Secret Spots: 10 Lesser-Known Destinations You Need to Visit

In a world where most tourist sites attract hordes of people, it would be fantastic to know that these places are still here-they are offering beauty and culture without the stampede. If you’re in that mood, then do the needful by reading some of the top 10 underrated travel destinations that people have yet to discover.

1. Albarracín, Spain

Lovely, Albarracín is a storybook mediaeval town in the hills of eastern Spain. Its terracotta buildings, charming alleys, and spectacular views offer a perfect and serene retreat. The town is bracingly surrounded by ancient walls and a stunning river called Río Guadalaviar. This interesting town lets visitors walk through history and enjoy its quaint shops and a slower pace of Spanish living.

2. Gjirokastër, Albania

Known as the “City of Stone,” Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features unique stone houses dating centuries ago. Panoramic views of the Drino Valley and an exploration of Gjirokastër Castle house a fantastic museum. Albanian hospitality is combined with laid-back ambiance, making this the greatest treasure. And, of course, don’t miss out on the local dishes-Albanian food is full of Mediterranean flavours and is delicious and affordable.

3. Hokkaido, Japan

Japan is known for its megacities, such as Tokyo and Kyoto. On the other hand, Hokkaido is pretty underrated. The land, with its hot springs and opportunities for skiing, offers another perspective of Japan. Its famous flower fields in the summer and snow festivals in the winter will attract anyone to this destination. The wildlife of Shiretoko National Park, with its bears, deer, and foxes, will surely entice nature lovers, along with the freshest seafood available in the world.

4. Chefchaouen, Morocco 

A small fishing town with brightly painted houses in blue; some say it is the “Blue Pearl of Morocco.” Located in the Rif Mountains, this kind of natural beauty matches the charming and photogenic feel. Experience a different atmosphere among the big cities-calm retreat. Walk through Medina, try traditional Moroccan dishes, and breathe in the relaxed lifestyle of the town. It is a good travel destination for photographers and all those keen to learn about the culture of Morocco but do not want to visit more crowded places.

5. Vang Vieng, Laos

Vang Vieng is indeed heaven for the adventure-lover, for the sheer karst mountain beauty and lush landscape scenery surrounding the beautiful Nam Song River. Most activities include tubing down the river, rock climbing, and hidden cave explorations. It remains off the radar of travellers that would go for some other better-known places in Southeast Asia. The best option for travellers looking for accommodation, street food, and an energetic culture.

6. Wales, UK

Wales is the forgotten brother, though charmingly so. It may get less attention than either of its brethren on the left or the right, but one should not underrate its very own brand of magic in its castles, breathtaking coastlines, and rolling lush valleys. Snowdonia National Park is the hiker’s paradise with winding roads and high mountains. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park features beautiful beaches and coastal walks, and the quaint towns, Conwy and Tenby, expose Welsh history and charm. On top of everything, Wales is less crowded and often cheaper than the rest of the UK.

7. Valletta, Malta

Valletta is one of the smallest capitals in Europe, a mix of historical sites, narrow streets, and seaside views. This UNESCO World Heritage city is full of beautiful architecture, such as St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and offers Mediterranean charm. It is perfect for history lovers, culture vultures, and those who love sunny weather. Its manageable size allows you to walk around much of the city, and you can also hop on a boat to explore other parts of Malta.

8. Zabljak, Montenegro

For nature lovers and fans of outdoor activities, Zabljak is a treasure. This small town is situated within Durmitor National Park and surrounded by mountains, lakes, and forests to provide ideal possibilities for hiking, rafting, and even skiing in winter. The Black Lake (Crno Jezero) is especially beautiful, with crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings. Zabljak is still relatively undiscovered, so you’ll find fewer crowds and a quieter atmosphere.

9. Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi has a very old flavour and flavour of something new at the same time; it has a certain charm for the visitor, brightly lit streets and ancient churches, and eclectic architecture will make one want to explore this town. Stroll around the Old Town, take time out in one of the famous sulphur baths, or take the funicular up to the Narikala Fortress for panoramic views of the city. While the food scene is both delicious and affordable in Tbilisi, khachapuri (cheese bread) and khinkali (dumplings) are perhaps the most well-known dishes where Georgian hospitality is legendary.

10. Salento, Colombia

This is a nice town, surrounded by lush hills and coffee plantations in Colombia’s coffee region. Short distance from here is Cocora Valley, known for its wax palms which are the national tree of Colombia  – a delight for nature lovers. Salento itself has colourful colonial buildings, lively streets, and a very welcoming vibe. Coffee enthusiasts can visit local farms and learn about the coffee-making process in Colombia, and for nature lovers, they can hike through scenic trails and cloud forests.

Read More:

• Hidden Gems: 10 Underrated Destinations You Need to Visit
• Exploring Food and Culture: 8 Cities Every Foodie Should Visit