Visiting underrated travel destinations reinvigorates our desire to discover. Instead of following the well-trodden tourist trail, we tap into our adventurous ambitions to find hidden gems.
Sure, there may not always be iconic sights at these locales, but there are fewer crowds and likely a deeper sense of discovery. All at a lower cost, and not just monetarily.
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While residents in some cities (like Dubrovnik and Barcelona) bemoan the massive influx of tourists, locals in less-popular spots 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 London, Paris, NYC and Sydney, taking a trip to underrated destinations can be equally 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.
Our list includes a wide range of places. From the most underrated European cities to visit to top underrated US road trip destinations.
We feature under-the-radar cities, small towns nestled in nature and places with difficult histories and vibrant cultures.
21 Best Underrated Travel Destinations
We believe our list features some of the most underrated places to travel in the world. So pack your bags and get excited for an amazing getaway 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 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 solitude.
Dotted with green mountains and glassy lakes, the natural beauty of the Bariloche landscape is simply stunning.
The town 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.
#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, 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.
#3 Wellington, New Zealand
One of the most underrated tourist destinations in the Southern Hemisphere, Wellington 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. 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!
#4 Dresden, Germany
Dresden stands out for us as one of the top underrated European destinations. Often skipped over for other popular German cities (such as Munich, Berlin and Frankfurt), Dresden is actually an incredibly fascinating 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.
#5 Lake Bohinj, Slovenia
Slovenia is an extremely underrated travel destination, which is a shame because it is one of the most picturesque countries in the world!
We believe the most beautiful place in Slovenia is Lake Bohinj. Featuring crystal clear blue water and surrounded by towering mountain peaks, 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!
#6 Warsaw, Poland
We feel Poland in general is one of Europe’s most underrated travel destinations. 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. However, it took us by surprise – and it’s certainly an underrated European travel destination!
The colorful old town, opulent architecture and royal past enchanted us. Even more powerful is the Warsaw story. It’s one of resiliency, uprising and rebuilding – which is detailed in Warsaw’s state-of-the-art museums.
#7 Nusa Ceningan, Bali, Indonesia
Bali, Indonesia has long been a 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 an 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 agree that Ceningan is still one of the most underrated places to visit in the world.
#8 Ghent, Belgium
After a recent stay in Ghent, the city quickly became one of our favorite underrated destinations in Europe.
Located right between Belgium’s two most famous cites (Brussels and Bruges), Ghent’s cobblestone lanes and opulent architecture beckon visitors to slow down and appreciate the splendor.
Complimented with a beautiful old town, a stunning castle and a slew of grandiose churches, Ghent is steeped in history.
While the past is palpable, there is a modern side of the city, too. While touring on foot, fairytale scenes unfold around each corner. That said, a great way to soak in the charm is on a boat cruise along the curving canals.
Not to be missed is the local cuisine – and, of course, a glass of Belgium’s famed beer (and there are plenty of fun places to imbibe).
#9 Spokane, Washington
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.
#10 Sarajevo, Bosnia
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 Europeans destinations.
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!
#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 Amsterdam, Haarlem is a true gem.
Similar to Amsterdam – with gabled houses and canals – Haarlem is much smaller and exudes a community feel.
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!
#12 Sibiu, Romania
Romania was our first “new” country in a 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 buzz with pedestrian activity both day and night, and the soaring town towers lure visitors up rickety stairs for impressive views.
#13 Pristina, Kosovo
Perhaps one of the most underrated countries to visit, Kosovo doesn’t see many tourists. In our opinion, Pristina 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. 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 go somewhere nearly devoid of tourists, Pristina is one of the best underrated destinations.
#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, this busy city in Northern Thailand is often toured on a day trip. 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.
#15 Riga, Latvia
Hen and Stag parties aside, Riga is still one of the best underrated European cities! 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 take Riga Day Trips to lovely Jurmala Beach or into the enchanting forest-covered hills of Sigulda.
#16 Osijek, Croatia
The long, stunningly beautiful coastline of Croatia is hardly one of the underrated vacation spots. However, 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 tight-knit community celebrated Christmas.
The highlight of Osijek for us was the outstanding regional cuisine and local wine. Making it one of the best underrated places to travel to for foodies!
#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. Still, it remains one of the most underrated travel destinations Europe.
Belfast offers visitors great cuisine, an incredible museum dedicated to a very infamous ship and access to beautiful and unique coastline formations.
#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 towns like Whitefish, Kalispell and Missoula to 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!
#19 Naxos, Greece
Greece is a bucket list destination for travelers around the world – especially the Greek Islands. Naxos, however, is often bypassed as visitors rush to 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.
#20 Glasgow, Scotland
Glasgow may lurk in the shadows of its 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.
Now you have a chance to get in on a underrated travel city. One that offers incredible museums, a robust food scene and gregarious residents. Glasgow may be gritty and a little goofy, but it’s absolutely not boring!
#21 Treviso, Italy
As one of the most visited countries in the world, Italy’s popular destinations are inundated with tourists.
We have learned, however, that it’s still possible to find little gems – and Treviso firmly fits in that category.
Quaint and classic, Treviso is crisscrossed by canals, dotted with churches and encircled by ancient city walls.
Best of all, the local cuisine is sensational. Of course, there are plenty of places serving pasta and pizza, but cicchetti and tiramisu are the must-eat local specialties.
Treviso sits just 30 minutes from Venice by train. Although not fare to compare the two, Treviso offers a lot for the curious traveler who wants to explore new territory!
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.
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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