13 Best Destinations for Travelers Who Hate Tourists
Traveling to tourist-heavy destinations can be a nightmare for those who prefer peace and quiet over a bustling crowd of other travelers. Long lines, packed streets, and a lot of noise are what you get at popular tourist hotspots. The good news is that a few spots worldwide provide serene surroundings to wander without the typical tourist congestion.
The secluded beaches and charming small towns from this list are each the perfect places to wind down, and each has a distinct flavor of tranquility that can be savored at your own pace.
Faroe Islands, Denmark
Far beneath the surface of the North Atlantic, the Faroe Islands are a paradise of solitude. Their dramatic cliffs, rolling green hills, and hardly anyone around make it a place where nature really takes the starring role. The islands promise breathtaking hikes, quaint villages, and views like a painting.
Luang Prabang, Laos
Laos’s sleepy town is a great place for travelers looking for a slower pace. Mountains and the Mekong River surround Luang Prabang, which maintains a charm of golden temples combined with French colonial architecture. On its own, it’s a place to ramble quietly down streets, sip coffee at a riverfront café, and see the world go by without the din of a regular tourist center.
Svalbard, Norway
Svalbard delivers if you are after an Arctic adventure. This remote archipelago is filled with polar bears, glaciers, and endless winter landscapes. With more reindeer than people, it’s a great place to enjoy untouched wilderness, dog sledding, and snowmobiling in peace.
Kotor, Montenegro
A coastal town on the Adriatic, Kotor offers a unique combination of history and breathtaking natural beauty. Its scenic bay and bewildering collection of medieval architecture make it a fitting escape from the rest of Europe’s crowded destinations. Go off the tourist path, walk the narrow streets, visit ancient fortresses, and enjoy the views.
Bhutan
Bhutan is a haven of peace known for its breathtaking mountain views and strong cultural heritage. Since there’s a strict tourist policy here, you won’t be swarmed by frenzied tourists. You can explore its monasteries, hiking trails, or splendid landscapes in serenity.
Isle of Skye, Scotland
Hilly and remote, the Isle of Skye is a world away from blowzy tourist centers. It’s famed for its dramatic scenery and charming villages, great for hiking and exploring medieval castles, and the natural charm of the world around it.
Lofoten Islands, Norway
These islands are a dream for anyone wanting to escape the tourist trail. The Lofoten Islands are remote but serene, featuring fjords, fishing villages, and dramatic peaks. They are perfect for kayaking, hiking, or relaxing.
Albarracín, Spain
Spending just a brief sojourn in Albarracín, a picturesque medieval town in Spain, many tourists often overlook its serene beauty. Nestled in the mountains, this quiet retreat boasts winding cobblestone streets, ancient fortified walls, and charming pink-hued buildings that seem frozen in time.
Yakushima, Japan
Yakushima has lush forests, ancient cedar trees, and a sense of tranquility that you won’t find anywhere else. There is no tourist scene to distract you, and it is perfect for hiking and soaking in the natural beauty.
Patagonia, Chile
Few places can compete with Patagonia: it has some of the world’s most dramatic and untouched natural beauty. If you’re looking for an adventure among some of the most beautiful natural wonders on the planet, the glaciers of Chile and the mountains of Argentina are the places to go.
Matera, Italy
Matera is known for its ancient cave dwellings, history, and serenity. Quiet streets, incredible views, and a heritage rich with history make the town a wonderful place to go for those who want a more laid-back experience.
The Azores, Portugal
This archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean is a paradise for nature lovers. The Azores are full of stunning volcanic landscapes, serene lakes, and charming little villages without the busy tourist spots of mainland Europe. If you want to reconnect with nature, it’s a perfect getaway.
Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
Tórshavn is the capital of the Faroe Islands and one of the smallest and quietest capitals in the world. It is a quiet harbor with colorful houses and cozy cafés, the perfect place to relax and enjoy life’s simple pleasures away from the crowds.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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