Looking for a unique and underrated destination to add to your travel bucket list? Check out these must-visit places from around the world. From Hoi An, Vietnam’s well-preserved old town to Matera, Italy’s UNESCO World Heritage Site built into the side of a hill. Chefchaouen, Morocco’s blue-painted buildings to Tbilisi, Georgia’s mix of ancient and modern architecture. Salta, Argentina’s stunning landscapes to Kotor, Montenegro’s walled city with panoramic views. Luang Prabang, Laos’ traditional temples to New Zealand’s geothermal wonderland in Rotorua. Gdańsk, Poland’s well-preserved Old Town to Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s blend of Soviet-era and Islamic architecture. These destinations offer a unique perspective on culture, history, and natural beauty, away from the typical tourist crowds.
10 Must-Visit Underrated Destinations Around the World
As the world becomes more accessible, it’s becoming harder to find hidden gems. But there are still places that haven’t been overrun by crowds of tourists. Here are ten underrated destinations around the world that are well worth a visit.
1. Hoi An, Vietnam
Located on Vietnam’s central coast, Hoi An is known for its well-preserved old town. The town was a major port for centuries and has a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architecture. It’s also known for its delicious street food, including banh mi and cao lau.
2. Matera, Italy
Matera, located in southern Italy, is a town built into the side of a hill. The town has been inhabited for thousands of years and was once one of the poorest areas in Italy. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been made famous by films like The Passion of the Christ and Wonder Woman.
3. Chefchaouen, Morocco
Chefchaouen, located in the Rif Mountains of Morocco, is known for its blue-painted buildings. The town was founded in the 15th century and has a rich history. Today, it’s popular with tourists looking for a more relaxed alternative to Marrakech.
4. Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is a city of contrasts. From ancient fortresses to ultramodern buildings, there is something for everyone. The city is known for its warm hospitality and delicious cuisine. Don’t miss out on the khinkali, a Georgian dumpling filled with meat or cheese.
5. Salta, Argentina
Salta, located in northwestern Argentina, is known for its stunning landscapes and rich culture. The town has a well-preserved colonial architecture that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nearby, you can visit the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a gorge with rock formations that date back millions of years.
6. Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor, located in the Bay of Kotor, is a walled city that dates back to the Middle Ages. The city is well-preserved and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the city walls, you can get a stunning view of the bay and the surrounding mountains.
7. Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang, located in northern Laos, is known for its temples and traditional architecture. The town was once the capital of the Kingdom of Laos and has a rich history. Today, it’s a popular destination for tourists looking to experience Lao culture.
8. Rotorua, New Zealand
Rotorua, located on New Zealand’s North Island, is known for its geothermal activity. The town has hot springs, bubbling mud pools, and geysers. It’s also known for its Maori culture and you can attend a traditional Maori cultural performance.
9. Gdańsk, Poland
Gdańsk, located on the Baltic coast of Poland, is known for its well-preserved Old Town. The town has a rich history and was once a major center of trade. Today, it’s a popular destination for tourists looking to experience Polish culture.
10. Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, is a city that has been shaped by its history. The city has been destroyed and rebuilt many times over the centuries. Today, it’s a mix of Soviet-era architecture and traditional Islamic buildings. Don’t miss Chorsu Bazaar, a vibrant market where you can buy everything from spices to fabrics.
Discover These Underrated Destinations
No matter what type of traveler you are, there is a destination on this list that will suit you. From the picturesque town of Hoi An to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua, these underrated destinations offer something for everyone. So why not step off the beaten path and discover something new?