Whenever I start dreaming about my next trip, I always feel torn between revisiting iconic places and searching for destinations that still feel new and unspoiled. Don’t get me wrong I love Paris, Rome, and Santorini as much as anyone but sometimes the crowds, high prices, and tourist-focused experiences make me crave something different.
That’s why I’ve been paying close attention to destinations that are quietly gaining momentum. These are places where new direct flights suddenly make a remote region accessible, where boutique hotels open their doors before the crowds arrive, and where local traditions and landscapes remain authentic. Visiting these spots feels like stepping into a moment in time where you can still wander without lines, enjoy warm hospitality, and connect with a culture before it becomes “the next big thing.”
In this guide, I’m sharing the best underrated travel destinations to visit in 2025. From Europe’s secret coastlines to Africa’s wildlife rebirths, Asia’s quiet cultural capitals, and the Americas’ rugged corners, these are the destinations I’d love to experience before they reach the glossy pages of every magazine. Whether you’re a luxury seeker, an adventurer, or someone who just wants a more genuine travel experience, you’ll find inspiration here.
| Region | Top Picks | Why They Stand Out |
| Europe | Sardinia, Gargano, Abruzzo, Slovenia, Montenegro, Albania, Nafplio, Milos, Asturias | Coastal beauty, historic towns, authentic culture, fewer crowds |
| Africa | Madagascar, Mozambique, Uganda, Egypt, Northern Morocco, Bhutan | Wildlife encounters, cultural depth, new eco-lodges, fewer tourists |
| Asia-Pacific | Laos, Phnom Penh, Onomichi, Mongolia, Southern Highlands (AU), Craigieburn Valley (NZ), Antarctica, Greenland | Natural wonders, cultural traditions, boutique stays, new flight access |
| Americas | Baja California (MX), Pacific Coast (Colombia), Bolivia, Newfoundland & Labrador (Canada) | Whale watching, salt flats, Indigenous culture, rugged coastlines |
Europe’s Best Underrated Travel Destinations
Sardinia, Italy
When most travelers think of Italy’s coast, they picture Amalfi or Cinque Terre. But Sardinia is where Italians themselves escape, and I quickly understood why. The island feels like a different world rugged mountains in the interior, sweeping turquoise bays along the coast, and small villages where life still moves at a slower pace. Driving through the island, I stumbled upon tiny trattorias serving handmade culurgiones (stuffed pasta) and beaches where the only company was a handful of locals. Hiking the Gola di Gorropu canyon, one of Europe’s deepest, gave me a taste of the island’s wild side. Sardinia still offers plenty of rustic charm, but I also noticed luxury stays slowly popping up around Costa Smeralda, making it a place that can suit both adventurous and indulgent travelers.
Gargano, Italy
Tucked away in northern Puglia, the Gargano Peninsula felt like one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. The coastline here is rugged and dramatic, with limestone cliffs plunging into aquamarine waters. I loved exploring sea caves by boat, gliding past the faraglioni rock formations that rise from the water like natural sculptures. Inland, the Gargano National Park surprised me with forests of ancient beech trees and peaceful hill towns. Monte Sant’Angelo, with its whitewashed houses and UNESCO-listed sanctuary, was a highlight. Compared to southern Puglia’s famous trulli and beaches, Gargano remains blissfully quiet, which made every moment feel like I had discovered something new.
Abruzzo, Italy
If you’re looking for variety in one region, Abruzzo delivers in spades. The mountains of Gran Sasso are perfect for hiking in summer and skiing in winter, while medieval villages like Santo Stefano di Sessanio felt like stepping back in time. On the coast, the Costa dei Trabocchi is dotted with old wooden fishing huts perched on stilts, many of which now serve as rustic restaurants I loved sitting over the water eating fresh seafood straight from the net. Kayaking along the crystal-clear Tirino River was another highlight, especially when locals waved from the banks as if I were part of their community. Abruzzo doesn’t try to impress with flash; instead, it wins you over with authenticity and a balance of nature, history, and food.
Slovenia
Slovenia may be small, but every corner seemed to offer something different. In a single trip, I swam in Lake Bled, wandered the cobblestone streets of Ljubljana, and drove to Piran on the Adriatic coast for seafood by the sea. The Julian Alps gave me alpine trails that rivaled Austria, but with fewer people and lower costs. What stood out most was how well Slovenia blends nature with culture: biking through vineyards in Brda one day, sipping coffee along Ljubljana’s riverside the next. It’s a country where everything feels close yet endlessly rewarding, and it left me wanting to return as soon as I left.
Montenegro
Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor took my breath away with its fjord-like beauty. Surrounded by steep mountains, the bay sparkled at sunset, and walking the medieval walls of Kotor town gave me views I’ll never forget. Compared to nearby Croatia, the crowds were lighter and the atmosphere more relaxed. I spent afternoons exploring tiny fishing villages like Perast and evenings enjoying fresh seafood by the water. For adventure, I drove up the serpentine road to Lovćen National Park, where sweeping views of the Adriatic reminded me just how compact and diverse Montenegro is. It’s hard to believe this kind of drama is still under the radar.
Albania
Albania is easily one of the most underrated destinations in Europe. On the Ionian coast, beaches like Ksamil had sand so white and water so clear it rivaled the Greek islands. Further inland, hiking in the Accursed Mountains (yes, that’s the real name!) gave me some of the most dramatic scenery I’ve seen in the Balkans. What surprised me most was the food Mediterranean flavors mixed with Balkan heartiness, all at prices that felt almost too good to be true. Tirana’s colorful street art and lively café scene also gave the capital a young, energetic vibe. Albania is still a little rough around the edges, but that’s part of what makes it exciting.
Nafplio, Greece
Just two hours from Athens, Nafplio felt like stepping into a storybook. Its cobblestone streets lined with neoclassical mansions and Venetian balconies made wandering the old town a joy. I loved climbing up to Palamidi Fortress for panoramic views of the Aegean, then relaxing along the waterfront promenade with gelato in hand. Nafplio is also a great base for day trips to ancient sites like Mycenae and Epidaurus, which meant I could soak up history without long travel times. What I appreciated most was the slower pace after a day of exploring, the town settled into a calm rhythm of evening strolls and seaside dining.
Milos, Greece
Milos has become known as the quieter cousin of Santorini and Mykonos, and I found it to be exactly that. The island’s unique geology creates surreal landscapes: white cliffs at Sarakiniko that look almost lunar, colorful fishermen’s houses in Klima, and hidden coves perfect for swimming. Unlike the more famous Cycladic islands, Milos still feels intimate you can rent a scooter and explore at your own pace without feeling rushed. I especially loved a boat trip around the island, where I discovered caves and beaches only accessible by sea. It’s one of those islands that rewards slow travel.
Asturias, Spain
Asturias, tucked in Spain’s north, was a revelation. Between the jagged peaks of the Picos de Europa and the wild Bay of Biscay, I had both mountains and sea at my fingertips. The green valleys reminded me more of Ireland than Spain, yet the cider houses and rustic Asturian cuisine rooted me firmly in Iberia. I spent mornings hiking along cliffside trails and evenings in sidrerías, where locals showed me how to pour cider from above the head into a glass below. Thanks to improved rail and air connections, getting here is easier than ever, but it still feels far from Spain’s tourist trail.
Africa’s Best Underrated Travel Destinations
Madagascar
Madagascar felt like nowhere else I’ve been. Driving past the Avenue of the Baobabs at sunset, I couldn’t help but stop every few minutes to take it all in those towering silhouettes against a pink sky are unforgettable. The wildlife was another surprise: lemurs leaping from branch to branch, chameleons blending into leaves, and birds I’d never seen before. Because of new international flights, it’s easier to reach than ever, but it still feels wild and remote. I also loved the balance of relaxation and adventure you can spend a few days exploring rainforests, then unwind on beaches that feel as untouched as the Caribbean.
Mozambique
Gorongosa National Park has such an inspiring story of rebirth. Decimated during years of conflict, it’s now thriving again thanks to conservation efforts. When I visited, I felt like I was witnessing nature reclaim its space elephants roaming free, lions prowling at dusk, and rare species like pangolins making cautious appearances. Staying at a small eco-lodge meant that evenings were just as memorable, with campfires under skies heavy with stars. Beyond the park, Mozambique’s coastline is dotted with fishing villages and long stretches of sand, making it a place that’s as much about culture as it is about safari.
Uganda
Uganda is often overshadowed by Kenya or Tanzania, but it truly holds its own. Trekking through the misty Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to see mountain gorillas was one of the most humbling experiences of my life. But beyond gorillas, Uganda offered me safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park, boat rides along the Nile at Murchison Falls, and time in small villages where hospitality felt genuine. New lodges like Erebero Hills are making the country even more inviting, without losing its authenticity. It’s a destination for travelers who want a mix of adventure and connection.
Egypt
Standing at the foot of the Pyramids of Giza, I expected to be overwhelmed by crowds, but instead I found pockets of quiet. Tourism here ebbs and flows, and now is one of those rare windows when you can explore sites at a gentler pace. I spent mornings wandering temples along the Nile and evenings cruising the river as feluccas glided by. Egypt still offers moments of wonder that live up to its legendary history, but it also feels more approachable now than it has in years.
Northern Morocco
The north of Morocco surprised me with how different it felt from Marrakech or Fez. Around Tangier, I found beaches framed by rolling green hills, and towns with a distinctly Mediterranean flair. Asilah’s whitewashed walls covered in colorful murals felt like an open-air gallery, while Chefchaouen, the “blue city,” offered winding alleys where I could wander for hours. New luxury hotels along the coast are giving travelers more reasons to stay, but I loved that traditional tea houses and markets are still part of daily life.
Bhutan
Bhutan is unlike anywhere else I’ve visited. The country’s philosophy of “high-value, low-impact tourism” meant I felt welcomed as a guest, not part of a crowd. Hiking to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery was every bit as magical as I imagined, but so were the smaller moments chatting with monks, walking through terraced rice fields, and warming up by wood stoves in mountain lodges. Luxury stays like Amankora blend seamlessly into this landscape, but what struck me most was the pride the Bhutanese people take in preserving their culture and environment.
Asia-Pacific’s Best Underrated Travel Destinations
Laos
Laos felt like a step back in time. In Luang Prabang, I joined locals at dawn to watch saffron-robed monks collect alms, then spent afternoons biking past golden temples and quiet riverside cafés. But beyond the city, I discovered limestone caves, turquoise waterfalls like Kuang Si, and villages where daily life hasn’t changed much in generations. Travel here has a slow, gentle rhythm that made me pause and appreciate the little things like crossing the Mekong on a wooden boat or sipping strong Lao coffee while watching the world go by.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Phnom Penh was full of contrasts that kept me intrigued. French colonial villas stand alongside sleek new cafés, while bustling markets coexist with quiet riverside promenades. The city has a youthful, creative energy that felt contagious art galleries, rooftop bars, and boutique hotels are popping up everywhere. Visiting the Royal Palace gave me a glimpse of Cambodia’s history, while sampling street food (grilled skewers, fresh spring rolls, and steaming bowls of noodle soup) connected me instantly to its present.
Onomichi, Japan (Setouchi Region)
Onomichi is a small port town with a big personality. Built into hillsides above the Seto Inland Sea, it’s known for its temples, cats that roam freely, and views that stretch across the water. I loved walking the Temple Walk, a path that links together historic shrines while weaving through charming backstreets. From here, ferries connect to small islands, each with its own character cycling the Shimanami Kaido between them was an unforgettable way to see Japan off the beaten tourist track. Staying in a ryokan in nearby Setoda made it even more special, blending traditional hospitality with coastal calm.
Mongolia
Mongolia’s vast steppes redefined freedom for me. I rode horseback alongside local herders, slept in a traditional ger under skies so clear I could trace the Milky Way, and learned about eagle hunting traditions that go back centuries. Yet what surprised me most was Ulaanbaatar’s modern side: trendy cafés, art galleries, and fashion boutiques blending old and new. Traveling here felt like being suspended between ancient nomadic traditions and a rapidly evolving present.
Southern Highlands, Australia
Just a couple of hours from Sydney, the Southern Highlands felt like an escape into countryside charm. Rolling vineyards, cool-climate wineries, and rustic farm-to-table restaurants made it a foodie’s dream. I also discovered waterfalls tucked into national parks, and even truffle farms where you can join a hunt with trained dogs. Staying in boutique cottages surrounded by gardens and orchards gave me a taste of rural luxury. It’s the kind of place where you slow down and savor life’s simple pleasures.
Craigieburn Valley, New Zealand
Craigieburn Valley, near Christchurch, offered me a raw kind of adventure. In winter, its ski fields feel almost private, with unmarked slopes that appeal to those who love the wild side of skiing. In summer, I hiked alpine trails that opened up to sweeping views of valleys and peaks. Staying at Flockhill Station, with 36,000 acres of wilderness at its doorstep, made me feel like I had my own private playground. What I loved most was how untouched it felt, even though it’s not far from a major city.
Antarctica
Antarctica was surreal in every sense. Sailing past glaciers that crack and calve into the sea, I felt humbled by nature’s scale. Zodiac rides took me close to penguin colonies, while helicopter excursions landed me on ice fields that stretched endlessly. Nights were spent in space-like pods that made me feel like an explorer on another planet. Visiting Antarctica is never casual, but with more small-ship expeditions and flight options, it’s becoming more accessible than ever while still feeling like the edge of the world.
Greenland
Greenland opened my eyes to Arctic life. The direct flights from the U.S. made it surprisingly easy to reach, yet once I arrived, it felt far removed from everyday life. I hiked across vast ice sheets, kayaked among icebergs, and spent evenings sharing meals with Inuit hosts who told stories of survival and tradition. Towns like Ilulissat offered colorful houses perched against icy backdrops, while the silence of the wilderness reminded me how rare true quiet is.
The Americas’ Best Underrated Travel Destinations
Baja California Peninsula, Mexico
Baja gave me the best of both worlds: raw adventure and indulgent comfort. In La Paz, I joined whale-watching tours where gray whales surfaced so close I could almost touch them. The wine country of Valle de Guadalupe was another revelation, rustic vineyards serving world-class wines in desert landscapes. Further north, Loreto charmed me with cobblestone streets and new luxury stays that blend seamlessly into the environment. Baja is long and diverse, but no matter where I went, the sunsets were spectacular.
Pacific Coast of Colombia
The Pacific Coast of Colombia felt untamed and exhilarating. I timed my visit during humpback whale season and watched them breach just offshore, their massive bodies crashing into turquoise waters. Jungle-covered cliffs tumble straight into the sea here, creating some of the most dramatic coastal scenery I’ve seen. Villages like Nuquí welcomed me with warmth and homemade seafood dishes, while nearby hot springs and waterfalls added even more to the adventure.
Bolivia
Bolivia amazed me with its contrasts. At Salar de Uyuni, I stood on a salt flat so vast it felt endless, especially when rain turned it into a mirror reflecting the sky. Lake Titicaca offered spiritual calm, with islands like Isla del Sol where I could hike between Incan ruins. Then in the Amazon basin, I discovered vibrant wildlife and lodges hidden in the rainforest. Bolivia’s deep Indigenous culture added meaning to every experience, from textiles woven in mountain villages to ancient rituals still practiced today.
Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada
Newfoundland & Labrador captured me with its rugged charm. Colorful row houses in St. John’s brightened misty mornings, while cliffs along the coast were alive with puffins and seabirds. I took a boat trip through fjords carved by glaciers and felt the raw power of nature. But what stayed with me most was the warmth of the people sharing stories in cozy pubs, offering directions with genuine care, and making me feel like more than just a visitor. It’s a part of Canada that feels both remote and welcoming.
Conclusion
What excites me most about these underrated destinations is how different they feel compared to the usual travel circuit. Each one has its own rhythm: the way locals pour cider in Asturias, the silence of Greenland’s glaciers, the chants of monks in Bhutan, or the laughter of children playing by the shores of Lake Titicaca. These details reminded me that travel isn’t just about ticking off famous landmarks, it’s about stories, people, and moments that stay with you.
As these places slowly gain attention, they still offer something rare: authenticity. You won’t just see Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, you’ll hike its mountains without crowds. You won’t just admire Egypt’s pyramids, you’ll find moments of quiet awe in between. And you won’t just photograph Madagascar’s baobabs, you’ll share the road with locals who call this landscape home.
If you’re already planning your next adventure, I’d recommend pairing this list with some of my other guides: Best Things to Do in the Amalfi Coast, Best Things to Do in Kauai, or Things to Do in Florence. Together, they’ll help you balance the world-famous with the quietly extraordinary and hopefully inspire you to choose at least one destination that surprises you.
Because sometimes, the best trips are the ones you didn’t see coming.
