When it comes to global travel, destinations like Paris, Tokyo, and New York dominate the spotlight. But for those looking to skip the crowds, cut costs, and discover authentic experiences, lesser-known cities often deliver even more. From vibrant cultural scenes to hidden culinary gems, here are ten underrated cities around the world that deserve a spot on your travel list.
- Ljubljana, Slovenia
A charming capital filled with bridges, art nouveau architecture, and riverside cafes, Ljubljana feels like a fairytale town without the tourist crush. It’s walkable, affordable, and eco-forward—Slovenia even offers free electric taxis in the city center. - Oaxaca, Mexico
Known for its deep indigenous roots and vibrant food culture, Oaxaca is a culinary capital offering everything from mole tastings to mezcal tours. With colorful markets, colonial charm, and nearby ruins like Monte Albán, it’s ideal for culture-rich, budget-friendly travel. - Tbilisi, Georgia
A city where centuries-old churches meet modern art scenes, Tbilisi is warm, inviting, and rapidly growing in popularity. Enjoy wine tastings, thermal baths, and some of Europe’s most affordable prices. - Ghent, Belgium
While most travelers flock to Brussels or Bruges, Ghent offers a perfect balance of medieval beauty and modern energy. Its car-free city center, canal views, and excellent food scene make it ideal for slow travel lovers. - Luang Prabang, Laos
This UNESCO World Heritage city blends French colonial architecture with Buddhist traditions. Luang Prabang is peaceful and affordable, with highlights like the Kuang Si waterfalls and sunrise almsgiving ceremonies. - Medellín, Colombia
Once overshadowed by its history, Medellín has transformed into one of Latin America’s most dynamic cities. Known for its cable cars, flower festivals, and innovation, it’s perfect for travelers seeking urban flair and mountain views. - Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, Plovdiv features Roman ruins, colorful revivalist houses, and a buzzing arts district. It’s a budget traveler’s dream, with excellent Balkan cuisine and few tourists. - Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Often overshadowed by Taipei, Kaohsiung is a harbor city filled with art parks, street food, and sea views. The newly developed waterfront areas and night markets make it a hidden gem for modern explorers. - Bergen, Norway
Nestled between fjords and mountains, Bergen is stunning yet often skipped in favor of Oslo. It’s perfect for scenic hikes, fresh seafood, and easy access to iconic fjord cruises. - Rabat, Morocco
The capital of Morocco may not be as famous as Marrakech or Fes, but Rabat offers calm beaches, a clean medina, and impressive historic landmarks. It’s a great intro to Morocco with fewer tourist crowds.
Travel tips for visiting lesser-known cities
- Always check the local tourism board or city visitor site for transit tips, maps, and cultural norms.
- Use tools like Rome2Rio to plan efficient travel between underrated destinations.
- Combine cashback apps with hotel or transport bookings when available. Apps like Rakuten or Ibotta may offer deals on booking platforms like Expedia or Hotels.com.
Exploring beyond the usual tourist map doesn’t just offer fewer crowds and lower prices—it often leads to more meaningful connections and unexpected experiences.
