There are so many places in the world for you to explore when traveling, and it gets even better when you find one not overcrowded with tourists. You’ll want to experience some of these hidden gems on our list before word about them eventually spreads out to many others.
Setenil de las Bodegas, Spain
Tourists flock to Spain every year, yet they tend to miss Setenil de las Bodegas, a town in Andalusia famous for its houses built into and under large rock overhangs. The narrow streets and unique architecture provide a fascinating exploration experience. Tapas bars and cafes nestled in these rock formations offer delightful culinary experiences, so make sure you visit before it gets trendy.
Jiufen, Taiwan
Once a gold mining town, Taiwan’s Jiufen doesn’t see many visitors despite its narrow alleyways, teahouses, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. However, that’s all about to change, so you need to get there as soon as possible. The town’s lantern-lit streets and historic buildings create a truly enchanting atmosphere, and plenty of delicious food stalls and local shops offer a taste of Taiwanese culture and cuisine.
Colmar, France
Everyone seems to visit Paris when they fly to France, which is crazy considering how rude it is known to be. Instead, consider the friendlier experience of Colmar, located in the Alsace region, which enchants very few tourists with its cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and flower-adorned canals. It’s often referred to as a fairytale village, and when you visit, you’ll see why.
Hallstatt, Austria
There’s nothing secret about Austria as a travel destination, but nestled beside a serene lake and framed by the Dachstein Alps is Hallstatt, which Scenic Route Traveler even calls the most charming town in Europe. The village’s cute houses, narrow streets, and the captivating Hallstatt Salt Mine are truly sights to behold, but people are starting to find out about it, so make your visit before it gets crowded.
Gimmelwald, Switzerland
Not so far from Austria, Gimmelwald remains a well-preserved secret of Switzerland. This car-free village offers stunning views, peaceful walks, and an authentic Swiss experience that you simply cannot find anywhere else. The tranquil atmosphere, alpine meadows, and rustic chalets make it a perfect retreat for nature lovers seeking solace–at least while it remains a secret.
Tjørnuvík, Faroe Islands
You’ve likely never considered visiting the Faroe Islands, but if you’re ever visiting the Island, you’ve got to swing by. In particular, Tjørnuvík, a small village on the island of Streymoy, boasts dramatic coastal views and lush green landscapes that will take your breath away. It’s also known for its black sand beach and Viking burial sites, which will be hard to find elsewhere.
Kotor, Montenegro
Despite its incredible beauty, Montenegro is still relatively untouched when it comes to European tourism, especially Kotor, a fortified town on the Adriatic coast. It has some of the most breathtaking bays and mountains in Europe, and its well-preserved medieval architecture and narrow, winding streets provide the perfect subject for this backdrop. Watch out, though, because nightlife is building in Kotor, and we all know what that means.
Alberobello, Italy
Instead of getting ripped off in Rome or Milan, check out Alberobello next time you’re in Italy, which is a small town in Puglia. It’s renowned for its trulli houses – unique, whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs. These UNESCO World Heritage sites create a distinctive landscape that you can wander through, sampling local wines and soaking up the charming ambiance.
Chefchaouen, Morocco
Known as the Blue City, Chefchaouen is a Moroccan town that has still been left as a hidden gem despite its highly unique blue-washed buildings and vibrant streets. Nestled in the Rif Mountains, it offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech. Furthermore, the medina, local markets, and traditional Moroccan cuisine make this location even more special, so don’t miss out.
Reine, Norway
Another hidden travel gem that you simply have to visit before it becomes overrun with tourists is Norway’s Reine, a picturesque fishing village in the Lofoten Islands, surrounded by dramatic fjords and towering mountains. Its red and white fishermen’s cabins dot the landscape, offering cozy accommodations, not to mention the stunning surrounding natural beauty, hiking opportunities, and the potential to see the Northern Lights.
Banff, Canada
Located all the way out in the heart of the Canadian Rockies is Banff, which offers truly next-level mountain scenery, hot springs, and abundant wildlife. The town’s historic buildings, cozy lodges, and vibrant arts scene add to its charm, and outdoor enthusiasts, in particular, will love the hiking, skiing, and canoeing on offer. Watch out for bears, though.
Uplistsikhe, Georgia
Despite being one of the most beautiful countries in Europe (although some claim it’s in Asia), Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn town in the east, is still widely unvisited. This is astounding considering its fascinating history dating back to the early Iron Age, its cave structures, tunnels, and ancient temples. This town truly is a time capsule, so stop by there soon before it ends up on everyone’s bucket lists.
Plovdiv, Bulgaria
In the south of Bulgaria, you will find one of Europe’s oldest cities, Plovdiv, which is a cultural hub with a rich history. Its well-preserved Roman theater, cobblestone streets, and colorful old town are truly unique spots to explore. The city also boasts a vibrant local arts scene, numerous museums, and lively festivals, so there’s plenty to do before all the other tourists find out about Plovdiv.
Lin, Albania
The only European settlement that is older than Plovdiv is Albania’s Lin, a delightful village retreat by Lake Ohrid. The views are stunning, and the locals are always welcoming, not to mention all the frogs that gather in the lake. Best of all, Lin is right next to the border of Macedonia, so visit while it’s still unknown, and you could make the hilly hike between the two countries.
Mestia, Georgia
The second Georgian town on this list is Mestia, a remote town in the Svaneti region that offers breathtaking mountain views, medieval watchtowers, and a rich cultural heritage. Many people argue that it’s even more beautiful than Tbilisi, so while the tourists are still gathering in the capital, you can make the most of the tranquil nature of Mestia.
Sighișoara, Romania
Despite being impossible for tourists to pronounce, Sighișoara is an absolute must-visit in Romania, a well-preserved medieval town in Transylvania, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and historic clock tower create a charming atmosphere, leaving this hidden gem much more desirable than the busy capital city of Bucharest.
Piran, Slovenia
Another country on this list that is still a hidden gem in itself is Slovenia, a beautiful country that combines both the mountains of the Alps with those of the Balkans. In particular, Piran is well worth a visit to. It‘s a coastal town on the Adriatic Sea that offers stunning views, historic architecture, and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. It’s still unheard of, so enjoy the peace while it lasts.
Kazimierz Dolny, Poland
Easily one of the best-hidden travel gems in Poland is Kazimierz Dolny, a small town on the Vistula River that enchants very few visitors with its Renaissance architecture and artistic atmosphere. The town’s historic market square, castle ruins, and riverside promenade provide a delightful experience for Poles and foreign tourists alike, so get over there before everyone else finds out.
Symi, Greece
While there’s no denying that Greece is mostly overrun with tourists already, the same cannot be said for Symi, a small island in the Dodecanese that is slowly becoming known for its colorful neoclassical houses and crystal-clear waters. The island’s charming harbor, quaint villages, and historic monasteries offer a tranquil escape from busier islands, but this probably won’t last much longer, so make your visit as soon as possible.