hidden travel gems

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...

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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Team Wanderlust | 16 October 2019

27 of the world's secret destinations, as chosen by 27 experts.

In search of hidden gems? Discover lesser-visited destinations in Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia and beyond with these recommendations from team Wanderlust and our favourite travel experts...

1. Admire the Neoclassical in Symi, Greece

Symi, Greece (Shutterstock)

Simon Reeve, author and TV presenter  

My travel secret is  the little Greek island of Symi , off Rhodes, which has arguably the most spectacular harbour in the country, entirely surrounded by Neoclassical houses.

Think Greece is all package holidays? Greece has the tenth longest coastline of any country on the planet and there are still plenty of areas (and beaches) free of other travellers.

Some of the best events in Greece happen before and after summer. And areas of Greece that you might think you know already during summer are  a completely different experience at other times of year. During spring, flowers and greenery are abundant and parts of Greece are as lush as the Tropics, while Greek Easter can be an amazing spectacle.

2. Go wild in Maya Nord in the Republic of Congo

A western lowland gorilla (Shutterstock)

Gavin Thurston, Planet Earth II  cameraman

Maya Nord is not a travel destination for the faint-hearted,  more for the adventurous and intrepid with a hint of the hidden explorer in them. It is a bai or  open clearing in the forests of Odzala- Kokoua National Park, in the Republic of Congo.

With clever planning, you can get from the  UK, via Paris and Brazzaville, to deepest Africa within a day or so. The journey itself is an adventure  – planes, cars, dug out canoes and some jungle hiking.

The reward is a truly wild paradise inhabited by  a host of charismatic mammals, including elephant, western lowland gorilla, chimpanzee, leopard, and forest buffalo, not  to mention the bird life. It’s a naturalist’s heaven and one of the truly wild places left on earth.

Journeys in the Wild: The Secret Life of a Cameraman   (Seven Dials, 2019) is out now

3. Explore colonial architecture in overlooked Córdoba

Catedral y Cabildo de Córdoba, Argentina (Shutterstock)

Shafik Meghji, writer and co-author of The Rough Guide to Argentina

Popular with Argentines,  but often overlooked by foreign travellers, Córdoba province i s a n incredibly rewarding place to explore.

Its eponymous capital  i s a youthful, forward-looking c ity, packed with colonial-era architecture, art and cultural spaces, and a dynamic restaurant scene centred on the hip Güemes neighbourhood.

The dramatic Sierras de Córdoba mountain range is wonderful for h orseriding, while Mar Chiquita, one of South America’s biggest lakes, is a haven for birdwatchers.

P lu s th ere’s the kitsch Germanic town of Villa General Belgrano, remarkable pre-Columbian petroglyphs , excellent hang-gliding and paragliding, Che Guevara’s childhood home, and a s eries of Jesuit estancias that date back 400 years.  

4. Explore hidden niches at the Hsinbyume Pagoda, Burma

Hsinbyume Pagoda, Myanmar (Shutterstock)

Lyn Hughes, editor-in-chief, Wanderlust

A lot of visitors to Mandalay in Myanmar  (Burma) visit the well-known temples.

But the Hsinbyume Pagoda on the western back of the Irrawaddy is a real hidden gem (it’s also called Mya Thein Tan, which translates as 100,000 emeralds). 

To get there, either take the daily morning ferry from Mandalay to Mingun jetty, or join a sightseeing river cruise.

The beautiful all-white temple has seven terraces to explore, which represent the mountains that rise up to mythical Mount Meru.

There are even secret statues to spot  in hidden niches decorating the waves of the temple.  

5. Shop for traditional crafts in Morocco

Selection of spices on a traditional Moroccan market (souk) in Marrakech, Morocco (Shutterstock)

Helen Fanthorpe, senior editor, Rough Guides

Shop with a conscience in Morocco. There are numerous Fairtrade cooperatives and associations in Morocco, which are worth seeking out. Visiting them often means meeting locals, as well  as buying beautiful crafts or delicious   food to benefit the community.

A few projects to look out f or include the 40  plus cooperatives in  the Aït Bouguemez , which produce traditional crafts; Al Nour in Marrakesh, a professional training centre for women with disabilities, who create hand-embroidered bed and bath  linens; and the Amal Women’s Training Centre, also in Marrakesh, where disadvantaged women gain financial and social security through cooking.  

The updated Rough Guide to Morocco is out now.  

6. Step back in time at the Kings Weston estate in Bristol

Kings Weston Estate, Bristol (Shutterstock)

Dan Linstead, former editor, Wanderlust 

My backyard overlooks the sprawling Blaise and Kings Weston estates in north Bristol.  In the 18th century, their woodlands, river-carved gorges and views over the Severn Estuary were internationally famous, visited by European nobility and admired by Jane Austen.

Today, Kings Weston is a true locals’ haunt, a place for ramblers and dog-walkers to step into the dusky woods and back in time. Stand  in the Echo, a tumbledown stone folly sprouting vegetation from every nook, and you could almost be in Angkor Wat, Cambodia.  

7. Recharge at the Towpath Café in east London

Regents Canal, London (Shutterstock)

Sophie Darlington, wildlife filmmaker  

Every spring the Towpath Cafe on  Regent’s Canal near Haggerston quietly opens its shutters and you can find the most delicious seasonal food served there until late autumn.

After a shoot it’s where I head to recharge and watch the wildlife and the light refracting on the water.  

8. See the flower with the largest bloom in the world in the Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Rafflesia, Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia (Shutterstock)

Anthony Bennett, former media specialist, Wanderlust

A trek through the Cameron Highlands  can bring many highlights, one of which is finding the rare Rafflesia , a parasitic plant that has the largest bloom in the world. 

The current record is 107cm in diameter and they can weigh up to 10kg. It is rare due to the fact they are collected illegally for use in traditional medicines to treat injuries and infertility.

They also only flower for three to five days, so you have to be in the right place at the right time to catch them in all their glory. As well as the Rafflesia , there are incredible animals in the Highlands; tigers and clouded leopards have even been seen.  

9. Go horseback riding in the Paricutín’s lava fields, Mexico

Paricutin, Mexico (Shutterstock)

Dan Stables, author, Rough Guide to Mexico

The hamlet of San Juan  Parangaricutiro in Michoacán was almost entirely engulfed by a cataclysmic volcanic eruption in 1943.

Today, all that survives of the original village is the top half of the old church, its tower rising dramatically from the black, cracked lava fields that form the slopes of the young volcano of Paricutín.

Riding to the spectral church on horseback from the nearby village of Angahuan is an unforgettable experience.  

The updated Rough Guide to Mexico is out now. ​

10. Get lost in the secret gardens in Horta, Barcelona

The Maze in Horta Gardens, Barcelona (Shutterstock)

Kirtey Verma, editorial assistant, Wanderlust

Spend a day with the Greek gods at the  Labyrinth Park of Horta and you’ll find a place where time stands still. Located on the outskirts of the city, the park doesn’t attract the same amount of attention  or crowds as Parc Güell, but it doesn’t seek it – only 750 people are allowed in the park at any given time to preserve its character.  

Make your way through the twists and turns of the park’s eponymous maze, where you’ll find a sculpture of love god Eros at the centre. If you can find your way out, climb to the upper terraces – a few people will be taking pictures of the pavilions filled with busts and statues of more Greek gods, but if you continue upwards into the hills, you’ll find fewer people and panoramic views over the city.

Winding pathways lead you past shaded flower gardens, small waterfalls and ponds buzzing with the sound of bright dragonflies into secluded alcoves. Here, you can escape the crowds of Las Ramblas and while away the day in peace. Plus, it’s free on a Sund ay.  

11. Enter another realm at the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park in Brazil

The lagoons at Lencois Maranhenses, Maranhão, Brazil (Shutterstock)

Rachel Lawrence, managing editor, Insight Guide: Brazil 

Visitors who make it to this remote corner of north-eastern Brazil are rewarded by an otherworldly environment of rolling sand dunes and crystalline lakes.

The journey from São Luís to Barreirinhas takes about three hours. From here, tours into the park by boat and 4x4 can be arranged. The lagoons are best visited while at their fullest, between July and September.

The updated Insight Guide: Brazil is out now. 

12. Dive the Amazon

Pygocentrus nattereri. Flock of ferocious Amazonian piranhas (Shutterstock)

Jeremy Wade, TV presenter

There’s a place on one of the Amazon’s southern sub-tributaries where you can push through the vegetation into a tiny channel, which leads to a pool of the clearest water, and a truly surreal underwater landscape.

Dive down; every boulder-pile holds an electric eel, but in the clear water visitors can avoid the consequences of blundering into one of these guardians.

13. Unravel secrets at the My Son temples in Vietnam

My Son, Vietnam (Shutterstock)

Nora Wallaya, digital executive, Wanderlust

My Son sanctuary is a collection of temples dating from the 4th to the 13th century in Vietnam.

This impressive site was left behind  by the mysterious Champa civilisation, whose secrets have still not all been unravelled.

Situated around an hour’s drive west of Hoi An, its rural location means it gets fewer visitors.

When you’re there, check out the local graveyard on  a steep hill nearby – where hundreds of brightly-coloured headstones resemble an assortment of little dolls’ houses. 

14. See hidden falls in Switzerland

Trummelbach waterfall, Switzerland, the biggest waterfall in Europe (Shutterstock)

Mike Wright, art editor, Wanderlust

There are a total of  72 waterfalls to see in the Lauterbrunnen Valley in Switzerland but don’t miss those not on view: the hidden Trummelbach Falls.

Accessed via an ancient tunnel funicular and  lift, ten glacial waterfalls thunder down inside the mountain spraying you with a fine soaking mist. The roaring force of the water plunges down multiple tiers all easily seen from small viewing platforms.

15. Get in pole position in Poznan, Poland

Poznan, Poland (Shutterstock)

Ben Aitken, travel writer

I moved to Poland to  find out why the Poles were leaving. The answer was money. I could have Googled it. But a Google search wouldn’t have taught me that Poland is beautiful, complicated and utterly memorable, and that working in a fish and chip shop on minimum wage is only fun up to a point.

I lived in Poznan. Its secret? I’d say its corners, its outskirts. I spent days riding the trams, acquiring  a bigger picture. Centres are fine, but edges are rich. Sometimes it’s good to look the wrong way. 

Ben’s A Chip Shop in Poznan: My Unlikely Year in Poland (Icon Books, 2019) is out now. 

16. Lose the crowds at Holkham Beach in North Norfolk

Tidal salt marsh creek on the North Norfolk coast at Holkham (Shutterstock)

Catriona Bolger, former publishing director, Wanderlust

Yes, Holkham Beach is award-winning, yes the estate owned parking can be limited, but it’s so easy to lose any crowds  by taking a walk through the  pine forest or along the amazing wide open beach.

Even in peak, school holiday, summer you can easily find yourselves alone where the sand meets the sky. Go bird watching, spot a seal or two if you are lucky and then enjoy a pint in The Victoria at the end of the day. 

17. Uncover the Hôtel-Dieu, France

Main Courtyard of the Hotel Dieu (Shutterstock)

Just seconds away from Notre-Dame Cathedral is a blue door. You could easily miss it, but what lies beyond is one  of Paris’s best-kept secrets: the Hôtel-Dieu complex, the city’s oldest working hospital.

Slip through the sliding doors, ask for directions to the courtyard, and you’ll find a piano and Hausmanian architecture – the ideal cure to the city’s crowds. But remember to be quiet – the patients don’t want the word getting out.

18. Avoid long queues in Rome

The Roman Forum (Shutterstock)

Nick Boulos, founder of MakeMyDay

Avoid the long queues that snake around the  Colosseum and instead go across the road to buy your entrance tickets at the fascinating Roman Forum. It’s usually more quiet and your ticket also includes fast track admission to the Colosseum. Result!

19. Ignore stereotypes and visit Essex

Epping Forest (Shutterstock)

Tom Hawker, managing editor, Wanderlust

Ignored by guidebooks but adored by the likes of Robert Macfarlane, Essex is England’s most under-appreciated travel spot.

Whether for the ancient woodlands of Epping and Hainault or the bird-heavy coastlines and marshy wildernesses – like Rainham Marches and Two Tree Island – that stretch up the Thames. Time to chuck those stereotypes into the Estuary. 

20. Kayak in uncharted rivers, Suriname

Suriname River, Upper Suriname (Shutterstock)

Aldo Kane, world record-setting adventurer

My recent trip to Suriname left me  speechless. It’s one of the last bastions of true adventure and exploration on the planet with well over 94% of its surface area still covered in primary forest. It’s relatively easy to get to and is a shining example of how to manage resources and the environment properly.

Taking an internal flight out to Kabalebo Nature Resort can have you kayaking in uncharted rivers, wildlife spotting and going on guided ranger trips into the country’s interior. Once you’ve had your fix of adventure you can head back to the capital, Paramaribo and relax in one of the many excellent hotels. 

21. Find adventure in one of Morocco’s ancient sites

Lixus, Morocco (Dreamstime)

Aimee White, editor, Make The Most of Your Time on Earth 

’Travel far enough and you’ll meet yourself’ – or so the saying goes. But travel far enough and you’ll also bump into the Romans, who at the height of their Empire touched Lixus in Morocco. Off the beaten track and with few modern-day markings, Lixus is one of the oldest inhabited sites in Morocco.

In the city where Hercules completed one of his 12 labours, catch a glimpse of Roman  life with its deserted temple sanctuaries, intricate mosaics and the Upper Town’s crumbling amphitheatre, away from the souks and unforgiving deserts.

Make the Most of Your Time on Earth (Rough Guides) is out now 

22. Dive unexplored sunken caves in the Yucatan, Mexico

Cave Cenote, Yucatan, Mexico (Shutterstock)

Steve Backshall , BAFTA-winning wildlife presenter and adventurer

My secret location is the Cenotes, the sunken caves of Yucatan, Mexico. I guess the exciting thing for me about the Yucatan is it’s somewhere where there are millions of tourists. It’s a very well-known area.

You have beaches that are thronged with people and you can go a mile away from those crowds and  be underground, underwater in a place that no other human being has ever been before. That as an idea it blows my mind. And I think it’s one  of the most exciting things that I’ve seen and learnt this year.

23. Go cycling in Tupiza, Bolivia

Duende Canyon, Bolivia (Shutterstock)

Tupiza in Bolivia is surrounded  by fabulous rock formations and dry river beds . It's a great place  for trekking, cycling and riding.

The route north to the Salar de Uyuni salt flat takes in old mining towns (with Butch and Sundance connections) and miles of roads above 4,000m past lakes of blue, black, green and red waters, lonely volcanoes, surreal rocks and hot springs that you daren’t come out of because the cold air outside.

24. Stop off for a pick-me-up at Cape Wrath, Scotland

The Cape Wrath Trail, Scotland (Shutterstock)

Sean Conway , endurance adventurer, author and motivational speaker

Have you ever been on a long walk and arrive at the café 10 minutes after it closes? It’s heart-breaking when that piece of cake and cup of soup you’ve been dreaming of for hours is locked behind a glass door.

Well, if you happen to be walking toward Cape Wrath lighthouse on Scotland’s northern- most reaches then you will never have this problem. There is a café in the lighthouse that will open for you whatever time of day or night. I know this because I have tested it when I arrived at 10:30pm to a warm bowl of soup.

25. Go skiing in Tehran, Iran

Alborz Mountains, Dizin, Tehran, Iran (Shutterstock)

Andy Smart, comedian and travel writer

If you have some time off in Tehran why not  go skiing for the day. The city is surrounded by the desert to the south and a crescent of mountains to the north.

There is a ski resort at Tochal, on the highest peak of these mountains. It takes about an hour from the city centre to the bottom of the lifts. The runs are basic but not busy. Just two hours north is the bigger resort of Dizin, with chalets and ski hire shops.

Andy's book A Hitch in Time (AA Publishing, 2019) is out now. 

26. Adventure down the Amazon on a public riverboat

The riverboat to Manaus (Shutterstock)

Mark Stratton , travel writer and radio broadcaster

Adventure cruises by boat are an exciting way to explore the world’s great rivers. Yet such expeditions can be prohibitively expensive. So consider using  long distance public ferries for  a fraction of the cost. I recently made a legendary trip down the Amazon from its mouth at Belem to Manaus on a public riverboat.

The 6-day journey cost just R$200 (£40) for a cabin. Besides soaking in the Amazonian scenery I wiled the days away getting to know the mostly Brazilian passengers.

27. Take a tour of Rurrenabaque Pampas, Bolivia

Rurrenabaque, Bolivia (Shutterstock)

100km north-east of Rurrenabaque, in the Bolivian lowlands, is Santa Rosa, the remote jumping off  point for boat tours on the slow-moving Río Yacuma, where wildlife is bountiful. Families of capybara, hundreds of caiman, pink river dolphin, raucous hoatzin, herons and innumerable other birds can be seen at boat level.

Look up into the gallery forest  for howler, squirrel and capuchin monkeys. On a walk through the marshes, wading in parts, you’ll see spoonbills and maybe even an anaconda if you’re lucky.    

Find out more of the world's secrets:

19 secret beaches in asia, 5 lesser known uk national parks that deserve your attention, 2019's best trips to explore new frontiers, related articles, looking for inspiration.

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The Best Hidden Gem Destinations to Visit in 2023, According to Travel Experts

Looking for an eco-resort in Ecuador? A Japanese village lined with boathouses? A fly-fishing paradise in Cuba? Our travel experts reveal their favorite hidden destinations.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

SimonDannhauer/Getty Images

Ever wondered where seasoned travels go to avoid the crowds and find real culture away from touristy hubs? We asked our  A-List advisors  to share their favorite "hidden gem” destinations in 2023 that are lesser-known and offer incredible experiences steeped in local flavor.

Outer Islands, Italy

“If you’re looking for a different Italy, one where time has stood still, head to the so-called outer islands. It will involve one more flight or boat, but you'll be rewarded with fewer travelers. The Aeolian Islands are a volcanic archipelago where you can hike Stromboli (volcano permitting) , boat around Panarea, and taste Malvasia di Lipari wines. Pantelleria, Italy’s southernmost point, is about 47 miles from Tunisia, giving the island a decidedly North African feel. And Ponza, part of the Pontine Islands, begs you to discover its seaside coves and white-sand beaches. — Joyce Falcone, The Italian Concierge

Lyon, France

“France is so much more than Paris and the South. Discover lesser-known regions such as Burgundy, the Loire Valley, and Brittany. Lyon amazes travelers every time they visit, with cultural, gastronomic, and architectural delights. Let your travel expert show you a more authentic France at prices that are considerably less than the country’s top spots, even in high season.” — Philip Haslett, French Promise

Smaller Greek Islands and Wroclaw, Poland

“Tourists are flocking to Greece, especially places like Mykonos and Santorini, but we're having great success encouraging people to consider the smaller and less-famous islands of Milos and Naxos. In Poland, as much as we love Krakow, it's the country's most touristy city. Wroclaw, a university city less than 200 miles from Krakow, is a below-the-radar delight, with similar architecture and far fewer crowds.” — Jay Ternavan, JayWay Travel

Aurore Kervoern/Getty Images

Siracusa, Italy

“I'm a big fan of Siracusa in Sicily. This jewel gets overlooked because it doesn't have big-brand hotels, but it's a magical city with a Greek and Roman history. Great boutique hotels give you easy access to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site.” — Keith Waldon, Departure Lounge

Asturias, Spain

“Asturias in northern Spain crams everything into its borders, including snowy mountains and sandy beaches, humble tapas bars and avant-garde restaurants, raucous fiestas and quiet valleys where bears and wolves still roam.” — Nigel Hack, Madrid & Beyond

Alex/Getty Images

Mashpi Lodge, Ecuador

“Mashpi Lodge, a former National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World property, is tucked away in a private reserve in Ecuador. There are waterfalls, butterflies, soaring views over the canopy, and private birding guides. It is a challenging three-hour transfer from the airport, but worth every moment for luxury in the middle of the wilderness.” — Allie Almario, Premier Tours

mehdi33300/Getty Images

Barichara, Colombia

“Barichara is an incredible hidden gem in Colombia, a perfectly preserved colonial village with a strong artistic community and few crowds. It's near one of the world's deepest canyons, Chicamocha, and is a great base for family adventure, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, rafting, and rappelling.” — Joe Sandillo, Almaz Journeys

San Blas Islands, Panama

“The San Blas Islands of Panama are a stunning archipelago of 365 picture-perfect islands. Home to white-sand beaches lined with coconut trees, pristine coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters, the San Blas Islands are where travelers can disconnect from the outside world and enjoy the slower pace of island life. The islands are run by the Indigenous Guna tribe, and guests have the chance to immerse themselves in Guna culture.” — Emmanuel Burgio, Blue Parallel

Jardines de la Reina, Cuba

Jardines de la Reina, a protected archipelago off the southern coast of Cuba, is a diving and fly-fishing paradise that also offers local Cuban culture. It was named by Christopher Columbus in honor of the Queen of Spain.” — Betsy Donley, Camelback Odyssey Travel

Lanai, Hawaii

“In Hawaii, the two hidden gems are the island of Lanai and Kauai. Lanai has a population of only 3,100 people, so if you're looking to get far from crowds, this is the island to unplug and relax on. Lanai City features casual restaurants and art galleries. Plan a trip around the July Pineapple Festival, and you'll enjoy a small-town feel. For lodging, stay at the Four Seasons Resort Lanai , Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort , or Hotel Lanai .” — Jim Bendt, Pique Travel Design

preuk13/Getty Images

Nikko, Japan

“Nikko in the Tochigi Prefecture of Japan offers mystical views of a mountain region and is home to the famous 'see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil' monkeys. Luxury accommodations have arrived, which makes a two-night stay a must. Another gem is Kyoto by the Sea. Two exceptional areas are Amanohashidate, a gorgeous sandbar jetting out into the Sea of Japan, and Ine, a bayside fishing village lined with boathouses.” — Scott Gilman, JapanQuest Journeys

Tsodilo Hills, Bostwana

“The Tsodilo Hills, in the northwest corner of Botswana, offer an archaeological record of human activities and environmental changes over 100,000 years. Imposing rock paintings inside shelters and caves may date back as early as the Stone Age. Massive quartzite rock formations and a dry fossil lakebed also provide insight into early human life.” — Julian Harrison, Premier Tours

Luc Hardy/Getty Images

South Georgia Island

“South Georgia, an island halfway between Antarctica and Argentina, is sometimes called the 'Serengeti of the Southern Ocean.' Imagine being surrounded by as many as 450,000 penguins, elephant seals, albatross, and so much more. To us, this is the wildlife fantasy that people dream of, and the absolute highlight of any trip to Antarctica.” — Jonathan Alder, Jonathan’s Travels

Hidden Travel Gems: The Best Places You’ve Never Heard Of

Bored with your standard vacation? So are we. Good news is the world is full of hidden travel gems that you’ve never heard of. Here’s a few.

Bored with your standard vacation? You’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we’ve rounded up the must-see hidden travel gems from all over the world. Due to travel agents, Instagram, and the fear of the unknown, a handful of destinations dominate the mass tourist attention. Not many people know that these famous destinations are surrounded by lesser-known vacation spots that are far more charming and way less crowded! We’ve lined up stunning alternatives to famous historical sites. Including fun festivals that allow you to mingle with the locals and iconic tourist attractions in off-the-beaten-path destinations. Okay, no more intro, let’s get to it!

Step off the beaten track!

Now that you’re ready to explore these lesser-known travel destinations, why not consider doing something a little different once you’re there? Our on-site scavenger hunts are guaranteed to deliver a unique, fun-filled experience wherever you are and whoever you’re with. Traveling with kids? They might enjoy a spooky ghost hunt . Going with your special someone? Why not treat them to a romantic date night ? No matter your mood, Let’s Roam is sure to help you make the most of the moment.

Tourist Destinations You’ve Likely Never Heard Of

1. the troll forests , worldwide.

In an initiative to get people outside to experience natural beauty, artist Thomas Dambo has created giant forest trolls, in wooded areas, across the world. These huge wooden sculptures are friendly and seem to be going about their normal lives in the forest. Some are napping against trees. Others are drinking from rivers. They seem so out of place, and yet so whimsically appropriate at the same time. A scavenger hunt for these friendly fellas can be done in Bernheim Forest, Kentucky, in and around Copenhagen, Denmark, and several other hidden destinations all over the world.

2. Hand in the Desert, Chile

While driving through the vast Chilean desert, you may fall upon an enormous human hand, towering out of the sands. The sculpture was made by local artist Mario Irarrázabal and is supposed to represent human vulnerability in the face of mother nature’s intense power. The 36-foot, half-buried hand appears as if the desert has enveloped a living being, with only the tips of his fingers still clinging to life. One glance around the desolate area, and it’s easy to imagine being lost to nature here.

3. Salina Turda, Turda, Romania

A theme park built inside one of the world’s oldest salt mines? Salina Turda is both weird and wonderful, just like the region where it’s located. Transylvania is an odd place, but while most tourists flock to Dracula Castle, where there is absolutely nothing to do with Dracula, you can take a trip underground to explore something truly ingenious. The caves are 400 feet deep and feature an amphitheater, a Ferris wheel, a bowling alley, an underground lake with row boats, and much more!

4. Dalyan Rock Tombs, Turkey

The usual tourist track in Turkey includes a couple of days in Istanbul, followed by a romantic getaway to Cappadocia. It’s wonderful, but you will miss the best in Turkiye. This gem of a country is loaded with incredible sites and deserves a thorough road trip. One of the most amazing sights is the little village of Dalyan, in Southwest Turkiye.

The region is wonderfully quiet and feels more like lush Vietnam than dry Turkiye. Gleefully painted boats row visitors along the Dalyan Cayi River for an up-close view of the 2,500-year-old Illyrian burial tombs, cut high in the bluffs above. They’re mysterious, gorgeous, and should be on your bucket list.

5. Kayaköy, Turkiye

While we are in Turkey, let’s talk about another hidden gem, the abandoned city of Kayaköy! This little village has a sad history, and it’s an interesting and thought-provoking travel destination for history buffs. The village was once a Greek homestead, and after 600 years of Greek Orthodox Christians living in relative harmony with their Ottoman Turk overlords, relationships soured. The population was forced to leave Turkey in a massive population exchange with Greece. The village was abandoned overnight, and it remains as it was left. Kayaköy sits high in the mountains and boasts insane views, on top of its interesting history.

For more of Turkey’s best-kept secrets, visit the small town of Guzelyurt. It has a wonderful monastery and hiking trails through the famous rock formations, which, unlike Goreme, you can enter freely and without huge crowds. Go parasailing in Oyudeniz, hike, or even go rafting in the impressive water-filled gorge of Saklikent National Park, and explore the abandoned fairy tale city of Burj Al Babas. Turkiye is one of the most fascinating travel destinations in Europe, and you won’t regret hopping off the beaten track!

6. Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue, Mongolia

Mongolia has honored its over-the-top historical figure with a monument to match. The Genghis Khan Equestrian Statue, features a 130-foot, stainless steel statue of the horseback-riding ruler. It stands along the edge of the Tuul River. The site boasts an informative visitor center, an indoor statue complex at the base of the statue, and a pretty incredible view. Climb to the viewing deck, in the horse’s head, for a panoramic view of the Mongolian Plains.

7. Semuc Champey National Park, Guatemala

Deep in the jungle of Guatemala lies one of the most underrated and beautiful places on earth! This spot is high on the list of the best-hidden gems. The natural limestone pools of Semuc Champey National Park are far more impressive than the partially manmade Pammukale or Tolantongo in Mexico. Semuc has become popular with Central American backpackers but otherwise is fairly unknown.

After a bus ride to a nearby town, you will be loaded into the back of a truck and taken on a stunningly, winding journey into the jungle. When you arrive in the lush, green paradise, a short hike up to the viewing platform treats you to one of nature’s true wonders. The natural limestone pools stack down the mountain gorge in perfect form, with gorgeous green pools that take your breath away.

After your hike, you can enjoy your afternoon in cold pools with all the locals. Across the river from the national park, a privately owned property has been turned into an adventure land of outdoor activities. You can take a guided tour, of the waterfilled cave, by candlelight, complete with waterfall climbs, waterslides, and cliff jumps into the abyss. it’s one of the few truly wild tours still left in the world—no safety gear, no overbearing rules, just a Mayan guide, a candle, and an awesome cave system!

8. Abandoned City of Mystras, Greece

Near the popular tourist site of Ancient Sparta (where there is nothing to see), you can visit the abandoned Byzantine City of Mystras. The city still has a working monastery, but the rest of the village simply up and left when modern-day Sparta was built. The series of stunning cathedrals and homes are stacked up the mountain, capped with a ruined fortress that offers incredible views over the surrounding area. There is something very solemn and peaceful about touring this incredible place!

9. Hilltop Monemvasia, Greece

Monemvasia is an ancient city built on a massive rock outcropping in the south of Greece. Stay in the gorgeous white city and enjoy the local cuisine. Take a hike through the winding small streets up to the top of the rock where you will find an ancient fortress and a stunning Byzantine-era church perched along the towering cliff, overlooking the sapphire waters of the Mediterranean. It’s a pretty iconic experience.

10. Catarata del Toro and the Blue River, Costa Rica

Catarata del Toro is one of Costa Rica’s most stunning waterfalls. It’s deep in the interior of the country, about an hour’s drive from the nearest city, it doesn’t feature a ton of touristy amenities, so it’s the best, hidden gem of this popular tourist destination. The best part about this property is that you get a two-for-one deal! Not only do you get to tour the towering Catarata del Toro and its accompanying avian sanctuary, but thanks to drones, the owner recently found a blue river on the property too. A walk through the field leads you to an ice-blue river system, complete with three separate Kool-aid blue waterfalls. For nature lovers, there is no greater place on earth!

11. Butrint National Park, Albania

Temple-ruin lovers around the world flock to Rome and Athens, but some of the greatest ruins on earth lie in much less touristed places. Butrint National Park, in southern Albania, is just a short ferry ride from the Greek island of Corfu and holds a place on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. The highly contested property has been ruled by every major empire you can think of, and due to its strategic location, the little park is home to ancient Greek, Roman, Venetian, and Byzantine ruins. Not only does the site boast ancient walls, towering castles, and intact Greek amphitheaters, but it also sits in a stunning landscape of marshes filled with hundreds of species of flora and fauna to adore.

12. Cenote la Noria, Mexico

Mexico’s cenotes are no travel secret. These famous swimming holes draw tourists from all over the world, but most go to Suytun to get their picture on the platform under the illustrious sunbeam, or the easy-to-maneuver cenotes of Tulum. However, one of the best cenotes is outside of the city of Puerto Morelos. Little Cenote La Noria has a jumping platform and three entrances into the underground world of stalactites. If you get there early in the morning, you might have the quaint jungle swimming hole all to yourself!

13. Grosvenor Arch, Utah

Utah and its neighbor, Arizona, are notorious for otherworldy rock formations. The home of five national parks, Utah is no stranger to outdoor enthusiasts. However, most don’t make the drive out to one of the most spectacular arches in the area, the Grosvenor arch. The 150-foot, sandstone double arch is unique. It will only take a few minutes to explore, but it’s worth the short drive from Grand Escalante, as it’s an impressive site to photograph.

14. Blue Pool Wash, Utah

As stated, Utah is just too dang pretty for words. There are thousands of roadside places you can pull over and take breathtaking hikes. One of those is Blue Pool Wash. It’s quite a hike from the road, so take lots of water and sun protection, and wear proper hiking boots, as there are some technical spots. Utah certainly has more impressive slot canyons, but this one is nice because it’s free to visit, and you will probably have the whole thing to yourself!

15. Whale Bone Alley, Siberia

Just 50 miles off the coast of Alaska lies the island of Yttygran, and on its northern shore lies a truly weird tourist attraction. Whale Bone Alley is a graveyard of carefully arranged whale bones and skulls. The “art” is thought to have been used as a shrine for surrounding villages, used for tribal gatherings and initiation rights. The archaeological site lies along a major whale migration route, so it’s one of the few places in the world where you might stand between live whales on one side and ancient-year-old dead ones on the other.

16. Darvaza Crater, Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is one of the least-traveled countries in the world, but its most popular tourist attraction is starting to draw international attention. The Darvaza Gas Crater has been dubbed the “Gates of Hell,” and it’s easy to see why. The giant flaming pit is thought to have started burning in 1971 when soviet scientists lit a collapsed gas field to keep methane from escaping. It has been burning ever since. The crater is 226 feet across and almost 100 feet deep, and it’s quite a site to see! The area is popular for desert camping and stargazing expeditions.

17. Kumari Ghar Temple, Nepal

The Kumari Ghar is a beautiful little temple in Kathmandu’s otherworldly Durbar Square. It’s home to the child goddess, the Royal Kumari. In Nepali Hinduism, the prepubescent child is said to be inhabited by the sacred female goddess Vajradevi. She is chosen from the Newar Buddhist Sakhya Caste and after a series of tantric initiation rights, she serves as the goddess until puberty. She will only leave the temple to perform religious rights and allow dignitaries to grovel at her feet. Other than the kisses of kings, her feet are protected and never touch the ground. Tourists and devotees visit the small temple in hopes of seeing the child goddess on one of her visits to the balcony. Kathmandu is a bit of an eccentric place

18. Huacachina, Peru

An oasis in the desert… they do exist, and they are just as enchanting as you imagine. Huacacchina is one such village, enveloped in the white dunes of Desierto de Ica, some of the largest dunes in South America. The natural lake is an oasis, surrounded by palms and home to around 100 Peruvians. Thousands of visitors come each year for sandboarding, buggy riding, and to enjoy the waters. While it isn’t unknown, it’s just becoming popular with international travelers.

19. Psychedelic Salt Mines, Russia

The carnallite caves below the Russian city of Yekaterinburg, Russia are best described as salt mines of acid! Image Las Vegas with caves. This dizzying universe of swirls and tunnels is like a technicolor universe, 650 feet underground. The carnallite raves in yellows, reds, blues, and white, streaming in waves along the carved tunnels. It’s a one-of-a-kind tour.

20. Gunung Mulu National Park, Malaysia

Gunung Mulu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its cave system. The park is a vast wonderland of exceptional natural beauty. Not only can you explore the incredible system of caves, but the razor-sharp pinnacles of Mount Api are some of the most interesting rock formations in the world. It’s quite a place for a jungle trek!

21. Gardens of Las Pozas, Mexico

The Edward James Sculpture Garden, in Xilitla, Mexico, is ethereal. It’s surreal, and it’s fantastically photogenic. Waterfalls and pools are interlaced with a labyrinth of nonsensical structures. They look like ancient Roman and Gothic ruins, only the stairs go nowhere but to the open sky. The doors open into nowhere, and there are dragons, giant mushrooms, and bamboo palaces made of stone. It’s truly something out of Alice and Wonderland, and it’s something you must lay your eyes on!

22. San Antonio Hot Springs, New Mexico

San Antonio Hot Springs is the jewel at the end of a glorious hike, outside of the spa town of Jemez Spring, NM. A hike through towering spruce trees lands you at a series of manmade hot pools, clinging to the side of the mountain. The panoramic view is unbeatable, and clothing is unnecessary. It’s a bit of a hippy hangout, and it’s a fabulous place to spend the afternoon. Unlike the ritzy town at the base of the mountain, these spas are free!

23. Church of Mary of Zion, Ethiopia

Ethiopia is an ancient land shrouded in mystery and fascinating historical legends. In a small chapel, in the city of Axum, the Church of Mary of Zion is one such legend. It’s said that the famous lost Ark of the Covenant lies behind these unassuming walls, guarded day and night by specialized caretakers. You can’t go in, but the lure of the long-lost icon draws researchers, worshippers, and curious travelers the world over.

24. Patmos Island, Greece

The lux Greek Islands are some of the most famous tourist destinations in the world, but most people flock to Santorini, Crete, or Mykonos. For a more authentic trip, head for the island of Patmos, soaked in lore and biblical history. It was reportedly the exile home of the apostle John and is said to be the writing place of the book of Revelation. A cave church now honors his exile. The monastery on the island holds weird and crazy relics like skulls of biblical apostles and other “sacred items.”

Patmos also has a traditional town of Chora that boasts panoramic views of the island and surrounding sea. Unlike the more famous windmills on Mykonos, the ones on Patmos still work. A short day trip away from the main town will land you on one of the most secluded and beautiful beaches in all of the Greek Isles—you might have thought Hawaii had the best sands but wait till you see this place. And best of all, there won’t be very many tourists. Because the island is still governed by monks, it has been spared casinos, nightclubs, and major resorts. It’s still delightfully traditional, and boasts stunning sunsets!

25. Plovdiv, Bulgaria

You thought New York was the heart of culture? Think again. Plovdiv, Bulgaria is one of the oldest cities in Europe. The little, walkable city is loaded with Roman ruins. They are under the streets, in the city park, and dotting the surrounding hills. The city was voted the “Culture Capital of Europe” in 2019. It boasts a massive theatre, a stadium, and much much more. The city has one of the most amazing city parks in Europe, laced with giant flowing fountains and peaceful pools. The cafe culture is fabulous. The city is well-kept and features stunning architecture, and the laid-back culture makes it the perfect place to hang out for a few days. You can easily score an Airbnb in one of the beautiful, traditional buildings downtown!

26. Echoing Sand Mountain & Crescent Lake, Dunhuang, China

Trapped with the sands of Gansu Province, you will find another desert oasis…one with a mind-bending surprise. Mingsha Shan (Echoing-Sand Mountain) looks like a giant golden dragon off in the distance. Visitors approach the oasis by camel and enjoy sliding down the mountain. The sound of the shifting sands echoes louder and louder as you descend, producing a sound that some akin to singing, while others say it sounds like a thundering storm approaching. It’s an incredible phenomenon, in a stunning location of multi-colored sand!

27. The Great Buddhas of Monywa, Myanmar

There are many grand Buddhas dotting the Eastern world, but none rival these two massive beauties. Situated in the hills of Monywa, the Maha Bodhi Ta Htaung Monastery boasts two golden Buddhas atop a hill that is surrounded by thousands of seated Buddhas. The lounging gold statue is 90 meters long, while the standing Buddha is 116 meters. They are simply, gigantic.

28. Kuelap, Peru

Sure, you’ve heard of Macchu Picchu, but did you know of the largest ancient monument in the Americas is actually in Kuelap? This fortified city is in Northern Peru, on the slopes of the Andes. It resides 3,000 meters above level and consists of 420 stone dwellings, including personal, religious, and military structures. The city was surrounded by 60-foot walls and features stunning relief carvings and iconography. If you just can’t bear the people on the trail to Macchu Picchu, plan a visit to Kuelap instead.

29. Lalibela, Ethiopia

If the lure of the Ark of the Covenant didn’t catch your attention, then perhaps giant inverted cathedrals will. Lalibela is the home to some of the most unique religious buildings in the world. These cross-shaped churches are hewn from the surrounding bedrock, their flat roofs are level with the ground, and their entrances are meters below. The eleven Medieval monoliths date to the 12th and 13th centuries and are a sight to behold!

30. Snorkeling With Whales, Strytan, Iceland

Iceland is a very popular tourist destination, but most people flock to the South shore sights like snorkeling the Continental Divide at Silfra, and that is cool. However, heading up north to the small town of Strytan, you can experience a truly unique experience. Here, you can hop in and snorkel with giant Humpback Whales. While whale-watching excursions are a dime a dozen, a company that allows you to hop in the water with the gentle giants is pretty rare indeed!

31. Hang Son Doong Cave, Vietnam

The biggest cave system in the world was only thoroughly explored in 2009! It has been open to the public for less than a decade, and it hasn’t yet hit mass tourist status. The cave formations include giant pearls, underground forests and rivers, “the Great Wall of Vietnam,” (a 130-foot tall calcite wall), and mighty stalagmites. Local tour companies offer 4-day excursions into this incredible underground world!

32. Kakheti, Georgia

Calling all the winos! Kakheti, Georgia is widely recognized as the birthplace of wine, with recorded production dating back 8,000 years. Kakheti is where most of the country’s wine is produced and features gorgeous rolling hills and fantastic wineries. Due to the use of traditional methods, most of the wineries are very small-scale, producing one-of-a-kind brews that you can’t get anywhere else.

33. Underwater Music Festival, Looe Key, Florida

Hey snorkeling fanatics, this one is for you! The only living barrier reef in the Continental United States is in the Florida Keys, and they are trying to protect it. Every year, Looe Key holds the Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival. Divers and snorkelers dawn costumes and head out to the reef, where floating party boats and kayaks blast sea-themed music and lights for the underwater partiers. Proceeds go to help maintain the coral reef.

34. The Ghost Town of Kolmanskop, Namibia

Kolmanskop is being eaten by the vast Namib Desert. In the early 20th century, a few diamonds were found along the rail line through the desert. The mining town of Kolmanskop quickly developed and grew into one of the largest diamond mining operations in the world. Lavish German-style homes were built by the miners, reminiscent of their homeland, but then WWI happened. The city was attacked, then the diamonds dried up, and miners moved away. The desert has mostly reclaimed the town, and tourists come to wander the abandoned, glitzy homes, half-filled with the golden sands of the Namib.

35. Meroe Pyramids, Sudan

The great kingdoms of ancient African nations are probably among the most undervalued historical sites in the world. In the desert of Sudan, the tombs of the kings and queens of the Meroitic Kingdom fill the dunes. More than 200 of these Nubian pyramids were built between 2,700 and 2,300 years ago, and they are pristinely preserved by the desert.

36. Carnival of Ivrea, Italy

Commonly known as the “Battle of the Oranges,” this fun festival is a giant food fight in the Northern Italian town of Ivrea. Legend states that in the 13th century, the overlord attempted to rape a young woman, Violetta, on her wedding night. Instead, Violetta decapitated him. The citizens stormed and destroyed the palace, gaining their independence. The festival is a celebration of their liberation. There is usually a large bonfire and three days of citrus-themed food fights.

37. Boryeong Mud Festival, Boryeong, South Korea

In summer, the quiet city of Boryeong, South Korea comes alive! Vibrant parades, jugglers, and dancers fill the streets, and visitors are covered head to toe in gray mud. The mud is reportedly fantastic for your skin, but in reality, it’s just a fabulous festival of mud fights, wrestling, massages, and painting!

38. Spotted Lake Khiluk, Canada

Canada is famous for extreme politeness, craft breweries, and stunning landscapes. While more famous spots like Banff State Park and Lake Louise draw most of the tourists, a more interesting attraction is Lake Khiluk or the spotted lake. In the summer, most of the water evaporates, leaving large pools of water of varying colors due to mineral deposits. The hardened areas between pools serve as walkways for visitors to explore the series of hundreds of gorgeous pools.

39. Caño Cristales, Columbia

From July to October, Mother Nature shows out in Serranía de la Macarena national park. “The River of Five Colors” turns vibrant shades of red, yellow black, blue, and green due to the reproductive process of a certain aquatic plant living in the river. It’s quite a show!

40. Giant Crystal Cave, Naica, Mexico

One of nature’s most impressive scenes is in Naica, Mexico where a cave of wonders features giant deposits of gypsum, forming huge crystalline beams. Some of the glimmering, white beams are almost 40 feet long and crisscross each other in a pattern resembling a laser field. Unfortunately, due to temperatures over 113°F and humidity at 100%, visitors are currently not allowed in the cave. You’ll just have to tour this one from the Google pics.

Wrapping it up!

That’s it, guys. There is our travel guide to the 40 best-hidden gems to add to your bucket list! Let us know in the comments which place intrigues you the most! For more off-the-beaten-path finds, check out our list of “The 45 Weirdest Places in the World.” If you need a budget-friendly jaunt this year, then take a look at “The 25 Best Budget-Friendly Vacation Spots.” And wherever you go, don’t forget to take the Let’s Roam app with you on your unique adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are plenty of undiscovered places in the world. Some of the best-hidden gems are located in Guatemala, Albania, and Turkey!

For an underrated travel destination , try a road trip through Albania, an island vacation on Patmos, or practice your Spanish in Guatemala!

For a different kind of vacation, invest in a scratch-off adventure book to liven up your road trip, visit an off-the-beaten-track destination , or take a scavenger hunt in a nearby city!

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• Discovering Hidden Gems While Traveling: An Adventurer’s Guide
• December 4, 2023

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• Practical Flânerie

In every city, beneath the well-trodden paths, hide precious secrets waiting to be uncovered. This adventurer’s guide pulls back the veil, guiding you to the undiscovered and overlooked wonders of the world. It’s your compass to venture off the beaten track, a passport to the realm of hidden gems, promising experiences that will fill your heart with tales untold. So put on your explorer’s hat and get ready for an adventure that’s truly your own.

Blake Miner

If you’re anything like me, the thrill of discovering hidden gems while traveling — a quaint coffee shop tucked away in a forgotten alleyway, a breathtaking view at the end of an unmarked trail, an art gallery in a residential neighborhood — is the very essence of adventure. This isn’t about following a prescribed itinerary to the letter, it’s about embracing the mindset of a flâneur, strolling leisurely through unknown territories, being open to the unexpected, and uncovering the extraordinary in the ordinary.

This guide is dedicated to helping you cultivate that same spirit of spontaneous exploration. We’ll delve into the art of finding those under-the-radar spots that make travel truly special. So, fasten your seatbelt and put on your adventurer’s cap. We’re about to embark on a journey off the beaten path!

Understanding the Flâneur’s Mindset

Ah, the flâneur! An elegant figure of French literature, primarily from the nineteenth century, embodying the spirit of urban exploration and the joy of unhurried leisure. To be a flâneur is to be an observer, a wanderer, and an adventurer. It is to stroll through the streets of a city without a particular destination, letting curiosity guide you, absorbing the rhythm, character, and pulse of your surroundings.

When you adopt the flâneur’s mindset while traveling, your journey transcends from the usual sightseeing tour to a richer, more engaging experience. You’re no longer just a visitor gazing at landmarks from behind a camera lens; instead, you become an active participant in the narrative of the place. You see the city’s soul, its living history that thrives in its cafes, markets, parks, and side streets.

This mindset nudges you towards exploration and makes you attentive to the often overlooked details: the intricate architecture of a corner building, the rustic charm of a local bakery, the soothing notes of a street musician. You start to see hidden gems in every corner, making your travel experience uniquely yours.

Ready to journey like a flâneur ? Let’s uncover some practical tips and tricks to help you find hidden gems on your next adventure.

The Role of Serendipity in Discovering Hidden Gems

Let serendipity be your guide and turn your travels into an adventurous journey of discovery. It’s often when we deviate from our meticulously planned itineraries that we stumble upon the most memorable experiences and hidden gems.

Consider a recent adventure we had in Peru. Ignoring the traditional tourist trail, we followed a dirt road upwards with our motorcycle toward a body of water on the map. We struggled to get up the winding hills, and it took a lot longer than we expected. But after nearly wiping out, passing sheep, farmers, and some of the most spectacular views we’ve witnessed, we made it . As we crested the hill, we discovered a tranquil lake, its waters undisturbed and reflecting the clear blue sky above. No tourists, no noise — just us and the splendor of nature. It was an unforgettable moment of solitude and peace that we would have missed had we stuck to the beaten path.

Our travels in Panama, where we are now, serve as yet another testament to the joy of unexpected discoveries. During a casual stroll, we veered off into a forest trail that seemed intriguing. Little did we know that this path would lead us to a private showcase of the country’s wildlife. We caught sight of a brilliant toucan perched high in the trees, an armadillo rustling in the undergrowth, and found ourselves standing in awe in front of cascading waterfalls tucked away in the heart of the forest. It was a nature lover’s paradise, all discovered by chance.

These spontaneous adventures underline the value of serendipity in travel. It’s about welcoming the unplanned, reveling in the unexpected, and finding beauty off the beaten path.

Practical Steps to Discover Hidden Gems: A Flâneur’s Guide

Our voyages become more enriching when we give ourselves permission to explore and discover through a flâneur’s lens. Here’s a handy guide for those who want to journey into the unfamiliar and stumble upon their own hidden gems:

Research, But Keep It Light

Yes, it might sound paradoxical to research in order to stumble upon serendipitous experiences. But the key lies in keeping it light. Tap into the wealth of information available online, from travel blogs to local forums and social media groups. But instead of setting a rigid itinerary based on this research, use it to gather a broad sense of what a place has to offer. Create a loose framework that allows plenty of space for spontaneity.

Network and Engage

There’s no substitute for local knowledge when it comes to finding lesser-known treasures in a new destination. Engage with local communities whenever possible. Ask for suggestions. Be it the barista at the corner cafe or your Airbnb host, they could point you to experiences that no travel guide has covered. Likewise, network with fellow travelers, exchange stories, and you may discover some incredible off-the-beaten-path spots. Platforms dedicated to digital nomads and travel communities can be a goldmine for such exchanges.

Become an Observer

At its heart, adopting the flâneur’s mindset is about being a keen observer. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of local life. Attend a community event, take a walk through a bustling market, or simply park yourself at a city park and people-watch. Often, it’s in these moments of unhurried observation that you’ll discover a side of the destination that remains invisible to the rushed tourist.

Explore Off-Peak

Timing is everything. Visiting a destination during off-peak times offers a different, less crowded perspective. You might get to see a more authentic side of the place, minus the tourist bustle. You’d be surprised how different a location can feel without the crowds. This could also lead to unexpected encounters with locals or peaceful moments of solitude.

Be Spontaneous and Keep an Open Mind

Don’t over-plan your trip. Leave room for unplanned detours. This could mean accepting an impromptu dinner invitation from a local or choosing a random trail for a hike. Don’t be afraid to venture out of your comfort zone. Try new foods, engage with different cultures, learn a few local words or phrases. These experiences can lead to the discovery of hidden gems.

Be Curious, Ask Questions

Show genuine curiosity. Ask locals about their favorite spots in the city, where they eat, or where they hang out. These questions can lead you to places that aren’t typically frequented by tourists.

Explore on Foot or Bike

Ditch the typical means of transportation. Instead, opt for your own two feet or a bicycle. This slower pace allows for more immersive exploration and you’re more likely to stumble upon hidden gems that you’d otherwise miss when zooming by in a vehicle.

Use Google Maps

Digital maps can be a treasure trove of information, often revealing intriguing locations just waiting to be discovered. Scout for green patches signifying parks or forests, bodies of water, or quirky street names that might indicate interesting places. These are clues you can use to guide your journey of exploration.

Try Local Cuisine

Don’t overlook the power of food as a cultural gateway. Visit local eateries instead of international chains. This could lead you to lesser-known parts of the city, exposing you to local customs, traditions, and of course, delectable hidden culinary gems. Plus, you never know who you might meet while there!

Travel Slowly

Embrace the philosophy of slow travel. It allows for a deeper understanding of a place and its culture. With more time, you can uncover hidden gems that may be overlooked in a hurried travel itinerary.

Keep these steps in mind, and you’ll navigate your travels with a newfound perspective, allowing the joy of unexpected discovery to elevate your experiences. You’ll find that when you’re open to the world, the world opens in return.

Embracing Local Culture: A Key to Uncover Hidden Gems

One of the most valuable keys to uncovering the true treasures of a place lies in embracing the local culture. Venturing beyond the tourist-laden paths and immersing yourself in the life of locals can open a trove of unique experiences and hidden gems that might otherwise remain undiscovered.

Start with something as simple as learning a few phrases in the local language — a small effort that can bring about delightful interactions. Be a respectful visitor: observe local customs, appreciate traditional arts, sample regional cuisine, and participate in local festivals or events.

Make a genuine effort to connect with locals — they are the best ambassadors of their culture and the best guides to their home. Listen to their stories, ask for their advice, and share your own experiences. This exchange is not just about gathering information; it’s about building connections and understanding the spirit of the place.

Remember, the richest travel experiences often come from these connections and the willingness to dive headfirst into the local culture. Embrace it, and watch how your travel experience transforms.

The Art of Slow Travel: Seeing Beyond the Tourist Spots

If the flâneur’s approach to travel intrigues you, you’re likely to find a deep resonance with the concept of slow travel. Born from the desire to veer off from mainstream tourist trails and to experience destinations in their raw, authentic forms, slow travel invites us to take a step back, breathe, and fully immerse ourselves in the rhythm of a place.

The connection between slow travel and the flâneur’s mindset is clear. Both ideologies value experiences over checklists, serendipity over rigid planning, and depth over breadth. They invite us to become a part of the tapestry of the places we visit, rather than remaining mere spectators.

Embracing slow travel can unlock a myriad of benefits, especially when it comes to discovering hidden gems. This approach offers us the luxury of time—time to get lost in winding alleyways, time to strike up conversations with locals, time to sit in a café and watch the world go by. Slow travel allows us to unravel the soul of a place, to understand its rhythms, its quirks, and its charms.

When we travel slowly, we create space for magic to happen. So, on your next journey, don’t rush. Savor every moment, embrace serendipity, and let the hidden gems come to you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Discovering Hidden Travel Gems

How to find hidden gems.

To find hidden gems, one needs to be curious, open-minded, and do some research. This could involve digging deeper into lesser-known areas, whether it’s exploring off-the-beaten-path travel destinations, seeking out independent or foreign films, investing in underappreciated stocks, or finding underrated artists in music or art.

What does discovering hidden gems mean?

“Discovering hidden gems” refers to finding valuable, unique, or lesser-known items or experiences. It can apply to various contexts, like uncovering underrated movies, discovering beautiful but less-visited travel spots, spotting promising investments, or recognizing talented individuals yet to gain wider recognition.

What is the app that finds hidden spots?

There are several apps that can help find hidden spots, one of the popular ones is Atlas Obscura. The app provides a global guide to secret, hidden, and unusual places, serving as a great tool for discovering off-the-beaten-path spots. Other apps like Trover and Roadtrippers also offer similar functionality, depending on your specific needs.

How do you find places that no one goes?

Finding places that no one goes typically involves a mix of research and exploration. Using lesser-known travel guides, blogs, or apps like Atlas Obscura can uncover hidden spots. Interacting with locals, who have intimate knowledge of the area, is another effective way. Exploring areas off the beaten path and being open to spontaneous detours can also lead to unexpected discoveries.

Parting Words

The beauty of travel lies not only in the stunning landscapes and monumental sights, but also in the hidden nooks and crannies waiting to be discovered. By adopting the flâneur’s mindset and embracing slow travel, we can stumble upon these precious gems tucked away from the tourist buzz, adding a truly unique flavor to our journeys.

Rather than ticking off a list, let’s allow the unfamiliar streets to guide us, let’s invite serendipity to lead our path, and let’s take the time to really connect with the places we visit. The world is brimming with hidden gems, waiting to be uncovered by those who are curious enough to seek them.

Now, we invite you to share your travel stories.

Have you ever stumbled upon a hidden gem during your travels? Or perhaps you’ve experienced the transformative effects of slow travel? Share your experiences in the comments below. Every shared story is a new pathway to discovering another hidden gem. Safe travels and happy discoveries to all!

You may also enjoy these related posts:

• How to Choose Your Next Travel Destination
• How to Explore a New City
• How to Maximize Your Time Traveling

Originally Published: July 24, 2023

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17 Unbelievable Hidden Gems for Family Travel in 2024

We have come together with our family travel blogger community one last time in this best destinations series to share with you some absolute all-time favourite family vacation spots – the one that perhaps surprised us the most and took our breath away, the Hidden Gems for Family Travel .

Now, if you’re ever-growing bucket list was out of control before, grab your pen; I guarantee you that list is about to get longer!

This post was first published in October 2016, and updated for world events and changes to some destinations in February 2022

We have some great pointers on how to start narrowing down that bucket list here! 

Antigua & British Virgin Islands, Caribbean

Lisa from travel loving family.

The Caribbean offers powder-white sandy beaches and crystal-clear blue waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving.  Many people do not realise that there are 7000 islands in the Caribbean; of course, many of these are uninhabited. 

Many of the developed islands offer world-class family resorts with kids’ clubs, evening entertainment and child-friendly water sports. I spent three seasons working in the Caribbean onboard cruise ships, and after leaving for a life on land, I worked for a luxury tour operator as a Caribbean Travel Specialist, which involved frequent visits to the Caribbean. 

If I had to choose a perfect family holiday in the Caribbean, it would be a week in Antigua & Barbuda , home to 365 beaches and one of the most popular sailing destinations in the world, followed by a week in the lesser-known British Virgin Islands .

Antigua offers many fabulous family-friendly excursions. I can thoroughly recommend the following – taking a rib ride around the entire island stopping in English Harbour, a helicopter flight over Monserrat, a mangrove kayaking tour, learning to do the stingray shuffle and snorkelling with stingrays at Stingray City and a deep-sea fishing excursion.

Also not to be missed is the weekly Sunday BBQ party at Shirley Heights Lookout. I loved watching local kids and visitors dance to the steel drum music whilst watching the sun setting over the English Harbour from a viewpoint of 490ft above sea level!

The British Virgin Islands comprise 64 islands, islets and cays between Anguilla and Puerto Rico.  Only 19 of the 64 islands are inhabited.  The BVI is perfect for families who love water sports and wish to visit an unspoilt destination which is slightly off the beaten path. 

I would personally recommend staying on either Virgin Gorda island (Rosewood Little Dix is a super family-friendly property), home of the popular Baths and huge granite boulders which are great fun for exploring.  Or Peter Island, the largest private island in the BVI at 1,800 acres.  It has five beaches and offers a wide range of land and sea-based activities.

The main appeal for families is to be able to explore the different islands either on the inter-island ferry service which runs regularly throughout the day or via a private boat. All resorts offer a wide variety of water sports – paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking and scuba diving are particularly popular.

Flying between Antigua and BVI is easy with the recently added charter flight by VI.  Normally I like direct flights for travelling with my kids but this one-hour charter flight adds another adventurous element to a family holiday.  The views of the surrounding islands, St Kitts, Nevis etc are absolutely spectacular too.  

Learn More about Lisa’s picks for top 5 family-friendly destinations in the Caribbean 

Banff, Canada

Amy from passports & pigtails.

Banff, Alberta, is Canada’s majestic backyard, our larger-than-life playground  As only one of two municipalities incorporated into a Canadian National Park, Banff is a bucket list destination that calls to travellers around the world.

Sitting at an elevation of 1,383 meters, it is the highest town in Canada, and federal law keeps it from expanding beyond its current 3.93 square km border. 

But Banff is more than just a rocky mountain townsite.  Banff is mother nature in her finest moment, a haven of majestic views, unbeatable trails, powdery slopes and backcountry glory, with a splash of the animal kingdom and gourmet food for good measure. 

It is a place where Canada can showcase the true fortune of having four very distinct seasons, even allowing for a few to be experienced on the same day folks take in a morning of snowboarding followed by a bike ride in the sun of the afternoon.

In winter, the ‘Big 3’ mountain resorts reign supreme and in the summer, Banff is a hiking and camping paradise . With accommodations ranging from hostels and campsites to the luxury of the Fairmont Banff Springs , families can indulge in gondola rides and natural hot pools, grab a sweet along the shop-lined main street or tackle a day of hiking .

Banff is a place that will completely fill your family’s wander-list.

Read more about Alberta’s majestic backyard, Banff , and nearby Canmore with kids makes an excellent place to stay nearby.

Bukit Lawang, Sumatra, Indonesia

Jason from an epic education.

As a kid, I imagined being Indiana Jones. Hacking my way through the jungle, I would spar with panthers and flee from hostile natives — all in the pursuit of treasure. Now as an adult (in age only), I have discovered a close equivalent to my childhood fantasies: Bukit Lawang in Indonesia.

Aside from the dense rainforests, there are stark differences between this rural village and the daydreams of my youth. The locals here are actually warm and welcoming, and the real predator is the occasional mosquito (book accommodation near the river to avoid them).

The treasure? Incredible wildlife, including orangutans, monitor lizards, wild peacocks and monkeys of numerous sizes and species. There are also some interesting caves and a beautiful river for swimming and tubing — all available to kids who like swimming, jungle trekking and getting dirty. Bukit Lawang’s location is both remote and accessible.

Many traveling families visit Penang, Malaysia, and the Medan Airport in northern Sumatra is only a 45-minute flight away. Accommodation in Bukit Lawang varies in price and amenities, but most establishments can arrange pickup at the airport.

From there, it’s a bumpy 3-hour drive through villages and palm oil plantations to Bukit Lawang, which sits next to the Bohorok river. On the other side of that river is Gunung Leuser National Park, where the orangutans live.

We’ve been to Bukit Lawang twice and hope to return again soon. With the encroachment of palm oil and other industrialization, I encourage visiting sooner than later.

Learn more about Sumatra with Kids.

Burma (Myanmar)

Cathy winston from mummy travels.

NB, this contribution was made prior to the Coup d’état in 2021 – we would strongly advise against travel without checking government warnings at present.

Burma – or as it is presently known Myanmar – isn’t top of most people’s list of family travel destinations, and that’s understandable. It only opened up to tourism about five years ago, so it’s still off the beaten track for a lot of adults. But it’s actually a fantastic place to go with kids. 

Children are welcome everywhere: little ones will be the absolute centre of attention, so you never need to worry about whether you can go somewhere, and menus are happily adapted to fussy pre-schoolers. And there’s lots to entertain as well.

Visiting the ancient temples at Bagan might not sound appealing to young kids but with a good guide, it’s fascinating looking at the carvings, wandering through dark narrow passages and hearing tales and legends.

At In Dein , near Inle Lake , it was like discovering a lost city, while we also visited a Burmese cat sanctuary and saw the fantastic floating gardens.

On the west coast, the sand around Ngapali Beach is totally unspoiled, too and far fewer people to share it with. We also stayed in four/five-star hotels as I wanted reliable air con and a good pool after exploring, but the cost of living means that’s far more affordable here, while there are cheaper options if you’re on a budget.

Looking to plan a Burma trip with kids? Here’s a great guide . Don’t forget the need for a Myanmar Visa for US Citizen .

Etruscan Coast, Tuscany, Italy

Marta from learning escapes.

With images of rolling hills, historical towns, and mouthwatering food gracing the covers of travel brochures, the inclusion of Italy in a list of hidden gems may seem questionable.

However, some parts of the country are still undiscovered by international tourism and are a slice of heaven for families wishing to relax in beautiful surroundings. One such area is the Etruscan Coast, the part of Tuscany overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

My family has been spending holidays here for generations, and for good reasons.  Miles of soft sand and crystal clear shallow waters make it perfect for budding swimmers, and the food is so delicious even the fussiest of eaters accepts it in handfuls (now, that alone makes Tuscany worth it!).

If you fancy a break from the beach, historical towns are a short drive inland and outdoors lovers can explore the countryside on horseback, one of the most popular activities in the area.

Family comes first in Italy and Tuscany is no exception: kids are royalty here and hotels and resorts welcome families with open arms, with onsite playgrounds and kids activities, making this coast a real hidden gem locals have kept for themselves for a very long time.

Learn more about the undiscovered  beaches of the Etruscan Coast.

Krakow, Poland

Bec from wyld family travel.

When we told people we were heading to Poland, we got plenty of warnings about our ‘safety’ so as a worrier, I was straight away concerned about it. I could not have been so wrong.

We have spent some time in Krakow and other parts of Poland, and we can’t get enough. The kids are made to feel more than welcome, and we have not ever felt unsafe…which we have had in some other cities!

Krakow is a place easy to walk around, and the market is a favourite place for the girls. There are so many things to see and do in the city, especially the Kosciuszko Mound, which has stunning views over Krakow and Wawel Castle with its story of the dragon that lives under it.

A huge highlight for us was just outside the city, and it was Wieliczka Salt Mine. It was absolutely amazing to see, and the girls loved it. They were encouraged to lick some of the salt, but both were very quick to say ‘No, Thank You!’ It was opened in the 13th century and produced table salt until 2007.

Wieliczka was a real eye-opener for the girls as people made their lives down here by carving pictures into the walls of salt or making statues of significant people. There is a chapel in the mine where there are statues carved from salt, and even the chandeliers are made from salt! There are so many places to see…Krakow and Poland, in general, are real hidden gems that are so family-friendly!

Read more on travelling to Poland

Lolland, Denmark

Nicci from travels with boys.

Denmark is an extraordinary place for families to travel, but there’s so much more to it than the headline acts of Legoland, Tivoli Gardens, and fairytale castles. The island of Lolland, south of Copenhagen, is a family holiday paradise.

Before our holiday to Denmark this year, I had never heard of Lolland. I was unaware of the beauty of its forests, lakes and beaches. I didn’t know of its unique interactive attractions, designed with families in mind. 

One of our favourite places to visit was the Middelalder Centret (Medieval Centre) where we cheered on knights in a jousting battle, prepared the life-sized trebuchet (a siege warfare weapon) for firing, and had fun working the massive medieval machines.

Another favourite was Knuthenborg Safaripark, Northern Europe’s biggest safari park. Here we got up close to the 1,200 wild animals like wolves, tigers, and rhino, while driving our car through the beautiful 500-hectare grounds.

W hen we finished with the animals, we had an absolute blast at Limpopo Land, Denmark’s biggest nature water playground. If you love the outdoors, Lolland is a great place to be. Ride a bike or horse through the picture-perfect countryside, go kayaking, or discover seals in their natural habitat on a seal safari. Lolland also boasts the remarkable Danish Castle Centre, Lalandia holiday centre, and the warmest bathing waters in Denmark.  

Read more on why Lolland is heaven! 

Jennifer from Our Family Travel Adventures

Malta is our favorite spot to visit as a family. Malta is comprised of 3 islands in the Mediterranean between Sicily and Africa.  The weather is lovely with mild winters ( you can see why it makes our best winter sun destinations in Europe !) and warm summers.  English and Italian are widely spoken so it’s easy to communicate. 

Malta offers amazing archaeological sites, stunning architecture and some of the most beautiful beaches we have ever visited. Explore Mdina, the historic Phoenician walled city that served as Malta’s capital until 1530. 

Take a fun speed boat ride to the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island, for a day of snorkelling and swimming in crystal blue waters.  Or check out Ggantila, a large stone temple structure that dates from before the Egyptian pyramids were built. The Maltese are warm and friendly to visitors and welcome families to their island.

See more of what to expect in Malta.+ our guide to the best places to stay in Malta

Margaret River Region, Western Australia

Sally-ann from toddlers on tour .

The Margaret River Region has long been known for its great surfing, delicious wines and even the tasty local foods. But there is so much more to this hidden corner of the globe.

The Margaret River Region has a rich history involving the local Indigenous people and some of their dream time stories which are part of the area’s natural attractions.

When we visit Nilgi Cave the tour starts with the tale of how the good spirit Nilgi defeated the evil Wolverine and restored prosperity to the region. Then at our leisure, we are able to climb through the cave’s internal chambers viewing the stalagmites and stalactites lit up with pretty red, green, blue and purple lights.

There are several more caves to explore within the region, and as you drive to each one you bypass rocky coastlines hugging the turquoise ocean that laps onto the crystal-white sandy beaches.

However, if your kids need more stimulation, you won’t be sore for lack of entertainment with the Amaze’n Margaret River hedge maze , the wooden Yallingup Maze and its puzzle café, mini-golf, archery, Busselton Jetty’s longest wooden jetty in the southern hemisphere with an underwater exploratory centre at the end of the pier, or Xscape at the Cape for an action-packed adventure.

You can see why West Australians have enjoyed this hidden gem as a holiday destination since the early 1900’s and why we all continue to return – there is just so much to see and do in the Margaret River Region!

See more on the best family-friendly breweries in the Margaret River region

Jurga from Full Suitcase

When I told Keri that I chose Namibia for this post, she was like ‘Namibia? Family-friendly?’

Namibia has been a long-time dream for us. As soon as we thought that the kids were old enough, we booked a 4-week trip to visit this hidden gem of Africa. At the time we travelled, our oldest son was 5 and the twins were 3. Years later it’s still one of the best family trips we ever made. Here is why.

Namibia has lots of wildlife, amazing landscapes, great cultural diversity, and last but not least plenty of space for the kids to run, play, and just be themselves. Add good weather, amazing accommodations and some of the best food ever, and you have all of the ingredients for a successful family trip.  You can find a great self-drive itinerary here.  

Still not convinced? Let me share some of the best memories from our trip. Climbing the world’s tallest sand dunes and then rolling down all the way to the bottom. Tracking a herd of desert elephants over the river bed in a safari vehicle. Visiting Himba, Damara and San tribes and getting to know cultures that are so different from ours. Watching the most amazing sunsets every evening and millions of stars every night…

Want to know more? Read the whole story on our blog  Namibia with kids 

Oahu, Hawaii, United States

Debbie from travel with the greens.

With endless beaches and long summer days, there are so many reasons to make Hawaii your next family holiday.  Away from all the tourist traps, there are many hidden gems to be found. 

Hire a car, put the roof down and cruise around the island. Make Shark’s Cove, near Waimea Bay Oahu , top of your list for kid-friendly snorkelling .  Grab all your snorkel gear from Snorkel Bob’s in Waikiki before your drive. 

After all your tropical fish finding head across the road to eat lunch at the food trucks parked there. An easy walk for the family is to the Manoa Falls to discover the most spectacular waterfall. 

You will need to refuel with donuts from Leonard’s Bakery which are so delicious you will be dreaming of them for weeks after. For a view as far as the eye can see over Oahu head up to Nu’uanu Pali Lookou t.  This lookout off the Pali Highway will show off the highlights of the island from the mountains to the spectacular blue ocean.

Read more travel tips and hidden gems in Hawaii  

Find out how to get from Australia to Hawaii with budget airline Jetstar

Postojna Caves, Slovenia

Richard from life in our van.

There are some places that a guide book can never fully describe. So consider leaving the grace and splendour of Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, to discover a beauty that can sometimes only be found under the earth. A majestic, natural subterranean beauty some 50km from the capital.

The Postojna Caves hold over 21km of tunnels, caverns and halls. All accessed by an underground double-track train that descends through 5km of stalactites & stalagmites. The underground paths include a non-stick substance that helps children to walk safely across each fantastic bridge.

Each with amazing views of the caverns below full of magical shadows brilliantly lit without becoming overly touristic. What will blow everyone’s minds is the relatively small growth of these stalactites. Each only growing 1cm each 100yrs.

Prepare to be amazed further as the cave’s rich history extends to being owned by Italy, includes it’s own living baby dragons (Proteus Anguinus) and holds the world’s only underground post office!

An excellent audio guide brings to life the ‘Spaghetti’ , ‘White’, ‘Red’ chambers with their hippo, bird and crocodile-shaped rocks. Its constant 9 degrees means it is easily comfortable to do in casual daily clothing, and every child will love the train ride through the 40m high candle-lined concert hall.

Offering a good value morning activity it might even leave you the afternoon free to explore the nearby Predjama Castle (A Guinness World Record holder as the world’s largest cave castle!).

Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra

Maria from one tiny leap.

While breathtakingly beautiful, and a must-see if you’re visiting Lisbon, it would be stretching it a little to describe Sintra and its glorious Pena Palace as a “hidden gem.”

We’d like, then, to suggest an alternative if you don’t fancy tackling the crowds in Sintra: the gardens of the Quinta da Regaleira are a place we discovered ourselves only recently and would love to share with you.

Just a 20-minute hike uphill from Sintra (motor-taxis can be hired if you prefer), these lush and mysterious gardens are simply enchanting, and perfect for both little ones and grown-ups too! The grounds of this grand house cover four hectares, spanning several levels.

Explore hidden passageways through caves, stand on the Juliet balcony, cross the stepping-stones under a gushing waterfall and don’t miss the stunning Initiation Well, with its circular staircase carved into the rock.

The gardens are inlaid with Masonic symbology with references to the Knights Templar and alchemy, but in our opinion, their most important feature is they’re perfect for letting your little ones run around amid the creative structures, beautiful scenery and fresh air.

Sayulita, Mexico

Nicole from the passport kids.

Sayulita on Riviera Nayarit  is one of the best not-so-secret beach towns in Mexico ! It is 45 minutes away from the typical resort communities of Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta, which lets you see another side of Mexico along the Pacific coast.

This town has a great relaxed vibe where you can wander the streets, surf and boogie board the waves or enjoy the beach activities. Try some of the local traditional street food or dine in one of the restaurants along the beach.

It’s a spot where time feels like it slows down so you can enjoy the simple things, like building a sandcastle with your kids or jumping in the waves. It’s a place where locals and tourists mingle together; and although Sayulita has increasingly become more touristy since the sleepy little fishing village, there is still a sense of openheartedness in the town.

Away from the big fancy resorts of Mexico, the people and the atmosphere of Sayulita will let your family experience another side of the country, which is a must. Whether it is just a day trip from Puerto Vallarta or a few nights in town, we always recommend families go and check out this funky little surfer town if they are going to the area.

More ideas for helping you plan a day trip to Sayulita

Sivota, Greece

Karen from mini travellers.

A place we will inevitably travel to time and time again with the kids is Sivota in Greece .  Whilst Sivota itself is on mainland Greece, and you can fly to Preveza and drive down the coast, perhaps the easiest, and more scenic way to reach this secluded location is by flying to Corfu and taking either a private sea taxi or a ferry boat across to Sivota Harbour.

The coastline and the sunsets, combined with the welcome breeze make this relaxed area of Greece (although where in Greece isn’t relaxed) a hidden gem.  The sea is so blue you could easily be in the Caribbean , yet the ease at which you can get to this area from Europe makes it a truly exciting destination for those of you (like us) who are usually ten hours away from Caribbean-style beaches.

It’s difficult to express in words why this area captured our hearts, and so I’m cheating a little with this collage of photos!  Don’t you just think it looks like perfection for our little family!

Here’s a great family accommodation idea for Sivota .

Elizabeth from Wander Mum

It is not a place many instantly think about visiting with children but we adored Sri Lanka and it welcomed us with open arms. Sidestepping the capital Colombo, we spent time in the second largest city Kandy , where a  temple trip was followed by some traditional Kandyan dancing. My three-year-old daughter loved it!

In the Sri Lankan tea lands we discovered a cool sanctuary and hiked among the tea trees, learning a bit about the drink we consume daily. Older children could tackle the sacred mountain, Adam’s Peak, but there are plenty of hiking routes around the Ella and Hatton regions to explore.

We happened to visit during the Thai Pongal festival – a fascinating experience and interesting see how the local people prepared for the harvest festival event.

The best way to travel to the area is by train where you get a glimpse of some breathtaking scenery. Of course, no trip is complete without a ride in a tuk tuk , a highlight my daughter still talks about today. In the south, Sri Lanka has no shortage of idyllic sandy beaches.

Mirissa is a famous surfing spot with lessons for all the family and if nature is what you are after then there’s the Yala and Udawalawe National Parks  where you can see elephants and leopards.

Sri Lanka has opened up hugely to tourism in recent years. It is a wonderful, cultural experience. Discover it before everyone else does!

Find out more about why we love Sri Lanka too , a perfect short break from the Middle East

West Michigan, United States

Tonya from detail oriented traveller.

The western side of Michigan is my favorite hidden gem, and not only because it’s where I grew up. Most often, when people think of Michigan in the United States, they think Detroit area.

However, on the opposite side of the state, you have gorgeous beaches, wooded trails, craft beer and friendly people. What more do you need?

As for the beaches, the western shore of Lake Michigan is lined with sugary soft sand dunes. In fact, one of the US National Parks is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park near Traverse City.

The sand dunes make a great playground for the kiddos, and tires them out! The sand on the beach is super soft, free of shells and rocks. The water is fresh, but you feel like it’s an ocean. The smallest distance across Lake Michigan is 64 miles, after all!

Western Michigan also offers plenty of wooded trails and hiking opportunities. While it’s no mountain, it does make it easier for smaller kids to manage. In the winter, there are places to ski . Again, no mountains like in the Rockies, but they are still manageable for small children.

In Muskegon, the Winter Sports Complex offers sledding, cross-country skiing, ice skating trails and an Olympic-sized luge run – its one of our favorite small towns on the Great Lakes .

For the grown-ups, West Michigan is home to several craft breweries. Along with the local mid-western fare dining (think German and Polish roots) and friendly people, it’s the place I will continue to bring my family year after year.

Learn more about Sand Dune Rides in Lake Michigan

Bookmark this for later inspiration or save to Pinterest

 We have really enjoyed sharing with you this amazing travel destinations series – so many great ideas from travel bloggers around the world. I really encourage you to go and check out their blogs too, so many amazing stories to share.

Have we missed your favourite hidden gem? We’d love you to share!

SEE THE WHOLE BEST FAMILY TRAVEL DESTINATIONS SERIES

© Our Globetrotters

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9 thoughts on “ 17 Unbelievable Hidden Gems for Family Travel in 2024 ”

I would love to visit them all in 2021, thanks for sharing.

This is a great list, but you should definitely NOT go to Myanmar as there is a genocide going on there and it is most definitely not safe

Hi Audrey. This list is about 18 months old now and safety and circumstances in some locations may have changed since the post was originally published. We’d always advise people to check current government advisories before booking travel, especially to the more remote and exotic locations listed. We’ll make a note to update the post to explain this. Thanks for taking the time to read and hope you found some inspiration ~ Keri

Thank you for including my piece on Sri Lanka, Keri. There are so many places that are great for children. Feeling very inspired…I just need to create some more time so we can visit them all.

This is a fantastic list – so many added to my bucket list!! Thanks to you and all the other family travel writers for sharing. X

Thank you for including my hidden gem on the Margaret River Region. I also loved discovering a whole heap more hidden travel gems to explore.

Thanks for being a part of our Hidden Gems – its only grown the bucket list that bit longer again!!!

Thanks for including me! A fantastic list, and I’d love to visit them all someday!

So glad to see Banff in there. We had the most incredible winter experience there with the Globetrotters, can’t wait to do it again in the different seasons.

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20 Unbelievable Hidden Spots In The U.S. You Didn't Know Existed

Massachusetts native. Freelance writer and strawberry eater.

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America is bursting with world-renowned natural wonders and incredible man-made attractions. It’s definitely worth a bit of traveling to see some of the most beautiful spots across the country. But how do you avoid jostling for elbow room with hordes of other travelers? We’ve selected some choice destinations that are definitely hidden treasures but aren’t so off the beaten path that they’re completely inaccessible. Check out these less-known hidden gems across the country and be a vacation trail-blazer.

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Do you know of any other incredible travel destinations that are dying to be seen by the world? Let us know!

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31 Best Hidden Gems in the US: Epic Secret Spots You Must See

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From coast to coast, there are so many unique hidden gems in the US. Some of these towns look like they only exist in fairy tales with idyllic beaches, sailboats on the harbor, and breathtaking architecture.

If you’re looking for some lesser-known places, here are 30 destinations in the US you should visit on your next vacation. Some of these destinations are great options for US summer road trips !

The Best Hidden Gems in the US

Here are some amazing off-the-beaten-path destinations to add to your US bucket list:

1. Asheville, NC

Asheville, North Carolina is tucked away among the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. Just a two-hour drive from the capital city of Charlotte, this US hidden gem offers a little bit of something for every type of traveler!

Upon entering the little mountain town, you’ll learn they have a huge craft beer scene. The city boasts having the most amount of breweries per capita in the US! Other travelers will love it for its history like the Biltmore Estate, the largest estate in the United States, and the Omni Grove Park Inn that has served guests for more than a century dating back to the likes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. Vacationers looking for a relaxing getaway won’t want to miss Shoji Spa. You’ll enjoy a unique experience at the only Japanese spa on the East Coast.

Not to mention, the food is something to rave about. Foodies will love Rhubarb and Early Girl Eatery, while chocolate lovers will flock to the French Broad Chocolate Lounge. 

Spend your morning chasing waterfalls in the Blue Ridge Mountains and your nights brewery hopping around town. For those non-beer drinkers, join in on one of Asheville’s famous rooftop tours. You’ll find no better drink and view combo than at Capella on 9. Once you visit, you’ll understand why Asheville is much more than just a little mountain town.

By Liz from Spend it like Stanford

2. Amarillo, TX

In the center of the Texas Panhandle lies the state’s ninth-largest city: Amarillo .

Amarillo is not what most people first think about when planning a trip to Texas—in fact, it’s not often a destination that crosses people’s minds at all. It is far out of the way in West Texas, closer to New Mexico and Oklahoma than it is to any other large Texas city. However, it is a destination worth visiting at least once!

The biggest draw to Amarillo—and perhaps the main reason people outside the region visit—is Route 66. Amarillo is nearly the center point for the road that stretches from Chicago to Los Angeles, making it a great pit stop and place to find Route 66 memorabilia.

Big Texan Steakhouse is another popular attraction in Amarillo. It’s more than a restaurant—it’s a souvenir shop, motel, RV park, and steakhouse all in one. Their 72 oz. steak challenge also makes it a form of entertainment, where people compete to win a free meal consisting of 72 ounces of steak, a baked potato, cocktail shrimp, and salad if they can finish it within an hour.

Two photogenic spots to see in Amarillo include Cadillac Ranch and Palo Duro Canyon. Cadillac Ranch is an art installation where visitors can find Cadillacs that are partially buried in the ground and covered in spray paint! Palo Duro Canyon, thirty minutes south of Amarillo, is the second-largest canyon in the United States, after the Grand Canyon. It is a beautiful place to visit any time of year.

By McKenna from One More Step Travels

3. Annapolis, MD

Annapolis, Maryland’s capital is a quaint little town that gets sidelined by the famous Baltimore and DC in the vicinity. Located by the Chesapeake Bay it is a great place to visit if you want to run away from the hustle-bustle of big cities. We were lucky to have visited Annapolis as a day trip from Philadelphia .

Home to the US Naval Academy or USNA, the trip to Annapolis has to begin by exploring the campus. The best way is to take a walking guided tour of the Academy. The tours cost a minimal amount and begin from the Visitor Center with experienced guides. The walk across the academy blooming with flowers and greenery is beautiful. Visiting the memorial hall, hearing the stories of valor, walking by the residences of the professors and senior Naval officers is very interesting. There is a beautiful chapel inside the campus as well. A valid Picture ID card is must to enter.

Note: The tours and Visitor center are closed as of Jan 2021 due to Covid-19.

Since Annapolis is the capital city of Maryland, the Maryland State House , the Capitol building is a great place to visit. The building was constructed way back in 1779 but still holds its charm. There are free self-guided tours of the State House. 

Annapolis’s red brick Main street is a place for the shopping lovers and art enthusiasts. The charming area has boutiques, galleries and cafes to help satisfy the shopping and food desires. Walk by the docs and watch the sailing boats or take a cruise. 

Annapolis, with its history and beautiful architecture would definitely make everyone fall in love with it. 

By Neha from Travelmelodies

4. Boothbay Harbor, ME

Boothbay Habour is home to the largest boating harbor north of Boston! This coastal town is one of the most unique hidden gems in the US. This town doesn’t get as crowded as others during summer in Maine.

With colorfully painted boathouses and charming cottages, there is so much you can do from Boothbay! You can explore the region’s waterways by the many boat tours available, or even opt for an excursion to see seals, puffins, or whales.

Boothbay Habour has many oceanfront restaurants, making this a seafood lovers paradise.

5. Beaufort, SC

Beaufort is South Carolina’s second-oldest city, after Charleston, and the perfect escape to disconnect from the chaos! The town was named after Henry Somerset, the Duke of Beaufort.

Some of its iconic landmarks include the Beaufort National Cemetery, the Beaufort Arsenal , and the Santa Elena History Center. Movies like Forrest Gump and Great Santini were filmed at this US hidden gem!

6. Bozeman, MT

Bozeman is in the Southwest corner of Montana and is home to Montana State University. It’s so much more than a college town, though! Whether you’re visiting in the Summer, Winter, Spring, or Fall, there are so many amazing things to do around Bozeman. This is also a great area for people who like to get outside and explore nature as well as people who prefer to walk around downtown and shop!

If you’re visiting in the colder months, Bridger Bowl is close by for skiing. Cross country skiing is also a huge activity in this area. If you visit Bozeman when it’s warmer, there are so many amazing hikes. The “M” Trail is one of the most popular as it takes you up to the big white Montana State “M” in the mountainside.

Yellowstone National Park is also driving distance from Bozeman, so spending a weekend exploring Yellowstone when traveling to this part of Montana is highly recommended.

Bozeman truly is a hidden gem for outdoor adventure seekers. Montana in general is such an under-rated place to travel to, but if you like outdoor activities, exploring National Parks, or spending time in a cute little town, I’d highly recommend choosing Bozeman as your next travel destination!

By Sarah from She Travels

7. Capitol Reef National Park, UT

Capitol Reef is the best kept secret of all of Utah’s national parks. Located in south central Utah, the park is home to towering rock formations, amazing hikes, and fruit orchards!

You won’t find large crowds at Capitol Reef – even the most popular trails will be fairly empty compared to other parks. 

Capitol Reef is divided into three main areas: the Fruita district, Cathedral Valley, and the Waterpocket Fold. Fruita is the best place to spend one day in Capitol Reef . 

Adventure seekers will want to explore Cathedral Valley, where huge rock monoliths stand tall. Backpackers will find a world of canyons and bucket-list worthy hikes in the Waterpocket Fold. 

In Fruita you’ll find a world of history. Take the Capitol Gorge trail to see both petroglyphs and the Pioneer Register, which is where pioneers etched their names into the rock as they passed through a few hundred years ago. 

Other hikes include the Cassidy Arch trail, named after the famous outlaw Butch Cassidy, who was reported to have a hideout here. To walk among towering canyon walls, you’ll want to check out the Grand Wash Trail. Bonus, you can combine the Grand Wash trail and the Cassidy Arch trail for an epic hike! 

No trip to Capitol Reef is complete without tasting the fresh-baked pies at the Gifford House. Plus, if you’re lucky and visit at the right time, you can even pick fruit from the Capitol Reef orchards! Capitol Reef is one of the best-hidden gems in the US and absolutely worth the trip!

By Ale from Sea Salt & Fog

8. Carrizo Plain National Monument, CA

Carrizo Plain National Monument is a huge plain in Central California, in the southeastern part of San Luis Obispo County. It is not too far a drive from the Los Angeles area, yet it remains a hidden gem much of the time.

Carrizo Plain is wilderness, with not many services, and hence it is mainly overlooked by visitors to the state. The exception is when there is a wildflower super bloom, which gets widely reported in the local media, drawing large crowds to see the colorful bloom.

While wildflower bloom is a good time to visit the monument, there are other things to do here, if you enjoy the outdoors. And because it is not on the main tourist trail, you can enjoy the offerings at the park in relative solitude.

One of the best things to do in Carrizo Plain is hiking to view the San Andreas Fault, which caused the catastrophic San Francisco earthquake in 1906.

At Carrizo Plain, the fault is clearly visible. Another thing to do here is to look for wildlife and birds. Carrizo Plain is home to many endangered species. Look for pronghorn deer, rabbits, and many species of birds, especially in the winter, when there is water in Soda Lake in the park.

By Dhara from Roadtripping California

9. Chincoteague, VA

There are so many reasons to visit gorgeous Chincoteague, Virginia and it definitely is one of the hidden gems of the United States.  

Chincoteague is located on Virginia’s Eastern Shore and is on a shared stretch of land called Assateague Island National Seashore.  While it is known for many things, perhaps its biggest claim to fame is that it was the setting for the famous Marguerite Henry book ‘Misty of Chincoteague’ in 1947 about a wild horse, another thing that the island is known for.  Chincoteague is renowned for its wild horses and you can travel there annually for the Pony Swim to see them all.

Another popular thing to do in Chincoteague is to visit the Assateague Lighthouse and Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.  Both of them are beloved things to do on the island and you can see the best of the wildlife and nature surrounding both.

If you’re into space tourism, definitely opt to  visit Chincoteague  when a rocket launch happens at the nearby Wallops Island Flight Facility.

Chincoteague may be a secret to many Americans, but it is slowly gaining the recognition that it deserves.

By Megan from Virgina Travel Tips

10. Devils Tower, WY

Devils Tower is a natural butte rock formation located in the Bear Lodge Mountain range of Wyoming. Standing at 1267 feet ( 62-story building), this tower was the first national monument ever created by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906.

In the past, people used to assume its a volcanic neck but this unique US gem is actually an igneous intrusion, a place where magma from the Earth’s mantle welled up between chunks of sedimentary rock.

This is a sacred place to many native Americans and it’s a popular place for ceremonial rituals. Today this geologic feature is a rock climbing location with over 5000 annual climbers.

11. Golden, CO

Located a mere 20-to-30-minute drive from Denver sits a quaint mountain town that hidden gems are made of. Because unless you fancy yourself a beer fan, you have likely never heard of the little town of Golden. And that’s a shame! Because there are so many things to do in Golden, Colorado making it the perfect unique mountain escape from the big city.

Golden is well-known to beer fans. Because the monster brewer Coors began and still operates their HQ facility out of Golden, CO. Add in the local microbreweries (eight currently), and you have enough beer produced by volume to put Golden in the #1 spot in the world! So naturally, when visiting Golden you must sample the fruits of their labor. Daily tours are offered at the Coors facility and the local breweries open visitors with open arms. Be sure to check them out!

Another unique thing to do in Golden is to visit the Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave. Yes, that Buffalo Bill! He was not from this area but fell in love when passing through. It was his dying wish to be buried on Lookout Mountain, and that is where he rests today. Visitors can learn about his life at the museum and visit his actual grave. But be sure to also allow some time to take in the incredible views from their observation deck! It is the best place to take in a bird’s eye view of Golden and her surrounding beauty.

By Kara from Destination: Live Life

12. Hanalei, HI

Hanalei is a charming US town on Kauai’s north shore. Its surrounded by cascading waterfalls, emerald mountains, and the destination is also refreshingly resort-free, making it one of the peaceful surfing locations in Hawaii.

13. Ice Castle, NH

Ice Castles in New Hampshire are man-made structures that are interactive experiences with tunnels, fountains, slides, thrones, and towers carved out of ice.

This giant castle of ice is a great winter wonderland experience for any age group!

You can also visit the Ice Castles in Salt Lake City, Utah and a few other locations.

14. Kodiak Island, AK

Kodiak Island, also known as Alaska’s ‘Emerald Isle’, is the second-largest island in the United States and 80th in the world.

The island has strong ties to the Native American community and you’ll also find Russian monuments and Orthodox churches.

This USA gem is a great choice for seafood lovers, nature enthusiasts, and also home to the Kodiak Bear and the King Crab.

15. Leavenworth, WA

Leavenworth, Washington is a Bavarian-styled village in the Cascade Mountains nearby Steven’s Pass area. From hiking, rock climbing, water rafting, mountain biking, camping, skiing, boating, fishing, or even just admiring the beautiful scenery. This hidden US gem is worth a visit year-round! 

The town is a 3-hour drive from Seattle and offers Alpine-style architecture, German food and beer, and festivals like Oktoberfest (celebrated across 3 weekends in October), the Autumn Leaf Festival, and the infamous Christmas Lights Festival (with over 2 million lights, caroling, and nutcracker museum) every winter in Leavenworth .

Foodies will love the abundance of restaurants and vibrant wineries. Adventure seekers will enjoy exploring majestic mountains, glacial lakes and rivers. There is a little something for everyone in Leavenworth and the town is worth adding to your USA bucket list!

16. Lone Eagle Peak, CO

Standing tall among the alpine beauty of the Indian Creek Wilderness, Lone Eagle Peak is one of the most awe-striking destinations in Colorado for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. 

Despite the fact that it’s considered an iconic peak of the Rocky Mountains, not many people venture deep in as it is considered one of the toughest hikes in Colorado. While the hike definitely takes effort, it’s worth the reward, especially if you’re keen to take a scenic jaunt that involves stops at alpine lakes, waterfalls, forest trails, open meadows, and if you’re lucky, you might get to spot a moose or two!

Aside from the hike itself, there’s so much to do while backpacking Lone Eagle Peak . If you’re up for even more adventure, there are several multi-pitch alpine trad routes. Moreover, I also recommend hiking to the top of Buchanan Pass and spending a while taking in the beauty of the alpine lakes and waterfalls in the area. If possible, split up the hike into two days and take up the chance to camp at Mirror Lake. Not only is the lake itself an absolute treat to the eye, but it’s also the most sublime spot to photograph Lone Eagle Peak.

By Daniela & Meg from Fox in the Forest

17. Lone Pine, CA

California is a vast state with many options for adventure, even though many tourists are drawn to attractions near larger cities such as Los Angeles or San Francisco, you can still find hidden gems in the Golden State. 

Lone Pine, California is a very small town in the heart of the Eastern Sierra Nevadas. This small town of about 2,000 population still maintains its old western historic charm, yet is the gateway to some of California’s most scenic landscapes and iconic film history. 

The Alabama Hills are a must-visit when you come to Lone Pine. Many Hollywood films, like The Lone Ranger and Django Unchained, have filmed scenes in the Alabama Hills amongst many other classic films. You will have an uninterrupted view of Mt. Whitney, the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States, and many unique geologic formations to discover. Check out the Mobius Arch, Movie Rd, and Eyes of Alabama Hills while you are in this area. 

If you are a film history buff, you will thoroughly enjoy this infamous museum. After spending some time in the Alabama Hills, you must visit this museum to see why so many filmmakers love this landscape. The Museum of Western Film History has a collection of America’s past and present film memorabilia, with 40 on-going exhibits to keep you entertained. 

Lone Pine is a hidden gem to many tourists and even California residents themselves because there are not many lodging options or large cities nearby. To visit this area, plan a road trip to fully experience this slice of the Wild West.

By Britt from Brittsbellavita

18. Mystic, CT

Mystic is located 3 hours from New York City and less than an hour and a half from Boston, making it a perfect escape in New England!

The village was founded in 1654 and today it’s home to the most visited attractions in Connecticut: the Mystic Seaport (the Nation’s largest maritime museum) and the Mystic Aquarium (Home to New England’s only beluga whales.).

If you are a nature lover or maritime history fanatic, Mystic is the US hidden gem for you to spend time admiring beautiful waterfront and historic homes.

19. Newberry National Volcanic Monument , OR

If you’re a nature enthusiast, you’ll love the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Located in the Deschutes National Forest, about 13 miles south of Bend, Oregon. The monument includes 54,000+ acres of lakes and spectacular geologic features.

A trip to the Pacific North West is not complete without a visit to the Newberry Monument.

The area is teeming with ancient lava flows, jagged volcanic glass, rivers, lakes, caves, hot springs, waterfalls, and forests – You can spend time exploiting the lakes, driving the peak, or hiking to the hot springs.

The Newberry National Volcanic Monument offers fun things to do in both summer and winter.

20. Pfeiffer Beach, CA

Pfeiffer Beach is hands down one of California’s most beautiful and unique beaches, and have you seen California? That is saying a lot!

You can find Pfeiffer Beach tucked away on the rugged central coast of Big Sur, California. What makes this place a true hidden gem is its purple sand beach! After a recent rainstorm, streaks of a deep purple are scattered throughout the beach. The purple hues are caused by manganese garnet that has trickled down from the nearby mountains.

A visit to Pfeiffer Beach is a great way to unplug and explore all of California’s natural beauty . Besides the purple sand, Pfeiffer Beach has tide pools and epic rock formations, including the KeyHole Arch. The views are so stunning! Many photographers are drawn to Pfeiffer Beach in hopes to get the sun perfectly setting through the famous KeyHole Arch.

Pfeiffer Beach is the ideal location to watch the sunset with a picnic, walk the beach, play in the sand, and it is a nice spot to take your furry best friend. Yes, it is dog friendly too!

Pfeifer Beach is one of California’s best-kept secrets. With all of its beauty and charm, a trip to Pfeiffer Beach is well worth the visit!

By Alisha from Travel Today, Work Tomorrow

21. Polihale State Park, HI

Polihale State Park is home to one of the most secluded beaches in Kauai. The beach is accessed by 4×4 via a rough, five-mile road. Upon arrival, you’ll find 17 miles of shore and large sand dunes – some reaching up to 100 feet high.

It is important to know that, due to the high currents this beach is not for swimming. The only safe area to swim at is Queen’s Pond. This beach is best for picnics, watching the sunrise or sunset, or relaxing.

This is a popular weekend hangout for locals and camping at Polihale is by permit only (permits can be purchased at the Department of Parks and Recreation office in Lihue ).

22. Portsmouth, NH

Known as “America’s Greatest Small Town” by National Geographic Travel, I think a visit to Portsmouth should be on everyone’s New England bucket list . Portsmouth is the crown jewel of New Hampshire’s Seacoast and is perfectly situated within an hour from the White Mountains and an hour from Boston. 

It’s the perfect place to visit for a weekend year-round, or can even be enjoyed in just a day trip. Portsmouth is a hidden gem because of its countless historical homes dating back to the 17th century. Strawbery Banke, an outdoor history museum, is New Hampshire’s oldest neighborhood to be settled by Europeans. 

Additionally, did you know that Portsmouth has more restaurants per capita than any other small town in the United States? When visiting Portsmouth, be sure to check out all the small businesses downtown in an area of the city known as Market Square. Every time I visit Portsmouth I manage to find something new that I love in one of the many charming boutiques.

Lastly, a fun fact about Portsmouth is that it’s actually located across the river from Maine! If you visit, continue on north to explore Maine’s coast. Kittery is only a 10-minute drive away, and can even be accessed by walking across one of Portsmouth’s many bridges. 

By Nicole from The Abroad Blog

23. Port Townsend, WA

Have you ever seen a town with over 300 Victorian-style homes and a population of less than 10 000? Port Townsend is a charming, seaport paradise in Washington (two hours drive from Seattle).

The town was built in the mid-1800s and town planners expected it to be the busiest seaport in the state because of its position on Puget Sound, but this ended up being Seattle!

Today you’ll find plenty of antique stores, a courthouse, a museum, and even a castle. Port Townsend is home to one of the oldest breweries in the region – Port Townsend Brewing Co which opened in 1905.

24. Sandwich Cape Cod

Sandwich is a unique US hidden gem located on Cape Cod in Massachusetts. It’s the oldest town in the Cape (settled in 1637) and named after its twin city of Sandwich in Kent, England.

This picturesque village offers opportunities to enjoy the scenery, walking and bike trails, beautiful seashores, salt water estuaries, fresh water ponds, bird sanctuaries and more.

Sandwich boasts historic colonial architecture, inns, restaurants, and several shops. The town is known for glassmaking and you’ll also find the Sandwich Glass Museum, with its collection of over 6,000 pieces of glass produced between 1825 and 1888.

25. Stanley, ID

There is just something about Stanley, Idaho, a town of around 69 people, that keeps people interested and flocking to the tiny place.  This Idaho town is located in Custer County and is the gateway to many other regional sights, such as the Sawtooth Mountains and several hot springs, like Boat Box Hot Springs.

For being so small, there sure are many things to do in Stanley to keep occupied!  You can start your day at the Stanley Baking Co. & Cafe, a cozy cafe with a town-famous breakfast and tasty coffee.

In Stanley and nearby, you will find Stanley Lake, a popular spot for locals.  You can go swimming, hiking, or canoeing in Idaho Lake.

If you’re using Stanley as a base, be sure to head to the Sawtooth Mountains and some wonderful places like Redfish Lake, Alpine Lake, and Alice Lake.  There is also the gorgeous Iron Creek Trail that will take you to Sawtooth Lake, the gem of the forest.

End your day at Sunbeam or Boat Box hot springs, and really soak up all that Idaho and Stanley have to offer!

By Megan from Megan Starr

26. Solvang, CA

Solvang is a great town in southern California; unfortunately, it often gets overlooked by it’s big sibling, Los Angeles. Luckily, if you are planning a trip to Los Angeles, you can still make it to Solvang – it’s just over two hours up US-101. 

The moment you enter, it’s obvious this town has charm; it celebrates Denmark with statues, décor, and architecture modeled after Denmark icons. Some examples include windmills throughout the town and the Little Mermaid statue on the main street corner! You can even head to the local park named after Hans Christian Andersen to see a Danish-inspired castle-like entrance.

There are a myriad of things to do in Solvang besides marveling at the atmosphere. Despite its Danish appearance, Solvang has strong roots with the Spanish. Old Mission Santa Ines was built as a connection between other missions in the area and is free to explore by foot. If you are strictly interested in Danish history, the Elverhøj Museum is the best stop. It is filled with art and cultural information about Denmark.

Everything in Solvang is close, but Downtown Solvang has the highest concentration of stores if you’d like to go shopping and experience Danish food, clothing, or crafts. Visitors will want to stop at one of the many bakeries for Danish pastries, including æbleskivers – a cross between a pancake and a popover. There are also stores for visitors to try on or buy traditional Danish clothing, buy unique jewelry, and nearly anything you can think of.

By MacKenzie from Rainbow Travel Life

27. Sonora, CA

If you’re looking for a hidden gem destination in Northern California, you need to visit the historic gold mining town of Sonora. Just over two hour’s drive east of San Francisco, and close to Yosemite National Park, you’ll find Sonora nestled in the Sierra Nevada Foothills.

Back in its heyday, Sonora was known as the “Queen of the Southern Mines” for the sheer amount of gold mined from the area. Today it’s a quaint town with a charming historic main street filled with antique shopping opportunities, a soda fountain, an old-fashioned candy store inside a former bank vault, and art galleries and museums.

The best part is that Sonora isn’t quite on everyone’s radar yet, so you won’t be fighting crowds of road trippers looking for a weekend getaway.

Head to the 160-acre Indigeny Reserve ranch to sample award-winning cider made with apples grown on the property’s orchard, hike the trails on site, and have a picnic. Train and movie enthusiasts should visit Railtown 1897 State Historic Park for a ride on a steam train or diesel engine and to learn about the hundreds of films and TV shows shot there.

Just because you’re not on the coast doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy watersports either. Visit Tuttletown Recreation Area for boating, kayaking, and jet skiing, plus some great hiking spots on New Melones Lake.

There are lots more things to do in Sonora, California check our guide to the gorgeous town for more!

By Katherine Fenech from Bright Lights of America

28. Upstate New York

When thinking about New York, one’s mind often wanders to the Big Apple, the Statue of Liberty, and Times Square. This is such an oversight and when exploring all that Upstate New York has to offer it is not hard to see why. Upstate New York is considered by many to be the majority of New York State located North of the metropolitan New York City area. It is full of small cities, mountainous terrain, quaint villages, and stunning scenery making it a very much overlooked hidden gem in the US!

Upstate NY’s main cities offer plenty in the way of culture, history, and fun. Visit Rochester to explore the oldest photography museum at the home of the founder of Kodak, tour the Susan B. Anthony home, or enjoy some family fun at one of the many green spaces within the city. The city of Buffalo is home to the world-famous Niagara Falls and Buffalo wings. 

If you are looking for an outdoor nature escape, explore one of the many state parks that offer stunning natural beauty. Watkins Glen will take you along a 400 ft. deep gorge past 19 waterfalls. Letchworth State Park is known as the Grand Canyon of the East and will take you along the Genesee River through another waterfall filled gorge.

The Adirondack Mountains offer the perfect nature escape with a plethora of hiking opportunities, campgrounds, fishing and watersports, and the largest water park in New York State. No matter what kind of getaway you are looking for you will surely find it in Upstate New York!

By Melissa from Navigation Junkie

29. Watkins Glen, NY

Tucked away inside the amazing Finger Lakes region of central New York is Watkins Glen, an amazing national park and a hidden gem that is overflowing with fantastic hiking trails, picturesque stone bridges, and no less than 19 different waterfalls. 

So, if you’d like to see some of the best waterfalls in New York , just take a leisurely hike along the relatively easy, 3-mile (round trip) Gorge Trail. It will take you through the center of the park and past some of the most scenic views in the area. 

Although the path is well-paved and relatively easy to traverse, some of the stone stairs can get slippery. Therefore, it’s recommended to wear a pair of good shoes with non-slip grips. I would also pack some water and maybe a snack or two since there aren’t a ton of refreshments available in the park. 

There’s also no park entrance fee. However, if you use the designated parking lot, you will have to pay an $8, day-use fee for your vehicle, which will also give you access to the on-site pool. 

And once you’re finished hiking? Well, you can take a boat tour of nearby Seneca Lake or do a bit of wine tasting at the family-owned and operated, Lakewood Vineyards. Trust me, it’s a great place to relax and unwind after a full day of hiking. 

By Kelly from Girl with the Passport

30. Whitefish, MT

Whitefish, Montana is located at the doorstep of  Glacier National Park. This is the perfect location for outdoor enthusiasts.

During winter visitors can enjoy skiing, hiking, and snowshoeing while cycling and boating are popular activities during warmer weather.

You can also take a gondola from Summit to the Whitefish Mountain Resort to admire the spectacular views.

31. The Northeast Kingdom of Vermont

The Northeast Kingdom of Vermont is a beautiful natural area often ignored as travelers flock to Burlington or Stowe. The Northeast Kingdom is tucked away in the extreme northeast corner of Vermont. The area is bordered by Canada to the north, the Green Mountains to the west, and the Connecticut River to the east.

Nature lovers will be enthralled by the outdoor adventures of the Northeast Kingdom. Lake Willoughby is the clearest lake in Vermont. It is a popular destination for hiking, swimming, sailing, and fishing.

Burke Mountain is a ski resort that has been the training mountain for many Olympic skiers. In the summer, the Kingdom trails near East Burke offer over 100 miles of world-class mountain biking.

For those interested in more mellow cycling, try the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail in St. Johnsbury. A ride on the gravel path will take you past scenic forests, through old trail tunnels, and over bridges.

For dog lovers, the Dog Chapel is a heartwarming tribute to beloved pets. The beautiful stained glass chapel in St. Johnsbury was built to honor all pets. Hundreds of photos of dogs who have crossed the rainbow bridge line the walls.

Finally, for fans of craft beer, the Northeast Kingdom has some of the premier breweries in New England. Visit a tasting room at one of the many breweries, then take home some of Vermont’s finest craft brews.

By Karen Warren of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

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Leavenworth seems amazing. Would love to visit one day

I enjoy this list! They really make us want to pack our bags and go!

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40+ Incredible Hidden Gems in Europe for 2024

What are some hidden gems in Europe that are worth visiting? Are there really any hidden gems left in Europe?

It’s easy to get caught up in the immensely popular European destinations like London, Paris, Venice, and Rome… but, what about the lesser-known towns and villages? Where should you look for off-the-beaten-path destinations in Europe?

If you’re more like me and enjoy getting away from major tourist spots in search of local treasures, then keep at least some of these places in mind for your next European getaway!

In this post, I’ve highlighted 40 of the leading hidden gems in Europe (including some surprises) that you should add to your European itinerary if you’re planning any future trips.

Whether you’re traveling with your partner, family, or solo, these amazing locations will have something for everyone. I’ve also included several of my personal favorites from backpacking across 15 countries on the continent, so I’ll be sure to let you know when I’m serious about saving a particular place for your bucket list!

Best Underrated Places in Europe

Many people overlook countless beautiful and interesting places in Europe, often because they are overshadowed by other attractions.

But there is a wealth of worthwhile destinations that deserve more attention than what they get! Check out these top underrated hidden gems in Europe before planning your next vacation!

1. Bruges, Belgium – one of the most mystical places in Europe

Bruges is an old, gothic city that has so much to offer! You can stroll down its picturesque, medieval streets or take a boat tour through the canals for a unique perspective on the town.

The average tourist stops their Belgium exploration once they’ve walked their way through Brussels and eaten enough chocolate to hold them over for a lifetime.

But, Bruges is nothing like the capital! While you will still find plenty of tourists here during the busy peak season, it’s nevertheless one of the most beautiful under-the-radar destinations in Europe.

We wouldn’t exactly call it a “hidden gem”, but it is certainly a gem without a doubt! For a full comparison between these two popular Belgian cities, check out Bruges vs Brussels: Which City is Right for You in 2023?

Bruges, Belgium is one of our favorite underrated destinations in Europe that has beautiful scenery and medieval architecture. The canals are a sight to behold with many bridges connecting the city’s buildings together.

Market Square houses Belgian waffles which will satisfy your sweet tooth and beer flows freely no matter the time of day!

If you want to experience a charming, historic cityscape with world-renowned architecture and unparalleled scenery that will make your eyes water from its sheer beauty, Belgium’s Bruges is the perfect destination for you.

With picturesque canals lining cobblestone streets and medieval buildings looming over everything as if they were guarding an old kingdom, this town has left visitors of all ages in awe since it was founded centuries ago.

If art galleries are more up your alley than museums or castles (although both exist here!), then head on down to Market Square where dozens of artists come together every day selling their works at excellent prices!

2. Talloires, France – one of the best unknown places in Europe to visit

One of the most underrated hidden places in Europe is Talloires, France. It’s a beautiful town backed by mountains and perched over Lake Annecy which makes for excellent water sports activities.

Talloires has been unfairly overlooked by visitors to this area due to the nearby popular destination of Annecy, despite its natural beauty which includes stunning mountain views as well as proximity to some amazing hikes including the Canyon Angon and La Tournette.

Talloires is a picturesque village in the French Alps that’s been attracting travelers and artists for centuries. The town, which can be reached by car, bus, or train from Geneva airport, has breathtaking views of Mont Blanc year-round as well as several lakes and nearby mountains.

Enjoy the views, shop at quaint boutiques on cobblestone streets, or stroll through lush parks with your loved one. At night there are plenty of cafes to sit down at before strolling around this gorgeous town under the moonlight!

Up for a short journey into the nearby city of Annecy? Our favorite attractions here include the infamous Palais de I’Île, shopping at the outdoor markets for fresh cheeses and macarons, and getting lost in the charming streets that wind through the city.

Walk over the Puente de los Amores (love bridge) with your loved one… legend has it that those who kiss on top of the bridge will be together forever!

3. Málaga, Spain

Málaga, located in Southern Spain overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, has been called one of the most underrated hidden gems in Europe by many travelers who have visited. With its unique culture, delicious tapas bars all over town as well as other Spanish favorites – what more could someone want?

Although it has not been on the forefront as much, Málaga is definitely worth your time for an escape from typical tourist traps. With stunning scenery and sweeping coastlines, this underrated gem is bound to become more well-known sooner rather than later.

A beautiful city with pristine beaches just over two hours away by plane from Madrid’s Adolfo Suárez Barajas Airport, Málaga offers everything one could want…

Spanish cuisine which focuses heavily on seafood dishes like paella, breathtaking landscapes such as the Sierra de Tejeda mountain range, history dating back upwards of 2000 years ago, and wonderful, hospitable locals.

With close proximity between mountains, beaches, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Málaga is the perfect package for travelers seeking underrated European destinations!

4. Bristol, England

England’s Bristol is a classic example of an underrated European gem. The city has beautiful canals, vibrant townhouses, elegant suspension bridges, and more to explore for every type of traveler – from foodies to those looking for some culture, this English destination surely won’t disappoint.

Bristol may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about considering destinations in the United Kingdom, however, it should definitely make its way onto your list if you haven’t already considered this English beauty!

From wonderful architecture with stunning detail work on buildings from various eras, as well as canal walks by many bridges, to countless boutiques selling unique fashion items and souvenirs, this city has something for every traveler!

Looking for things to do? You could check out two art museums: M Shed Museum for modern arts or The Arnolfini Gallery which is dedicated exclusively to contemporary visual arts by regional artists from Europe, North America as well as Asia-Pacific countries.

If it’s outdoor attractions you seek, there are plenty! Visit the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the Bristol Cathedral, or spend some time at the 18 th -century Blaise Castle Estate.

You’ll never be bored in Bristol because there’s always something new happening – whether it’s taking part in one of the festivals every year like The Bristol Light Festival or enjoying live music at one of the numerous bars throughout town!

5. Inverness, Scotland – this hidden gem in Europe is home to the original Loch Ness monster story

When it comes to finding the best places in Europe, many people overlook Inverness. Scotland’s principal city is often overshadowed by nearby Edinburgh and Glasgow when considering a trip abroad – but don’t let this happen!

From beautiful beaches along the Moray Firth coastline to historic castles like Urquhart Castle, or Loch Ness Monster tours that take you out on your own private boat tour of one of Earth’s most mysterious bodies of water, there are plenty of reasons why tourists should be booking trips to Inverness!

Inverness, Scotland is the perfect place to visit for a day or even an entire week. It has breathtaking natural beauty and is such an interesting town to explore.

There are plenty of things to do while visiting Inverness including visiting the Culloden Battlefield, shopping at various stores along High Street, or enjoying small plates at the plethora of restaurants on your way down towards Church Square where you can see Inverness Cathedral as well as find many more attractions around it!

Inverness is a great city to visit because of its gorgeous scenery and range of activities. If you’re looking for an unconventional getaway, Inverness should be on your list!

You could go hiking in the mountains or throw yourself into one of the world-class golf courses if that’s more up your alley. If you love all things “medieval”, you could spend days exploring the historical architecture and old castles that make this town quite special.

After a day full of sightseeing, head down to the town center where there are plenty of shops and cafes waiting to be discovered!

6. Zermatt, Switzerland

Tightly nestled in the valley surrounded by the towering Alps, Zermatt is a small village in Switzerland that has been overlooked by tourists for years.

Owing to its remote location, it has been an underrated hidden gem of Europe filled with stunning mountain views, summer and winter sports, and exceptional cuisine!

Even though it’s located next to the Matterhorn, the most photographed mountain in Europe and one of its tallest peaks at 14,692 ft., this charming town gets overshadowed because so much attention goes towards nearby towns like Chamonix or Courmayeur which can be expensive for budget travelers.

But, Zermatt offers high-quality skiing all season long on slopes with never-ending views as well as summer activities including hiking up glaciated mountainsides and glacier tours during the warmer months.

Zermatt may not have gotten enough credit over time due to being an offshoot from other more popular ski destinations, but when you spend some time here you will discover why those who seek it out continue to rave about it!

Enjoy everything from sunset hikes to afternoon slope runs with close proximity to glacier-capped peaks, all while admiring stunning mountain scenery including the world-famous Mount Blanc Range!

After a day on the slopes or mountainsides, enjoy some hot, melty raclette and après ski drinks for the ultimate evening in Zermatt! Whether you decide to visit in summer or winter, there’s no shortage of exhilarating activities here for both the adventurous and easy-going traveler.

7. Munich, Germany

As a city loaded with culture, Munich is one of the best underrated destinations in Europe.

The city boasts one of the largest markets in Europe with its Viktualienmarkt which has a long history dating back over 500 years ago, and also features two very important museums: the Glyptothek and the Pinakothek der Moderne art museum.

As a city bursting with history and culture, Munich may not be a hidden gem, but it is one of the best places to visit in Europe nevertheless!

Munich is an attractive city for tourists because it has many things to offer in terms of food, music, medieval ambiance, and traditional customs.

For starters, you can visit the Feldherrnhalle, Marienplatz, the Nymphenburg Palace, and take a peek at the numerous monuments that are worth checking out.

Be sure to check out the Old Town Hall Tower with its beautiful views over Munich or Frauenkirche which at one time served as a major landmark in East Germany during World War II when most churches were destroyed.

There is also plenty of traditional Bavarian fare to try! We highly suggest trying the Weisswurst, Haxen, Obazda, and Schnitzel as they are some of the most classic German dishes.

If you’re up for visiting in late September, you’ll not only be rewarded with stunning fall foliage, but also with the world-renowned Oktoberfest!

Cling your steins with locals and travelers alike as you make your way between tents and find yourself trying different German brews and traditional meals, all while wearing traditional lederhosen and listening to authentic music!

As we said, Munich may not be one of the more hidden gems in Europe, but it is one of the more underrated European destinations on this list!

8. Luxembourg City, Luxembourg – one of the most overlooked hidden gems in Europe

Luxembourg City is often overlooked by tourists in favor of larger European destinations such as nearby London and Paris . However, over time we have found that the smaller countries are full of hidden gems that you won’t find anywhere else on the continent!

Luxembourg has a rich culture with some world-famous museums such as The National Museum Of Natural History and the Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art.

While Luxembourg City is often overlooked by tourists looking for more metropolitan destinations, those who take a chance and visit will be glad they did!

Visitors can witness the impressive Changing of the Guard at the Grand Ducal Palace, or roam the empty tunnels of the 18 th -century Casemates du Bock (Bock Casemates) filled with WWII artifacts.

In my opinion, Luxembourg City is one of the best-kept secrets in Europe. The capital city exudes a Mediterranean charm that entices even the most jaded of travelers.

And if it’s not enough for some people to be surrounded by stunning landscapes and incredible architecture, there are plenty of underrated hidden gems all throughout this beautiful country that offer a variety of experiences!

From day trips to the Mullerthal Region for hiking to walking tours in the Echternach commune, this small country truly packs a cultural punch that keeps visitors returning year after year.

9. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

When it comes to hidden gems of Europe, Czech Republic’s Český Krumlov is a perfect getaway for the weary traveler. Offering its visitors an authentic plunge into Old World European life, it truly feels like you’ve left your home country and found yourself in another time period altogether.

Globally recognized for its UNESCO World Heritage status, Český Krumlov boasts a miraculous setting encapsulated by the Vltava River and entirely surrounded by lush, green forestry that protects this beautiful city.

It truly is your place for an intimate, romantic getaway; the town features a number of excellent restaurants serving Czech cuisine with international influences as well as small shops filled with handcrafted items made by local artisans.

The cobblestone streets and alleyways are lined with shops, restaurants, coffee houses, theaters, and galleries to explore at every turn!

Spend your day wandering through winding lanes of this picturesque city before settling down on one of its many wine terraces overlooking old-world bridges crossing the Vltava or soak up some culture by visiting the Regional Museum in the Czech Krumlov and the State Castle and Chateau.

Both off-the-beaten-path and a hidden gem, Český Krumlov is one of the leading European destinations on this list!

10. Cartagena, Spain

Cartagena is a local-known gem of Spain (it’s among the Most Unique Places to Visit in Spain Right Now ), but with so many beautiful European and Spanish destinations nearby, it easily gets overshadowed.

But, those who choose to venture within its walls will find a rich culture and fresh food at every turn; you won’t be able to help but fall in love with this city!

Cartagena has often been overlooked as one of Europe’s most underrated cities – The old town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its diverse architecture styles which range from Arian to Romanesque vernacular buildings dating back from before the 16 th century.

Cartagena also boasts over 70 wonderful beaches and coves along its coastline where travelers can enjoy gentle waves, soft, white sand, and gorgeous, turquoise waters.

If you’re looking for a fun destination to explore, Cartagena is the place! The city has everything from beaches and parks to old churches and museums with some of Spain’s most famous architecture.

If you have time, head up to the Roman Theatre that offers an unparalleled view of Cartagena and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Situated on one of the lowest southeastern points of the country, visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at oceanfront restaurants, a hot, Mediterranean climate, and a true taste of Spanish culture in this authentic city known as one of the best hidden gems in Europe!

11. Coimbra, Portugal

Coimbra, Portugal is a charming city that has been well-preserved from the medieval era. Along its paved streets, you’ll find white-walled buildings with picturesque red tile rooftops and rows of colorful flower pots on their balconies.

Coimbra, which occupies both banks of the Mondego River may be best known for its University; it’s one of Europe’s oldest universities that hosts students from all over the world and is also where former Portuguese kings studied centuries ago!

Additionally, there are attractions to suit every interest here including national museums, botanical gardens, and ancient Roman ruins.

You’ll also find that there are plenty more gothic churches, cathedrals, and convents that tell tales from centuries past on every corner, so this town makes for the ultimate destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike!

Since you’ll be walking the streets of a Portugal city, you can be sure that the food will be fresh, local, and delicious. Olives, wine, cheese, sausage, and seafood make for the most popular dishes in this part of the country.

For dessert, be sure to try the almond tart and the Pastel de Nata!

Situated slightly inland about halfway between Lisbon and Porto, Coimbra provides a delicate balance of cultural traditions, authentic cuisine, hospitable locals, and stunning scenery.

With so much to do, eat, and see in Coimbra, you’ll be wishing you had more time in this hidden gem of Europe!

12. Genoa, Italy – hidden gems of the Mediterranean

Genoa, Italy is a beautiful city with vibrant cookie-cutter buildings situated on hilltops that overlook the ocean. Perched on the northwestern edge of the Ligurian Sea, the water here brings in cool breezes to keep residents comfortable in its warm climate year-round.

The sun shines brightly over Genoa during most days even as it slips into wintertime which makes its Mediterranean setting perfect all year long for visitors!

Genoa has an incredible array of sights and sounds that will captivate visitors at every turn. From the historic port to the stunning frescoes adorning its churches, Genoa holds secrets on nearly every street corner waiting to be discovered by curious travelers.

The old medieval quarter, with its cobblestone streets and architecture that dates back for centuries, captivates visitors and lures new travelers in year after year!

Tourists can also explore the Royal Palace Museum, Le Strade Nuove and the system of the Palazzi dei Rolli, and the main square of Piazza De Ferrari that is centered around a triumphant fountain.

You’ll also be able to find some amazing seafood restaurants dotting this small piece of Italian coast as well as many beautiful beaches just south of town for when it’s time to soak up some sun!

Most restaurants are serving authentic Italian cuisine including fresh, homemade pasta, seafood, locally produced wines, meats, and cheeses, and more!

Genoa is a lovely town that often gets skipped on Italian itineraries, but with something for every visitor, it’s one of the best hidden gems in Europe!

13. Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland is the quintessential postcard-perfect location. It’s not just its stunning mountain backdrop or charming Alpine village that will take your breath away… this town has some of Europe’s highest waterfalls and one of the world’s longest underground glacier caves!

Nowhere else offers you such a pristine view and monumentous experiences as Lauterbrunnen does, making it one of the top hidden gems in Europe.

Lauterbrunnen should be at the top of your bucket list for obvious reasons: it boasts unparalleled views to die for with breathtaking mountainscapes galore punctuated by gorgeous Swiss villages nestled into their alpine reaches, all backed up by an awe-inspiring array of natural wooded scenery.

Visitors to this alpine region can enjoy both summer and winter hikes, views of the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps, and several other exciting activities. Want to explore these stunning mountains without hiking for hours on end?

Take the Jungfraujoch train up the Bernese Alps where it has its very own train station at 3454 meters high!

From here, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the snow-capped Alps and the small villages of Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald! The alps of Switzerland are a breathtaking sight and Lauterbrunnen is seriously one-of-a-kind.

Best Hidden Gems in Europe

Europe has many hidden gem destinations worth exploring off-the-beaten-path, including lakeside towns like Lake Bled in Slovenia and Lisbon’s Castelo de Sao Jorge.

These lesser traveled locations provide travelers with opportunities to escape big cities overrun by tourists while still getting a taste of European culture!

14. Nafplio, Greece – one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Europe

Nafplio is a serene, off-the-beaten-path town in Greece that offers plenty of sites to explore. From stunning beaches and fishing harbors to picturesque, white-walled villages, Nafplio is one of the ultimate hidden gems in Europe!

Highlights of the town include the Fortress Palamidi and Bourtzi Castle where you’ll find scenic views overlooking the sea below. Additionally, Akronauplía’s harbor provides great spots for fishing or just relaxing on its beaches with your feet in the warm sand as you watch boats go by from afar.

But, don’t let Akronauplía’s current state fool you. It’s actually the oldest part of Nafplio and is home to centuries-old Venetian town and prison ruins; making it one of the most unique parts of the city!

Furthermore, Tiryns has Mycenaean ruins dating back to 1200 BC which are well worth exploring whether you’re a history enthusiast or not! No matter if you love to learn about ancient history on your vacations or if you would prefer a large glass of wine and a seaside cafe, Nafplio has it all.

Nestled on the eastern side of Greece’s Peloponnese region, this quaint little city provides visitors with an opportunity to experience what life was like in ancient times. The old, cobbled streets are lined with picturesque buildings and breezy seaside views that will make your heart sing!

A tourist destination for centuries now, Nafplio offers its guests plenty of things to do during their stay.

15. Chamonix, France – one of my favorite hidden gems in Europe!

Chamonix, France is a small mountain village nestled beneath the Mont Blanc Range that offers winter sports enthusiasts an ideal destination.

The area provides some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Europe with over 100 miles of trails served by multiple ski lifts to help you explore its many peaks!

Chamonix’s diverse terrain features forested slopes, wide-open spaces for beginners and experts alike, steep chutes connecting intermediate runs, or sheltered bowls accessible from chairlifts taking you down below treeline where skiers can leave their mark on untouched powder!

In this quaint French mountaintop town nestled within the Alps lies one stunning natural wonder after another. Mont Blanc towers at 15000 feet above sea level and can be reached by taking the steepest cable car in the world: the Aiguille du Midi. It offers breathtaking panoramic views from its peak at over 11 thousand feet!

Popular among those who want to leap off this incredible mountain range, whether it be with a paraglide as we did (shown above) or with skis, this cable car deserves a ride nevertheless if you simply want to photograph with surrounding panoramic views.

For other winter activities, visitors can go ice skating at Lac Blanc, or they can even visit the Step into the Void – a glass room that pans out over the Mont Blanc Range for a true thrill-seeking adventure!

Chamonix is wonderful in summer, as well, offering visitors incredible hiking opportunities, paragliding, parasailing, swimming in crystal blue lakes, and enjoying hot cheese fondue and soft potatoes on the cobblestone streets of the town underneath the Alps!

Chamonix can be reached by flying into Geneva, Switzerland then taking an hour-long shuttle down to the small alpine town, making it one of the most pristine hidden gems in Europe. For the best places to stay, check out Where to Stay in Chamonix in December 2023 !

16. Algarve, Portugal

Portugal’s Algarve has a coastline that is so beautifully unique, it was once voted the best beach in Europe! The coast stretches for 132 km and offers amazing white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters and cliffs.

There are many great places to visit including Ponta da Piedade which includes Praia Dona Ana, Camilo Beach, and Farol da Ponta da Piedade Lagos where giant rock formations can be seen on the Atlantic Ocean shoreline.

Algarve holds southern Portugal’s most popular destinations of Lagos and Faro. This region of Portugal’s coastline is home to a rugged, dramatic mix of golden beaches and cliffs overlooking the azure waters.

Pristine white sand coves offer refuge from rough seas while towering rock formations create sea caves that are accessible by kayak for those who want to explore unseen crevices.

The town of Faro sits at the southern tip of the country where you can find many great things to do including hiking through lush forests full of wildlife or taking an unforgettable boat ride around some beautiful islands offshore.

After a day full of sightseeing, visitors can relax at oceanfront restaurants with local wine and incredibly fresh seafood. In fact, the majority of seafood that is sold in this region of Portugal was caught that very same day!

Algarve and the surrounding region offers visitors beautiful cliff-lined coasts along the azure Mediterranean Sea, authentic cuisine, and the opportunity to have both an adventurous and relaxing getaway making it one of the best hidden gems in Europe!

17. Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain – one of the least-visited hidden gems in Europe

The Canary Islands are an archipelago found off the coast of Morocco in Africa.

Only reachable by ferry or plane, the islands can be found a few thousand kilometers from mainland Spain and offer some great beaches, wildlife parks, mountains to climb- Mount Teide is one such place that is popular among serious hikers.

A volcano on Tenerife erupted over 200 years ago which created its own unique conditions for flora and fauna alike – making it a true haven for hikers!

As the largest island in the Canary Islands, Tenerife boasts much more than just beautiful beaches. With Teide National Park as its playground and home to Mt. Everest’s sister volcano (El Pico Viejo), this is a place where you can steep yourself in Spanish culture while also exploring nature at your leisure!

The Teide National Park offers up beaches for lounging in the sun as well as pristine nature trails offering wildlife viewing opportunities like no other area on Earth!

For visitors looking to explore the beaches of Tenerife, they have their choice of dozens of beautiful private and public spots. Playa de Las Teresitas, Playa de las Américas, and the black sand beach of Playa de la Arena are the most popular, but there are plenty more secret little spots along the coastline.

Tenerife is one of the ultimate hidden gems in Europe owing to its highly remote location and diversity in terms of its culture and cuisine!

Malta is a small, Mediterranean island country in the middle of the sea south of Sicily, and directly north of Libya. The azure waters surrounding this land are saturated with history and carry testimonies left by those who have once inhabited it which date back to around 4000 BC!

With its old-time architecture and megalithic temples, Malta is one place that will not disappoint you upon arrival. It’s simply overflowing with rich history that can be seen on display everywhere from streetside cafes all throughout Valletta’s cobblestone alleys or even along its coastal cliffs.

Malta’s history can be traced back to the Phoenicians, who traded with Greece and Italy for centuries. The island is dotted with fortresses built by invaders of all shapes and sizes.

These castles are now tourist attractions as well as reminders that Malta has faced many invasions over the years–none more famous than those from Napoleon in 1798.

With its turquoise blue waters and historic significance, it’s no wonder that Malta has been an attraction for many people from all over the world.

Aside from learning about Malta’s past, visitors can enjoy the infamous Camino inlet, the Blue Grotto sea caverns, and the Azure Window which is a naturally formed rock arch!

With some of the most beautiful scenery and interesting historic past in all of Europe, Malta makes for one of the best European hidden gems!

19. Utrecht, Netherlands – a charming hidden gem in Europe that is often overshadowed by Amsterdam

Located just outside the city of Amsterdam in Utrecht, you’ll find a lively blend between old-world charm and new age European style all blended together into one beautiful place just waiting for exploration!

Utrecht is a charming town with plenty of shops and boutiques as well as traditional restaurants and cafes serving up delicious Dutch recipes.

A great way to get the real feel for Utrecht’s charm is by walking around its streets admiring the medieval architecture and canals reminiscent of nearby Amsterdam’s picturesque scenery .

But, we believe the best way to truly explore Utrecht to the fullest is to take a canal boat ride. Although it may seem touristy, it’s going to provide you with a completely new perspective on the city you would never have the chance to see otherwise!

As for attractions, the Dom Tower, part of Utrecht’s Castle De Haar, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in this canal-lined city.

You can admire its architecture from all angles on a walk around town or you can take an elevator to see it up close and personal. Along with museums like Museum Speelklok, you’ll find that there is plenty to do for history buffs here, as well!

20. The Douro Valley, Portugal – the ultimate hidden gem in Europe for wine lovers

The Douro Valley is a region in the north of Portugal where vineyards and beautiful panoramic scenery are plentiful. It’s famous for its wine, but also offers many attractions such as quintas, traditional Portuguese food with Mediterranean influences, and hospitable people.

Wine lovers from all over the world flock to this hidden gem in Europe for a chance to experience first-hand one of life’s most pleasurable indulgences.

The Douro Valley in Portugal is home to some of the best wine makers and vineyards anywhere, with panoramic scenery that will take your breath away!

To get a real taste of everything this region has to offer, we suggest taking a Douro Valley wine tour while you’re here! Just be sure to read up on the 26+ Best Portugal Packing List Items for 2023: What to Wear in Portugal before you go.

These full-day tours offer you numerous wine tastings from several different high-quality wineries only reached by boat, so you can be sure you’ll be receiving an authentic experience that you wouldn’t get elsewhere.

Visitors will find themselves immersed in Portuguese culture as they make their way through picturesque towns and the countryside along with winding paths lined with lush vegetation all while enjoying local cuisine made from fresh regional ingredients such as olive oil, garlic, codfish, and stewed tomatoes.

As one of the lesser known regions of Portugal , the Douro Valley certainly offers one of the best destinations for food lovers out of all of our hidden gems in Europe!

21. Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is a landlocked country in Central Europe with rolling hills, beautiful forests, and an abundance of natural resources. It’s no surprise that the locals have perfected harnessing those resources to create one-of-a-kind spa towns like Karlovy Vary!

The resort town has been recognized as having some of the best hot springs on Earth for centuries, so it was only fitting that they built their luxurious colonnades around them for people to enjoy for years to come.

The town’s endless colonnades feature whimsical architecture and provide relaxation for locals as well as visitors from all over the world.

Wind your way through these highly embellished buildings while you’re catching up on some much needed rest or indulging in any number of scrumptious desserts offered by Market Colonnade vendors, all before heading back to your accommodation fully refreshed!

Outside of the hot springs, visitors can also enjoy exploring a plethora of churches, cathedrals, shops, and restaurants. Additionally, the town is home to several renowned museums for the history enthusiast in your group, as well as a few art galleries worth a few hours of your time.

In the winter, visitors can enjoy either indoor or outdoor hot springs for a unique hot and cold experience, as well as “sparties”, or spa parties, where the colonnades and resorts remain open until the very early hours of the morning playing exotic music accompanied by dancing and light shows!

Whether you decide to visit in summer or winter, Karlovy Vary provides one of the ultimate romantic escapes and is one of the best hidden gems in Europe for travelers seeking a relaxing getaway!

22. Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, Estonia is a city with rich European history that many people visit today to appreciate its old-world architecture.

The medieval Tallinn has been preserved as a historic center where visitors can enjoy walking through its romantic quarter while admiring graceful buildings from centuries ago like Town Hall Square which was formerly used for public meetings.

The medieval architecture and culture of Tallinn make it one of the most beautiful cities in Europe! As well as its many historic buildings , the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Kadriorg Art Museum, and the Toompea Castle stand out as some of the top sights in this romantic city.

Tallinn has an enchanting mix of ancient castles on hilltops overlooking the Baltic Sea juxtaposed against modern skyscrapers rising up around them; both serve well in creating one beautiful place where time slows down and you feel as though you’ve been transported back to the 12 th -century!

Outside of the numerous castles and cathedrals, the town also boasts several influential museums including Kumu, the well-known art museum of Estonia, the maritime museum of Lennusadam, and the Estonian Open Air Museum where visitors can view a full-sized reconstruction of an 18 th -century village.

Found on the very northern edge of the country, Tallinn is one of the best hidden gems in Europe for its medieval design and well-preserved historic monuments. Not to mention the city’s famed Christmas market !

23. Zagreb, Croatia

Croatia’s capital, Zagreb is a beautiful city full of trade and culture. The waterfront location can be enjoyed by riding the boat on Lake Jarun or walking along its tree-lined streets.

It also features many cafes with outdoor seating where you’ll find locals relaxing in this historic town after work for an evening drink. Often overlooked due to the nearby cities of Dubrovnik and Split, Zagreb makes for one of the best hidden gems in Europe!

Zagreb is a city in Croatia that has been around since the middle ages. It was originally called Gradec and it dates back to the 13th-century when it became one of the most important trade centers on this side of Europe!

To contrast modern-day Zagreb with its bygone days, you’ll see remnants from history all over town including churches that were built during different centuries, vibrant markets filled with fresh produce typical for this area’s climate and culture, as well as architectural designs that changed over the centuries.

The Cathedral of Zagreb displays the grandeur and beauty that characterizes this city’s history while the Dolac farmer’s market offers a taste of Croatian culture with its amazing produce from all over the country!

Zagreb is best enjoyed in the summer when you can relax outside in the warm, Mediterranean sun with a glass of wine and some traditionally cooked Cuspajz  (meat and vegetable stew).

24. Balearic Islands, Spain – one of the hardest hidden gems in Europe to reach

The Balearic Islands are a group of over 150 Spanish-owned islands off the coast of France. While the majority of them remain uninhabited and rarely explored by tourists, there are a few that have gained popularity over the years as some of the best hidden gems in Europe!

Majorca is home to rolling hills, mountains, and coastal cliffs where you can find harbors with public beaches for swimming or sunning on rocks next to clear waters.

Minorca also has plenty of life in its sandy coves which offer bathing opportunities, as well as tropical blue inlets and some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world!

Formentera is a small island that has been popular among artists as well as tourists for its breathtaking views.

The terrain ranges from rocky beaches to forests with rolling hills in between, however, what makes this place even more enticing are all of the natural pools where you can swim or just relax after exploring the island’s beautiful surroundings.

Known for its pristine beaches and laid-back lifestyle, Formentera is a wonderful destination for travelers!

Then, there’s Ibiza. Most commonly recognized for its eccentric nightclubs and dancing, this island is also home to an archaeological museum and some of the most turquoise blue waters in the world.

Ibiza is the most frequented by tourists and locals alike making it slightly less “hidden” than the other islands, but that makes it no less beautiful.

As for the last island that is currently visited by people, Cabrera is known for being one of Spain’s most popular diving destinations due to its underwater clarity and abundance of sea life.

Although, tourists must keep in mind that Cabrera is an uninhabited island situated near the other four islands that can only be visited by boat or kayak!

After a day full of sunbathing and drinking in the most tranquil of paradises, sit back and watch the sunset as you enjoy Spanish delicacies local to the Balearic Islands!

25. Conques, France – one of the lesser-known hidden gems in Europe

Nestled deep within a valley surrounded by mountains and spanned across three separate villages is an area known as Conques. If you’re in the mood for a medieval adventure, Conques is the ultimate destination for you.

This old-time town has been around since medieval times and still maintains its original architecture from over a thousand years ago!

The little-known French town of Conques offers tourists something different than most other places they might go during their vacation; an escape from modern society with its old-fashioned buildings dating all the way back to medieval times when knights roamed across Europe!

You’ll find narrow alleyways lined with houses made of stone or wood that have sloping roofs on one side so they can be easily defensible against intruders, as well as a plethora of cobblestone streets, exquisitely designed churches and cathedrals, and castles galore.

As for the castles, the most popular are the Castle of Bournazel and the Château du Colombier, though much of the town looks as if each home and building was once part of a castle over the course of history.

Normally missed on France itineraries, Conques is one of the most medieval hidden gems in Europe that well deserves a visit!

26. Aurland, Norway

Norway is one of the top destinations in Europe for vacations, and Aurland has just the thing for almost every traveler. If you’re looking for one of the most breathtaking natural sights to date, then this is where it’s at.

The Aurland region in Norway has spectacular fjords, unparalleled mountainous landscapes, and jaw-dropping scenery!

One place that would need to be on your Aurland bucket list includes the Stegastein viewpoint, which provides visitors a stunning view of Kjosfossen Falls cascading down from an elevation over 200 meters high into the deep blue waters below as well as dramatic mountain landscapes stretching outwards towards other majestic waterfalls like Fjoa Falls.

For the ultimate scenic Norweigan train ride, take the dramatic Flåmsbana journey across eight mountain passes at heights up to 1000 meters before descending deep into a spectacular Nærøyfjord with Kjelfossen waterfall.

Other incredible experiences you can have include taking a boat ride through the Nærøyfjord or the popular Aurlandsfjord which is surrounded by steep, rugged cliffs, as well as exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the West Norwegian Fjords!

There are also wonderfully scenic hiking trails in Aurlandsdalen, and the opportunity to spot wildlife and enjoy panoramic vistas from across these natural wonders in Aurland.

Due to its unique location in central Norway, northeast of Bergen, Aurland is one of the least visited hidden gems in Europe due to its remote location and mountainous landscape!

Best Non Touristy Places to Visit in Europe

Imagine a Europe where the streets are not lined with tourists. A place where you can wander and gaze at centuries-old buildings without bumping into someone every few seconds.

Places like these exist, but they’re hard to find because there is less information about them in comparison to other popular tourist destinations in Europe.

So, we’ve done the research and traveling for you so you can enjoy just planning your ultimate European itinerary !

27. San Donato, Cuneo Province, Italy – my family is from this amazing hidden gem in Europe!

San Donato, Italy is a beautiful mountainous town in the northern region of the Cuneo Province. Perched on a hillside in Northern Italy, San Donato is one of the most picturesque villages that this region of the country has to offer!

The natural beauty and serenity that surrounds this small town make it an ideal destination for those wanting to escape from their busy lives and dive deep into the remoteness of this mountainous town.

The village has many winding streets with ancient architecture lining them as well as rolling green hills overlooking sparkling blue lakes below. Similar to the “snow birds” of the U.S., San Donato is where many locals return to during the summer months to escape the brutal heat of the more central cities of Rome and Florence.

Then, in the winter, many of the locals move back down to the popular cities when the majority of tourists have left.

You’ll find far more tourists here in the winter versus the summer since winter sports become very popular among locals and tourists alike once the snow starts to fall.

If you’re up for it, you can hit the slopes with people from all over the world or you can enjoy Italy like a local and follow them from north to south once the colder weather sets in!

San Donato is home to some of the most heartfelt and kind people in all of Italy , so you can be sure you’ll feel welcome in this town without all of the tourists making it one of the most wonderful hidden gems in Europe!

28. Doolin, Ireland – one of the most charming hidden gems in Europe

Nestled between the Cliffs of Moher and Doonagore Castle is the lively little village of Doolin, Ireland. Doolin is a charming town that brings together people from around the world with its vibrant townhouses, traditional Irish pubs, and its breathtaking, rugged coastline!

The pubs are filled with locals and visitors alike drinking their favorite pint of Guinness or playing traditional Irish music on Wednesday nights at Gus O’Connor’s Pub for weekly sessions.

The Cliffs of Moher (here are the 9 BEST Tours from Galway to Cliffs of Moher 2023 and the 9 BEST Cliffs of Moher Tours from Dublin in 2023 ) are just one highlight of this charming seaside village that can be reached in just over 10 minutes by car. Stroll the Cliffs for sweeping views of the rugged Irish coastline and watch as the Atlantic Ocean smashes the naturally formed caves below.

If you get a chance, check out the O’Brien’s Tower at the very beginning of the cliffs, and take a tour of the Visitors Center if you wish to learn more about the cliffs and their history.

Afterward, stroll the cobblestone streets of this small fishing village and try some traditional fish and chips or beef stew while listening to live Irish folk music that is sure to get you dancing in no time!

The best way to enjoy this small town is to order a pint, chat with the locals, walk the streets, and take in the views. The locals here are extremely hospitable and fun, and will usually become your friends for the rest of the night if you would fancy some company!

During the day, take a trip down to the Doolin Caves where you can see stalactites and stalagmites made of limestone, or simply join the locals in the pubs for another pint of Guinness !

Since many tourists visit the Cliffs of Moher on tour buses or drive directly there from Dublin, Doolin is often overlooked making it one of the best hidden gems in Europe.

29. Kotor, Montenegro

In the south of Montenegro, you will find the serene seaside town of Kotor. The small city has been rebuilt since devastating earthquakes caused major damage many years ago, but remains full of history and charm that can be felt walking through its streets at any time day or night.

Nestled in the cliffs of Mt. Lovćen, Kotor is one of the most picturesque towns in Montenegro! The town is well known for its old fortresses and picturesque sights, like the Castle Of San Giovanni and the Kotor Fortress which is delicately perched over the water.

Visitors can spend their days strolling the network of meandering alleyways and streets, window shopping their way through the lovely shopping streets, and indulging in local entrees made with the freshest ingredients local to the region.

For the adventurous traveler, make your way up the Ladder of Kotor, where you’ll be rewarded with exceptional views overlooking the city’s beautiful red rooftops, the surrounding mountains, and the crystal clear water of the Adriatic Sea!

Kotor has a marina which is home to dozens of boats and the opportunity for tours through the inlet, as well as one beach, Kotor Beach, for relaxing and sunbathing.

No matter what you decide to do in Kotor, you’re bound to have an amazing time soaking up all that there is to do here since you’ll be sharing the majority of your experiences with locals, rather than tens of thousands of tourists.

30. Trier, Germany

Trier, a small city in the Rhineland-Palatinate region of Germany, is an ancient town with roots stretching back to Roman times and today stands proud as one of Germany’s most important cultural heritage sites. Trier has an extremely rich history and culture.

You can experience this in many ways such as visiting the historic Porta Nigra or checking out one of its museums that showcase significant pieces ranging all the way from Roman times to World War II.

The Porta Nigra dates back to the time of Constantine and stands as one of its most prominent landmarks in Trier. You’ll also find Kaiserthermen (the largest Roman baths), Eltz Castle, the Karl Marx House, and Liebfrauenkirche in Trier’s old town area.

A visit to the Karl Marx House is quite popular among Trier’s visitors as it is where he wrote his famous The Communist Manifesto which impacted society around the world for centuries.

Outside of the city’s immense amount of history, visitors can enjoy impressive architecture, vibrant squares, and endless shops and outdoor street markets for browsing.

Trier makes for a wonderful stop on any German itinerary owing to its unique balance of old-world charm, historic significance, and modern-day characteristics.

Even if you’re just passing through on your way from Luxembourg to Munich, this small town truly packs a punch that will leave its mark on all of those who visit!

31. Étretat, France

Located about 16 miles north of the more popular town of Le Havre, Étretat is a small seaside town on the coast of Normandy.

Its coastal location makes it an ideal place for fishing and diving, but also provides stunning views from cliffs over 100 feet high which are often featured in paintings by Claude Monet.

Étretat has beautiful scenery that includes both serene oceanside scenes as well as picturesque cliff-top vistas with breathtaking ocean panoramas.

The gorgeous coastline here allows visitors to pursue their passions like swimming or beachcombing while admiring incredible landscapes created by nature’s handiwork.

Known for its relaxing activities, Étretat is also home to the lovely Étretat Gardens which are the perfect place to escape from your busy day and take in some fresh air while admiring the natural wonders of the region.

Afterward, take a walk along the Falaise d’Aval where you’ll witness beautiful limestone formations rising out of the sea as if they were just waiting for you!

Amid these rock formations, there are others including the infamous Porte d’Aval and Les Falaises which also provide beautiful views over these impressive cliffs.

As one of the smallest towns in France , Étretat is certainly one of our most favorite hidden gems in Europe! It’s also a fantastic spot to pick up some souvenirs from France you’ll want to bring home.

32. Óbidos, Portugal – a must-visit hidden gem in Europe

One of the most interesting areas in Portugal is Óbidos. The small town, which was once a castle and border fortress on trade routes from Spain to Northern Europe, has now been turned into an agricultural region with cattle farms dotting the landscape.

There are also many olive groves that produce some award-winning oil, as well as shops where you can buy locally grown goods such as fresh fruit and vegetables at farmer’s markets every week.

Óbidos sits on top of hills surrounded by lush forests where travelers can go hiking or horseback riding through this picturesque landscape as they search out beautiful views over the valleys below them.

The most prominent and well-known landmark in the area would be its castle which was built on top of an old Roman fortification dating back to the 3 rd century BC. From this vantage point, you can see wine fields below as far as your eyes will allow!

Also home to some beautiful beaches, such as Praia da Foz do Arelho, visitors can enjoy swimming, windsurfing, and snorkeling along the country’s beautiful coastline.

Walking through peaceful gardens, exploring the Ceramics Museum, and taking in the beautiful artwork on the Igreja de Santa Maria are all activities visitors can enjoy on their visit to Óbidos!

33. Mittenwald, Germany

The small village of Mittenwald is located in the Bavarian Alps. Dating back to the 14 th -century, this tiny town has a rich history and culture that you can feel when walking its streets or taking part in one of many festivals throughout the year.

Mittenwald’s idyllic location between two mountains provides breathtaking views of the Hoher Kranzberg and surrounding mountains, as well as the opportunity to explore deep into several crystal clear lakes of the region.

A tour of the Alps takes you through four different countries and 12 tremendous waterfalls, but one waterfall to put on your list is in Mittenwald! This small village has a lake with an island named Lautersee that’s great for hiking or fishing.

It also features Ferchensee, another beautiful mountain lake not far from Leutasch where people come all year round just to enjoy nature and outdoor activities like kayaking, skiing, and snowboarding.

And lastly, there are the Kuhfluchtwasserfälle which plunge into nothingness as they drop down over 200-meters (656 ft) at high speeds!

Mittenwald is one of the most nature-focused hidden gems in Europe for its endless surrounding mountains, beautiful lakes, and numerous cascading waterfalls!

34. Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia is one of the most beautiful places in Turkey, and it’s easy to see why. The area has plenty of interesting natural features like caves cut into cliffsides, ancient villages, as well as historic castles that date back a thousand years.

The majestic beauty of Cappadocia is both surprising and captivating. The region’s ancient landscape consists of jagged hills and underground towns carved whole into the hillsides which have been inhabited since early antiquity!

When you travel to Cappadocia it is hard not to be amazed by all that this area holds; from its ancient monasteries containing priceless cultural treasures as well as caves carved into rocks which are now popular tourist sites.

While there are dozens of historic castles here that you could spend a week exploring, there is one that we highly suggest you check out!

Uchisar Castle is an ancient Turkish fortress and one of the most impressive sights to see when visiting beautiful Cappadocia!

With its towering cliffs carved out by wind and water erosion creating odd shapes, the Uchisar Castle is a sight to behold with its 360-degree panoramic views of Gaziemir Village for those who dare climb up!

When it comes to hidden gems in Europe, Cappadocia is one of the leading contenders on this list!

35. Kutna Hora, Czech Republic

Kutna Hora, a small town in the Czech Republic, was once home to one of Europe’s most notorious necropolises.

This town in the Czech Republic is home to one of Europe’s largest collections of medieval and baroque art and sits eloquently atop a hillside offering astonishing views of the villages and forestry below, as well as several very quirky attractions.

The gothic St. Vitus Cathedral and its accompanying cemeteries still stand as an eerie reminder that death is inevitable to those who visit.

This site has been used for centuries by people who wanted their loved ones nearby after they passed on from this world to the next; it also served as a way of showing off wealth during times when burials were expensive affairs with elaborate tombs and ceremonies involved.

Even more, the Sedlec Ossuary, also known as the Bone Church, or the Kutna Hora Cathedral of Bones, in the center of the town is a small chapel that houses tens of thousands of human bones that have been elaborately decorated to produce an astonishingly morbid piece of art.

Fear not, though, as Kutna Hora is also a stunning medieval town offering gothic-style architecture and Renaissance-era artwork. Slightly off the beaten path from other major destinations in the Czech Republic, Kutna Hora is certainly one of the most original hidden gems in Europe!

36. Bodø, Norway

The city of Bodø is one of the northernmost cities in Norway, and it’s known for its quaint coastal charm, incredible mountain scenery, and unique heritage. You’ll find everything from cozy cafés to gorgeous historic buildings as well as countless outdoor opportunities like hiking or skiing.

Bodø offers visitors an exciting variety of activities year-round, whether your interests lie in active pursuits such as fishing, cross country skiing through challenging terrain, or simply taking time out to enjoy the unique Norwegian culture and cuisine, there’s something for everyone here.

As for the cuisine, dishes including Sursild (pickled herring), Fårikål (meat stew), and Sodd (mutton soup) are among some of the most traditional in Norway.

Another major draw for visitors to this remote region of Norway is the fact that the northern lights (or Aurora Borealis) can often be seen year-round due to the area’s lack of light pollution and varying degrees of natural lighting!

This amazing phenomenon is one of the most sought-after experiences that people seek out on their vacations, and the best part is that you can usually see it right from your window in Bodø!

With such special attractions, Bodø is by far one of the best hidden gems in Europe… and even the world!

37. Sighisoara, Romania

Sighisoara is one of the most beautiful and oldest cities in Eastern Europe. Located in central Romania, this Transylvanian town is traditional in its architecture and winding cobbled streets lined by ancient houses adorned with elaborate woodwork.

The town’s 14 th -century citadel still stands proud today and makes for a great place to enjoy an evening picnic surrounded by medieval walls that have protected it from invaders throughout history!

This small city has retained much more than just ancient architecture throughout time, however, as it’s also home to sturdy traditions such as wooden churches and medieval fortresses that are now popular tourist attractions throughout the year.

The town also houses dozens of vibrant, colorful homes and buildings, a striking Clock Tower, and the Klosterkirche church.

Once known as the “Jewel of Transylvania” due to its rich cultural heritage, Sighisoara makes for the ultimate unique vacation with its impressive ruins, interesting history, and colorful design!

38. Monopoli, Italy – one of the least-known hidden gems in Europe

Monopoli, Italy is a popular vacation spot for people seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of their lives in more modern cities. It boasts beautiful architecture from renaissance times as well as bustling markets that are open every day.

It’s located in the southern region of Puglia and borders nearby San Severo to its north and is known for its beautiful white-washed buildings, white-sand beaches, and extremely picturesque location on the Adriatic Sea.

The locals speak Italian but there are also many people who have migrated from Albania or Romania that live here as well so you can find Albanian restaurants, Romanian bakeries, and other businesses catering to these populations if you stroll through town!

The city of Monopoli has many old buildings dating back to Renaissance time with interesting architectural details like arches or marble columns.

It also features lively daily marketplaces which have been going on since before Vatican II when they were once used as places where farmers would come in order to sell whatever produce was fresh at the moment.

These included items that are still being sold today, but now encompass fruits and vegetables along with other goods.

As for tourist attractions, visitors can stroll through the Castle of Carlo V, gawk at the beautiful interior of the Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia, or enjoy a refreshing swim at one of the beautiful Mediterranean beaches!

Due to its nearby neighbor of Bari, Monopoli is often skipped by tourists making it one of the best hidden gems in Europe!

39. Tapolca, Hungary

Tapolca is a small town in Hungary with an interesting history that one may not expect! They were once well known for their tapestry-weaving and lace-making skills during the 19 th -century which made them stand out from the surrounding regions in Europe.

Since then, those skills have faded away slightly, but it remains as one of the last places in Europe where you can still see these ancient skills being practiced from time to time!

Set back slightly from Lake Balaton, the town can be found in the western reaches of the country, about 164 kilometers from the capital of Budapest .

An extremely scenic environment awaits anyone who visits this eastern European town as they will find themselves immersed in both nature just outside their doorsteps and historical architecture that’s within walking distance from any location around the region!

Among these places include Szent György Hill which provides wonderful walking trails and rewards its visitors with great views overlooking the lake, as well as Csobánc Castle which only ruins remain of this once residence of the king of France from hundreds of years ago!

Furthermore, Tapolca features traditional food from all over Europe like stews made with game meats and fresh breads baked on-site at local bakeries, as well as sweets such as chocolate-dipped fruit or Hungarian sponge cake called Dobos Torte!

With so much to do and see in this charming historic town, Tapolca is one of the most special hidden gems in Europe.

40. Dinant, Belgium

Atop sheer cliffsides overlooking France’s Meuse River stands an old Flemish village that is now home to over 10,000 hearty souls known as Dinant.

Dinant is a quaint little town in Belgium that dates all the way back to the 9th century. Here, you will find beautiful old churches and towers lining the steep hills of this small city which lies just southeast of Brussels .

The most notable attraction here is its historic canals with locks on either side; they were constructed during the late 14 th -century when medieval towns needed protection from intruders who could come by water as well as land.

The medieval town of Dinant has many places to explore from within its walls such as the stunning Castle Freÿr which was built on cliffs overlooking steep banks, as well as the Vêves Castle. This castle is a fascinating landmark where you can experience history from the inside out!

The castle was built on an imposing rock that looms over the city with towering cliffs and deep ravines around it. It has been used for centuries as a fortress to protect people while still allowing them access to fresh water by way of two springs found deep within its walls.

The Citadel is also worth a visit for its engagement with history as it was built in 1815. Located south of many of the popular destinations in Belgium, Dinant makes for a fantastic day trip from Brussels is one of the most historically significant hidden gems in Europe!

FAQ: Hidden Gems in Europe

Some of the best hidden gems to visit in Europe are right under your nose, but if nobody points them out to you ( or you don’t spend hours on end staring at maps like I do ), then there’s a good chance you’re going to miss them!

That’s why I’ve provided some extra information on some of the most off-the-beaten-track places on the continent and why they’re worth visiting!

What is the Most Underrated Place in Europe?

One of the most underrated places in Europe has to be Bosnia and Herzegovina. Nestled in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, this country is a treasure trove of historical sites, breathtaking natural beauty, and warm-hearted locals.

From the vibrant cityscape of the capital of Sarajevo, rich in cultural and historical diversity, to the azure rivers and towering waterfalls of Kravice, Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences that is sure to captivate any visitor.

What is the Hidden Gem of Europe?

While it’s difficult to pick just one, many people claim the hidden gem of Europe to be Montenegro. Despite its small size, this enchanting Balkan country is packed with stunning natural wonders, from the pristine beaches along the Adriatic Sea to the dramatic mountain peaks of Durmitor National Park.

Its historic towns, such as Kotor and Budva, combine medieval architecture with vibrant local life, making Montenegro a captivating blend of old and new.

What is the Least Visited Place in Europe?

Well, if you fancy wandering off the beaten path and stepping into the lesser-known corners of Europe, the title of the least visited place in Europe quite possibly goes to Moldova.

Tucked away between Romania and Ukraine, this hidden gem is often overlooked by travelers. But don’t let its low profile fool you; Moldova boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a renowned wine industry.

Where Can I Go Off the Beaten Path in Europe?

If you’re craving a unique European adventure beyond the usual tourist hotspots, consider venturing to Albania.

Despite its stunning Adriatic and Ionian coastlines, rugged mountain terrain, and rich history stretching from ancient Illyrian times through to the Ottoman Empire, Albania remains surprisingly under-explored and under-appreciated.

Discover the vibrant capital of Tirana, traverse the beauties of the Albanian Riviera, or delve into the ancient ruins of Butrint!

What Must You See in Europe?

On top of all of these amazing hidden gems in Europe, there are also seemingly endless iconic landmarks and sites that would be foolish not to include in your itinerary.

From the Eiffel Tower in Paris to the Colosseum in Rome , here is my list of the best things to see in Europe!

Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy, France Park Güell, Barcelona, Spain Ponta da Piedade, Algarve, Portugal The Matterhorn, Zermatt, Switzerland The Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Wall , Berlin, Germany Old Town Square, Prague, Czech Republic Chain Bridge, Budapest, Hungary Cinque de Terre, Vernazza, Italy Salzburg Opera House, Salzburg, Austria Red Light District, Amsterdam, Netherlands Grand Place, Brussels, Belgium Casemates du Bock, Luxembourg City, Luxembourg Guaita Tower, San Marino (one of the best hidden European countries) Christmas Markets in Every Country

Other Helpful Resources for Europe

✔️ 103 Greatest Tips for Traveling to Europe for the First Time ✔️ How to Plan a Trip to Europe: The ULTIMATE Guide for 2023 ✔️ The Ultimate Europe Bucket List: 101 Experiences to Have in Europe ✔️ Packing List for Europe in Winter: A Full Country by Country Guide ✔️ Minimalist Packing List for Females Traveling to Europe ✔️ 5 Things You Must Include on Your Travel Essentials List ✔️ Backpacking Europe Routes for 2 Weeks: Routes & Tips ✔️ European Honeymoon Itinerary: 9 Incredible Options for 1 Week, 2 Weeks, + 1 Month ✔️ 30+ Best Places to Visit in Europe in December ✔️ 73 Best Places to Visit in Europe in January 2023 ✔️ 25 Best Places in Europe for New Years Celebrations ✔️ 30+ BEST Places to Visit in Europe in March 2023 ✔️ 30+ BEST Places to Visit in Europe in April 2023 ✔️ 103 Greatest Tips for Traveling to Europe for the First Time ✔️ How to Plan a Trip to Europe: The ULTIMATE Guide for 2023 ✔️ Packing List for Europe in Winter: A Full Country by Country Guide ✔️ Minimalist Packing List for Females Traveling to Europe ✔️ 5 Things You Must Include on Your Travel Essentials List ✔️ Backpacking Europe Routes for 2 Weeks: Routes & Tips ✔️ European Honeymoon Itinerary: 9 Incredible Options for 1 Week, 2 Weeks, + 1 Month ✔️ 30+ Best Places to Visit in Europe in December ✔️ 73 Best Places to Visit in Europe in January 2023 ✔️ 25 Best Places in Europe for New Years Celebrations ✔️ 30+ BEST Places to Visit in Europe in March 2023 ✔️ 30+ BEST Places to Visit in Europe in April 2023 ✔️ Is Azerbaijan in Europe? The Facts for 2023 ✔️ Is Denmark in Europe? The EU, the Danish Krone, & Its Territories Explained

Wrap-Up: Best Hidden Gems in Europe

Europe is known as a bustling and diverse continent that has something for everyone from majestic mountain ranges, turquoise blue oceans, centuries-old historic architecture, and an ever-changing foodie profile.

But what you may not know is there are some hidden gems in Europe just waiting to be discovered! We hope we’ve convinced you of the need to add these destinations to your next itinerary because they will truly make your trip one-of-a-kind!

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

Reader's Digest

50 Hidden Gems from Every State

Posted: January 11, 2024 | Last updated: January 11, 2024

The hidden gems of the United States

If you travel frequently, you probably already know about popular tourist attractions in every state—but what about those smaller places that offer unique experiences? You may know about hidden gems in New York City , Los Angeles and other major cities, but what about those oh-so-cool secret locations in the heartland? Well, turns out, there are plenty of hidden gems in the U.S. that are must-see destinations.

These hidden gems around the country show a little part of each state's history and are sure to make for a memorable experience. Some locations are also cheap to travel to , which is perfect for those traveling on a budget . Take a quick trip and enjoy the little-known parts of the country!

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Alabama: Russell Cave National Monument, Jackson County

This archeological site sheltered prehistoric people thousands of years ago. The ballroom-size cavern is also one of the oldest sites of human habitation in North America, according to the National Park Service. Visitors can experience this hidden gem via boardwalk, and they can view a display of weapons and other tools found at the site in a small museum. It is open daily except for major winter holidays. Want to stay nearby? Learn the best time to book a hotel for great deals.

Alaska: Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, Haines

The Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve is a state park and wildlife refuge in Haines, and the Chilkat Valley, in particular, is home to 200 to 400 eagles. There is a free roadside pull-off at 19-mile Haines Highway with a short trail. In the summer, however, rafting and jet boat tours are available. Thinking of visiting? Learn the best time to book a flight for some serious savings.

Arizona: Goldfield Ghost Town, Apache Junction

This reconstructed 1890s town includes gold-mine tours, Old West gunfights and a history museum, plus tons of other attractions at this hidden gem, including zip lining. The town is open daily, but certain attractions have specific hours. It's makes for a great stop along a Western-themed cheap family vacation !

Arkansas: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville

Arkansas might not be the state that comes to mind when you think of American art, but the collections at this museum might change your mind. In addition to permanent art including sculptures and paintings, special exhibits frequent the museum too. Please check the website for specific hours, then browse through these tips for how to travel for free .

California: Black Sands Beach, Sausalito

Yes, the sand at this California beach is black—and it's considered one of the most beautiful black-sand beaches on the U.S. mainland. Black Sands Beach is not ideal for swimming, since the waves are rough, but it's great for those who want to bird-watch at a less-crowded beach.

Keep in mind that at high tide the beach will be narrow, so check tide charts before you go. Oh, and also, CaliforniaBeaches.com notes that some locals consider this a clothing-optional beach (consider this your warning!). Check out these other black-sand beaches you never knew existed.

Colorado: Bishop Castle, Rye

This Gothic Colorado castle hides in the foothills of the San Isabel National Forest. It is complete with wrought-iron bridges, stained-glass windows and even a metallic fire-breathing dragon. The best part is that the entire castle was built by one man who gathered and set stones to create it. The castle is "always open and always free," according to the website. Check out these budget airlines if you're thinking of flying out for a visit.

Connecticut: Cathedral Pines Preserve, Cornwall

Only some of the gorgeous old-growth white pine and hemlock trees here survived the three tornadoes that devastated the area in 1989, but the existing trail at Cathedral Pines is worth exploring for the trees and bird-watching.

Delaware: Trap Pond State Park, Laurel

This park is an outdoor-lover's paradise. In the peak summer season, you can rent kayaks, pedal boats and canoes for fishing, and there are also tons of trails and volleyball courts. But the main attraction is the pond itself, since freshwater wetlands once covered a significant portion of the area. The park is open daily until sunset.

Florida: Paynes Prairie Preserve, Micanopy

The 22,000 acres of this park are overrun with alligators, bison, horses and more than 270 species of birds . You can hike, bike or horse ride on any of the nine trails. There is also a 50-foot observation tower with a panoramic view of the prairie. The park is open 365 days a year from morning until sundown.

Georgia: Tallulah Gorge State Park, Tallulah Falls

Tallulah Gorge State Park has a trail overlooking three waterfalls and outcrops known as Lion Rock and Lover's Leap. The park is also a great stop to add to your road trip. While we're on the subject, this is the best-kept secret in every state .

Hawaii: Byodo-In Temple, Kaneohe

This 55-year-old temple honors the anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii. It is a smaller replica of the Byodo-in Temple, a United Nations World Heritage site, in Uji, Japan, and people of all faiths are welcome to worship, meditate or simply appreciate the temple. You might also recognize the temple from shows like Lost , Hawaii Five-O and Magnum, P.I . The grounds are open daily with admission costing no more than $5.

Idaho: Black Magic Canyon, West Magic

This small canyon is notoriously hard to get to, but it's worth the effort to see the natural abstract sculptures and formations in the basalt rock. It is accessible in late July and August and through the winter, but you should call the Big Wood Canal Company first to make sure you don't visit when water is scheduled to flow through.

Illinois: Cache River State Natural Area, Johnson County

The area is situated within a floodplain carved years ago by glacial floodwater of the Ohio River, made up of more than 14,000 acres and includes three distinct spots: Little Black Slough, Lower Cache River Swamps and Glass Hill. Hikers, bikers and nature-lovers will all enjoy this site.

Indiana: The Roofless Church, New Harmony

It's fitting that this church , or open park, exists in a town partly called harmony. The interfaith church is open to the public and is maintained by the Robert Lee Balffer Foundation. Although it does, in fact, have a roof, it is really a protective cover for a sculpture by Jacques Lipchitz. Be sure to also visit the best state fair or festival in every state .

Iowa: The Fenelon Place Elevator, Dubuque

This short and steep elevator boasts views of the historic Dubuque business district, the Mississippi River and three states: Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin. Although it was created in 1882 by a senator-turned-banker, a round-trip ride still costs no more than $4 today. It is, however, only open from April through November.

Kansas: Coronado Heights Castle, Falun

Now this looks like a site straight out of Ireland or Scotland. Located in Coronado Heights Park, Coronado Heights Castle is a Dakota limestone structure first built in the 1930s. It still stands today, and visitors can enjoy its longevity while taking in the park's scenic views.

Kentucky: Lost River Cave, Bowling Green

This 70-acre gem features the only underground river cave tour in Kentucky. In addition to some cool history—the caves were a campsite for nomadic groups and a shelter for troops during the Civil War—the Lost River Cave includes meadowlands, wetlands and trails. Tours are available seven days a week, and the park is closed on major winter holidays.

Louisiana: Los Adaes State Historic Site, Robeline

The Los Adaes fort was once under Spanish rule before eventually closing down. Now, the 58-acre site has a historic hiking trail, earthen works, a timber outline of the fort and part of the original El Camino Real de los Tejas, the major roadway to Mexico City. There is also a visitor center with displays of various artifacts. The grounds are open daily except for major winter holidays. If you're into cool sites like this one, here are the most historic landmarks in every state .

Maine: Vintage Bargain Barns, Bar Harbor

Skip the popular Freeport Mall and check out the Vintage Bargain Barns,  flea markets disguised as farmhouses that dot the coast. You'll find everything from vintage finds to unique handmade items. The markets are off the main road that runs from Bar Harbor to Portland.

Maryland: Crystal Grottoes Caverns, Boonsboro

This is one of those hidden gems that, quite literally, is home to hidden gems. Unleash your inner geologist by heading underground and touring the Crystal Grottoes Caverns in Boonsboro. Founded back in 1920, this natural cave boasts breathtaking crystals and is the most naturally kept cave in the world. Tours are open Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; admission is $23, but kids age 5 to 12 get in for $13; kids under 5 are free. Bring a sweater for the tour—it gets chilly down there!

Massachusetts: Lake Webster, Webster

This is just a theory, but this lake might be a hidden gem simply because of the original 45-letter name. The scenic lake near the Connecticut border also goes by the name Lake Chaubunagungamaug. Have you visited the most famous house in your state yet?

Michigan: The Heidelberg Project, Detroit

The project consists of creative guerrilla-art installations displayed via abandoned houses, some covered with polka dots and others with lotto numbers . Tours are offered by the group.

Minnesota: SPAM Museum, Austin

Yes, there is a SPAM Museum —and it's free to tour! Located about 100 miles south of Minneapolis in the city of Austin, the museum is dedicated to the one and only SPAM brand. Learn about the history of the famous canned meat while playing interactive games—and don't forget to stop at the impressive gift shop on the way out.

Mississippi: Small Town Mississippi, Jackson

The Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum runs a life-size replica of the typical small Southern town. It features a schoolhouse, a cotton gin and everything in between, giving you an inside look at life in the 1920s. The museum is open Monday through Saturday and closed for most major holidays.

Missouri: Castor River Shut-Ins, Fredericktown

Come to the Castor River Shut-Ins for the scenery of pinkish granite rocks and the rushing water of the Castor River, but stay for the wade-and-bank fishing. While you're planning your trip, these are the oldest tourist attractions in every state .

Montana: Havre Beneath the Streets, Havre

When a fire destroyed most of the town of Havre, business owners took their shops underground until the town was rebuilt. Now, tours along the streets beneath Havre show a saloon, a Chinese laundry, an ethnic restaurant, a bordello and an opium den. Daily tours are available, but in the winter tours don't operate on Sundays.

Nebraska: Happy Jack Peak and Chalk Mine, Scotia

The Happy Jack Peak and Chalk Mine is the only publicly accessible chalk room and pillar mine in North America. In addition to a great view of North Loup Valley, there is hiking and picnicking. Commenters on some travel sites said they were able to take a piece of chalk home. Admission to the grounds is free, but you do have to pay for the mine. Offseason tours are available by appointment. If traveling is on your bucket list, you'll want to check out these bucket list ideas for each state .

Nevada: Great Basin National Park, White Pine County

This national park really has it all. Although it is in the Great Basin Desert, the park contains most of the South Snake mountains and the Wheeler Peak Scenic Drive toward the peak—and close by is one of a few ancient bristlecone pine groves and the marble Lehman Caves. The park is open year-round except for holidays.

New Hampshire: Ice Castles, Lincoln

These man-made ice castles are beautifully crafted. The creators use drip pipes to trickle out their icicles, which eventually form together into full-scale icy castles. There are additional locations in Utah, Colorado, Minnesota and Canada. They are only open as long as the weather permits, and opening day also depends on the weather, by location. Tickets are available daily while the castles are open. When summer hits, here's the best beach in every state .

New Jersey: Diggerland, West Berlin

Average theme parks, step aside. Diggerland is a construction theme park complete with trucks, tractors, diggers and even a zip line. Most attractions have a height requirement as well as a Diggerland ride operator to help you navigate. The hours are subject to change, but they are open mainly on Saturday and Sunday, with select weekday openings throughout the year.

New Mexico: Blue Hole, Santa Rosa

This blue gem is smack in the middle of the desert and offers swimming, snorkeling and diving in 64-degree water. The crystal-clear spring is home to various fish species and is open daily. Check out these other family travel destinations  too.

New York: Old City Hall Station, Manhattan

Not all subways are created equal—and the Old City Hall Station isn't your typical 6 train stop. In 1904, the inaugural subway ride left from City Hall station, and the station's tenure ended in 1945. Now it's part of the Transit Museum and is seen through exclusive guided tours. Spots are limited to members, and all ticket sales are final and go fast—so sign up for updates on tour availability.

North Carolina: Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park & Museum, Wilson

This park and museum features supersize spinning pinwheels, also called whirligigs. The installation features 30 revolving works of art as well as occasional music and film programs, a farmers market, picnicking and even tai chi classes. The two-acre park is free and open daily, even during holidays.

North Dakota: The International Peace Garden, Rolette County

The garden offers canoeing, camping, cycling and various winter activities—but its chapel is one of the most unique aspects of this hidden gem. The chapel is open for everyone to come in, sit and contemplate "a world at peace." The 3.65-square-mile park is adjacent to the International Peace Garden Border Crossing between Canada and the United States. The garden is open daily; just make sure to check document requirements before visiting.

Ohio: Chateau Laroche, Loveland

Ohio doesn't seem like the place you would find an eccentric medieval castle, but nevertheless, Chateau Laroche exists thanks to Harry Andrews. He built the castle himself with an additional secret room that was discovered only years after his death. The museum's winter hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday only, but from April to October they're open every day. Check the site in warmer months for time changes.

Oklahoma: The Little Sahara, Waynoka

If you haven't made it to the actual Sahara, get a taste of it at Oklahoma's Little Sahara in Waynoka. Take an ATV and explore, or just take a photo to remember your visit to one of Oklahoma's lesser-known must-see destinations.

Oregon: Arch Cape

Native Oregonian Lance Marrs, a principal broker at Living Room Realty in Portland, told Reader's Digest about this " gem on the Oregon Coast ." It's a mostly deserted beach, with tide pools, a small waterfall and caves. At low tide, you can walk on the old road from the 1900s, which was carved out of the cliffs at Hug Point. The name comes from the fact that stagecoaches had to "hug" the side of the rocks to avoid the waves and the steep cliffs.

Pennsylvania: Paradise

The Pennsylvania Dutch Country refers to an area in the southeast part of the state that has traditionally been home to many Amish families. The Amish pursue a simpler way of life, and some families in and around Paradise open their doors to outsiders with bed-and-breakfasts and community and farm tours. Bear in mind, however, that most traditional Amish families eschew electricity and photography and don't welcome visitors into their homes. But the ones that do provide a wonderful, authentic-feeling experience and food like you've probably never tasted!

Rhode Island: Green Animals Topiary Garden, Portsmouth

All the animals in this seven-acre park are carved out of trees. The Green Animals Topiary Garden is the oldest and northernmost topiary garden in the nation, and it's worth a detour if you're visiting the Newport Mansions.

South Carolina: Lake Jocassee

PR pro Sara Martin tells Reader's Digest that this hidden gem in upstate South Carolina is located in Oconee County, named for the Cherokee word that means "land beside water." Encompassing 9,000 acres with 90 miles of shoreline, the lake offers countless fun water activities as well as the greatest biodiversity on the East Coast. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, it's only accessible in one way: through Devils State Park in Salem.

South Dakota: Deadwood

It's more than an HBO show: Deadwood, South Dakota , is the town where Wild Bill Hickock was shot in the back while playing poker. It's also where Calamity Jane is buried. Deadwood has all the makings of a Wild West ghost town, but it's thriving these days, thanks in part to the Deadwood Historic District, which takes you back in time to Deadwood's Golden Age—a time when everyone was rushing to dig up the gold from the Black Hills and lawlessness was pretty much the law.

Tennessee: Gatlinburg's secret park entrance

There's a secret entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, reveals travel site Patriot Getaways . They describe it as a "great, quick spot for you to work your way up the mountains instead of going through Pigeon Forge." Most locals enter the park through here (known as the Wears Cove entrance), and besides being a secret gem, at least as far as out-of-staters are concerned, it comes in handy during the high seasons. "You get to see picturesque views while avoiding the crowds. On a clear, sunny day from Wears Valley, you can see Mount LeConte covered in bright, colorful leaves. An absolutely breathtaking view!"

Texas: Old Town Helotes

"One of the best hidden gems in Texas is tucked away in Texas Hill Country," reveals PR pro Crystal Henry. Also tucked away are the Shops at Old Town Helotes . "This beautiful strip of shops and restaurants is actually home to Floore's Country Store, the little honky-tonk place where Willie Nelson got his start. New shops and boutiques are opening all the time, but if nothing else, it's worth the trip to start your morning at The Cracked Mug coffee house and end it with a glass of red at Wine 101," Henry tells Reader's Digest.

Utah: Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, Kanab

Although the red sands shift as much as 50 feet per year, the fun activities at the sand dunes remain the same. Think camping, hiking, horseback riding and ATV riding. It is open every day with no holiday park closures.

Vermont: Dog Mountain, St. Johnsbury

"You'll need only a small pack and your favorite four-legged friend to explore Dog Mountain ," according to EagleCreek.com. This 150-acre mountaintop oasis is covered with hiking trails where dogs and their owners can roam freely—no leashes required! You'll also find a Dog Chapel for families to pay their respects to pets that have passed. All in all, Dog Mountain is an amazing destination.

Virginia: Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna

" Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is a Northern Virginia hidden gem we return to throughout the year," reports Fun in Fairfax, a Virginia travel website. "The gardens grow, transform and fade, but the park's 95 acres and paved paths always offer peace and beauty." The sights to behold include a Korean Bell Garden and a children's garden. There's also a gazebo and pond and lots of paths and bridges to entertain families.

Washington: One Square Inch of Silence, Hoh River Trail, Forks

One Square Inch of Silence is the quietest place on earth. The mossy area was designated on Earth Day 2005 to protect the space from harsh human noise and, instead, highlight the sounds of nature. The area is part of Olympic National Park, which is open 24 hours a day year-round, although some roads, campgrounds and facilities are open only seasonally.

West Virginia: Summersville Lake, Summersville

For a true hidden gem in this state, Summersville Lake is hard to beat, according to the West Virginia Department of Commerce. It's the largest lake in West Virginia, with 2,700 acres of water and more than 60 miles of shoreline. And then it gets interesting: The lake's depth goes down to 327 feet. Add that to the fact that it's the cleanest, clearest freshwater lake east of the Mississippi, and you have a great place to scuba dive—or learn how.

Wisconsin: Mineral Point

It's the literal place where Wisconsin began: Mineral Point is worth a visit if you enjoy a taste of the way-back-when. Once a mining area and one of the oldest towns in the entire state, it's now known for its adorable historic district filled with art galleries, the tiniest of tiny public libraries and a place where you can see what life was like during the 1830s.

Wyoming: Ayres Natural Bridge, Douglas

"Some people might make the case that Wyoming itself is off the beaten path," says Jayme Sandberg of the American Heart Association, who used to live in the state. Sandberg wanted Reader's Digest to know about Ayres Natural Bridge , a place of natural beauty where over the course of millions of years, a creek wore away at a rock wall, carving out a natural bridge. Because it's challenging to access (unless you're adept at driving on dirt roads and narrow paths), it's a hidden gem whose visitors tend to be locals with picnic lunches.

Additional reporting by Lauren Cahn .

• California Beaches : "Black Sands Beach"
• Atlas Obscura : "Harry Andrews' Chateau Laroche"
• Fun in Fairfax : "20 Must-See Northern Virginia Hidden Gems Rich in Nature and History"

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Drimnagh Castle has been revealed as Dublin's top ‘hidden gem’ location according to a new study.

Research conducted by Tour Operator Software Provider Bókun (part of the Tripadvisor family)  has uncovered local ‘hidden gem’ locations around the world, according to tourists.

Bókun examined over 1,000 local destinations using Tripadvisor reviews containing the phrase "hidden gem." Their analysis revealed the best places to travel worldwide, according to real consumers. 

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Ireland was one of the top three countries with the world's most "hidden gems." The Emerald Isle ranked the third most likely place to spot a "hidden gem" location worldwide, claiming 6% of the total wonders. Taking first place was England with 33% of total wonders, closely followed by the United States of America in second place with 31%.

Dublin, Ireland's capital, made a remarkable impression on tourists, with a total of nine destinations appearing on the global list of "hidden gem" spots. From the nine that made it to the list, Drimnagh Castle emerged as the front-runner. Claiming the top spot in both Dublin and Ireland overall, 19% of all reviews called the historical site a ‘hidden gem’ location. 

Among the nine acknowledged spots in Dublin were Casino Marino, Marsh’s Library , Dublin City Gallery , and Richmond Barracks. This recognition shines a spotlight on Dublin as a city with huge cultural significance, placing it amongst some very esteemed wonders worldwide.

And following behind Drimnagh Castle in second place in Ireland overall was Kilfane Waterfall and Glen in Co. Kilkenny , with 19% of reviews overall mentioning its noteworthiness. Ireland's third-best hidden gem was the National Botanic Gardens in Kilmacurragh (14%).

Read below for the top hidden gems in both Dublin and Ireland overall.

Hidden Gems in Dublin:

• Drimnagh Castle
• Casino Marino
• Marsh's Library
• Richmond Barracks
• St. Audoen's Church
• Chester Beatty
• Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane
• 14 Henrietta Street
• The Little Museum of Dublin

Top 10 Hidden Gems in Ireland

• Kilfane Waterfall and Glen
• National Botanic Gardens, Kilmacurragh
• Dooks Golf Club
• Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre
• Victor's Way
• Old Irish Ways
• Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens

For more information on Bókun's study of "hidden gems" worldwide, click here .

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Elektrostal, Russia

Region: Moscow Oblast

Geographic coordinates: 55.783300, 38.466700, temperature range: -40.0°c to 30.0°c (-40°f to 86°f), climate: cold and snowy winters, mild summers with occasional heat waves., population: 158508, language: russian.

Elektrostal, Located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, Is a city known for its industrial heritage and diverse economy. With a population of around 150, 000 people, It lies approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow. Founded in 1916 as an industrial center for steel and metal production, Elektrostal’s most notable landmark is the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant (EMZ). The plant produces various steel products including railway wheels, Pipes, Wire rod, And sheet metal. Apart from its industrial significance, Elektrostal offers several cultural attractions that are worth visiting.

The Museum-Estate Kuskovo features an impressive collection of art and artifacts from the 18th century. Lake Senezh – a large freshwater lake outside Elektrostal’s city limits – provides opportunities for swimming, Boating or fishing during summer months. Elektrostal also has several parks where visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling. Gorky Park features walking paths along with sports facilities like tennis courts and basketball courts. Public transport within Elektrostal itself is convenient with numerous bus routes connecting different parts within the city limits as well as nearby towns like Noginsk or Dmitrovskiy Districts in Moscow Region.

Overall Elektrostal offers visitors an interesting mix of industrial heritage, Cultural attractions and natural beauty making it definitely worth a visit whether you’re interested in learning about Russia’s steel industry or simply want to enjoy the outdoors.

Important Landmarks

• The Museum of Local Lore – it showcases the history and culture of the town.
• The Church of St. Nicholas – a beautiful Orthodox church built in the 19th century.
• Victory Park – a large park with several monuments dedicated to World War II heroes.
• Ice Palace Vityaz – a modern ice arena that hosts various sports events and concerts.
• Elektrostal Central Park – a popular spot for picnics, walking, and outdoor activities.
• The Monument to Soviet Soldiers – located in Victory Square, it honors soldiers who died during World War II.
• Elektrostal History Museum – displays artifacts from ancient times to present day including photographs, documents, paintings etc.,
• Kuzminsky Park- A beautiful park with greenery all around perfect for spending some quality time with family or friends

Primary Industries

• Metallurgical Industry: Elektrostal is renowned for its steel production industry that involves the manufacturing of steel pipes, wires, sheets and other metal products.
• Chemical Industry: The city boasts several chemical plants that produce chemicals such as ammonia, fertilizers and plastics.
• Machinery Industry: Elektrostal has a significant machinery industry that produces machine tools, mining equipment and other industrial machinery.
• Construction Materials Industry: There are several cement factories in the city producing cement and concrete products.
• Food Processing Industry: Several food processing plants operate within the city producing dairy products, meat products and other food items.
• Energy Sector: The city houses a thermal power plant which supplies electricity to the region.
• Retail and Service Sector: Additionally, there is a well-developed retail sector with shopping centers, supermarkets and small shops catering to the local population’s needs.

Noteable History

• The city was founded in 1916 as a center for steel production during World War I.
• During World War II, Elektrostal played a crucial role in supplying the Soviet army with weapons and ammunition.
• In 1957, the first nuclear power plant in Russia was built near Elektrostal.
• The city is known for producing high-quality steel that is used in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, and construction.
• Notable people from Elektrostal include Olympic gold medalist figure skater Irina Slutskaya and former Russian Prime Minister Sergei Kiriyenko.
• In recent years, the city has undergone significant modernization efforts to improve its infrastructure and attract new businesses to the area.

Museums and Things To See

• Museum of Local Lore: This museum showcases the history and culture of Elektrostal and the surrounding region.
• Victory Park: A large park dedicated to the victory in World War II, with monuments, memorials, and a military museum.
• Church of St. Nicholas: A beautiful Orthodox church with stunning frescoes and icons.
• The House-Museum of V.V.Vorovsky: This museum is dedicated to the revolutionary leader Vorovsky who lived in Elektrostal for a time.
• The Central Culture and Leisure Park: A popular park with various attractions like amusement rides, sports facilities, cafes etc.
• The Monument to the First Builders of Elektrostal: This monument commemorates those who built the city’s first industrial complex.
• Art Gallery Art-El: An art center featuring works by local artists as well as exhibitions from around Russia and beyond.
• Museum Elektrosvet: A unique museum showcasing lighting equipment from various periods starting from 19th century till present day.

Cultural Events

• City Day Celebration: This festival is held annually on the first weekend of September to celebrate the founding of Elektrostal.
• International Festival The World of Dance: A dance festival featuring performances from various countries around the world.
• Folklore Kaleidoscope Festival: A cultural event showcasing traditional folk music, dance, and costumes from different regions of Russia.
• Art-Electro Festival: An art exhibition featuring works by local artists as well as artists from other parts of Russia.
• Jazz Festivals: There are several jazz festivals held throughout the year in Elektrostal which feature performances by local and international jazz musicians.

• Shashlychnaya No. 1 – A restaurant specializing in shashlik (Russian kebabs) and other grilled meats.
• Cafe U Dvukh Medvedey – A cozy cafe serving traditional Russian dishes like borscht, pelmeni (dumplings), and blini (pancakes).
• Pivnaya Apteka – A beer bar with a wide selection of craft beers from Russia and around the world.
• Kebab House – A fast-food chain offering various types of kebabs, falafel wraps, and salads.
• Cafe Podkova – Another cozy cafe serving Russian dishes like beef stroganoff, chicken Kiev, and dumplings with different fillings.
• Restaurant Kolbasny Dom – A meat lover’s paradise with various types of sausages, smoked meats, and steaks on the menu.
• Sushi Master – For those who crave Japanese cuisine; this sushi restaurant offers fresh sushi rolls and sashimi plates.
• Pizzeria Mama Mia!- If you’re in the mood for Italian food; this pizzeria offers delicious pizzas made from scratch using fresh ingredients.
• Cafe Kamelot- A cozy café serving traditional Russian dishes such as borscht soup,pelmeni (dumplings),and vareniki(boiled dumplings).
• Restaurant “Gagarin”- Named after Yuri Gagarin; this restaurant serves European cuisine including steaks,pasta,and salads along with exotic cocktails to choose from!

Parks and Recreation

• Central Park of Culture and Rest
• Park of the 50th Anniversary of Victory
• Park of the 300th Anniversary of Elektrostal
• Sports and Recreation Complex Olympic
• Ice Palace Elektrostal
• Ski resort Krugloye Ozero
• Beach complex Sunny Beach
• Tennis club Elektrostal
• Bowling club Strike
• Paintball club Delta Force

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New Zealand: Top 10 Hidden Gems, Campervan Lifestyle (Tips and Tricks), and Doing Life Differently With Lisa Jansen Zero To Travel Podcast

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Today, I’m joined by digital nomad and author Lisa Jansen to get her list of the top 10 New Zealand hidden gems and get a peak into the New Zealand campervanning lifestyle. Lisa is a long-term traveler based in New Zealand. She has been a nomad for over six years, five of which have been spent traveling across the country in her campervan. Her book Life Done Differently explores her decision to prioritize a nomadic lifestyle, favoring travel and van living over conventional familial and career pursuits. Lisa shares her eclectic mix of off-the-beaten-path places to visit, from surreal lakes and remote beaches to a steampunk town, a west coast alternative to the popular hot water beach, one of the best night sky views in the world, and where you’re most likely to naturally swim with dolphins. You’ll hear all about New Zealand vanlife, get tips and tricks for having your own campervan adventure, and gain plenty of insights into solo and long-term travel. 👉 Want Lisa's list of New Zealand hidden gems? Click here to go to the website! Are you planning a trip to New Zealand? Which of these spots would you add to your list? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you’ll share them by sending me an audio message. Premium Passport: Get ad-free episodes, exclusive content, and access to all episodes for only $3/month. Subscribe now! Tune In To Learn: How a one-year study abroad led to permanently living in New Zealand Her daily life in a campervan, work/life balance, and how she makes a living as a digital nomad Campervanning NZ 101: How to find a van, must-haves, and important things to consider Advice for this style of travel and mistakes to be aware of  The best New Zealand hidden gems, from the north island to the south Advice for tramping (hiking) the Great Walks in New Zealand  Why she decided to be child-free and how that’s allowed her to embrace new possibilities Why she decided to write a book on her experiences and what she’s learned about self-publishing Her thoughts on solo travel (plus an important safety tip for aspiring vanlifers) And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Sign up for our FREE newsletter Learn more about Lisa at Life Done Differently Connect with Lisa on Instagram, Facebook Find a van in NZ with trademe NZ Vanlife Facebook Groups - Vanlife - New Zealand, Vanlife Singles NZ, Vanlifer NZ - Buy and sell campervans Want More? How To Campervan In New Zealand Epic Treks: Tramping New Zealand’s Te Araroa Trail Travelosophy and Adventures In New Zealand Thanks To Our Sponsors Nissan - There’s no better vehicle for adventure than the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder. Learn more at www.nissanusa.com. Wise - Wise can help you send, spend, and receive internationally without the hidden fees or exchange rate markups. Learn how Wise can work for you by downloading the app or visiting www.wise.com/travel. AeroPress - Say yes to better mornings fueled by better coffee. Visit aeropress.com/zerototravel to save 20% off your order.

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Arizona ghost town: Gold King Mine in Jerome is a hidden gem

Arizona’s strangest museum — or maybe just its rustiest — clings to a hill high above the Verde Valley. It looks like several garages exploded. Or like the ruins of an ancient junkyard have been unearthed by archaeologists.

Shaggy, disheveled and full of history, Gold King Mine and Ghost Town has the power to captivate families for hours at a time.

Sitting a mile north of Jerome, Gold King Mine harbors an assortment of ramshackle buildings, a menagerie of friendly animals and a sprawling collection of rusted machinery that forever teeters between ruin and redemption. 

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What you can see at Gold King Mine in Jerome

This open-air museum preserves the clanking metal skeleton of a hardworking industrial era spread across the site. Approximately 100 vehicles line the sloping pathways.

Trucks, cars, buses, tractors, bulldozers, cranes and some conveyances that defy description are everywhere you look. These include some incredible finds like a 1902 Studebaker electric carriage, one of only two known to exist.

Tools and equipment from wrenches to chainsaws to a towering stamp mill to prehistoric washing machines that look like tubs with teeth are scattered about the grounds of this ghost town that sprang up by accident.

Gold King Mine Jerome history

In 1890, the Haynes Copper Company sunk a 1,200-foot shaft into a mountain that was practically made of copper. They whiffed. Astride one of the richest copper deposits in history, they couldn’t find the green ore. 

But sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good. They struck a vein of gold instead and the town of Haynes developed around the diggings.

Haynes never exactly thrived but it held on for years. It had its own post office from 1908 through 1922. Eventually the gold ran out and residents scattered. Then in 1981, this scarred slope that still wore the derelict remnants of its past was discovered by Don and Terry Robertson. It proved to be a perfect setting for what they had in mind.

Don Robertson was born on an Iowa farm, seemingly with a wrench in his hand. By age 3 he was taking apart and rebuilding his tricycle. Robertson continued his insatiable tinkering with bicycles, tractors and finally, cars and trucks, on his way to becoming a master mechanic. He developed a fascination with mining equipment and began collecting pieces that interested him. 

Now with room to spread out on the hillsides above Jerome, the collecting intensified. Vintage vehicles soon joined the antique tools and mining paraphernalia. Before he passed away in 2016, Robertson used to say that he collected the things that built this country. He wanted to preserve them to honor that work ethic and sense of accomplishment. 

That’s how an intriguing tourist attraction was born.  

Best Jerome day trip itinerary: Galleries, restaurants and ghosts

Things to do at Gold King Mine

Now run by the Robertsons' daughter, Jeannie Leffew and her husband Mike, Gold King Mine and Ghost Town continues attracting visitors from around the world. It retains some of the same appeal as Route 66, comforting and nostalgic, harkening back to simpler times. 

Pathways wind among the weathered buildings and mechanical treasures spread over the terraced hillside. Original structures remain from Haynes, including a boarding house built in 1909.

Others have been salvaged from different locations and stand as furnished exhibits with creaking floors and faded signs, offering a glimpse of history. There’s a one-room schoolhouse, a miner’s cabin, assay office, town laundry, shoe repair shop, gas station and “painless” dentist office, which housed early Jerome dentists and actually resembles a torture chamber bristling with frightening instruments. 

A turn-of-the-century sawmill still fills orders for new homes in the Verde Valley, cutting planks with the 1914 Witte engine powering the antique Belsaw. Watching the mill operator slicing through logs is noisy poetry in motion. The sound of the hammer rings out from the blacksmith shop where the smithy offers demonstrations, usually on Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday. 

Yet everything comes to a halt if “Big Bertha” fires up. The massive Chicago Pneumatic three-cylinder generator dates to about 1930 and was originally used at the mine in Bagdad, Arizona. It belches flames and booms like a thunderclap when turned on, and the sound echoes down the mountain. Big Bertha is operated only by request, and has a $25 fee for fuel.

There’s also a petting zoo that includes Bella the pig, goats Bonnie and Clyde, donkeys and rabbits. Bags of animal feed can be purchased in the gift shop. Chickens have their own coop but are usually busy roaming the grounds, scratching in the dirt beneath old Packards and flatbed Fords.   

Can you pan for gold in Jerome AZ?

Guests at Gold King Mine can pan for gold ($18) or gems ($12) under the guidance of knowledgeable staff.

What's ahead for Gold King Mine and Ghost Town

Don Robertson may be gone but his legacy continues to entertain and educate thousands of visitors each year. Gold King Mine provides a roadmap to a pre-internet world, one without software, just stylish hardware. 

This mountain of metal is crowned by an array of metal machines — highlighting the classic architecture of vehicles built to endure with their swooping curves, rounded fenders and eye-pleasing lines.

But don’t expect shine and polish. These are not gleaming car show dandies. This fleet ages naturally in the Arizona sun, wearing a warm patina as a badge of honor. Yet surprisingly, many still run. That’s another testament to Robertson’s lifelong skill.    

The Leffews continue to expand the collection Robertson started. They’re always on the lookout for donations of tools, vehicles and equipment that help tell the story of American labor. They also hope to add additional interactive experiences and possibly regular events to the property, updating while maintaining the original character. 

Visitation increases each year as gearheads, history buffs, photographers and families drive up the mountain to Jerome, and then continue a mile farther to the little outpost of Gold King Mine and Ghost Town. Here, beneath the shade of the paradise trees amid a cluster of rickety buildings — where chickens cross the road but the cars don’t — time slows down. Here they can spend a few peaceful moments connecting to a rustic piece of Americana. 

Gold King Mine is the kind of place that’s becoming harder to find in a fast-paced world. Nice to know it’s waiting just up the hill.

Gold King Mine Ghost Town location

Where: 1000 Jerome-Perkinsville Road, just outside of Jerome, AZ. Turn at the Jerome Fire Station and follow the signs for 1 mile. The road is paved all the way to the property. 

When: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays through Mondays. Closed Tuesdays.

Admission: $12, $7 for ages 6-12. Extra fees for some activities. Backpacks are not allowed. Photographers with camera bags should check with staff in the gift shop for permission.

Details: 928-634-0053,  www.goldkingmineghosttown.com .

Find the reporter at  www.rogernaylor.com .  Or follow him on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/RogerNaylorinAZ  or Twitter @AZRogerNaylor.

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Elektrostal'

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THE BEST Elektrostal Things to Do with Kids

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1. Park of Culture and Leisure