Weekends in Paris, trips to Spain, holidays in Venice or Florence… Some locations appear on most bucket lists. Nothing wrong with that, but have you ever wondered what you’ve been missing out on? The most underrated travel destinations could be a better option if you’re hoping for a different type of holiday: more under the radar—and often cheaper—but just as special.
1. South of Chile – Patagonian dream
This South American country is mainly renowned for Santiago and Easter Island, and you might associate Patagonia with Argentina. In reality, the Chilean side of this region is full of wonders, too!
It’s also one of the top destinations for solo travel. Lush forests, hot springs, lakes, glaciers, volcanoes… Get lost in nature and learn all about Mapuche culture.
Best underrated travel destination for: otherworldly landscapes and nature on steroids
Highlights: Torres del Paine National Park, Punta Arenas (discover its naval and maritime history and the Cementerio Municipal, its decadent graveyard), Catedral de Marmol
2. Estonia – one of the most underrated travel destinations in Europe
Did you know Estonia has over 2,000 islands? And almost half of it is occupied by forests? It’s also full of history, preserving traces of its past occupations and Viking heritage.
You could even use it as an affordable base to visit other underrated holiday destinations in Europe, like Latvia and Lithuania.
Best underrated travel destination for: a budget-friendly and balanced mixture of culture and nature
Highlights: Tallinn (one of the best preserved medieval cities in northern Europe!), Lahemaa National Park, island of Saaremaa
3. Wyoming – a US state that deserves more recognition
While most locals and foreigners seem to pick California or Florida, the mountainous state of Wyoming is only #35 when it comes to tourist visits.
Did you know it’s in the top 10 for hiking, though? If you love the great outdoors, you should totally reconsider your priorities!
Best underrated travel destination for: hiking or skiing
Highlights: Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Cheyenne and its Native American history, Jackson Hole
4. Albania – beaches, coffee, and much more
Mountains, sandy beaches, museums, and historic sights: Albania really does offer something for everyone… including one of the highest concentrations of cafés in the entire world.
And guess what? It’ll also be much cheaper than your average European holiday. A win-win!
Best underrated travel destination for: budget-friendly and varied stays
Highlights: Albanian Riviera, Tirana (psst: look out for its colourful buildings, council estates too!), Accursed Mountains or “Albanian Alps”
5. Slovenia – forests, lakes, and culture
We really don’t know why this underrated holiday destination in Europe isn’t more popular—yet?
Slovenia has a diverse range of breath-taking natural landscapes. You’ll definitely want to discover some of its quaint towns and villages too, though (plus, locals are extremely hospitable and friendly to tourists!)
In fact, why not get the best of both worlds with a fun road trip?
Best underrated travel destination for: culture, outdoors, extreme and water sports
Highlights: Ljubljana, Lake Bled, Piran, Planica valley, Postojna Cave, Rajhenavski Forest
6. Osaka in Japan – food-lover paradise
There’s more to Japan than Tokyo and Kyoto! Known as the nation’s kitchen, this extremely well-connected port city is famous for its street food and fresh ingredients.
No wonder it’s associated with kuidaore, the Japanese concept of eating until you drop.
Best underrated travel destination for: street food and nightlife
Highlights: Dotonbori district for street food, Minami district for ramen, Osaka Castle, Universal Studios
7. Apulia in Italy – to live the dolce vita
Popular amongst Italians, Apulia (or Puglia) is one of the most underrated travel destinations for foreign tourists.
And it’s a real shame because it has so much to offer: picturesque villages, crystalline water, delicious local produce—it’s also one of the most veggie-friendly Italian regions—and unique architecture like trulli, Apulia’s dry stone huts with cone-shaped roofs.
Best underrated travel destination for: a Mediterranean holiday away from big crowds
Highlights: beaches, trulli in Alberobello, Lecce, Vieste old town, Castellana Caves
Ready to plan your trip to one of the most underrated travel destinations in the world? Let us help!
Or if you’d rather see the most surreal destinations, we got you covered.
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