Tired of overcrowded tourist traps and selfie-stick swarms? It’s time to venture off the beaten path. While iconic destinations like Paris and Bali steal the spotlight, the world is filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
From quiet mountain towns to remote island escapes, these underrated travel destinations offer rich culture, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable experiences without the crowds.
Whether you’re craving serenity, adventure, or something truly unique, these lesser-known spots deserve a top spot on your wanderlust list.
Let’s explore the world’s best-kept travel secrets.
1. Albanian Riviera, Albania
Why It’s Underrated:
The Albanian Riviera offers pristine beaches, dramatic coastal cliffs, and charming towns at a fraction of the cost of Italy or Greece.
Despite being just across from the Ionian Islands, it’s still under the radar for most travelers.
How to Get There:
Fly into Tirana International Airport, then drive or take a bus down to coastal towns like Dhërmi, Himarë, or Sarandë (3–6 hours).
Things to Do:
- Relax on Ksamil Beach, often compared to the Maldives.
- Visit Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Drive the Llogara Pass for epic coastal views.
- Enjoy seafood and vibrant nightlife in Sarandë.
Best Time to Visit:
Late May to early October, avoiding the July-August peak for fewer crowds.
Cost:
- Budget Stay: $20–30/night
- Mid-range Hotel: $50–80/night
- Daily average cost: $40–60
2. Colchagua Valley, Chile
Why It’s Underrated:
While Mendoza in Argentina steals the wine spotlight, Colchagua is a dreamy alternative with fewer tourists and top-tier reds.
How to Get There:
Fly into Santiago, then rent a car or take a 3-hour bus to Santa Cruz, the heart of the valley.
Things to Do:
- Wine tasting at Montes, Clos Apalta, and Viu Manent.
- Visit the Colchagua Museum, one of Latin America’s best.
- Take a hot air balloon ride over vineyards.
- Enjoy horse-riding tours through the Andean foothills.
Best Time to Visit:
March–May (Chile’s autumn and harvest season).
Cost:
- Wine tour + tastings: $30–60
- Mid-range hotel: $70–120/night
- Daily average cost: $80–120
3. Lombok, Indonesia
Why It’s Underrated:
Often overshadowed by Bali, Lombok offers similar beauty with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
How to Get There:
Fly into Lombok International Airport or take a boat from Bali.
Things to Do:
- Trek Mount Rinjani, an active volcano with a crater lake.
- Explore the Gili Islands for world-class snorkeling.
- Surf at Kuta Lombok and enjoy uncrowded beaches.
- Visit traditional Sasak villages.
Best Time to Visit:
May to September (dry season).
Cost:
- Guesthouses: $15–30/night
- Surf lessons: $20/hour
- Daily average cost: $30–50
4. Picos de Europa, Spain
Why It’s Underrated:
While tourists flood Barcelona and Madrid, this northern mountain range offers alpine beauty, medieval villages, and world-class hiking.
How to Get There:
Fly into Santander or Oviedo, then rent a car to reach the mountains.
Things to Do:
- Hike the Cares Gorge, one of Spain’s best trails.
- Visit Covadonga Lakes and Basilica.
- Eat local Asturian cuisine and cider.
- Explore Cangas de Onís or Potes.
Best Time to Visit:
May to October.
Cost:
- Refuges: $20–40/night
- Mid-range lodging: $60–100/night
- Daily average cost: $50–80
5. Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Why It’s Underrated:
This picturesque city blends Ottoman and European influences with rich history, incredible food, and stunning scenery.
How to Get There:
Fly into Sarajevo or Dubrovnik, then take a 2–3 hour bus/train ride.
Things to Do:
- Walk the Stari Most (Old Bridge) and watch locals dive.
- Explore the Old Bazaar for local crafts.
- Visit Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque.
- Take a day trip to Kravice Waterfalls or Blagaj Tekija.
Best Time to Visit:
April to June or September to October.
Cost:
- Budget guesthouse: $20–40/night
- Meals: $5–10
- Daily average cost: $35–60
6. Kigali, Rwanda
Why It’s Underrated:
Africa’s cleanest and safest capital, Kigali surprises with its organization, cultural revival, and culinary scene.
How to Get There:
Fly into Kigali International Airport, well-connected to major African and European hubs.
Things to Do:
- Visit the powerful Kigali Genocide Memorial.
- Stroll Inema Arts Center and local craft markets.
- Go on a coffee farm tour in the surrounding hills.
- Base for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
Best Time to Visit:
June to September (dry season).
Cost:
- Boutique hotels: $50–150/night
- Local eats: $3–6
- Gorilla permits: $1500 (bucket-list splurge)
- Daily average cost (without gorilla trek): $60–90
7. Isle of Eigg, Scotland
Why It’s Underrated:
Tiny and eco-conscious, Eigg is a paradise for nature lovers with cliffs, beaches, and zero cars.
How to Get There:
Train or drive to Mallaig, then a ferry to Eigg (1 hour).
Things to Do:
- Hike to An Sgurr, the island’s volcanic peak.
- Beachcomb on Laig Bay with views of Rum.
- Spot seals, puffins, and even dolphins.
- Stay in a crofter’s cottage or yurt.
Best Time to Visit:
May to September.
Cost:
- Lodging: $40–100/night
- Ferry: ~$10 each way
- Daily average cost: $50–80
8. Gjirokastër, Albania
Why It’s Underrated:
A UNESCO town with cobbled streets, Ottoman houses, and fewer tourists than Berat or Tirana.
How to Get There:
Bus from Tirana (4–5 hours) or Sarandë (1.5 hours).
Things to Do:
- Explore Gjirokastër Castle with panoramic views.
- Visit the Cold War Tunnel and Ethnographic Museum.
- Dine in hillside restaurants with sunset views.
- Day trip to Blue Eye Spring or Permet thermal baths.
Best Time to Visit:
May to October.
Cost:
- Guesthouse: $20–40/night
- Meals: $3–8
- Daily average cost: $30–50
9. Kotor, Montenegro
Why It’s Underrated:
While Dubrovnik gets the spotlight, Kotor offers similar medieval charm with fjord-like scenery.
How to Get There:
Fly into Tivat (10 mins) or Podgorica (1.5 hrs), or drive from Dubrovnik (2 hrs).
Things to Do:
- Climb the San Giovanni Fortress for bay views.
- Walk the Old Town and explore its churches and squares.
- Take a boat to Our Lady of the Rocks.
- Swim or kayak in the Bay of Kotor.
Best Time to Visit:
April to June or September.
Cost:
- Boutique stays: $50–90/night
- Meals: $7–15
- Daily average cost: $60–90
10. Ishigaki, Japan
Why It’s Underrated:
Far from Tokyo and Kyoto, Ishigaki boasts tropical beaches, coral reefs, and laid-back island life.
How to Get There:
Fly from Tokyo or Osaka to Ishigaki Airport (approx. 3.5 hrs).
Things to Do:
- Snorkel or dive in Kabira Bay.
- Visit Taketomi Island for traditional Ryukyuan villages.
- Try local delicacies like Ishigaki beef.
- Hike Mt. Omoto, Okinawa’s highest peak.
Best Time to Visit:
October to April (avoid typhoon season).
Cost:
- Hotels: $70–150/night
- Meals: $8–20
- Daily average cost: $100–130
Final Thoughts: Go Beyond the Guidebook
Traveling to underrated destinations doesn’t just mean fewer crowds. It means meaningful experiences, genuine connections, and unspoiled beauty.
Whether you’re sipping wine in Chile, hiking mountains in Spain, or diving in Japan, these places offer something the tourist trail often can’t: authenticity.
