16 Underrated Cities Around the World That Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List
Travelers often flock to popular destinations that dominate social media feeds and glossy travel magazines. However, some of the most remarkable experiences can be found in places that aren’t on everyone’s radar. According to a study by Booking.com, 40% of global travelers want to explore lesser-visited destinations to help reduce over-tourism while also seeking unique and authentic experiences.
These underrated cities offer hidden gems rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Here are 16 underrated cities worldwide that you might not have considered but definitely should.
Sapporo, Japan
Sapporo, known for its annual Snow Festival, is as enchanting as it is overlooked. Tokyo and Kyoto get most of the tourists, but Sapporo offers all the modern art, food, and nature in just the proper harmony. Its famed miso ramen and historic Sapporo Beer Factory shouldn’t be missed.
Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy nearby ski resorts like Teine and Kokusai, which rival Europe’s best slopes. According to TripAdvisor, Sapporo is also celebrated for its vibrant nightlife, with the Susukino district offering many bars and clubs.
Kotor, Montenegro
Nestled between dramatic limestone cliffs and the Adriatic Sea, Kotor is a historic city that feels like stepping into a medieval storybook. It has cobblestone streets, fortifications dating back to the sixth century, and cute, cobbled squares filled with cafes.
With fewer tourists than Dubrovnik, Kotor provides a serene Mediterranean experience with breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor. Euronews describes Kotor as a must-visit for travelers seeking historic charm and natural beauty.
Vancouver, Canada
Overshadowed by Toronto and Montreal, Vancouver is a treasure trove for outdoor and culinary explorers. Surrounded by mountains and the Pacific Ocean, this Canadian city is perfect for hiking, kayaking, and skiing—all within an hour’s drive. Vancouver blends urban culture with unmatched accessibility to nature.
Antwerp, Belgium
Antwerp is a very lively city, often bypassed by travelers who head directly to Brussels or Bruges. With its medieval streets, futuristic museums, and thriving fashion scene, it is the so-called diamond capital of the world.
Highlights include the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, which features works by Rubens, and the hip neighborhood of Zuid, brimming with galleries and design shops.
Bologna, Italy
Dubbed the “food capital of Italy,” Bologna is a dream destination for culinary enthusiasts. With its rich flavors of tagliatelle al ragù and mortadella, Bologna offers an authentic Italian experience, while Rome and Venice attract most tourists.
Beyond its gastronomic appeal, the city is home to Europe’s oldest university, medieval towers, and iconic porticoes.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe captivates visitors with its unique adobe architecture and rich blend of Native American and Spanish cultures. Known as a hub for art and design, it boasts an array of galleries, museums, and the annual Santa Fe Indian Market, which showcases Native American craftsmanship.
As a small city brimming with life, Santa Fe is easy to walk and explore at your own pace.
Inverness, Scotland
Situated at the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness combines natural beauty with legendary history. Whether exploring Loch Ness or visiting the iconic Urquhart Castle, the area offers plenty of activities for nature and legend enthusiasts.
Inverness also features lively pubs with traditional Scottish music, encapsulating the charm of local culture.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is a postcard-perfect European capital that blends quaint charm with eco-conscious design. Its old town is lined with baroque facades and bridges that crisscross the Ljubljanica River, while Tivoli Park offers vast green spaces.
Often described as a “fairy-tale city,” it is a wonderfully walkable destination with many cafes and galleries buzzing with local energy.
São Sebastião, Brazil
Just three hours from São Paulo, São Sebastião is a serene and beautiful tropical paradise. The city seamlessly blends colonial architecture with pristine, world-class beaches that stretch along its coastline. Visitors can enjoy water sports like surfing, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding, while nature lovers can explore lush rainforests nearby.
What makes São Sebastião so charming is its colorful local culture, with its many lively festivals and crafts celebrating its history. Be sure to try the fresh seafood (grilled fish, moqueca), plus the fantastic waterfalls inside the Atlantic Forest—great for a well-deserved refreshing dip.
Cornwall, UK
Cornwall, with its dramatic coastlines, golden beaches, and charming fishing villages, is arguably the most beautiful countryside in the UK. Wander along the South West Coast Path, which offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs and turquoise waters, or try surfing at the famous beaches in Newquay.
For a quieter retreat, head to the artistic haven of St. Ives, known for its galleries, cobbled streets, and picturesque harbor. A must-visit is the historic Minack Theatre – a theatre on a cliff facing the ocean, where you can enjoy live performances under the never-ending sky on the sea. What makes Cornwall so charming is its understated beauty, its unique local traditions, and the warm hospitality of the people who live there.
Istria, Croatia
Often skipped in favor of Split or Dubrovnik, Istria is a hidden gem and a wine lover’s dream. This heart-shaped peninsula is known for its rolling hills, truffle-rich forests, and charming coastal towns that offer a multi-sensory experience. Explore the ancient Roman ruins in Pula, including its grand amphitheater, or lose yourself in the colorful streets of Rovinj, where pastel buildings meet the sparkling Adriatic Sea.
Foodies will love sampling fresh seafood paired with world-class wines from local vineyards. Don’t forget to try Istria’s famous olive oil and black truffles, considered some of the best in the world. With its blend of history, gastronomy, and stunning landscapes, Istria is a destination that caters to every kind of traveler.
Portree, Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye’s largest village, Portree, offers a quiet haven to soak in the island’s natural wonders. Its picturesque harbor, surrounded by colorful houses, is the perfect spot to start your exploration. You can hike the iconic Old Man of Storr, a towering rock formation with panoramic views, or visit the enchanting Fairy Pools, known for their crystal-clear waters and cascading waterfalls.
Portree is an ideal base for exploring Scotland’s rugged landscapes, including the dramatic Quiraing landslip and the stunning coastline. After a day of adventure, relax in one of the village’s cozy pubs, where you’ll find hearty meals, live folk music, and the warm company of friendly locals.
Madison, Wisconsin
Perhaps no other city in the United States blends vibrant culture with Midwestern charm so seamlessly as Madison. The arts scene is impressive, with galleries, theaters, and art museums serving all types of tastes. Foodies will find Madison’s farm-to-table restaurants and bustling farmers’ markets filled with fresh ingredients quite inviting.
Madison’s lakeside views are stunning, offering opportunities for kayaking, paddle boarding, or simply enjoying a relaxing picnic by the water. It is one of the most beautiful cities in the U.S., but its youthful energy, driven by its thriving university community, keeps it buzzing year-round. Sustainability is also a key focus here, with bike-friendly streets and green initiatives making it a forward-thinking destination.
Taroudant, Morocco
Known as “Little Marrakech,” Taroudant offers the allure of traditional Moroccan life without the overwhelming crowds. The city’s bustling souks and beautiful ramparts provide an authentic Moroccan experience.
Just outside Taroudant lie the Atlas Mountains, where visitors can hike and explore Berber villages, as Naturally Morrocco notes.
Filandia, Colombia
Often overshadowed by neighboring Salento, Filandia offers a slice of untouched Colombian charm. Characterized by colorful balconies and cobblestone streets, it immerses visitors in the region’s coffee culture.
Nearby attractions include Cocora Valley’s wax palms and the Colina Iluminada lookout tower, which offers stunning 360-degree vistas. Recognized by the UN’s World Tourism Organization as one of the world’s Best Tourism Villages, Filandia is truly a hidden gem.
Côn Đảo, Vietnam
An archipelago of untouched natural beauty, Côn Đảo is a haven for beach lovers and history buffs. Its white-sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs make it ideal for snorkeling and relaxation while visiting former colonial prisons, which offers a somber glimpse into its history.
Vietnam News highlights Côn Đảo’s commitment to conservation, making it perfect for eco-tourists.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.