20+ Most Underrated Travel Destinations in the World
Uncover the most underrated travel destinations in the world and fall in love with the world’s best-hidden gems.
When it comes to travel, many people flock to well-known destinations, but countless underrated travel destinations around the world offer unique and unforgettable experiences.
💡 I love exploring lesser-known places around the world and I find them much more exciting and authentic to explore. These hidden gems often have stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a sense of authenticity that is less touched by mass tourism.
So, let’s go on a journey to some of the most underrated travel destinations in the world and uncover the hidden treasures that await.
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In This Post
20+ Most Underrated Travel Destinations in the World
Jordan
Jordan is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the world known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Jordan is perfect for those seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
💡 I love Jordan for its AMAZING historic attractions – like the ancient city of Petra and the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum.
Often overshadowed by more famous neighbors, it offers incredible experiences without the overwhelming crowds. It’s a great alternative to Egypt, offering equally impressive historical sites and desert adventures but with a more relaxed atmosphere.
Seychelles
Seychelles is an underrated paradise often overshadowed by more popular beach destinations. Located in the Indian Ocean, it is known for its top-rated white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical landscapes.
💡 I have visited over 50 countries and most of them tropical destinations and I can honestly say the Seychelles BLOWS THEM ALL AWAY!
Seychelles is a great alternative to the Maldives, offering equally luxurious experiences and natural beauty but with fewer tourists and a more laid-back atmosphere. Perfect for honeymooners and nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility and adventure.
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Oman
Oman is truly one of the world’s best-kept secrets. This hidden gem in the Middle East is often overshadowed by its glitzy neighbors but it is a place that should not be ignored.
Oman is a place where you can experience authentic Arabian experiences with rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.
💡 I love Oman for its diverse attractions, from the ancient forts and souks to the majestic sand dunes of the Wahiba Sands and the lush greenery of Salalah.
Visit Oman for its unspoiled beauty, adventure opportunities, and a glimpse into traditional Arabian life. It is a great alternative to Dubai, providing a more serene and culturally immersive experience without the commercial hustle and bustle.
💡 Oman is also one of the safest countries in the WORLD. I felt safe and secure the entire time I was here.
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Namibia
Namibia is one of the most underrated travel destinations in Africa, often overlooked in favor of more famous safari destinations. However, year by year it is getting more popular!
It captivates with its surreal landscapes, including the towering dunes of Sossusvlei, the wildlife-rich Etosha National Park, and the desolate beauty of the Skeleton Coast.
💡 Namibia is LOVED for its vast, unspoiled nature, unique desert-adapted wildlife, and opportunities for adventure.
Visit for stunning photographic opportunities, thrilling safaris, and a sense of solitude and tranquility. Namibia is a great alternative to Kenya or Tanzania, offering a less crowded, equally spectacular safari experience and some of the most unique landscapes in the world.
Herceg Novi, Montenegro
Herceg Novi is an underrated gem on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, often overshadowed by nearby Dubrovnik.
💡 I spend a few months every year in Montenegro (my husband has a family apartment here) and consider myself somewhat of a local at this point. So when I say Montenegro is an amazing and incredibly underrated country, you know it’s true!
Herceg Novi is a great city for its charming old town, historic fortresses, and stunning coastal views. It is the perfect place to visit for a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.
Herceg Novi is a great alternative to Dubrovnik, offering similar Mediterranean beauty and history without crowds and high prices, making it perfect for travelers seeking an authentic and tranquil seaside experience.
Lombok, Indonesia
Lombok is an underrated destination in Indonesia, often overshadowed by neighboring Bali. It is the perfect place for beach lovers, surfers, and adventurers looking for a piece of paradise off the beaten path.
💡 I find Bali incredibly overrated and Lombok is the PERFECT alternative to what Bali was like 30 years ago. With its beautiful beaches, jungle landscapes, and vibrant culture it really is a hidden gem.
Lombok offers a more laid-back and less commercialized experience compared to Bali, making it a great alternative to Bali for those seeking natural beauty, fewer crowds, and authentic local experiences.
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- Things to do in Gili Air
- 7 Day Lombok Itinerary
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- Best Things to do in Lombok
Iceland
One of the most underrated travel destinations in Europe is EASILY Iceland. Known for its otherworldly landscapes, including geysers, waterfalls, volcanoes, and glaciers it truly feels like another planet.
💡 Iceland is one of the COOLEST places I’ve ever visited. It’s such a unique travel destination that I think everyone needs to visit at least once in their life.
Visit for unique experiences like soaking in the Blue Lagoon, exploring the Golden Circle, and witnessing the Northern Lights. Despite its increasing popularity, it remains less crowded than many major tourist spots.
Iceland is a great alternative to places like Switzerland or Norway, offering equally stunning natural beauty and adventure opportunities, but with a distinct and dramatic volcanic landscape that makes it truly unique.
San Sebastian, Spain
San Sebastián is an underrated gem in Spain loved for its stunning beaches, vibrant culinary scene, and charming old town.
💡 San Sebastián is very different from the rest of Spain and has its own cultures, traditions, and even its own language! If you think you know Spain, you don’t until you visit the stunning Basque Country.
Visit for the world-renowned pintxos, the beautiful La Concha and Zurriola beaches, and the picturesque views from Monte Igueldo.
Despite its beauty and attractions, it remains less crowded than other major Spanish cities. San Sebastián is a great alternative to Barcelona, offering a more relaxed atmosphere, exceptional cuisine, and a blend of cultural and natural beauty that makes it perfect for food lovers and beachgoers.
Koh Phi Phi, Thailand
Koh Phi Phi is often overshadowed by more popular destinations like Phuket and Koh Samui but it is truly a hidden gem.
💡 Koh Phi Phi is my absolutely FAVOURITE island in Thailand. It feels like Avatar with its lush cliffs and beautiful beaches – a must visit.
Visit here for the stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Koh Phi Phi is getting more and more popular, but it still offers a more intimate and scenic experience compared to busier islands.
Koh Phi Phi is a great alternative to Phuket, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation in a more compact and less commercialized setting.
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Edinburg, Scotland
Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is an underrated travel destination full of beauty and charm. This moody, cozy, and romantic city is more than meets the eye and is the perfect place to visit to experience the Scottish charm!
💡 People love it for its history, architecture, and cultural scene. For many people, Edinburg is their FAVOURITE place in the UK!
Despite its charm, it sees fewer crowds than London, making it a great alternative to London, offering a more intimate and scenic experience.
Mostar, Bosnia
Mostar – in fact, all of Bosnia – is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the world! The country is FULL of stunning landscapes, unique cities, and a very tumultuous history that is well worth learning about.
💡 I have visited Bosnia 4 times and every single time I’m amazed at the diversity of the country. I think since not many people visit Bosnia there is some fear and apprehension around visiting but trust me – it is a travel experience like no other.
Mostar is a great first place to visit in Bosnia to see the famous Stari Most (Old Bridge), admire the Ottoman architecture, and experience the country’s rich cultural heritage. Mostar offers a glimpse into the diverse history and traditions of the Balkans.
Despite its historical significance and beauty, it remains less crowded than major tourist cities. Mostar is a great alternative to Dubrovnik, offering a similar cultural experience with fewer tourists and a more authentic atmosphere.
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Santiago, Chile
Santiago is often underrated due to its overshadowing by other South American capitals like Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro.
💡 Santiago is most loved for its stunning backdrop of the Andes Mountains, excellent wine, vibrant arts scene, and modern cityscape.
Santiago offers a safe and relaxed atmosphere, making it a great alternative to more bustling and touristy cities like Buenos Aires. Perfect for those seeking a mix of culture, history, and outdoor adventure in a less crowded setting.
Northwest Territories, Canada
Northwest Territories, Canada is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the world due to its remote location and harsh climate.
💡 Despite this, it is home to untouched wilderness and stunning natural phenomena including the spectacular Northern Lights.
Visit for outdoor adventures like canoeing on the Nahanni River, fishing in Great Slave Lake, and hiking in Nahanni National Park Reserve.
Northwest Territories is a great alternative to more crowded and commercialized Canadian destinations like Banff and Jasper. Perfect for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking a true wilderness experience off the beaten path.
Crete, Greece
Crete, Greece is an underrated island in Greece DESPITE being the largest Greek island.
💡 I LOVE Crete for its diverse landscapes, stunning beaches, and unique mountain ranges. It also helps that I had the BEST gyros in my LIFE in Crete (bonus points!)
Visit for the rich history of Knossos, charming villages like Chania and Rethymno, and delicious Cretan cuisine.
Crete offers a more authentic Greek experience compared to touristy Santorini or Mykonos. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty without the crowds.
Seoul, South Korea
Seoul is a beautiful and magical city – and also one of the most underrated travel destinations! This South Korean Capital offers more than everything thinks!
💡 I was SO shocked when I visited Seoul by how much I LOVED it. The blend of traditional culture and modernity, the food, the sights it is all amazing and seriously not talked about enough.
Visit for the vibrant street food scene, trendy neighborhoods like Itaewon and Hongdae, and beautiful parks. Seoul offers a uniquely Korean experience away from more popular Asian cities like Tokyo or Hong Kong.
Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi, Georgia is underrated gem that is PERFECT to visit for those seeking a holiday away from mainstream European destinations.
💡 It is one of the best places to visit for its unique blend of cultures, historic architecture, and vibrant arts scene. You will also find excellent cuisine, wine bars, and a lively nightlife.
It’s a great alternative to more touristy Eastern European capitals like Prague or Budapest, offering a more authentic experience with a mix of Asian and European influences in a stunning natural setting.
Madiera, Portugal
A stunning yet incredibly underrated travel destination is Madeira, Portugal. This is one of Europe’s best kept secrets with stunning landscapes and pleasant climate year-round it should be one of the most popular places in Europe!
💡 It’s a great alternative to the crowded Algarve region, offering a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere with a unique blend of Portuguese and island culture.
Madeira is perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful escape in a beautiful setting.
Matera, Italy
Matera, Italy, is one of the most underrated travel destinations despite its historical and architectural significance.
💡 This is one of my FAVOURITE places in Europe that REALLY shocks me how few people visit. The history is unbelievable and the beauty is unlike anywhere else in the world – if there is ONE PLACE you visit on this list – make it Matera!
It is loved for its ancient cave dwellings (Sassi di Matera), stunning limestone cliffs, and rich cultural heritage. Matera offers excellent Mediterranean cuisine, local crafts, and a sense of stepping back in time.
It’s a great alternative to crowded Italian cities like Rome or Florence, offering a quieter and more authentic experience with a fascinating history and unique architecture that earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.
Ohrid, Macedonia
Ohrid, Macedonia is underrated destination despite its breathtaking setting on Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes.
💡 Here you will find a rich history, medieval architecture, and clear turquoise waters. Visit for the ancient churches and monasteries, the picturesque Old Town with cobbled streets, and the stunning views.
It’s a great alternative to more crowded Balkan destinations like Dubrovnik or Split, offering a quieter and more affordable experience with a wealth of cultural and natural beauty to explore.
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City is underrated despite being one of the largest and most vibrant cities in the world.
💡 Best known for its history, culture, and delicious cuisine, including street tacos and mole sauces.
Mexico City offers a blend of pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern architecture, as well as a bustling arts scene. It’s a great alternative to more touristy Latin American capitals like Rio de Janeiro or Buenos Aires, offering a more authentic and diverse experience.
Travel Insurance
Getting travel insurance before you travel is a MUST. It’s the number one thing you should always pack before traveling that can save you a lot of money, time, and stress.
With how crazy travel has gotten recently you need that peace of mind that no matter what happens there is something protecting you from losing out. I always travel with travel insurance and think everyone should.
I always travel with travel insurance and think everyone should. Below is my favorite travel insurer Safety Wings, enter your details to get a free quote!
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Love,
SSW
