cheap, the old town is cozy, the food is excellent, and the view from Hrad is amazing." — u/edwinodesseiron

19. Canada, beyond the major cities

"Canada is a very travel-friendly place, but it isn't such a common destination. We have sprawling coniferous forests, prairies, Red Creek Fir forests, tundra, and more. Don't spend all your time in Toronto or Ottawa and explore the more undiscovered parts." — u/Prudent-Pop1856

"The Banff area is out of this world. St. John’s — one of the oldest cities in Canada — is culturally beautiful. If you like urban travel, Canada's cities are very cool." — u/Justin-The-Asian

20. Brussels

"It was an afterthought when I was planning a trip to Europe, but it was my favorite place on a vacation that also included Reykjavik, Dublin, Athens, Rome, and Helsinki." — u/Rance_Mulliniks

21. Castile and León, Spain

"This country is way more than sun and beaches. Inland (like in Salamanca), you'll find history, castles, good food, nice people, and affordable travel." — u/ruloreddit

22. Osaka, Japan

"People tend to only visit Tokyo and Kyoto, but Osaka shouldn't be overlooked. It's a big city like Tokyo, but with a much longer history. It's located smack dab in the middle of the Kansai region, the historical cultural center of Japan. It's known to be more fun and laid back, and I think there's some truth to that. It's also the culinary capital of Japan, a must-visit for all foodies." — u/CaptainNomihodai

"I was so pleasantly surprised by how beautiful this country is. I road-tripped and every city was very beautiful and had a unique history. Poland has something for everyone, whether you're looking for culture or to party. The mountains are also beautiful with great hiking. Prices are very affordable, especially if you come from a Western country." — u/towapi

24. Sakhalin Island, Russia

"I almost don't want to tell people because I don't want it to be spoiled by tourists." — u/RasaBeseline

25. Van, Turkey

"It's a really remote place with lake and mountain views. It's a must-visit for tranquility seekers." — u/lt__

26. The Black Hills and Badlands, South Dakota

"It's almost like something out of a fantasy novel. Especially Sylvan Lake." — u/MaxemSI

27. Quissico, Mozambique

"The country is extremely beautiful, especially Quissico, the capital of the Zavala District." — u/pristine_coconut

28. Adelaide, Australia

"Think: stunning wineries, a beautiful coast, and a vibrant food scene. The city itself is absolutely stunning and the locals are so friendly. There's just as much to do in Adelaide as there is in Melbourne or Sydney." — u/Gretchenmeows

29. Dorset, UK

"I’m from the Jurassic Coast and we have plenty of places to camp or glamp, plus lots of seaside hotels surrounded by miles of beach. There's an abandoned ghost village, an old castle, and New Forest in the county of Hampshire." — u/Angrypenguinwaddle96

30. Lassen Volcanic National Park, California

"Beat the tourists and go to Lassen instead of Yosemite. It's beautiful, uncrowded, and absolutely incredible. The ecosystem and landscape are totally unique." — u/Cody_97K

31. Viana Do Castello, Portugal

"It's about an hour north of Porto, and it was one of my favorite places in the country." — u/squiidlees

32. Emilia-Romagna, Italy

"Bologna is fairly well known, but the smaller cities are incredible. Check out Parma, Modena, Reggio Emilia, Rimini, Ravenna, Ferrara, and Piacenza. Each is truly unique and not over-crowded. Plus, they boast some of the best food cultures in the world." — u/centaurquestions

33. San Cristobal de las Casas, Mexico

"It is located in Southern Mexico, but nowhere near the ocean. It's a mountain town with cute shops, great food, and history. From there, you can visit ruins and beautiful waterfalls. It's also far cheaper than touristy places like Cancun." — u/psychologicalfuntime

34. Northern Bali

"Most people visit the south for the beach, but the north side of the island is breathtaking. There are many ancient temples, few tourists, crafts markets, and great, cheap food." — u/WhereIsMyFox

35. Montreal, Canada

"If you want a French experience but not the price tag, go here. From the northeastern US, a trip to Montreal is a cheap and quick way to scratch an international travel itch." — u/greeperfi

36. Albania

"The northern part is filled with beautiful landscapes and mountain ranges, and the south has beaches with crystal blue water. You can find incredibly nice resorts and hotels to stay at for very affordable prices. The people are extremely welcoming and the hospitality is great." — u/Handsomeclooney

Have you visited an underrated destination you would recommend to other travelers? Tell us in the comments below!

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Where to travel in 2024, without crowds

12 destinations across italy, japan, mexico and more to add to your travel wish list.

We made it through January, which means it’s time to put away resolutions you won’t keep and nurture the habit that will stick: more travel.

Health and wellness experts have determined that taking multiple vacations a year is beneficial to your overall well-being. To actually decompress, though, you’ll want to go somewhere with room to breathe. Crowds have clogged up Paris , Rome and Tokyo , especially in the high seasons.

To plan a trip away from the pack, we asked industry experts for their favorite under-the-radar destinations. We also considered our collective travels, putting a premium on opportunities to spot wildlife, sample local cooking, relax by the water and commune with nature.

(Shutterstock)

Bracciano, Italy

Italy remains one of the most desirable destinations for Americans, meaning popular spots (Rome, the Amalfi Coast, Lake Como) will stay crowded and expensive. Enter Lake Bracciano, a picturesque place that has fallen off Americans’ radars since Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes got married there in 2006. “You have this really, really rich medieval and Renaissance history, but nobody goes there,” said Rome-based cookbook author and tour guide Katie Parla . You can get to Bracciano easily from Rome in about an hour and change.

Don’t miss: Viterbo, another overlooked gem, is about 30 miles north of Bracciano — or take a direct train from Rome in two hours or less. “It is just a vast, beautiful, haunted, magical, medieval city,” Parla said.

A sunny day on Lake Bracciano near Rome.

Fukui , Japan

If the past few months are any indication, tourism in Japan could surpass pre-pandemic levels in 2024. To escape the urban sprawl and see one of the most spiritual parts of the country, go to Fukui. Naomi Mano, president and chief executive of the Tokyo-based travel company Luxurique , says the city is a destination for temples , onsens (hot spring baths), art and food (specifically Echizen crab ). With a new bullet train line set to open in March , travelers can get to Fukui from Tokyo in about three hours.

Don’t miss: Mano sends visitors to Eiheiji Temple , one of the most important sites for Zen Buddhists. “It’s the temple where all of the Zen monks go to train to become higher monks,” she said.

Eiheiji Temple is an important site for Zen Buddhists monks in training.

Asheville, N.C.

Asheville has achieved the tricky balance of staying down to earth while catering to refined tastes. Restaurants in the western North Carolina city are regulars on the James Beard Awards circuit. Two of its breweries medaled in last year’s World Beer Cup . Independent hotels in repurposed buildings, such as Zelda Dearest , the Radical and the Flat Iron , are opening at a steady clip. Yet, whenever you wish to return to Asheville’s roots, take a walk in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Don’t miss: The mile-long Asheville Black Cultural Heritage Trail , which encompasses three neighborhoods, introduces visitors to pillars of the community, such as Alderman Newton Shepard, a formerly enslaved man who in 1882 became the city’s first Black person to win an election .

Diners and tourists outside the French Broad Chocolate Lounge near Pack Square in Asheville.

Dhërmi, Albania

Over the past few years, Albania has been quietly heating up as Europe’s next big beach spot. Clear water, rugged coast and affordable accommodations all call out to tourists. And unlike some of its Balkan neighbors, “it is untouched,” said Ema, the anonymous Albanian travel journalist who runs the award-winning magazine and Instagram account Ema’s Light . Rent a car and head to the Albanian Riviera, where you’ll find a constellation of small towns with perfect beaches, such as Dhërmi.

Don’t miss: The capital city of Tirana is a must-visit worth at least two to three days of your trip for its restaurants and history, Ema says.

The Dhërmi Beach at Dhërmi, Albania.

Popayán, Colombia

This UNESCO City of Gastronomy is full of restaurants, outdoor markets and street vendors. Two points of pride in the traditional cuisine are empanadas stuffed with pipián — a puree of potatoes, peanuts and spices — and desamargado valluno , a dessert made from candied fruit peels. The capital of the Cauca state is also known as “La Ciudad Blanca” because of its bone-white buildings.

Don’t miss : Daniel Buitrón Jaramillo of Colombia Ecotravel recommends Mora Castilla , a small cafe in the historic center, for classic empanaditas and champús, a drink made of pineapple, maize and tart lulo fruit.

View of the Cathedral Basilica Our Lady of the Assumption in Popayán, Colombia, in the morning.

(Martin Zwick/Getty Images)

(Robert Harding/Shutterstock)

Orkney Islands, Scotland

The Orkney Islands are more uninhabited than occupied, at least by humans. Of these 70 isles off the northern coast of Scotland, less than two dozen are developed. Gray seals outnumber people by several hundred, and flocks of puffins, guillemots and seaweed-grazing sheep dot the rocky coastlines. Papa Westray , one of the smaller Orkneys, boasts some 60 archaeological sites, and North Ronaldsay lights up at night as a Dark Sky Island .

Don’t miss: The Heart of Neolithic Orkney , part of Scotland’s UNESCO Trail, is a collection of ancient sites that includes a domestic settlement with stone furnishings and the Stones of Stenness, a henge of upright monuments standing nearly 20 feet tall.

Standing Stones of Stenness, part of the UNESCO World Heritage site Heart of Neolithic Orkney.

Isla Holbox, Mexico

Holbox heals what ails so much of Mexico’s resort-heavy Yucatán Peninsula. The 26-mile-long island north of Cancún does not have traffic, because of a car ban, or high rises, because of building height restrictions. The main form of transportation is bike or golf cart on dirt roads. To cross from the mainland, visitors must take a 25-minute ferry from Chiquilá (or a private jet). Holbox, which means “Black Box” in the Mayan language, is part of the Yum Balam reserve. One of its biggest return guests is the whale shark.

Don’t miss : On moonless nights, head to Punta Cocos Beach to swim or paddle with bioluminescent plankton that illuminate the water like hundreds of fairy lights.

No cars are allowed on Isla Holbox in Mexico.

The S chist Villages , Portugal

Tucked into mountainsides, through scenic valleys and snaking rivers, the Schist Villages (or Aldeias do Xisto, in Portuguese) is a network of 27 quaint towns. The villages — which date back to the 12th century and are named after the stone with which they were built — are particularly popular with hikers , bikers and nature lovers. You’ll find accommodations for all budgets, with luxury properties, such as the Casas do Côro in Marialva, and the Cerdeira Home for Creativity , a collection of nine restored Schist houses for rent.

Don’t miss: Lisbon-based journalist and food researcher Miguel Andrade says Talasnal is a highlight in the lush Lousã mountain region. Try one of his favorite Portuguese dishes, chanfana, a goat stew traditionally cooked with red wine in a clay pot over an open fire.

The view over the Piodão schist medieval mountain village in Portugal.

Tairawhiti Gisborne, New Zealand

Destination: Gisborne, the largest town in the North Island’s Tairawhiti Gisborne region, is advertised as the first spot in the world to greet the sunrise. No wonder so many surfers rise early to catch some of the best waves in the country. The East Coast area is steeped in Maori culture. The Tairawhiti Museum holds a vast collection of Indigenous art, including stonework, textiles and painted panels. The 2.5-mile Tupapa Heritage Trail is paved with history, landmarks and legends that Maori storytellers summon to life on the Tupapa app.

Don’t miss: Start the day atop Maunga Hikurangi, the sacred mountain of the Ngati Porou people where nine wood carvings of Maui and his whanau (family) bear witness to the rising sun.

Wood carvings of Maui and his family stand on the sacred mountain Maunga Hikurangi in Gisborne, New Zealand.

(Jennifer M. Ramos/Getty Images)

(Christine Wehrmeier/Getty Images)

(Afriandi/Getty Images)

Fredericksburg, Tex.

Swimming holes. Wide-open spaces. Funky towns and burgeoning wineries. The Texas Hill Country screams road trip. Consider Fredericksburg for its German-Texas heritage (with beer gardens and Bavarian fare galore), says Austin-based travel journalist Pam LeBlanc. The town is known for its peaches and its National Museum of the Pacific War , plus a slew of mom-and-pop boutiques and restaurants. The chic Albert Hotel is opening this year, or you can camp in Pedernales Falls State Park, where LeBlanc loves taking a dip in the cypress-lined river.

Don’t miss: Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is 17 miles north of Fredericksburg, “where you can hike to the top of a huge dome of pink granite or go rock climbing,” LeBlanc said in an email.

The pink dome of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a draw for hikers and climbers.

Toledo District, Belize

For a Caribbean escape far from crowds, head to the southernmost district of Belize. “There is a lot to do,” Belizean birding guide Roni Martinez said, such as exploring waterfalls, caves and large rainforest reserves, and learning about the mix of people who have made Toledo home, including Maya and East Indian communities.

Don’t miss: As most of Toledo has rocky shores, Martinez recommends taking a boat tour to nearby islands — such as the Port Honduras Marine Reserve — for “picture-perfect” white-sand beaches.

A waterfall in Rio Blanco National Park in the Toledo District of Belize.

Sumba, Indonesia

Bali may be the most well-known of Indonesia’s thousands of islands, but it’s not the only one worth visiting. With new hotels and a population of wild horses that gallop across golden beaches, Sumba comes highly recommended by Catherine Heald, chief executive of the Asia-focused luxury tour operator Remote Lands . Beyond Sumba’s lush hillsides and surfable turquoise water, the island boasts beautiful thatched-roof architecture.

Don’t miss: Consider a side quest to Komodo National Park , home to some 5,700 of its titular dragons as well as world-class scuba diving. You can fly or sail to the UNESCO World Heritage site.

An aerial view of Wainyapu village in Sumba, Indonesia.

About this story

Editing by Gabe Hiatt . Design and development by Katty Huertas . Design editing by Christine Ashack . Photo editing by Lauren Bulbin . Copy editing by Jamie Zega .

Where to go

Our favorite destinations: In 2023, we explored an Alaskan bear paradise, Brooklyn’s famous pizzerias and a hidden gem in Italy, among other highlights . Traveler extraordinaire Rick Steves gave us this hot tip: don’t skip Europe’s second cities .

Travel like a local: Residents share their favorite places in our top city guides: New Orleans , Rome , Tokyo and Mexico City .

National parks: This comprehensive guide has details on all 63 U.S. national parks. For a deep dive into five of the most well-known, you can listen to the Field Trip podcast . Then explore tips from locals for visiting Yosemite , Glacier and Everglades .

Tales from the road: Dolly Parton has opened a new resort at her theme park complex in Tennessee, while “Fixer Upper” stars Chip and Joanna Gaines have a new hotel in Waco . Road-trippers may be just as excited to see the cartoon beaver at Buc-ee’s , and bargain-hunters should consider a stop at the Unclaimed Baggage store in Scottsboro, Ala.

12 underrated summer travel destinations for 2024

Planning a summer vacation can be tricky, right? Do you stick with the same tried-and-true destinations you've loved in the past, brave the crowds on a European adventure or head somewhere with cooler weather to escape the summer heat ?

If you're looking to visit a destination that's a little more under the radar in the summer months, there are plenty of incredible options to consider both here in the U.S. and abroad.

Related: Summer travel checklist: 11 things to do now to make your trip great

In Europe, swap out the throngs of tourists characteristic of the region's most-visited cities for charming destinations like canal-filled Hamburg, Germany, and Norway, where majestic fjords await you. Everyone seems to be going to Tokyo right now, but the northern island of Hokkaido has plenty to offer. And stateside, summer is a great time to head north to Oregon's stunning wine region, the coast of Maine or somewhere in between.

Whatever type of vacation you're looking for, these underrated destinations might just be your new summer go-to.

Alesund, Norway

Norway is an ideal place to visit during the summer months, especially if you hope to escape the heat. In Alesund, summer temperatures are usually below 70 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing for comfortable weather to explore the postcard-worthy town built in the art nouveau style. In fact, there's an entire museum dedicated to the town's architecture; the Art Nouveau Centre, or Jugendstilsenteret, explores how the people of Alesund rebuilt in this style after a devastating fire in 1904.

The town itself has plenty to do, from the Atlantic Ocean Park aquarium, where visitors can gaze at seals, penguins, fish and Norwegian crustaceans, to hiking to the top of Mount Aksla for the perfect photo op. It's also the perfect home base for visiting some of Norway's beautiful fjords, including the UNESCO-protected Geirangerfjord, which can be visited by various boat and land cruises before returning to rest at the Mr & Mrs Smith-affiliated Hotel Brosundet , a former fisherman's warehouse.

Willamette Valley, Oregon

Everybody already knows about California's popular wine regions, like Napa and Sonoma, but farther north, Oregon has its own incredible wine scene — and it's an especially nice place to visit in the summer months. To get there, fly into Portland and spend a few days taking in the city's vibrant culture and food scene with a few nights at the luxurious new Ritz-Carlton, Portland before journeying south to the quaint and charming towns that produce the state's most popular wines.

At The Allison Inn & Spa in Newberg, book a stay to be pampered at the spa and sleep in upscale accommodations in between wine tastings and vineyard tours at some of the over 500 wineries in the area. In McMinnville, about 30 minutes from the resort, you can spend a day tasting varieties of local pinot noir, the region's most famous export, at 20-plus tasting rooms when you're not shopping around the picture-prefect town and dining at popular restaurants like Hayward , a 2024 James Beard Award semifinalist for Best New Restaurant serving "new Northwest fare."

From late June, the Grange Estate at Dundee Hills will offer nine rustic-chic rooms right off the vineyards in Dundee alongside dining concepts from James Beard Award-nominated executive chef Chase Williams. (Note: To book the Grange Estate, you must sign up for the free-to-join Foley Food & Wine Society .)

Ljubljana, Slovenia

For a taste of European charm sans crowds, Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, should be on your must-visit list. Spend your trip roaming the storied streets of Ljubljana's Old Town or take in the scenes on a city cruise. History buffs should venture up on the funicular to Ljubljana Castle, dating back nearly 1,000 years, while the highly manicured Tivoli City Park is sure to impress all.

Root yourself at the InterContinental Ljubljana , where you can book rooms with IHG One Rewards points, or one of the city's many boutique hotels, and stay long enough to allow for a few day trips to places like scenic Lake Bled and the otherwordly caverns of Postojna Cave Park. Save time for dinner at Gric , a rustic-yet-elegant family-owned restaurant about 40 minutes from Ljubljana that earned one Michelin star.

Columbus, Ohio

A quick, easy and affordable summer vacation is waiting for you in Columbus, right in the heart of Ohio. Sure, it might not have the glamour of Los Angeles or the cosmopolitan energy of New York, but what it lacks in those ways it certainly makes up for with friendly people, family-friendly activities and lots of ways to get outdoors.

For families, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has a slew of creatures to visit, including polar bears, gorillas and red pandas, and throughout the summer, there's live music and craft beer on tap. Animal lovers can also go on a safari at The Wilds , an animal conservation center that offers open-air safaris to see rhinos, zebras, giraffes and cheetahs. If that's not enough, the 36,000-square-foot Legoland Discovery Center will keep kids and kids-at-heart entertained and engaged for hours.

Columbus is also home to great breweries and restaurants, various sporting teams and a historic German village. Last year, The Junto , an independent lifestyle hotel, opened its doors — and it's perfect for the trendy set. Meanwhile, Buckeyes fans will swoon over the Ohio State-themed Graduate Columbus .

Niseko, Japan

Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, might be famous for its epic winter sports conditions, but that doesn't mean it's a place you should avoid when there's no powder on the slopes. In the summer months, Hokkaido is the perfect place for some outdoor adventures combined with the best of Japanese culture.

In Niseko, points and miles enthusiasts can find great summer deals at a handful of hotels, including the Hilton Niseko Village , the Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono and the ultra-luxe Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve , which offers mountain-view rooms, a full-service spa and a Japanese onsen.

During the summer months, travelers to Niseko can spend days golfing, tree trekking, canyoning, zip lining, rafting or taking the summer gondola for views of the mountains in between mouthwatering meals at traditional izakays, some of the world's freshest sushi and intricate tea ceremonies.

Mendoza, Argentina

Since Argentina is in the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are flipped and the warm summer months in the U.S. are the colder winter months in Argentina. While the vineyards surrounding Mendoza, the epicenter of Argentina's wine country, might not be in bloom during a visit in June, July, August or September, they're still pleasant to experience this time of year.

Though wineries in the area are on the slower side when the temperatures drop, they're great to visit for a fireside wine tasting and learning more about the country's wine industry, even if you can't stroll through the vineyards themselves. Travelers can also take advantage of the beautiful Andes by going out horseback riding or taking a day trip to the nearby thermal springs.

In Mendoza, luxury hotels abound. Hyatt has its Category 4 Park Hyatt . Preferred Hotels-affiliated Entre Cielos Wine & Wellness Hotel provides a boutique experience with a hammam spa. And at SB Winemaker's House & Spa Suites , you'll find vinotherapeautic spa treatments.

For something totally different from summers up in the Northern Hemisphere, take advantage of the snow up in the mountains and plan an entire Argentinian ski trip to Mendoza resorts like Las Lenas and Los Penitentes.

Bozeman, Montana

People flock to Bozeman in winter to hit the slopes, but you shouldn't sleep on the southern Montana city's summer offerings. For folks who like to spend quality time outdoors, the city transforms into a summer wonderland complete with kayak trips down the Madison River via the Bozeman Kayak Company , white water rafting, zip lining, hiking, mountain biking and fly-fishing.

In August, take your Western experience to the next level by checking out the Bozeman Stampede , a full-fledged rodeo with bull riding. If you prefer something more tame, enjoy a calm horseback riding experience through scenic vistas.

The area's lodging game is strong, too, with larger ranches and resorts out in the countryside that can coordinate all sorts of Western-centric activities; consider Sage Lodge in Pray, Montana, (about 50 minutes by car from Bozeman) or Gallatin River Lodge (roughly 20 minutes from Bozeman). There are also more cosmopolitan hotels like the Kimpton Armory Hotel and plenty of smaller points hotels in the greater Bozeman area.

Hamburg, Germany

Venice, Italy, is absolutely brimming with tourists over the summer, so why not consider Hamburg, Germany, known as the "Venice of the North" thanks to its large systems of canals that travelers can experience on boats, instead?

Known for being Europe's second-largest port, Hamburg is a maritime city and home to the International Maritime Museum . But that's not the only popular museum to explore; others include Miniatur Wunderland (where the world's largest model railway and miniature replicas of famous towns reside), a chocolate museum and various art museums.

During summertime, Hamburg really comes to life, especially at its many beaches and beach clubs, where you can have your feet in the sand and a drink in your hand. It's also a great city for day trips, with many castles and historic mansions, like Ludwigslust Palace, not too far away. Summer is also full of festivals, including Spielbudenfestival , a festival for street performers and artists, in July and the International Summer Festival , which showcases live performance art like theater and dance throughout the city for three weeks in August.

As a major city, Hamburg offers many well-known hotel brands, including Fairmont , Westin , Le Meridian , Marriott and Autograph Collection .

Lexington, Kentucky

You don't have to love horses to love the "Horse Capital of the World," which also happens to be an incredible summer destination. However, if you do love horses, Lexington, Kentucky, and the surrounding area have plenty of places where you can get an up-close look at the majestic creatures, including the Kentucky Horse Park and various horse farms.

Lexington is also big on bourbon and has a handful of must-visit distilleries in town, like James E. Pepper Distilling Co. Some well-known distilleries, such as Woodford Reserve and Maker's Mark , are also not too far away. In fact, Kentucky has its very own Bourbon Trail, so you could plan an entire vacation around visiting the distilleries across the state.

You might already know that the late Queen Elizabeth II, an avid racehorse fan, visited horse farms around Lexington multiple times. But you might not know there's a hotel outside of Lexington that's inside a literal castle and fit for royalty. Called The Kentucky Castle , the property has 18 rooms and offers tours. If you'd rather stay somewhere in the center of town, the new luxury boutique hotel called The Manchester hits all the right notes.

Next year, Lexington will celebrate its 250th anniversary, so now's the time to visit before the party gets too crowded.

Jeju Island, South Korea

For people looking to spend some time in Asia this summer, Jeju Island in South Korea has something for every type of traveler: There are big-city happenings and cultural experiences, beautiful beaches and resorts, picturesque waterfalls, hiking and scuba diving opportunities, all-terrain-vehicle adventures and more. It really is a place where you can spend a day relaxing in nature and then live it up in the city by night.

One new and notable place to stay is the JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa near Seogwipo on the southern part of the island. Opened in 2023, the resort features modern rooms, a sleek infinity pool and an impressive signature restaurant called Island Kitchen, where international fare is on the menu.

In and around Seogwipo, you can trek out to see the lone Oedolgae Rock formation jutting out of the ocean, snorkel around the Hwanguji Coast in natural beach pools, visit Yakcheonsa Temple (one of the largest in Asia) and eat traditional Korean food and Jeju specialties.

Charlevoix, Quebec

One of Canada's most popular winter ski resort areas doubles as an incredible summer playground when the snow melts away each year, trading the white powder for sandy beaches and beautiful green mountainscapes.

Recently, Club Med opened its first all-inclusive ski resort in the area, Club Med Quebec Charlevoix , in the middle of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, making it easy to spend summer days hiking the lush trails or tackling them on mountain bikes, whale watching on the St. Lawrence River, horseback riding or just lounging at the hotel pool or spa. With the all-inclusive nature of the resort, rates cover your meals and drinks at two restaurants and three bars, so you can know exactly how much a vacation here will cost.

Outside of Club Med, there are a handful of other resorts and plenty of cabins and houses to rent. Just be sure to check out one of the most popular summer attractions: The Mechanical Bird at Le Massif de Charlevoix , which turns the ski resort's chairlifts into a dazzling light and sound experience at night. Opt to join a dinner show at the top or bottom to round out the experience.

This might sound a little wild, but depending on how you travel, Dubai in summer can actually be a pretty enjoyable experience despite the heat. For starters, because tourists typically avoid Dubai in the summer months, hotel rates often drop significantly, so you could stay at some world-class hotels — and take advantage of everything those hotels have to offer, like the spa, swimming pools and even beaches — for a fraction of the price.

Dubai is well aware of its heat and desert location, so there are many activities you can enjoy inside, including zipping down indoor ski slopes , shopping at the larger-than-life Dubai Mall, heading to the tippy top of the world's tallest building and scuba diving in the world's deepest pool. You can even make a day trip to Abu Dhabi to ride indoor roller coasters at Ferrari World .

Again, it may not be for everyone, but Dubai really is an indoor playground with the air conditioning cranked up high.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a first-time or frequent traveler
• Best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

The Most Underrated Travel Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List

If you’re craving adventure but don’t know where to roam, we can help! We’ve listed underrated destinations that are perfect for any travel bucket list!

Every once in a while when we travel, we can encounter vacation spots that we had high hopes for that in the end were just kind of “meh”. In these situations, you can usually make the best of it and always find something great about a place. 

As disappointing as that can feel, you also have the opposite experience in places. Whether you just haven’t taken the time to do much research (which I am very, very guilty of) so don’t really know what is there, or just never heard anything particularly great about a place, you may go there without many expectations and be absolutely floored by how absolutely amazing a place is! 

To make it a little easier to find some of these places that unexpectedly take your breath away, we have put together a list of the underrated travel destinations that should be on every intrepid travel bucket list. These are the places that wowed our socks off and we hope that you enjoy them as much as we did! Some of them may not be the most “popular” destinations that you see flooding your social media feeds or even be considered conventional tourist destinations but they all have something incredibly unique to offer you. 

We hope by the end of this, you are feeling inspired for your next adventure! Before you get on the road, don’t forget to check out our list of travel tips put together by our resident master traveler!

Find Hidden Gems in Cities Near or Far

Let’s Roam’s adventures are a fantastic way for travelers to see the sights in hundreds of cities. Our app-guided scavenger hunts include traditional tours, ghost hunts , art walks, and pub crawls . Discover little-known facts about landmarks and encourage friendly competition. Find your fun today!

The Most Underrated Travel Destinations

While travelers all around the world rush to tourist hotspots like Florida, New York, and California if they are sticking around the US or Portugal, Italy, Thailand, and Australia if they are looking for somewhere exotic, there are tons of destinations scattered around our beautiful planet that have just as much to offer visitors but with a fraction of the crowds which means you get to explore without the tourist rip-offs and scams, high price tags, and wannabe social media influencers that have made places like Iceland, Croatia, and Bali feel a bit “overdone”.

Although we still love these places and would hop on the first airplane heading there if we had the chance, some of the world’s most underrated travel destinations are beckoning and can really benefit from the economy of tourism—especially after the past year—while blowing us away with their natural and cultural attractions. This list is by no means complete and we could write for days about all the places that we love but hopefully, this gives you a small taste of what there is out there!

Lake Ohrid, Macedonia 

Covering an area of 134 square miles, this magnificent lake is the deepest lake in the Balkans and one of the oldest lakes in Europe. With serene (although very cold!) water and sandy beaches, it is a great spot for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. However, what makes this palace truly spectacular is the charming Old Town that lies along the shoreline complete with centuries-old buildings, cobblestone streets, and a whopping 365 churches. The lake and the town are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites which is pretty impressive and that’s not all. The lake is surrounded by mountains which gives active travelers a great place to hike and bike while culture vultures will drool over the amazing architecture and charming villages found all around the lake. There truly is something for everyone here!

Skopje, Macedonia

While most cities throughout Europe and the Americas have statues erected in honor of war heroes, or famous residents, Skopje decided to take it up a notch and erected more than 100 statues. Considering that there are only just over 500,000 people living there, that is A LOT of statues! While this alone makes it very amusing to walk through the Neoclassical city center and is definitely worth the trip, there is a lot more on offer here! The city is home to the beautiful Old Bazaar where you feel like you have just time-traveled back to the Ottoman Empire, an interesting fortress, and the Memorial House of Mother Teresa which serves as a museum showcasing her life and work. 

Wroclaw, Poland

Located in the southeastern corner of the country, Wroclaw has had a fascinating history. Once part of Bohemia, Prussia, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and Germany, the city has a remarkable array of architecture including some buildings that look straight out of a fairytale such as the picturesque Market Square. The city has a large student population so there are plenty of great cafes and bars that you can stop by for a coffee or a beer. 

If you keep your eyes peeled while you are wandering around, you may even spot some charming little dwarves hidden throughout the city. What originally started off as a symbol of protest against Communism has now led to hundreds of these adorable little guys being placed all around the city center. Although it is possible to get a map from the tourist information center showing where the dwarves are hiding, it is a bit more fun to try and spot them yourself!

Herculaneum, Italy

While tourists flock to Pompeii to see the ruins of this ancient city that was buried in ash in 79 AD by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, few people make it to the ruins of Herculaneum which lie about halfway between Pompeii and Naples. While Pompeii gives a snapshot into the lives of the Romans who lived in this bustling city, Herculaneum lets you walk into their kitchen, sit down, and have a chat. 

Although the site is much smaller than Pompeii, the ruins are remarkably well preserved and you can see buildings that are almost completely intact. The wood used in the houses, delicate frescoes painted on the walls, and mosaics worn smooth by thousands of footsteps—seeing the houses with so much detail somehow makes the devastation of the volcano seem even more real and the lack of other tourists makes it even more haunting.

Toulouse, France

While many people dream of taking a vacation to Paris, the southern city of Toulouse has plenty to offer if you want a touch of romance, without the crowds of tourists. With stunning architecture, quaint cobblestone streets, a historic castle, world-class museums, and an enticing riverfront, you can almost believe that you are in your own cheaper and more manageable version of Paris! The other wonderful thing about it is that you are just minutes from the gorgeous French countryside allowing you to combine two very different experiences into one great trip! Oui, oui!

Leipzig, Germany

Just as Toulouse is often overlooked for Paris, Leipzig is often left off of travel itineraries for cities like Berlin and Munich. However, this former East German city has a vibrant city center with a lively student population, beautiful old architecture, and interesting museums. While you are there, you can take a walk in the footsteps of Bach, who served as the choirmaster of St. Thomas Church for 27 years, grab a coffee or a beer at the Leipzig Market Square while basking in the warm sun, or dance the night away at one of the city’s famous bars or nightclubs. Prices are considerably less than other cities in Germany so this is one place where budget travelers can let their hair down a bit without having to feel too guilty about it!

Rhodes, Greece

This charming Greek island has a rich history and is home to one of Europe’s oldest medieval cities, the distinctive white sugar cube houses that you find throughout the Aegean Sea, its own wineries, great nightlife, golden sand beaches, friendly people, and more. Heck, it was even home to one of the Ancient Wonders of the World (which is sadly long gone). 

Yet, it receives far fewer tourists (and the resulting Instagram pics) than the nearby island of Santorini. This, in my humble opinion, makes it much more enjoyable as you can wander the streets without being jostled by crowds, save a ton of money on accommodation and food, and really get a glimpse of Greek island life without having to go too far off the beaten path. 

Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Dating back 8,000 years, this fascinating city has seen a lot of changes in its time and has at one point or another been home to Macedonians, Romans, Byzantines, the Ottomans, and, of course, Bulgarians. This rich history has left behind a magnificent Old Town with cobblestone streets lined with museums, cafes, and hotels, a historic amphitheater, a stadium from Ancient Rome,  and a 700-year-old mosque. It is the second biggest city in Bulgaria and has a thriving arts scene and plenty of green space where you can enjoy long summer days. As with many places in the Balkans, English is widely spoken, especially by the younger generations and it is much less expensive to travel here than to comparable destinations in Western Europe. How can it get any better?

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Slovenia’s capital city may be small but it certainly makes up for it with its big personality. Ljubljana is a hive of cultural activity with more than 10,000 cultural events held every year creating a vibrant, youthful atmosphere set against streets lined with an interesting mixture of Austrio-Hungarian and Italian style architecture. The winding Ljubljanica River winds its way through town creating a picture-perfect location for an endless stream of riverfront cafes, restaurants, and bars while the Ljubljana Castle still stands proudly over the city centuries after it was built. 

Ljubljana serves as the perfect base to explore this beautiful Central European country and within just an hour, you can find yourself hitting one of the hiking trails of the Kamniska Bistrica River Valley or wandering through one of the world’s largest cave castles, Predjama Castle. 

Kyiv, Ukraine

Sitting in the middle of Ukraine, this spectacular city is often sadly overlooked as a major tourist destination and it honestly leaves us scratching our heads why. The city boasts some of the world’s most beautiful Orthodox churches, well-maintained Russian Imperial architecture, and some truly impressive Stalinist architecture built in the aftermath of World War II. While you are visiting, things honestly couldn’t feel easier. English is widely spoken and there is a well-connected public transportation system which makes it really easy to get around and many of the neighborhoods are compact and easily walkable. To make it even better, the cost of accommodation and food is a fraction of what it would be in another major European capital city. 

Lviv, Ukraine

This lovely town near the border of Ukraine and Poland is the type of town that you read about in storybooks with an oh-so-cute old town with cobblestone streets, brightly painted buildings, hidden alleyways heading to quaint courtyards, and a bustling main square with its own three-story not-so-micro brewery. If you wander outside of the old town, you can find quiet residential neighborhoods, beautiful Baroque theaters, and an array of historic churches. The city alone is absolutely stunning and when combined with the warm hospitality of the locals and a lack of the crowds of tourists that you see in nearby Krakow, Lviv should have a firm spot on the top of European bucket lists!

Tbilisi, Georgia

This remarkable city used to be firmly behind the Iron Curtain but has emerged like a phoenix from the ashes of the collapsed empire to become the new darling of digital nomads. Like many European cities, Tbilisi boasts beguiling city streets that you can spend hours strolling along, an imposing fortress, as well as the much more welcoming Mother of Georgia who greets visitors from her perch on top of a hill overlooking the city. The city is surrounded by plenty of green space where you can enjoy the warm summer days and the wide array of inexpensive restaurants selling mouth-wateringly good traditional Georgian fare along with refreshing local beer and delicious wine and an interesting mixture of museums gives you plenty to do even when the weather is not-so-great. You can also easily get out of the city to explore some of the neighboring small towns or ancient cave-hewn monasteries!

Baku, Azerbaijan

Another ex-Soviet city with oodles of attractions, Baku is a fascinating mixture of an old Ottoman town flanked by Russian architecture punctuated by the ultra-modern Flame Towers. The juxtaposition between the old and the new is startling at first but provides a vivid representation of the city’s rich history. As you stroll along the streets, you feel like you are peeling back the layers of an onion going further back in time as you get closer to the city’s core. It is a must-visit destination for any history lovers and although it is slightly more expensive than its neighbor Tbilisi, it still provides great value for money compared to other European destinations. 

Istanbul, Turkey

This mesmerizing city has long held its position as the crossroads of the world and although it may be a stretch to call it “underrated”, you simply can’t rate this place highly enough. From the ancient Romans ruins to the soaring Hagia Sofia, Istanbul stands testament to the swirling sands of time that have seen it change from the capital of the Byzantine Empire to the heart of the Ottoman Empire. Spread out across seven hills and the famous Bosphorous, Istanbul seems to stretch in every direction beckoning visitors with tantalizing museums, monuments, and ruins. You can spend months exploring the city and barely feel like you have scratched the surface of this multifaceted place and it is definitely worth spending a lot of time discovering every little nook and cranny of it. 

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

While Saudi Arabia used to be strictly off-limits to non-Muslim travelers, a lot has changed in the past decade as the new prince has loosened some of the kingdom’s draconian lifestyle restrictions. Today, visitors can freely visit this cosmopolitan city which serves as a gateway to the many ancient sites of the country. While you are there, you can walk along the beautiful Corniche along with what feels like most of Jeddah’s population or go for some top-notch snorkeling or diving in the Red Sea. Foodies will love the fantastic array of authentic restaurants from all corners of the globe thanks to the city’s large immigrant population and the sparkling shopping malls offering every major international name brand from Europe and America are a great place to escape the oppressive heat or pick up something new.

Delhi, India 

While Delhi may not have the best reputation in the world as far as big cities go, the city is seriously overflowing with hidden gems. From forgotten Mughal forts on the outskirts of this sprawling city to the chaotic heart of Old Delhi where you can see people living life the same way that they have for hundreds of years and everywhere in between, you will be greeted by a cacophony of sights and sounds that are quite unlike anywhere else in the world. It is not uncommon to see cows strolling down six-lane highways, women wearing colorful sarees sitting side-saddle on motorbikes as they zoom by, or half-million-dollar cars jostling for space along the crowded streets and this incredible contrast gives you a small taste of what the country has to offer. While Delhi, India is certainly not for everyone, this is definitely a place worth visiting!

Hong Kong is another extremely popular destination that deserves a place on this list. A place where the ocean, mountains, and skyscrapers collide, Hong Kong has so much more to offer than the normal city life that many people imagine. Half of the territory consists of scenic parks with soaring mountains covered in well-maintained hiking trails, scenic centuries-old abandoned villages, hidden Buddhist temples, and gorgeous beaches. The great thing about it is that all of these places are easily accessible from the city thanks to Hong Kong’s transportation system that should really be considered an engineering miracle considering the terrain.

Seoul, South Korea

While visitors around the world rush to explore Tokyo, Japan (which really is a must-see destination), Seoul and South Korea are often overlooked. However, this vibrant city is a mecca for foodies and has a slew of interesting museums, temples, and palaces that offer a fascinating glimpse into this unique Asian culture. Since many flights from California and other parts of the west coast of America and Canada have a layover in Seoul on the way to other parts of Asia, this could be a great opportunity to stop for a quick urban getaway! 

Guanajuato, Mexico

Located about six hours northwest of Mexico City, this jaw-droppingly beautiful city feels like it is straight out of the movie Coco. Settled in the middle of a valley surrounded by mountains with brightly painted houses climbing their way up the hills, Guanajuato is a cultural hub of Central Mexico with grand theaters, art museums, palaces, and tree-lined squares. The narrow streets are lined with a never-ending array of restaurants, bars, and cafes to choose from and it is easy to lose yourself for days in the laid-back surroundings. The city is an extremely popular spot for domestic tourism; however few international tourists make it here so you may want to brush up on your Spanish a bit before your trip!

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is famous for its white-sand beaches and cerulean water and many visitors fly directly in and out of Punta Cana when traveling there. This is a bit of a shame as Santo Domingo, the country’s capital, lies on the island’s southern shore and offers a treasure trove of colonial buildings. In fact, it was one of the first cities built by Spain during their rampant era of colonization in Latin America. During your visit, you can wander by 400-year-old homes and the ruins of once-grand churches, or explore one of the palaces that now serve as a museum. When you need a break, the Malecon provides a great spot to grab a drink while admiring the beautiful Caribbean Sea or you can grab a coffee at one of the many wonderful cafes. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, you can find the Three Eyes National Park located just a 10-minute drive away where you can take a dip in one of the natural pools while checking out the park’s complex cave system.

Ometepe, Nicaragua 

This majestic island with its two soaring volcanoes looks like it should be a movie set (or perhaps somewhere in New Zealand that was used as a movie settlement!). The area’s natural beauty is unparalleled anywhere else in the country and nothing quite prepares you for the first time you see its peaks peeking out at you from across the lake. The island is large enough that you can easily spend days exploring the many beaches, waterfalls, and natural pools but small enough that it is easy to get around on the paved roads by motor scooter or bike. While there aren’t many large hotels on Ometepe, there are plenty of small guest houses where you can stay that give you the chance to get to know the local population and you may soon find yourself feeling like you are part of one big family! Just a warning, this is one place that is hard to leave so make sure to give yourself one or two extra days there if you can!

Tunis, Tunisia

Located on the Mediterranean coast of Africa, Tunis is a history lover’s dream. The city itself is an enchanting mixture of colonial architecture with some impressive museums such as the swoon-worthy Bardo National Museum which has the largest collection of Roman mosaics in the world. Not only that, Tunis is a wonderful place to base yourself for day trips through the region. Nearby, the ruins of the once-powerful city of Carthage demonstrate the importance of this area throughout history while the beautiful white and blue seaside town of Sidi Bou Said transports you across the sea to the Greek isles. 

Ready to Roam?

We hope that you had enjoyed reading about these fantastic destinations and we can’t wait to hear your feedback! If you are looking for even more inspiration, don’t forget to check out our list of Emerging Travel Destinations for Your Next Trip . If you are working on the road, then don’t miss our guide to the Best Cities in the World for Digital Nomads .

If you are in the midst of putting together your trip, our Scratch-Off Adventure Book should be on your packing list. This fun-filled book will give you new adventures to tackle ensuring that you make the most of your vacation time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Love history? Skopje, Delhi, and Istanbul are great options. Looking for adventure? Try Ometepe, Nicaragua, or Lake Ohrid, Macedonia! To find more, check these underrated travel destinations .

The world is full of underrated travel destinations that haven’t yet been flooded with tourists! For example, consider Skopje, Macedonia, Guanajuato, Mexico, Ometepe, Nicaragua, or Tunis, Tunisia.

If you are traveling long-term or going on an epic road trip through some underrated tourist attractions and need a bit of motivation to keep going, try an app-guided scavenger hunt tour !

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15 Underrated Places to Travel This Summer, From Kosovo to Quebec

Planning the perfect summer trip can take weeks of research, preparation, and organization to ensure it goes off without a hitch. But before you get to the planning and booking phase, you'll need to decide where to go. There's a seemingly endless amount of great options out there, and while there's nothing wrong with heading to the same familiar spot over and over again, sometimes you want to get a little off the beaten path and go somewhere you haven't been before. Whether you're in the mood for a nature escape with jaw-dropping vistas, hiking paths, and secluded lodges, or are looking for a big city excursion surrounded by trendy restaurants, unique neighborhoods, and great shopping, we've got ideas for you.

From islands to national parks , here are 15 underrated summer travel ideas, perfect for avoiding the crowds while you explore someplace new.

Domestic destinations:

Finger Lakes, New York | Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota | Isle Royale National Park, Michigan | Catalina Island, California | San Juan Islands, Washington | Crystal River, Florida

International destinations:

Kosovo | Budapest, Hungary | Copenhagen, Denmark | Buenos Aires, Argentina | Sardinia, Italy | Mauritius | Kyoto, Japan | Bora Bora | Quebec, Canada

Domestic destinations

Finger Lakes, New York

A fan-favorite of New York City residents, the New York Finger Lakes are unquestionably idyllic. The perfect destination for a summer weekend , or a weeklong trip with the family, this region is home to some of the most beautiful waterfronts. Dotted with adorable small towns , the 11 long, slender lakes that make up this area are exactly what East Coast summer dreams are made of. Spend your trip navigating nearby state parks; hiking, biking, and exploring; and enjoying everything that lake life has to offer, from jet-skiing to swimming.

Where to stay: Check out the Gould Hotel , a modern boutique property in Seneca Falls; book a night at The Lake House on Canandaigua for an airy, design-forward stay; or head east to the Inns of Aurora .

Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Completely immerse yourself in nature at Minnesota's Voyageurs National Park. This gorgeous destination is ideal for getting in some of the best stargazing you could ever imagine. Just like dozens of other national parks , this one has an International Dark Sky Park certificate, designating it as a location that is particularly good for viewing the night sky and stars. Unlike the others, however, Voyageurs is one of the least-visited national parks in the country, meaning you'll be able to truly connect with nature and enjoy seclusion. It's ideal for boat rides and swimming, as it's primarily made up of waterfronts and islands—almost 40 percent of the park is water.

Where to stay: Nearby Cantilever Hotel is great for those interested in exploring the park, but not wanting to stay too far away from civilization. Those who are a little more daring will enjoy the Kettle Falls Hotel , a property that is only accessible by boat or seaplane. If you're really looking to be one with nature, you can rent a canoe and camp at a tent site.

Isle Royale National Park, Michigan

If you're looking for a summer vacation where you can explore an area relatively untouched by civilization, look no further than Isle Royale National Park . A favorite of my family, this park is uniquely difficult to get to (the main island is best reached by ferry), so the only other travelers you'll find here are extreme adventurers and in-the-know locals. It's best to visit during the summer months since Lake Superior is quite cold and foggy throughout the rest of the year. My family heads to this park in the summer months in hopes of spending a few days backpacking , canoeing, and hiking through the near-untouched environment—admiring the nature and wildlife along the way.

Where to stay: While the actual park is best experienced through camping, those who aren't interested in totally roughing it can stay at the Rock Harbor Lodge , centrally located on the main island. Or, book this nearby rustic Airbnb cabin with panoramic views of Lake Superior for the days leading up to your national park visit.

Catalina Island, California

Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Los Angeles , Santa Catalina Island is quite literally heaven on Earth. Hopeful travelers can either take the one-hour Catalina Express ferry over to the island (it departs daily from San Pedro, Long Beach, and Dana Point) or charter a private yacht to get them there in style. Whether you're looking to hike the Trans Catalina Trail or simply indulge in some tasty seafood while wandering through the quaint town of Avalon, Catalina Island is a great break from the hustle and bustle of LA. Head a bit farther inland to explore El Rancho Escondido , the acclaimed Arabian horse ranch that's also home to Rusack Vineyards.

Where to stay: For day-trippers or those who plan to extend their vacation to include a stay in Los Angeles, there are a variety of hotels and Airbnbs to choose from, including The Beverly Hills Hotel, Dorchester Collection , The Malibu Beach Inn , and the luxe Chateau Marmont Estate on Airbnb. If you're hoping to stay on-island, the plush Bellanca Hotel is the way to go.

San Juan Islands, Washington

A 2019 Readers' Choice Award winner, named one of the best islands for beautiful scenery, this collection of more than 400 islands off the coast of Washington is ideal for a Pacific Northwest weekend getaway. The three most popular (and largest) islands to explore are Orcas , San Juan, and Lopez—all easily accessible by ferry. Travelers can enjoy a laidback vacation with comfortable temperatures and a relaxed atmosphere: hop on a bike and explore the area; spend time sailing, hiking, and fishing; or take a walk to admire all of the islands' natural beauty, from the mountains to the lakes.

Where to stay: Glampers, campers, and regular hotel-goers will all adore the Lakedale which has accommodations for every type of traveler.

Crystal River, Florida

Home to one of the best beaches in Florida , Crystal River is unlike most other cities you'll find in the Sunshine State for one major reason: It's one of the only places in the world where people can swim alongside manatees . If you've ever wanted to truly get up close to these gentle giants, this is the city to visit. Head to the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge to see your fill of the endangered animal, and spend some time taking in the natural beauty of the nearby springs and parks.

Where to stay: The Plantation Resort on Crystal River is home to a variety of different activities including a 27-hole championship golf course and a family-friendly resort with 196 accommodations.

International destinations

There's a reason Kosovo is on our list of the Best Places to Go in 2024, and it has everything to do with the jaw-dropping scenery that can be found in every corner of this country. Outdoorsy folks who want to spend their time hiking and biking through untainted valleys, mountains, and countryside will appreciate the chance to explore the newest European country. Travelers who who are looking for a taste of the young nation's history can head to the national museum; afterward, explore the streets of Prizren taking in the architecture as well as the historic mosques and churches.

Where to stay: Book a night at the Hotel Gracanica in the quiet suburb of Prishtina, or pamper yourself at the luxe Ujevara e Drinit Resort near Peja. For something a little more traditional, enjoy tasty Kosovo dishes as well as classic comforts at the rural Ariu Guesthouse . (Check out our guide on where to eat, play, and stay in Kosovo for even more recommendations.)

Budapest, Hungary

Skip Western Europe and instead head to the beautiful capital of Hungary . Luxuriate in the mineral-rich thermal baths you'll find around the city , or spend your days exploring the historic Castle District, walking along the Danube, and meandering through the city streets. You can even take a faux hot air balloon trip to enjoy the best view in the city. If you plan your trip for August, it may coincide with the Sziget Festival , one of the largest music and cultural festivals in all of Europe.

Where to stay: Book a night at 2024 Gold List winner, The Four Seasons Gresham Palace Budapest , or spend a few nights at the adults-only Hotel Clark Budapest . (Check out our guide on where to eat, play, and stay in Budapest for more recommendations.)

Copenhagen, Denmark

There's no better time to visit Copenhagen than during the summer months when the weather is warm, the days are exceptionally long, and the waterfront views are breathtaking. Aside from being ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world , sustainably-minded travelers will appreciate how eco-focused the place is, and enjoy a trip to CopenHill, the multi-use waste-to-energy plant with a ski slope, climbing wall, and cafe. It's also worth checking out the Tivoli Gardens, Rosenborg Castle, and the picturesque Nyhavn harbor .

Where to stay: Check out our favorite hotels in Copenhagen , including the grand and historic Hotel d'Angleterre , the Nimb Hotel which was originally built as a castle in 1909, and the modern Villa Copenhagen .

Buenos Aires, Argentina

From awe-inspiring museums to culture-packed tours to dance halls perfect for learning to tango , there's no shortage of amazing things to do and see in Buenos Aires . Whether you're spending the day simply walking the streets and taking in the sights; exploring the colorful La Boca; watching a soccer match; learning to tango; or going to the Colón Theatre to see the opera, this will be a trip to remember.

Where to stay: Some of our favorite hotels in Buenos Aires include the luxe Palacio Duhau ; the Jardín Escondido , once home to Francis Ford Coppola; and the Faena Hotel Buenos Aires located right by the water in Puerto Madero.

Sardinia, Italy

There's so much more to Sardinia than just a beautiful coastline and wonderful beaches. While the long, warm days are perfect to spend by the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea, travelers who want a little more substance to their vacation can head inland to experience the island's charming towns, rustic cuisine, and ancient ruins.

Where to stay: Rest your head at the Cascioni Eco Retreat , set on a 90-acre nature reserve with gorgeous views of the surrounding land. The colorful Su Gologone Experience Hotel is another great option, as is the luxurious, high-end Hotel Cali de Volpe .

Another location on our list of the Best Places to Go in 2024, Mauritius is about 1,200 miles east of Madagascar . From its gorgeous coastlines with pristine beaches to the luxury accommodations and unparalleled nature, this island destination is nothing short of paradise. Head here during the Northern Hemisphere's summer months to avoid wet season. Your main activities on Mauritius will be water-based, from diving and snorkeling to sitting on the beach and admiring the coastline. If you need a break from relaxing, take a trip to the Bel Ombre Nature Reserve, the Botanic Gardens, or the capital city of Port Louis.

Where to stay: Check out our favorite hotels in Mauritius , including the four-time Readers' Choice Award winner and two-time Gold List winner, One&Only Le Saint Géran . You can also book a stay at the legendary resort, Lux Belle Mare , or the kite-surfers' paradise of Riu Palace Mauritius .

Kyoto, Japan

Instead of heading to the mega-popular Tokyo or the bright and lively Osaka, consider touching down in Kyoto , one of the best cities to experience traditional Japanese culture. Spend the day exploring the temples and shrines that are dotted throughout the city; take a walk through Gion, the “Geisha District;” or while away a few hours in the Kyoto National Museum. The best times to visit Japan are at the very end or beginning of summer when the season overlaps with spring and fall, and while it'll certainly be a bit warmer during the peaks of summer, it's no less beautiful.

Where to stay: From the Ace Hotel to the Shinmonzen , there is no shortage of great hotels in Central Kyoto. If you're interested in something a little different, tour guide Sara Aiko from Traveler 's Ask a Local series recommends taking a trip to Moksa , a gorgeous property in the north of Kyoto surrounded by temples and nature.

Nothing says romance like staying in an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora. The winter in French Polynesia corresponds with the summer in the Northern Hemisphere, meaning June, July, and August experience less humid and more comfortable temperatures. This time period also falls during Tahiti 's dry season, so you don't have to worry about being rained out. You could easily spend your days simply lounging in your bungalow and slipping into the crystal waters whenever you feel, but Bora Bora is also ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, and taking a boat or a 4x4 island tour.

Where to stay: Bora Bora is particularly known for its luxury overwater bungalows. Conrad Bora Bora Nui is a more private option with exceptional snorkeling and coral, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort is perfect for honeymooners and families alike, and the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is home to over 100 bungalows, fine dining, and an exceptional spa.

Quebec, Canada

When you think of summer travel, your first thought is probably an island getaway or a far-flung destination that you've only read about in books. But, don't overlook all of the beauty that our northern neighbor has to offer. Quebec City is home to all the same type of charm you'll find in Europe but without the exceptionally long flight to get there. Spend some time in Old Quebec City —home to some of the oldest streets in North America—taking in the history and culture that make this city worthy of its title as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Or, head to Montreal , where you can enjoy a variety of museums, the open-air market, and great culinary options. Don't forget to explore the nature and French architecture found in the greater province.

Where to stay: For a wonderful stay in Quebec City, Hotel 71 is a six-time Readers' Choice Award winner while Auberge Saint Antoine Quebec City and Le Germain Hotel Quebec are both five-time winners. For a wellness-focused retreat , head to Monastère des Augustines . In Montreal , check out the Auberge du Vieux-Port on the St. Lawrence River, or Hotel William Gray in Old Montreal.

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28 Underrated Travel Destinations in the US You Need to See

Posted on Published: August 28, 2019  - Last updated: May 14, 2024

You’ve seen the list of the top destinations in the world, right? Those ones with insta-worthy backdrops, but will likely be packed with tourists and cost you thousands to get there?

Well those are fun to look at and certainly inspire wanderlust , but I wondered where else I could go to have an incredible experience without all the crowds. So I asked other travel bloggers to help me compile a list of the most underrated travel destinations in the US.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Here’s the best little known vacation spots! And bonus – you’ll save a ton of money by going to these less traveled destinations in the US. Enjoy!

Most Underrated Travel Destinations in the US

1. sandpoint, idaho.

Sandpoint, Idaho, is located in Northern Idaho about one hour south of the Canadian border. Home to Lake Pend Orielle, the 5th deepest lake in the United States, and a world class ski resort at Schweitzer Mountain, Sandpoint is the perfect year-round destination. 

Comparable to the popular travel destination of Lake Tahoe, there are lots of  things to do in Sandpoint  that rival Lake Tahoe’s attractions but at a more affordable price and and with less tourists.

Whether it’s spending the day on the lake during the summer, taking the family to Silverwood, the largest theme park and water park in the Pacific Northwest, or skiing or snow-shoeing in the winter, outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to this under-rated U.S. destination. 

The easiest way to visit Sandpoint is by flying into the Spokane, Washington, airport and then renting a car to drive the 1 hour 30 minutes to Sandpoint. While there are a few hotel options in Sandpoint, they tend to book up far in advance, especially during the peak seasons.

Booking a house or a condo on Airbnb is great option for finding affordable accommodations and allows visitors to experience the comforts of home while visiting Sandpoint. 

Recommended by Andrea of One Savvy Wanderer

You might also like: 20 BIG Adventure Vacations in the US Not to Miss

2. Solvang, California

Solvang is a little known vacation spot in California, and it’s a nice stop on a San Francisco to San Diego road trip . The best time to visit Solvang is during summer as there are many outdoor restaurants. The main attraction besides eating Danish Food is to stroll around the old town center.

Solvang is known as the Danish Capital of America and it’s an old settler’s town where Danish settlers came and created a city during the emigrations to America. Still today, you can visit some old houses and see restaurants that have the same iconic looks as when it was a Danish settlement.

You’ll find plenty of cafes serving Danish pastries, and you’ll even find some places selling the iconic red hot dog from Denmark, known as Pölse. Don’t forget to visit the antique store where you can find lots of old stuff which has belonged to some of the settlers who used to live here. 

Traveling to Solvang is like traveling back in time, and if you have Scandinavian heritage it definitely adds to the experience, and you’ll feel instantly at home with many things being exactly like they are in Denmark. It reminds me of the Bavarian town in the Cascade Mountains, and is similar to the architecture you’l see while exploring the best places to eat in Leavenworth, WA .

Anyway, most of the people living there are descendants from the Danish settlers, and many still speak Danish which is quite fun. 

Recommended by Alex of Swedish Nomad

3. Yachats, Oregon

The small, sleepy town of Yachats, Oregon is truly a hidden gem in the U.S., under the radar even for Oregonians themselves! Yachats has the unique characteristic of being moody all year round, with gloomy skies, dramatic coastlines, and cozy cabin feels. Even in the peak of summer, though it tends to be less rainy in the summer.

Yachats is never busy, so it is the perfect place if you are looking to escape crowds but still experience breathtaking scenery. The seafood is fresh from the boat every day, and the entire town is dedicated to ethically and sustainably sourced food.

It’s only a few hours southwest from Portland, Oregon, but it feels like a getaway in another world. Whether you want to explore the stunning tide pools, get lost in the looming forests, or just cuddle up with some tea and a good book, Yachats is the place to be.

Recommended by Kay of The Awkward Traveller

4. Grand Lake, Colorado

One of the best hidden gems I’ve ever traveled to was the town of Grand Lake, Colorado. It’s located north and west of Boulder, up in the mountains.

Grand Lake is neighbors to Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s largely undiscovered because of the popular Estes Park, which is located on the opposite end of the Rocky Mountain National Park takes all the fame.

You won’t find big name brands and fancy hotels in Grand Lake. Instead you’ll find small-town charm and budget-friendly rentals. Grab an ice cream on main street or rent a paddle board and explore Grand Lake itself.

The best time to go to Grand Lake is June – September, when the snow is melted and the daytime temperatures are warmest. It will still be chilly at night – perfect for a bonfire!

Recommended by me! Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Most secluded vacation spots in the USA

5. cayo costa, florida.

Cayo Costa  is one of the most underrated travel destinations in Florida. In any other state, its seven miles of sandy beaches would elevate it to the top of every list. Nested between Sanibel Island and Amelia Island, Cayo Costa is often overlooked. 

What’s more, Cayo Costa is only accessible by boat, making it one of the most secluded vacation spots in the USA. If you’re looking to park your car and walk out into a sea of beach blankets and umbrellas, Cayo Costa probably isn’t for you.

Reaching Cayo Costa isn’t hard. There are 3 ferries from Punta Gorda, Sanibel Island, and Pine Island you can choose from or take your own boat to the park marina. Once you land, the park tram takes you across the narrow island to the beaches on the Gulf side.

You can also rent a kayak from the park office and paddle along the chain of barrier islands. You might find osprey, alligators, and even manatees as you explore the mangroves. If you’re yearning for even more adventure, you can camp near the beach or rent a primitive cabin.

Why follow the crowds when you can take the path less traveled? It will make all the difference. You’ll have more shells to find, empty beaches to walk, and more adventures to discover.

Recommended by Ed & Jennifer of Coleman Concierge

You might also like: Miami to Key West Road Trip: 22 Awesome Activities You Need to Do

6. Waipio Valley, Big Island, Hawaii

Waipio Valley is located off the Hamakua Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii. It’s one of the most underrated travel destinations in the US and is also one of the most stunning valleys in the Hawaiian Islands. Waipio Valley is a hiking paradise , with a trail that takes you directly from the lookout point above the valley down nearly 2,000 feet below.

From here you can explore the stunning black sand beach, hike inland towards a towering waterfall , or just picnic and enjoy the wild horses roaming the taro fields. 

Whether you are looking to hike down into the valley and enjoy the scenery or just relax at the lookout point, the views won’t disappoint. 

The Hamakua Coast receives rain year-round but stays the driest in the late summer months. We’ve hiked it multiple times, finding that September or October yield the smallest crowds and best weather. Crowds will be largest in December and January, so avoid going then if you want this valley all to yourself. 

Getting to the valley is relatively easy, but requires a rental car on the island. Simply type in Waipio Valley lookout on your maps application and you will be directed to the lookout point/start of the trail-head. 

The Big Island is home to two key cities: Kailua-Kona and Hilo. Waipio Valley is located on the northern tip of the Big Island, over an hour away from both Kona and Hilo, making it very quiet and one of the best secluded vacation spots in the USA. 

Recommended by Kelly of Adventure For Less

7. Bear Lake, Idaho

Bear Lake, Idaho, is one of our family’s favorite secluded vacation spots in the USA. This natural freshwater lake straddles the Utah-Idaho border is a haven for anyone looking to unplug, breath fresh air and relax for a while!

Bear Lake is a gorgeous lake nestled in the Wasatch mountains. It’s often called the Caribbean of the Rockies because of the teal, bright color of the water.

Our favorite things to do in Bear Lake State Park include hiking, swimming in the lake, reading on the beach, paddle boarding and enjoying delicious raspberry shakes made with local berries (seriously, you don’t know what you are missing if you’ve never had a famous Bear Lake raspberry milkshake!).

Our favorite time of year to go is June and July. The weather is very temperate in Bear Lake due to elevation so it’s a great escape from hotter parts of the country!

When booking accommodations in Bear Lake, look for spots in Garden City, Utah, or Fish Haven, Idaho. These communities have the most to do in terms of fun restaurants and availability of rental equipment (kayaks, bikes, boats, ATVs and more!).

The closest major airport is Salt Lake International Airport. From the airport, it’s a 2.5-hour drive to Bear Lake, which includes going through the beautiful Logan Canyon. I recommend renting a car so that you have one to use while in Bear Lake, since there isn’t any public transportation.

Recommended by Molly of Exploring Through Life

8. Lanai, Hawaii

Everyone knows that Hawaii is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. After all, the Hawaiian Islands have over ten million visitors each year! But the tiny island of Lanai is one that tends to fly under the radar.

As the sixth smallest island in Hawaii, Lanai is home to about 3,000 people, 30 miles of paved roads, and no stoplights. Lanai is only a short flight from Honolulu, Oahu or a quick ferry ride from Lahaina, Maui.

There are three different hotels on the island to choose from. The best time to visit Lanai is in the late spring or early summer, as that is usually when the perfect temperature rolls around.

There are quite a few things to do on this tiny island. You’ll need to rent a 4WD to access most of them. The Garden of the Gods, also known as Keahiakawelo, is definitely at the top of the list. This barren, foggy landscape of haphazardly placed round rocks and bright orange swatches of dirt creates a sacred, untouched landscape.

You can also visit Polihua Beach, Shipwreck Beach (with a real shipwreck), Puu Pehe (Sweetheart Rock), Hulopoe Beach, Manele Bay, and the Lanai Cat Sanctuary.

As a quick tip, be sure to download the Google Map of Lanai before flying to the island. This is one of the most secluded vacation spots in the USA and service is rather limited on the island. So if you want to explore as much as you can, downloading Google Maps is a must.

Recommended by Sarah of Borders & Bucket Lists

Read next: Hiking the Waimea Canyon Trail in Hawaii: Breathtaking Views Included 20 Things to do in Maui on a Budget Hawaiian Island Quiz (determine which island is right for you) Best of Kauai: Your Guide to 7 Days on Kauai

Underrated vacation spots – with a view!

9. medora, north dakota.

My ideal walk in a park includes a lot of nature and not a lot of people. If you agree, you will love  Theodore Roosevelt National Park . It’s like they’ve been keeping this little secret and I discovered it. Now you can too!

The magical little town of Medora, North Dakota sits right at the entrance to Theodore Roosevelt National Park South Unit. This tiny little town takes you back in time to the cowboy days.

It offers several hotels. I stayed at the Rough Riders Hotel and would recommend it. Medora has several places to eat and shops to enjoy.

It is also known for its Musical that happens every night in the summer. The summer weather is perfect for a visit. A new fun business called Perception just opened with many optical illusions that are fun for all ages.

Once you make your way into the park, a quick and easy trail is the Wind Canyon Trail. 15 minutes of moderate walking gets you to a gorgeous overlook. I recommend it at sunset…absolutely beautiful.  Medora and the South Unit are a quick 15 minute drive off of highway 94 that goes all the way across North Dakota. 

Not only are you seeing a very unique landscape in this area, but also wildlife that includes bison, wild horses, elk, moose, deer and one of my favorites to watch, the prairie dogs. The park and the town of Medora are definitely an underrated vacation spots in the US.

Recommended by Sonja of The Happy Travel Bug

10. Shawnee National Forest, Illinois

In our opinion, the Shawnee National Forest area in Southern Illinois is one of the most underrated vacation spots in the US . Although the forest covers a large area, it is easy to get around. Plus there is a plethora of things to do for all types of travelers. 

It is also a very economical travel option. A private woodland cabin is the perfect lodging in the Shawnee. Many come outfitted with patio Jacuzzis, and cost less than a city hotel. 

Hiking options abound, and take in a variety of scenery, including waterfalls, unique rock formations, and stunning overlooks.  You might try the trails at Giant City State Park or Garden of the Gods National Recreation Area, or the lesser known Panther Den Wilderness Trail or Little Grand Canyon Trail. 

When you want to get off your feet, try horseback riding at Giant City Stables. If you need an adrenaline rush, try the Shawnee Canopy Tour. For something quite unexpected, canoe between the cypress trees at the Cache River Wetlands Area. It feels like the Louisiana swamp!   

If you tire of outdoor activities, add a bit of sophistication to your trip and spend a day on the Shawnee Wine Trail.  Or, drive into Metropolis to feel like a kid again. Play at the Superman Museum, take your photo with the giant Superman, and try your luck at Harrah’s Casino. 

Recommended by Roxanna & Keyauni of Gypsy With a Day Job

11. Channel Islands National Park, California

One of the most underrated travel destinations in the United States is Channel Islands National Park. This national park is made up of 5 islands and can only be accessed through a ferry or a boat near Ventura, California.

Due to no hotels on the islands and its pure remoteness, these islands only receive 30,000 visitors a year! The low amount of visitors provides you with a tremendous opportunity to explore the islands with virtually no crowds.

The best times to visit are the spring and summertime. The spring brings in vibrant green hills and flowers, while the summertime is the best time for perfect sunny weather. 

The most popular island is Santa Cruz Island. It is a great island to explore for a few days. The popular activities include sea kayaking, hiking to potato harbor or smugglers cove, and snorkeling. If you want even fewer crowds, you can always camp on the island .

Only a select number of people can spend the night on the island; then you truly get to explore Santa Cruz all on your own. One of our favorite activities was watching the sunset at Potato Harbor. 

If you are looking for a vastly underrated vacation spot in California with minimal crowds and one of the best adventure vacations in the USA , then Channel Islands is a great national park to explore. 

Recommended by Michelle of The Wandering Queen

12. Lookout Mountain, Georgia

There’s a small mountain town on the border of Tennessee and Georgia that’s one of my favorite places in the world to visit.  Lookout Mountain, Georgia  lies just 6 miles from Chattanooga and is definitely one of the most underrated travel destinations in the United States.

A mountain bearing the same name as the town is the highlight of the whole area, and hidden away at the top of it lies a unique tourist attraction that feels a bit like stepping into another world. Paths carved through gigantic boulders will lead you on a journey through gardens, across a swinging bridge, and ultimately to a 90-foot waterfall.

From a lookout located at the top of the falls, you can see seven states on a clear, cloudless day.

A nearby tunnel carved into rock has been fitted with colored glass so that a rainbow effect appears when sunlight streams in through the windows. There’s even a cave located at the top of this mountain, and inside it you’ll find fairies, storybook characters, and recreations of popular fairy tales.

There’s truly nothing else like this place anywhere else in the US, and I highly recommend you stop by the next time you’re anywhere near Georgia or Tennessee. For the prettiest views and photos, plan a visit during fall!

Recommended by Jillian of Adventure Dragon

Little known vacation spots in the US you need to see

13. the berkshires, new england.

The Berkshires is the paragon of New England travel experience. The green lands of Berkshires incorporate the natural beauty of the old New England with the modern taste of culture and art.

Located within a couple hours of the two biggest cities in the east, New York and Boston, the Berkshires is a great place for those who want to venture out into the pastoral lands, explore the quaint countryside ambiance, and taste signature New England dishes.

The summer months are truly the best time to visit the Berkshires for culture-driven travel. Swimming in the natural lakes in the region has been a favorite summer vacation for many New Englanders for decades.

And not only can you hike the Ramblewild Aerical Park and take in the breathtaking views , you can stop by cute towns like the Great Barrington or Lee to explore the local culture. A lunch at the local butcher meat market is a must – you can sort through the amazing assortments of New England’s finest charcuterie, cheese, and accouterments.

The Berkshires also boasts rich history, art, and culture. Some of the prominent spots that are worth a visit are the renowned Norman Rockwell Museum, which hosts the famous illustrator’s original works, and the Edith Wharton House – the famed writer’s house that’s now turned into a local hub for cultural tours and exhibitions.

Additionally, art museums in Williamstown and North Adams are perfect places to get lost in the rich history of colonial America. Seeing a musical performance at Tanglewood by the Boston Symphony Orchestra during the summer is a must. From adventure to culture, the Berkshires has it all.

Recommended by Andrew of RoadGoat

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14. Estherville, Iowa

A little known vacation spot in the US is Estherville, Iowa . Perhaps most famous for being the site of the largest seen meteorite that crashed into North America, there’s so much more to this charming little town in the Midwest.

Outdoor adventures such as hiking and kayaking are plentiful. Grab a bike and hit the roads with locals, or head out to the winery just outside of town .

Soak in the Midwestern charm as you shop the boutique stores and enjoy a good meal (the kind your grandma would make). And before you leave town, make sure you stop at the 80+ year old swinging bridge .

The best time to take full advantage of all there is to do in Estherville, Iowa is May – October. This is when the weather is the best for outdoor activities and the town really comes alive.

15. Portland, Maine

When someone says the word “Portland” to you, the first city that likely comes to mind is Portland, Oregon. However, on the opposite side of the country you’ll find a little known vacation spot, the other Portland. It’s small, quaint, walk able – and also a foodie haven.

If you only have a couple of days to spend here you’ll likely have a difficult time attempting to narrow down where to eat. There’s an abundance of fabulous and unique restaurants (Duckfat, Eventide Oyster Co and Central Provisions to name just a few) in the city – and because it’s located directly on the coast you’ll find some of the best seafood around.

The city also happens to be a mecca for the craft beer aficionados out there – perhaps being one of the best in the country.

Portland has that distinct New England charm, that includes historic buildings, a waterfront, and of course the frequently photographed Portland Head Lighthouse.

For moderate weather and to check out the changing colorful leaves – the absolute best time to visit is in the fall.

Getting there is pretty simple, Portland has an international airport just outside the city (Portland International Jetport). You can also take a relatively quick Amtrak train directly from Boston.

Maine is also a great place for a road trip where you can stop at small towns and fishing villages along the way.

Recommended by Anna & Trevor of Delightful Travellers

16. Cambria, California

Cambia is a seaside village nestled on California’s Central Coast between San Francisco and Los Angeles. The main attractions in Cambria are its spectacular beaches. The highlight is Moonstone Beach where you can spot sea otters, whales, and dolphins in season. Cambria also boasts numerous hiking trails and state parks, some with docent tours.  

After all this exercise, you’ll want some refreshment at Linn’s Restaurant, a local landmark. Be sure to try one of the dishes featuring the olallieberry (a type of blackberry) and one of the local wines.

You can also pick up some olallieberry jam or tea to take home with you at the adjacent shop. Other restaurants to try include The Sow’s Ear, Black Cat Bistro, Sea Chest Oyster Bar, and Robin’s. While in town, check out the many quaint shops and arts’ events. 

To keep with the local flavor, one great place to stay is the Olallieberry Inn B&B. If you prefer a beachfront setting, check out the Fireside Inn on Moonstone Beach or FogCatcher Inn. 

No trip to Cambria is complete without a visit to nearby Heart Castle. It’s a national historic landmark built by publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst starting in 1919. Tours give you an inside peek into the opulent lives of the Hearst family and their celebrity friends in the middle of the 20th century. The stunning hillside views are an added bonus.

Recommended by Patrice Rutledge of Cardamom Magazine

You might also be interested in: 2 Days in San Diego: Your Perfect San Diego Itinerary 32 Amazing Stops on a San Francisco to San Diego Road Trip (You’ll Love)

17. Omaha, Nebraska

Where’s the best zoo in the world? Well head on over to Omaha to find out! Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is consistently ranked in the top 5 zoos in the world, and regularly competes with the San Diego Zoo for top spot in the US.

Feed the giraffes, touch the stingrays, visit the world’s largest indoor desert and walk alongside the monkeys in the jungle at the zoo in Omaha. It’s the state’s largest tourist attraction, and one you won’t want to miss.

Beyond the zoo, Omaha is a center for art, history and of course, Omaha steaks. Make sure to check out the Old Market, which includes some of the most Instagrammable places in Omaha .

Enjoy outdoor hiking, kayaking, zip lining and a lot more in Omaha. It’s an affordable destination, where your vacation fund will truly stretch.

The best time to visit Omaha is May – October when you can enjoy the various outdoor activities and walk around the zoo comfortably. You can fly into the main airport in Omaha or make it part of a road trip. It’s truly one of the most underrated vacation spots in the US!

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18. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is a place for dreamers, explorers, art observers, foodies, outdoor enthusiasts, and really anyone. There’s just something about Asheville – maybe it’s the water or the fresh mountain air.

Asheville downtown is a hive of activity, always humming. With all it’s got going on, you’ll want to spend a good bit of time exploring boutiques, quirky shops, art galleries and fantastic restaurants here.

The hip rooftop bars serve as the perfect perch for watching the sun sink low behind the peaks. On summer Friday nights, the city center erupts into a drum circle. From 6:00 PM until 10:00 PM, people bang on the drums like mad as an audience dances to the beats.

In Asheville, there’s a surprise around every bend in the road. The thrill of discovery reaches epic heights on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The scenic road climbs at 6,000 feet in elevation as it winds out of town. You can pull your car or bike to the side of the road at any of the numerous overlooks, and soak in the display. It’s especially gorgeous in the fall, making it one of the best places to see in October in the USA .

And at more than 175,00 square feet, the 250-room Biltmore Estate is America’s largest home, and a sight not to be missed. Thanks to its tree-lined streets, and the English village vibe, it feels like a world away.

Don’t leave without booking a sunrise or sunset stand up paddle board from a local outfitter and watch the pinks and blues reflect off the beloved French Broad River.

Recommended by Divya of Travel Savings Addict

More of the best underrated travel destinations in the US

19. charlottesville, virginia.

Charlottesville, Virginia is an idyllic college town located near the Blue Ridge Mountains and home to the University of Virginia. It’s a two hour drive from Washington, DC and one hour from Richmond, VA. Charlottesville is an easy drive from either of these two cities and also reachable via Charlottesville Albemarle Airport if you’d rather not make the drive. 

Once in Charlottesville, there’s something to do for everyone. For the hiking aficionados, Old Rag, Humpback Rock and Crabtree Falls are day-long hikes about an hour away from Charlottesville.

On your way back, you can go to one of Charlottesville’s famous wineries: Veritas, Blenheim (owned by Dave Matthews), Pippin Hill and King Family , or one of the many breweries: Pro Re Nata, Blue Mountain Brewery and Starr Hill.

For those who are interested in history, Thomas Jefferson’s famous plantation, Monticello is a 15 minute drive from the heart of Charlottesville while James Madison’s Montpelier Mansion is a 30 minute drive from the city. Additionally, University of Virginia was founded by Thomas Jefferson and there are daily historical tours of the university available.

Charlottesville is definitely one of the most underrated vacation spots, and is a great destination to visit at anytime of the year. The fall and early winter are especially nice seasons to visit as the temperatures stay in the 50s-70s until January, which is perfect for hiking and exploring the city.

Recommended by Michaela of Well Balanced Adventures

20. Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

My favorite lesser known place in the United States is Harpers Ferry, West Virginia! Harpers Ferry is a very tiny historical town in West Virginia near the borders of both Maryland and Virginia.

Much of the town’s history involves the Civil War. During the war, Harpers Ferry was a significant headquarters site and army camp. The town also had the largest surrender of United States forces in 1862 during the war. Pretty interesting!

Harpers Ferry is a little over an hour away by car or train from both Baltimore, Maryland and Washington DC. The closest airport is Dulles International Airport in Dulles, VA. It’s about a 50 minute drive to Harpers Ferry.

With so much history, you can be sure to find quite a few historical sites and museums! You can visit Jefferson Rock where Thomas Jefferson stood in 1783 (quite a steep hike!), John Brown’s fort and even a Restoration Museum filled with old items found within the city.

With two rivers in Harpers Ferry (Shenandoah and Potomac), the most popular thing to do is river tubing. You can also white water raft, canoe, kayak and paddle board.

You will find a few home style restaurants within the town. No chain restaurants here! There are also a lot of cute little shops with handmade items, if you’re into that.

Harpers Ferry has so much nature to explore. The closest park is Harpers Ferry National Park where you will find hiking trails, river access and historical sites.

Recommended by Nicole of Gallivanting Nicole

21. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

I promise I’m not biased (fellow Okie here), but Oklahoma City is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the States. When people think of Oklahoma City, the first thing that comes to mind is our NBA team – OKC Thunder.

However, there’s so much more to Oklahoma City than just that. This vibrant city is buzzing with tons of delicious restaurants, trendy coffee shops, Instagrammable street art, and great museums. It has small-town hospitality even though it’s a big city.

Locals aren’t afraid to take tourists under their wing and chat it up with them. Oklahoma City is a foodie’s heaven. Eat your way through gourmet food trucks at Bleu Garten or sample seven different culinary concepts under one roof at The Collective Kitchens and Cocktails. Also, OKC is perfect for those who love outdoor adventures.

Situated in the downtown area is the Myriad Botanical Gardens where you can walk around and soak in the lush greenery. If you’re up for a real adventure, head on over to Riversport Adventures where you can go whitewater rafting right in downtown.

Further, Oklahoma City takes a lot of pride in their hotels. You won’t go wrong staying at one of the relaxing hotels in Bricktown. The best way to get to OKC is by flying into Will Rogers World Airport, which is about 6 miles away from downtown. The best time to visit is in the Spring or Fall when the weather is mild so you can really take advantage of exploring this charming city.

Recommended by Disha of Disha Discovers

22. Mobile, Alabama

Mobile, Alabama  is a great alternative to the much louder and more crowded New Orleans, which lies just 150 miles west across the Louisiana border. In many ways, Mobile is like a miniature, family-friendly version of New Orleans. Both cities were established by French colonists, and they share a common architecture of stately buildings with wrought-iron balconies.

But Mobilians won’t be pleased if you refer to their city as “the other New Orleans”. They’ll be quick to tell you that Mobile is the older of the two and was founded back in 1703!

It was the original capital of French Louisiana. Not many people realize that Mobile is home to the oldest Mardi Gras tradition in the United States. The celebrations here pre-date the more famous New Orleans Mardi Gras by about 15 years.

In addition to its similarities with New Orleans, Mobile also holds some attractions that are completely unique and can only be seen here. The most important of these is the Azalea Trail Festival in the early spring. Covered in pink azalea blooms, the city becomes a riot of color, and local high school girls selected to be “Azalea Trail Maids” dress up like Southern Belles in pastel-colored hoop skirts and frilly bonnets.

Even if you don’t catch the Azalea Trail Festival or Mardi Gras celebrations, the imposing antebellum mansions and oak trees covered in Spanish moss that you’ll find throughout Old Mobile make it worth visiting at any time of the year.

Recommended by Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan

Read next: Road Trip Essentials: 15 Things to Pack on a Road Trip with Kids

23. Torrance, California

There’s no doubt that Los Angeles is considered a world class city with millions visiting it each year. But few tourists know that the best food in Los Angeles is actually outside the city!

Torrance is only 16 miles from LAX, has one of the best beaches in the area and is where to go to get the real deal for authentic food. With a population of just 150,000 it is much more tranquil. 

Chefs here aren’t creating restaurants for hipster crowds who just want to be seen, they are making their name by serving food that is so good people will drive through the treacherous LA traffic to dine.  Torrance restaurants  are diverse. They range from incredible Mexican at Madre! Oaxacan Restaurant and Mezcaleria to authentic Hawaiian at King’s Hawaiian bakery.

But Torrance is also well-known as THE place to get ramen in California and also has fantastic Japanese restaurants. One of the most popular spots is Hakata Ikkousha, which has a sister restaurant in Japan.

What makes this ramen joint so popular is that the recipe wasn’t adapted for American tastes when it opened in Torrance. It’s the authentic, unadulterated recipe straight from Japan. The most popular item is Tonkotsu, which a deep rich pork broth that draws over 200 people a day during the week and 300 on weekends.

Wherever you go in Torrance, you’re assured to have some of the best food in the greater Los Angeles area.

Recommended by Ayngelina of Bacon is Magic

24. New Haven, Connecticut

With Boston and New York City flanking the borders of Connecticut, it is easy to overlook New Haven as an attractive travel destination.

New Haven is famous for its most recognizable resident, Yale University. Yale’s gorgeous architecture in all its American gothic style glory is truly a remarkable sight. Especially when you see it nestled beneath the multicolored leaves in the fall or when freshly painted in a coat of white snow.

However, there is much more to the Elm City than just housing an Ivy League institution. New Haven is home to some of the best pizza, or locally called apizza, in the country. If you are a pizzaphile, then you must make the trip and get your fill. One of the top pies in the country is the white clam pizza from Frank Pepe or the Italian bomb from Modern Apizza, my favorite!

New Haven is also rich with the arts and culture. With attractions like the Peabody Museum of Natural History and the Yale Art Gallery, which displays works by great artists like Pablo Picasso and Vincent Van Gogh.

For those fans of the performing arts, there is the Shubert Theater and Toad’s Place. You’ll find major recording artists of all genres performing on any given night.

The nightlife is quite vibrant with entertainment options, that there is something in New Haven for everyone to do. So when you have the opportunity, do not overlook New Haven as a possible destination!

Recommended by Joel of Conquering Bounds

You might also like: How to Save Money for Travel: Your Vacation Savings Plan Best Budget Travel Tips (So Good You’ll Want to Try Them Now)

25. Hudson Valley, New York

New York City gets all of the attention, but the Hudson Valley, just north of NYC, is well worth a visit. The valley, which spreads along the length of the Hudson River from New York to Albany, is great to visit any time of the year. 

On the east side of the river, there are several impressive historic mansions where the rich and powerful used to spend their summers. FDR’s home and presidential library, as well as Eleanor Roosevelt’s former home, Val-kill, are in Hyde Park in this area. There is also an old-style drive-in open in the summer for a taste of nostalgia. 

Other things to do in the warmer months include swimming in one of the lakes or tubing down the Esopus River from Phoenix. Summer is also a great time to pick your own fruit at one of the local farms. 

Fall is also a wonderful time to visit the Hudson Valley. You can find a pumpkin for Halloween at a pumpkin patch and get lost in a corn maze.  Fall color is spectacular in the Hudson Valley – a personal favorite spot is Minnewaska State Park.

In winter, there is cross-country skiing, or stay inside by the fire in a cozy B and B or old inn – the Beekman Arms in Rhinebeck is the oldest inn in the United States! Rhinebeck is also the site of the Sinterclaas festival in December, where the old Dutch tradition is celebrated with a delightful holiday parade. Spring sees the beautiful flowers and is perfect for hiking in the Mohonk Preserve. 

The main train line from NYC to Albany goes right along the Hudson River and is one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. There are also buses servicing many towns; however, for full independence, I would recommend driving, so you can stop off at tiny antique stores and cafes along the way. 

Recommended by James of Travel Collecting

26. Amish Country, Ohio

Most people are familiar with the Amish in Lancaster County, PA due to the large urban populations nearby. However, Amish Country Ohio is actually the largest and most authentic Amish community in the USA !

Having visited both within the same month, it was evident just how underrated Amish Country Ohio was. Compared to Lancaster, the Holmes County Amish were well integrated into the community instead of simply being gawked at. It was common to see Amish working and shopping in modern businesses along with “English”, or non-Amish.

Part of the reason for better integration is being relatively remote. Many of the stores in the small towns of Millersburg and Berlin either specialize in products required for manual work, or finished hand-made goods.

Tourists to the region will appreciate all the things to do in Amish Country Ohio.

 Check out some of the highlights below:

• Watch (or participate in) the Kidron hay and livestock auction
• Learn about the Amish at Yoder’s Amish House
• Catch a buggy ride, or appreciate the horse drawn carriages on the road
• Sample cheese, watch chocolate being made, or enjoy comfort food at a restaurant
• Shop for knick-knacks, apparel, or furniture

There truly is something for everyone in Amish Country Ohio. Discover this underrated region today!

Recommended by Erik of DIY Travel HQ

Related: 27 Amazing Things to Do in Sandusky, Ohio

27. Huntsville, Alabama

If I told you I was visiting the city in the United States with the most PhDs per capita… would you guess that I was visiting  Huntsville, Alabama ? Huntsville will defy your stereotypes of Alabama.

It is best known as the place where America’s rockets were designed and built. One of only 3 remaining Saturn V rockets can be found at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville.

When you visit that museum and some old docent walks up to you and starts talking about the rocket you are likely to find out that he designed the very part that you are looking at. Right next to the Rocket Center is another site that draws visitors from around the world, Space Camp. Kids can certainly attend Space Camp but adults are welcome as well.

But Huntsville is not just about space. It also has one of the largest and best art spaces in the U.S. in the old Lowe Mill. This converted cotton mill has many artists and crafters in its cavernous 171,000 square foot space.

Huntsville also has a great food scene, a botanic gardens and a vibrant downtown. It is an interesting, beautiful, friendly and surprising destination that too many visitors have not even considered. If you ask the locals how they manage all that, just don’t let them say that it is “not rocket science”… because it sort of is.

Recommended by Chris of Amateur Traveler

28. Durham, North Carolina

Our favorite underrated travel destination in North Carolina is the city of Durham. Its small downtown takes you back in time, with streets dotted with historic architecture and re-purposed buildings.

You can even walk around the old Lucky Tabaco Factory, which has been re-purposed as the American Tobacco Campus, with restaurants, startups, a theater and the Triple A Durham Bulls baseball stadium.

The beauty about Durham is that you can visit any time of the year. It’s never crowded and the weather is comfortable, even during winter. Although we recommend to go late summer or early fall to avoid the summer heat and enjoy a baseball game. 

The best things to do in Durham is to stroll around the downtown district, eat churros at Cocoa Cinnamon, have lunch at Nano Tacos and take a Bull City Laughs comedy bus tour around the city. 

Durham is easy accessible by bus and is only 20 minutes from Raleigh-Durham Airport. Once you are in Durham, a majority of the things to do are within walking distance, so get ready to explore.

Recommended by Jazmin of Travel to Blank

A recap: the most underrated travel destinations

Whew! If you made it to this point you deserve a medal. Or maybe a scratch-off map based on all the fun places you’re about to go.

I hope you found some new favorites so you can start planning your next trip! With so many unknown and secluded vacation spots in the US to go to, how do you even begin to choose?

Okay so tell me, which ones are you adding to your travel bucket list? Drop your comment below – I’d love to hear it!

By the way, if you’re planning to rent a car to visit one of these underrated spots, check out the discounted rates on Discover Cars . I routinely save 10% – 30% on rentals. They search top car carriers to find the best deal, at no extra price to you! Here’s that link again to search rental cars .

Read next: 101 Travel Bucket List Ideas: How to Create Your Ultimate List 21 Surprisingly Affordable Island Destinations 100 Most Romantic Vacations in the US You’ll Love

If you loved this article, share it on social media with your friends or pin it for later .

MaryAnne Newton

Wednesday 15th of May 2024

Fantastic idea to compile this list! I’m saving for future reference. You should Google the little town called Stehekin in Washington state, only accessible by float plane or boat. It is fabulous!

Thursday 16th of May 2024

Glad you found it helpful! And Stehekin certainly sounds like it's an underrated gem, for sure!

Saturday 28th of August 2021

Thanks for this article! I'm definitely going to check out some of these. I personally can attest to Lake Pend Orielle, Yachats, Grand Lake and of course, Omaha--since I live here. Our zoo is pretty amazing and constantly adding new features.

Absolutely, Kim! Thanks for your comment on the ones you've visited...let's both hope to get to a few more on the list :)

Sunday 4th of April 2021

What a great list! Definitely adding some of these to my road trip list.

Monday 5th of April 2021

So glad to hear that, Sarah. Gotta love those hidden gems :)

Saturday 27th of March 2021

I explore the world through internet... And the places you told are interesting and beautiful. Everyone talks about known and popular places but you highlighted absolutely unknown places.

Monday 29th of March 2021

Thanks so much for the compliment! You're right that it's easy to create a bucket list of popular destinations. But often times, the underrated places are what impress me most. I'm so glad you found this guide helpful. :)

Thursday 31st of December 2020

All of your underrated travel destinations are really interesting and your way to describe them is really good.. I really love all of your destinations that you mentioned in your article..

Friday 1st of January 2021

Aw thanks so much, Lucy! There are definitely some good ones here!

• A 48 Hour Guide To...

A 48 Hour Guide to Astrakhan, Russia

Travellers who venture into Astrakhan will enjoy the historical charm and cultural vibrancy of this old Silk Route town. The otherworldly Lake Baskunchak and extensive Delta wetlands are just a day trip away.

Astrakhan lies close to the Kazakhstan border where the Volga River flows into the Caspian Sea. It used to be a town on the old Silk Route and is built on more than 10 islands. Meander along canals and over bridges to soak up ancient Tatar, Christian and Islamic history. Venture into the surrounding countryside to enjoy the splendour of the Volga Delta wetlands and the region’s natural beauty.

Day one – Acquaint yourself with the city

Morning – Explore local history

Start the day by taking a walk through the Kryusha Quarter. It’s the city’s former Tatar and Persian area, and it remains a predominantly Muslim area. As such, there are clusters of mosques in various states of neglect and repair.

Starting at Ulitsa Kirova, walk along Kazanskaya Ulitsa until you reach a Lenin bust. If you cross over the canal, you’ll come across a well-kept park, complete with sculptures and a lake. Continue past it, and you’ll end up at the foot of the hill where the city’s Kremlin sits on top. A UNESCO World Heritage site with inviting gardens and temporary exhibitions, the Kremlin is not to be missed.

Pro tip: The Kryusha Quarter is fascinating to walk through, but it is still a little rough. It is fine to walk through during the day, but it is best to avoid it at night.

Afternoon – Discover Astrakhan’s cool hidey-holes

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Once you’re finished at the Kremlin, cut through the Fraternal Gardens to the city’s hipster hangout, Rozmarin Cafe , and fill up on freshly cooked meals and refuel with strong coffee. Once revived, take a peek at the Museum of Military Glory, which is as patriotic as the name suggests. However, despite the museum’s nationalistic slant, it is a good place to learn about historical battles.

Afterwards, it is worth walking over to Moloko, a hip, modern canteen-style café, which is run by the same people as Rozmarin Cafe. Even if you’re still full from lunch, they are licensed. So, why not have a cheeky afternoon drink and a snack?

From Moloko , it’s another lazy stroll along the banks of the Kutum River to the banks of the Volga – the manicured riverfront is the city’s crowning glory. There are people to watch, sculptures to see, and sunsets to enjoy.

Evening – Enjoy riverside views

After all of that walking about, treat yourself to a delicious meal. Right on the waterfront, Yamato is an indulgent, top-notch Japanese restaurant. The menu offers Japanese dishes, sushi, pan-Asian and Asian-fusion meals, as well as a lot of classic European and Russian cuisine. And it’s not just the food that is good here – so is the decor, inspired by Japanese minimalism and traditional aesthetics.

Pro tip: Yamato is popular. Book a reservation or be prepared to wait for a little while.

Night – Embrace the local culture

For those who want to sample some high-brow culture, why not check out what ballet is showing? The Astrakhan State Theatre of Opera and Ballet may not have the same clout as other regional theatres, but like most ballet and opera in Russia, they are still done to an outstanding standard.

For those who want to kick on, take the short stroll over to Kul’tovyy Bar (Cult Bar) for dim lighting, live music and boozy drinks. It also serves reasonably priced food. After loading up on positive vibes, belt out a few tunes with new friends at any of the many karaoke bars in town, such as Chicago House.

Whatever time the night ends, rest your well-worn legs at the luxurious Novomoskovskaya Hotel , a 10-minute walk away from Kul’tovyy Bar. Sleeping options are limited in Astrakhan, but they are also affordable, which means this five-star hotel comes with a bargain price tag. It’s also right in the heart of the city, so the Kremlin and the central sights are all within walking distance.

Day two – Soak up the Astrakhan region’s beauty

Morning – Venture out to the great outdoors

Although the city still has plenty to offer, a trip to the surrounding countryside is a must. Around Astrakhan , the Volga River splinters off into thousands of streams and rivers, known as the Volga Delta Wetlands. The wetlands, filled with birds and animals, are lush and an adventure to explore.

Roads eventually peter out and make way for rivers and marshes. The further you explore the wetlands, the more likely you’ll need a boat. A trip into the wetlands is a day trip in itself, so don’t plan to cram too many countryside sights into your itinerary.

Pro tip: Many tour companies offer trips into the wetlands, so shop around to find a deal that you like. Parts of the area are protected, so tourists need a permit. Tourist agencies in Astrakhan can help you organise these. Procosta is a tour company that offers trips into the delta with a guide, and only Procosta tours can be taken without one of these permits.

Afternoon – Float in salty water

An alternative day trip is to Lake Baskunchak, near the Kazakhstan border. One of Russia’s major salt basins, it supplies the nation with approximately 80 percent of its salt. Back in the day, people used to flock here to reap the health benefits of the salty water and the clay, and legend has it that it is a place of healing. Despite, or because of, its otherworldly appearance and its far-flung locale, it remains a popular tourist destination, albeit an unusual one.

A swim in the lake is comparable to a dip in the Dead Sea , although many swimmers bring shoes because prickly salt covers the bottom of the lake-bed. The lake used to be an important stop on the Silk Route, as its seemingly endless supply of salt has long been a precious commodity.

Pro tip: Make sure you pack a picnic, plenty of fresh water and sunscreen because there aren’t any trees around the lake.

Evening – Feast on traditional dishes

All that country air will induce hunger that must be satiated. So, head straight to Mindal (which translates to Almond) to feast on steaming hot Georgian khachapuri and Uzbek pilaf and other drool-inducing dishes. A top restaurant in town, Mindal serves up hearty central Asian and Caucasian dishes in a casual, yet stylish setting – a perfect treat to end a long day spent on the road and in the great outdoors.

Night – Relax with a beer

Mindal has a licensed bar that also serves up hookahs, so if you are suffering from a post-pigout food coma, and are exhausted from the day, hang around and enjoy yourself for a little bit longer. But if you want a change of scenery, visit Akademiya Piva, (Beer Academy). This restaurant and brewery is not only a stumble away from the hotel, but it is an opportunity to try a local brew or two. Of their five house-made beers, one is brewed in the style of the iconic Soviet beer, Zhigulevskoye.

Pro tip: If you want to relax after dinner at Mindal, book a booth table and make yourself comfortable. Also, for those on a budget, Akademiya Piva serves pub grub at a reasonable price.

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Astrakhan city, Russia

The capital city of Astrakhan oblast .

Astrakhan - Overview

Astrakhan is a city in Russia, the administrative center of Astrakhan Oblast. This is the oldest economic and cultural center of the Lower Volga and the Caspian region included in the list of historical cities of Russia.

It is located about 1,400 km southeast of Moscow in the upper part of the Volga River Delta, on 11 islands of the Caspian Lowland.

The population of Astrakhan is about 518,700 (2022), the area - 209 sq. km.

The phone code - +7 8512, the postal codes - 414000-414057.

Astrakhan city flag

Astrakhan city coat of arms.

Astrakhan city map, Russia

Astrakhan city latest news and posts from our blog:.

4 March, 2020 / Astrakhan - one of the oldest cities in southern Russia .

18 May, 2019 / Colorful summer sunset in the Volga River delta .

4 April, 2019 / Cities of Russia at Night - the Views from Space .

11 May, 2017 / Astrakhan Kremlin after the Restoration .

13 December, 2016 / Astrakhan - the view from above .

More posts..

History of Astrakhan

Foundation of astrakhan.

Astrakhan, the oldest city of the Lower Volga region, is included in the list of Russian cities recognized as historically valuable. From ancient times, trade routes of Persians and Arabs passed through this territory.

For the first time Astrakhan was mentioned by historians, scientists, travelers in the 13th century. The town was part of the Golden Horde. It was located about 12 km north of present Astrakhan on the right bank of the Volga River. The town was known by such names as Astarkhan, Ashtarkhan, Hajji Tarkhan.

Hajji Tarkhan played an important role in trade between Asia and Europe. Trade caravans with silk, spices, and other goods passed through the town. In 1395, Astrakhan was captured by the army of Tamerlane and plundered.

It was rebuilt with the formation of the Astrakhan Khanate in 1459. In the first half of the 16th century, Astrakhan, due to its favorable geographical position, began to attract the attention of the Ottoman Empire, the Crimean Khanate, and the Nogai Horde. The Grand Duchy of Moscow was also interested in establishing control over this region.

In 1556, after several campaigns of Russian troops sent by Ivan the Terrible, the Astrakhan Khanate was liquidated, its territory became part of the Russian state. In 1558, a Russian wooden fortress was laid on the left bank of the Volga River.

More historical facts…

Astrakhan - the main Asian gate of Russia

For the Moscow Kingdom, Astrakhan became not only a powerful military outpost in the southeast, but also its main trading gate to Asia. In 1582, stone walls with 8 large and small towers were built. The town grew quickly - the remoteness of this region and the need for labor attracted a lot of Russian settlers.

The Astrakhan Kremlin was built at the beginning of the 17th century. Both cathedrals located on its territory were constructed by architects from Yaroslavl in the traditional style of Russian church architecture in 1700-1710.

In the middle of the 17th century, Astrakhan was one of the border fortresses of the Russian state guarding the mouth of the Volga. Since 1668, Indian merchants had a permanent residence in the town and various benefits as people useful in the development of trade. The plague epidemic of 1692 claimed the lives of more than 10 thousand people out of 16 thousand inhabitants of Astrakhan.

For almost three centuries, Astrakhan was the main administrative center through which trade and political relations of Russia with the countries of the East, Transcaucasia, and the North Caucasus were carried out.

In the 17th-18th centuries, standing at the crossroads of caravan and waterways, Astrakhan turned from a small fortress in the south of Russia into a large trading town. The Volga River became the country’s most important transport artery.

Intensive Russian colonization of the Astrakhan region began in the 18th century. In 1717, by the decree of Peter I, the Astrakhan province was formed with almost the same borders as the present Volga Federal District. Astrakhan received the status of a provincial town.

In the first decades of the 18th century, a strong navy, admiralty, shipyards, and port were created in Astrakhan. After the Russo-Persian War of 1722-1723 (the Persian campaign of Peter the Great), the northwestern provinces of Persia (Gilyana, Mazandaran, Astrakhbad) were annexed to the Russian Empire, which had a huge impact on the development of the economy of the Astrakhan province.

Astrakhan in the 19th-20th centuries

In 1811, the population of Astrakhan was about 37,800 people. In the 1860s, in connection with the development of oil fields in Baku, the Astrakhan port became one of the largest in Russia. In 1873, the world’s first oil tanker sailed on the Caspian Sea. It was built by the Astrakhan shipowners, the Artemyev brothers, who poured oil for transportation directly into the hold of their sailing ship “Alexander”.

This technical solution was used by the Swedish industrialists, the Nobel brothers, who had their factories in Astrakhan and were engaged in oil development in the Caspian. In 1875, they built the world’s first steam oil tanker. In 1885, there were 62 factories in Astrakhan and its environs. Among urban industries, fishing and horticulture (especially viticulture) stood out.

In 1897, according to the census, 112,880 people lived in Astrakhan: Russians - 86,563 people, Tatars - 15,355, Armenians - 4,038, Jews - 2,115, Germans - 1,573.

From 1920 to 1928, Astrakhan was the capital of Kalmyk Autonomous Oblast. Until 1934, it was part of the Lower Volga Region, from 1934 - the Stalingrad Region. In 1939, the population of the city was 253,595 people. In 1943, Astrakhan became the center of Astrakhan Oblast.

In the 1950-1960s, the city was reconstructed. A new master plan for development and reconstruction was approved, according to which new parks were laid out, squares were formed, the Volga embankment was reconstructed, and the Astrakhan Kremlin was restored, new residential neighborhoods were built. At the end of the 1980s, the population of Astrakhan exceeded half a million.

Today, Astrakhan remains an important transit trade center and a major transport hub at the junction of Asia and Europe.

Architectural contrasts of Astrakhan

Apartment building in Astrakhan

Author: Dvornikov Mikhail

Old wooden houses in Astrakhan

Author: Groshev Yuri

Imperial and Soviet architecture in Astrakhan

Author: Bakhshiev E.M.

Astrakhan - Features

Astrakhan is located in the southeast of the East European Plain, in the Caspian lowland. The city stretches along the Volga River coast for more than 45 km on 11 islands. Astrakhan is somewhat similar to St. Petersburg - islands connected by a large number of bridges.

The City Day of Astrakhan is celebrated on the third Sunday of September. The Astrakhan Airport offers regular flights to Moscow.

The climate is temperate continental, arid, warm with large annual and summer diurnal amplitudes of air temperature and low rainfall. This type of climate is explained by the geographical position of Astrakhan in the semi-desert zone.

On average, there are 213 sunny days a year in Astrakhan. By the amount of annual precipitation (234 mm), Astrakhan is the largest arid city in Europe. The average temperature in January is minus 3.7 degrees Celsius, in July - plus 25.6 degrees Celsius.

The location of Astrakhan in the delta of the Volga River with rich reserves of natural resources contributes to the development of the fishing, fruit and vegetable, chemical and petrochemical industries, shipbuilding, and tourism.

The shortest routes connecting Europe with the countries of Central Asia, India and Pakistan, and the countries of the Indian Ocean basin pass through the Caspian Sea. The leading positions in the local economy are occupied by the enterprises of the fuel and energy complex (oil and natural gas production), shipbuilding, and the food industry.

Main Attractions of Astrakhan

The Astrakhan Kremlin (1580-1620) is the main historical and architectural attraction of Astrakhan. This picturesque ensemble of monuments of defense architecture, religious, and civil architecture includes 22 objects of the 16th - early 20th centuries. The Cathedral of the Assumption (1699-1710), the largest Orthodox church in Astrakhan, is located on its territory. This is one of the best examples of Russian church architecture of the early 18th century.

The Embankment of Astrakhan is one of the favorite places for walks. Here you can see a number of old buildings, unique fountains and enjoy the views of the Volga - the main river of Russia. The Petrovsky Fountain also known as the Musical Fountain is of the greatest interest. The show takes place every hour and is especially beautiful in the evening when the illumination is turned on.

“Selenskiye Isady” is the most famous market in Astrakhan that has become a popular tourist attraction. Here you can buy mainly processed fish: dried, smoked or caviar. The choice is very wide and a lot of sellers offer to taste their fish products. Prices are relatively high, but you are allowed to bargain - it is a market after all. Pokrovskaya Square, 3?. Opening hours: 08:00-18:00.

If you are interested in ecotourism, then from Astrakhan you can go on an excursion to the Astrakhan State Natural Biosphere Reserve located southeast of the city. Its territory is included in the list of wetlands of international importance. Tsarev River Embankment, 119.

Astrakhan State Picture Gallery named after P. M. Dogadin is the largest art museum in the Astrakhan region. The collection includes works by famous Russian artists of the 18th-20th centuries including the Russian avant-garde. The gallery also has a large collection of West European engravings of the 17th-19th centuries. Saratovskaya Street, 14. Opening hours: 10:00-18:00 (Thursday: 13:00-21:00). Day off: Monday.

House of the Merchant G. V. Tetyushinov (1872) - a unique two-story wooden building used as a museum and cultural center. Kommunisticheskaya Street 26. Opening hours: 10:00-18:00 (Thursday: 13:00-21:00). Day off: Monday.

Cathedral of St. Vladimir (1895-1902) - one of the main Orthodox cathedrals of Astrakhan. It was built in honor of the 900th anniversary of the baptism of Russia, as a monument to this significant historical event. General Yepishev Street, 4.

Saray-Batu is a tourist center dedicated to the history and culture of the Golden Horde Khanate located in the Kharabalinsky district of the Astrakhan region, northwest of Astrakhan, near the village of Selitrennoye, in places where the old capital Saray-Batu used to be (also known as Saray-Al-Mahrusa, Old Saray). It was built as the backdrop for the movie “Horde” in 2011.

Astrakhan State Opera and Ballet Theater . One of the most notable objects in the center of Astrakhan, this huge building, which looks more like a palace, is located near the bus station and railway station. The opera troupe of this theater has a wide repertoire: Russian opera, Italian opera, oratorios, chamber programs. Anri Barbyusa Street, 16.

Astrakhan Historical and Architectural Museum-Reserve - the oldest regional museum in Russia. In total, there are about 300 thousand exhibits: unique natural science collections, archaeological, ethnographic, numismatic, taxidermy collections, and much more. Sovetskaya Street, 15. Opening hours: 10:00-17:00. On Mondays, the museum operates only in a guided tour mode.

The White Mosque (1810) - the oldest mosque in Astrakhan built in the forms of late classicism at the expense of the Tatar merchant David Izmailov. In 2006-2008, the building was restored. Kazanskaya Street, 34.

Astrakhan city of Russia photos

Pictures of astrakhan.

Shopping center in Astrakhan

Wedding palace in Astrakhan

Old power station in Astrakhan

Author: Varganov Mike

Sights of Astrakhan

Conservatory in Astrakhan

Church of St. John Chrysostom in Astrakhan

Transfiguration Church in Astrakhan

Author: V.Kildushov

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California's Largest State Park Has This Unique Feature

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• The largest state park in California has 500 miles of dirt roads and stunning scenic hiking trails, but that's not the only reason it's so unique.
• The park is home to a spectacular and highly unique feature that's rarely seen and is the most extensive of its kind in the world.
• Unlike more popular parks, this highly underrated California state park offers budget-friendly camping, stargazing in the state's first International Dark Sky Town, and diverse hiking trails for all skill levels, as well as several other extremely unique features that make it worth the trip.

California is one of the most diverse states with so much to offer, from Half Dome, one of the best natural wonders in America , to gondola rides at Lake Tahoe; it's basically one giant adult playground. Although the immense popularity of California's national parks makes it very easy to assume that its state parks won't live up to the same standard, that’s not the case.

National parks indeed preserve breathtaking natural spaces, but many state parks also protect equally outstanding natural features, and if you're up for it, the California State Park System, which comprises 280 impressive park units, has some truly underrated gems that can easily rival its popular national park counterparts.

One underrated spot you shouldn’t miss on your bucket list is the largest state park in California . It’s not only the largest state park in the system, though; it's also one of the most unique for several very specific reasons, among which is a spectacular feature housed within the park that's so unique that it's rarely seen elsewhere.

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Anza-Borrego Desert Is The Largest State Park In California

The park is 600,000 acres.

At 600,000 acres, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest state park in California. Its vast, rugged, and arid landscape comprises 500 miles of dirt roads, 12 wilderness areas, and numerous scenic hiking trails, allowing vacationers to take in the stunningly beautiful scenery that’s hard to match. It's also possible to explore Anza-Borrego Desert State Park on a scenic drive .

The park's location on southern California’s side of the Colorado Desert, surrounded by the Santa Rosa Mountains to the north and the Vallecito Mountains to the south, means endless breathtaking vistas, no matter which way you explore it.

It is also home to the Blair Valley, which is nestled between Granite Mountain and Whale Peak, and Borrego Palm Canyon, which hosts the park’s most popular viewpoint, where visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Borrego Badlands.

The park’s name was derived from the 18th-century Spanish explorer, Juan Bautista de Anza, who visited the area in 1774, and the Spanish word “Borrego,” which translates to “bighorn sheep.” The park has a Visitor Center, which operates between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm.

All of these features make Anza-Borrego Desert State Park one of California's most underrated parks to visit. However, it's the park's most unique feature that makes it even more worthwhile. But what is this feature, exactly?

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What Makes Anza-Borrego State Park Unique?

The park is home to the world’s most extensive mud cave system.

Many outdoor advetnures are used to seeing caves formed by the dissolution of limestone. However, Come to Anza-Borrego State Park, and you'll see unique caverns created from mud . The park’s Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves is the world’s most extensive cave system, with at least 22 caves and nine slot canyons .

Some of these mud caves stretch up to 1,000 feet in length and 80 feet in height, but how far they extend into the earth remains unknown. These caves are believed to have been created about five million years ago through erosion caused by heavy rainfall.

Unlike the Mammoth Caves or the caves at Carlsbad Caverns National Park , which are globally recognized for their caves, Anza-Borrego’s impressive cave system is not as well known as other attractions in the park. They are only typically popular among spelunking enthusiasts, but they're worth visiting and deserve to be recognized for their uniqueness.

Anza-Borrego also houses Five Palms Oasis, which has thrived despite the area’s arid landscape

Anza-Borrego is huge and diverse, giving access to multiple options for exploration. As a result, it's no surprise that the park's extensive mud cave system isn’t the only unique feature you’ll find there; it has stunning oases, which are Washintona palms (also known as the Mexican fan palm), the only palms native to California. There are only a few places in California with these kinds of palms.

One of its most beautiful oasis spots is Five Palm Oasis . Hidden right in the middle of the badlands, the oasis, nestled in Tule Wash, are four spectacular palms that have thrived despite their location in the desert landscape. Despite being one of the most underrated attractions in California, this hidden oasis at Anza-Borrego State Park is worth hiking to .

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is about two and a half hours from L.A. and one and a half hours from San Diego, making it a day trip option. It’s also worth noting that there are a few places within California’s largest state park that you can only access in a 4WD vehicle, and Five Palms Oasis is one of them .

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park makes a great alternative to Death Valley National Park

Known for having the most extremes of temperature in the world, Death Valley is one of the most visited national parks in California . Covering a whopping 3.4 million acres, it’s also the largest national park in the Lower 48. Its vast landscape is incredibly diverse, comprising sand dunes, valleys, canyons, badlands, mountains, and salt flats.

Located east of San Diego, Anza-Borrego Desert’s landscape is very similar to Death Valley National Park and is often referred to as California’s “Other Death Valley.” Like Death Valley, the park’s diverse terrain includes portions of mountains, badlands, valleys, and canyons. It is also home to numerous desert plants and amazing wild animals, with bighorn sheep being the most common sightings, but deer, coyotes, desert cottontails, and mountain lions are also present.

Like Death Valley, which is better visited in winter , it has extreme summer temperatures, which can reach 120s. Being a lesser-visited gem, Anza-Borrego is less crowded; this makes it more enjoyable than Death Valley, which welcomes over a million visitors in a year.

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Other Things To Do In Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Exploring the Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves and the Five Palms Oasis isn't the only activity to enjoy in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. The park also offers a myriad of hiking trails, camping opportunities, and the chance to stargaze at California's first official International Dark Sky Town.

Explore the park’s scenic hiking trails to see its rugged scenery and geologic formations

Hiking is perhaps the best way to enjoy the rugged scenery and catch a glimpse of the unique geological features of California’s largest state park. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park has 133 hiking trails, including 22 easy routes visitors can enjoy with kids. Hiking allows visitors to explore the park’s unique mud cave system and see its beautiful oases, wildflowers, and wild animals.

The Oriflamme Canyon Trail, one of the easy California hikes that lead to surprisingly high-elevation views , is a must. Although it takes around seven hours and 26 minutes to complete this hike, it has an elevation gain of 852 meters or 2,795 feet, which is fairly manageable for novice hikers.

Another hike to try is the trek to Borrego Palm Canyon, the most popular trail in the park. The 2.9-mile loop takes hikers to the third-largest palm oasis in California. Hikers can also see plenty of bighorn sheep along the trail.

Maidenhair Falls via the Hellhole Canyon Trail is also an incredible hike not to miss. The first two miles are easy to navigate, but the final mile involves a little scrambling, ducking under, and sliding around multiple boulders. You'll skip over some small streams, but the effort will be worth it once you reach Maidenhair Falls, a breathtaking 20-foot waterfall.

Enjoy a scenic and budget-friendly camping experience in Anza-Borrego State Park

Anza-Borrego Desert is one of America's state parks that offer the most affordable camping . There are four developed campgrounds that require payment, starting at $35. Tamarisk Grove Campground, home to 27 sites, including 11 cabins, is one of the most popular campgrounds and a great spot to spend time with your family.

There are eight primitive campgrounds, which offer a few facilities and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Tourists who are less concerned about facilities can enjoy the park’s 500 miles of backcountry camping.

If you want to camp near the Visitor Center and the iconic Borrego Springs, stay in Borrego Palm Canyon, which has 120 sites.

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Don’t miss stargazing opportunities in Borrego Springs, right in the heart of the state park

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park isn’t only for hiking, camping, and spelunking enthusiasts; stargazing is another fun activity you don’t want to miss once it gets dark.

In fact, Borrego Springs is California’s first International Dark Sky town , and is among America’s top destinations for stargazing , thanks to its lack of light pollution and the collective effort of locals to protect its dark sky, allowing visitors to enjoy the sparkling stars, moon, and the Milky Way. It also holds a variety of special events, including the Night Fall Star Party , allowing guests to join residents in observing the night sky while exploring local attractions.

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Anza-Borrego Desert State Park might be one of the most underrated destinations in California, but it is worth visiting. It’s not only the largest and one of the most diverse; it also boasts the world’s most extensive mud cave system and guarantees unforgettable adventures.