Let’s be real. You’ve looked at the pictures. The same sea of selfie sticks in front of the Eiffel Tower, the crowds at the Colosseum pushing and shoving each other, and the line that went on for hours in the hot sun for that one perfect picture. Those famous places have a kind of magic that I’ve felt and loved. But there is another kind of magic, a quieter, stronger spell that speaks to the heart of a real traveler. It’s the magic of finding out.
This is a guide for people who want to hear that whisper. It’s for the people who like to travel and think that the best stories aren’t in guidebooks but in the back streets, family-run tavernas, and places that haven’t been tagged a million times on Instagram yet. We’re talking about “hidden travel gems,” which are the kinds of places that make you feel like you’ve found a secret. These are the “off-the-beaten-path” places that give you something that is getting harder to find in our hyper-connected world: a feeling of real, unvarnished authenticity.
For years, I’ve made it my goal to stay off the main road, follow the dusty paths, and listen to the stories told by the locals. This list is the end result of that search. It’s a carefully chosen list of hidden gems and one-of-a-kind travel spots that are still flying under the radar. These are the hidden travel spots you should go to right away, before everyone else finds out about them. So, if you’re ready to give up the crowds for culture and the familiar for the amazing, let’s get started. This is where your next big adventure begins.
1. The Albanian Riviera, Albania: The Mediterranean’s Last Secret
Why It’s a Hidden Gem
Greece and Croatia have been popular summer spots for a long time, but the Albanian Riviera is still one of Europe’s most beautiful and affordable coastal secrets. Imagine the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea, but with a fraction of the tourists and prices. Along this coastline, from the rough Llogara Pass to the old city of Butrint, you’ll find beautiful beaches, charming stone villages, and a strong sense of adventure. This place isn’t very well known, but it won’t stay that way for long.
Best Things to Do
- Hike between charming villages: The trail from Dhërmi to Vuno offers breathtaking coastal views and a glimpse into traditional life.
- Relax on Ksamil Beach: It’s like a piece of the Maldives in Europe. You can swim or boat to four small islands there.
- Explore Butrint National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site has ruins from the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians all in one amazing place.
- Discover Himarë’s hidden coves: Rent a kayak or a small boat to find secluded beaches like Gjiri i Filikurit that are only accessible from the sea.
A travel tip from an insider
Get a car. Public transportation isn’t always available, but having your own car lets you stop at many beautiful viewpoints and find small, unnamed beaches along the beautiful coastal road SH8.
2. The Surfer’s Paradise in Siargao, Philippines, has become an island haven.
What Makes It a Hidden Gem
Boracay and Palawan get most of the attention from people around the world, but Siargao has quietly become the Philippines’ best-kept secret. The island is known for its world-class surfing break, “Cloud 9,” but it has so much more to offer. Think emerald mangrove forests, surreal rock pools, and an incredibly laid-back, community-focused vibe. It’s one of those special places to travel to where you want to stay for a year after a week.
Best Things to Do
- Island hopping: Go to Naked Island (a pure sandbar), Daku Island (for fresh seafood lunches), and Guyam Island (a tiny, beautiful islet).
- Swim in the Magpupungko Rock Pools: These tidal pools are crystal clear and appear during low tide, making them a beautiful place to swim.
- Explore the Sugba Lagoon: Paddleboard or kayak through a huge, calm lagoon with green mountains all around it.
- Learn to surf: Even if you’re not a pro, the gentle waves at spots like Jacking Horse are perfect for beginners.
A tip for travelers from the inside
Get a scooter (also called a “scooty”) and ride around the island’s interior. On “Coconut Road,” you can drive through a never-ending sea of palm trees and find waterfalls, small villages, and a part of the island that most tourists don’t see.
3. The Faroe Islands: Europe’s Epic, Otherworldly Archipelago
What Makes It a Hidden Gem
The Faroe Islands are a self-governing group of 18 volcanic islands in the North Atlantic between Iceland and Norway. They have steep cliffs, grass-roofed houses, and a lot of puffins and sheep. It’s a dream come true for landscape photographers and hikers. Because of its wild, unspoiled beauty and dramatic, moody weather, it is one of the most unique places to travel on Earth. People often forget about it because of its more famous Nordic neighbors.
Best Things to Do
- Hike to Sørvágsvatn, the “floating lake”: An optical illusion makes this lake look like it’s floating high above the ocean.
- Go to Gásadalur: This village used to be one of the most remote in Europe, but now you can get there through a tunnel. The famous Múlafossur waterfall flows into the sea there.
- Take a ferry to Mykines: This island is a birdwatcher’s dream come true. In the summer, you can walk among thousands of puffins.
- Drive the beautiful Buttercup Routes: These designated scenic roads take you through beautiful fjords, mountains, and small villages.
A tip from a travel expert
The weather is the main character here, and it changes in a flash. Even on a sunny day, always bring waterproof layers. The mist and fog make the islands feel more magical and otherworldly. For more tips, see our “Guide to Packing for Unpredictable Weather.”
The World’s Biggest Mirror is in Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia.
What Makes It a Hidden Gem
Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia isn’t completely unknown, but its extreme remoteness and otherworldly beauty keep it on the list of places that most travelers haven’t been to yet. This is the biggest salt flat in the world. When it rains from December to April, a thin layer of water turns it into a perfect, otherworldly mirror that shows the sky. The trip across this barren, high-altitude land is an adventure in and of itself.
Best Things to Do
- Take photos that change your point of view: The wide, flat landscape is a great place to take creative photos.
- Visit during the rainy season for the mirror effect: This is the iconic, unmissable experience.
- Explore Isla Incahuasi: A strange “island” of huge, ancient cacti that rise up from the middle of the salt flat.
- Stay in a salt hotel: Spend the night in a hotel made mostly of salt blocks that were taken from the Salar.
Travel Tip from an Insider
Get a multi-day tour that includes the Altiplano area around it. One of the best overland trips in the world is the one from Uyuni to the Atacama Desert in Chile (or the other way around). It takes you past colorful lagoons full of flamingos, geysers, and rock formations that look like they came from a Dali painting.
The Fairy-Tale Capital of Slovenia is Ljubljana.
What Makes It a Hidden Gem
Ljubljana is often overlooked in favor of Prague and Budapest, but it is arguably the most charming and livable capital city in Europe. With a fairytale castle on a hill, a busy, car-free city center, emerald-green rivers crossed by bridges with dragons on them, and a thriving café culture, it’s a city that will grab your attention right away. Slovenia is a place that most people don’t go to, and its capital is the best place to start seeing its magic.
Best Things to Do
- Walk the Triple Bridge and Dragon Bridge: These bridges were built by the famous architect Jože Plečnik and are the city’s architectural heart.
- Ride the funicular to Ljubljana Castle: Get a great view of the city and learn about the castle’s history.
- Take it easy by the Ljubljanica River: There are cafés and restaurants along the riverbanks, so you can have coffee or dinner in the afternoon or evening.
- Explore Metelkova Mesto: This is a lively, graffiti-covered cultural center and art space that used to be a military barracks.
A tip from someone who knows
You can use Ljubljana as a base to see the rest of this small, varied country. The famous Lake Bled is less than an hour away, as are the beautiful Škocjan Caves, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can easily take day trips to see mountains, lakes, and caves.
6. The “Galapagos of the North” is the Haida Gwaii Archipelago in Canada.
What Makes It a Hidden Gem
Haida Gwaii is a remote group of islands off the coast of British Columbia that is full of ancient Haida culture and stunning natural beauty. It’s a place of great spiritual importance, with tall totem poles standing silently in deserted villages and temperate rainforests full of unique animals. It takes work to get here, so it’s a real secret travel spot for people who want to connect with nature and history in a deep way.
Best Things to Do
- Visit SGang Gwaay (Ninstints): This UNESCO World Heritage site has the most standing Haida totem poles in their original locations. You can usually get there by boat or seaplane.
- Explore Naikoon Provincial Park: Hike along beaches that are always windy, climb the Tow Hill viewpoint, and see the Pesuta shipwreck.
- Learn from Haida Watchmen: In the summer, Haida guides are at important cultural sites to share what they know and keep the land safe.
- Go whale watching or kayaking. The Hecate Strait is home to a lot of marine life, such as humpback whales, orcas, and sea lions.
Travel Tip from an Insider
The Haida people’s culture is what makes the islands special. Before you explore the rest of the archipelago, go to the Haida Heritage Centre at Kay Llnagaay to learn more about and appreciate the culture. Always be humble and respectful when you travel.
7. The Chocolate Islands of Africa are São Tomé and Príncipe.
What Makes It a Hidden Gem
This two-island country is a real hidden paradise. It is in the Gulf of Guinea off the coast of Central Africa. The volcanic peaks, lush jungle, and deserted beaches make it a great place for eco-tourism and relaxation. The coffee and cocoa are also very good. The national motto is “leve leve,” which means “slowly, slowly.” It’s the best way to get away from the fast-paced world.
Best Experiences
- Explore old colonial plantations (roças): At places like Roça de São João dos Angolares, you can see how coffee and cocoa are grown and taste some of the best chocolate in the world.
- Hike in Ôbo Natural Park: This is a great place to hike through thick jungle to find hidden waterfalls and rare birds.
- Snorkel or dive in the clear waters: The waters around Príncipe are especially clean.
- Cross the Equator: Go to Ilhéu das Rolas, a small island off the southern tip of São Tomé, where a monument marks the Equator.
A Travel Tip from an Insider
The real treasure is Príncipe. This smaller island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and it lets you experience nature in a more real and untouched way. It only takes a short flight within the country, but it’s well worth the extra work.
The Cook Islands: The Heart of Polynesia That Hasn’t Been Touched
Why It’s a Secret Treasure
The Cook Islands are the perfect South Pacific dream: turquoise lagoons, volcanic peaks, and a warm, welcoming Polynesian culture. They don’t have the huge resorts and crowds that places like Fiji or Tahiti do. The main island, Rarotonga, is small enough to ride a scooter around in 45 minutes, but big enough to feel like an adventure. Many people think that the lagoon on the outer island of Aitutaki is the most beautiful in the world.
Best Things to Do
- Take the Vaka Cruise on Aitutaki Lagoon: You have to do this to snorkel, see tiny motus (islets), and get your passport stamped on One Foot Island.
- Visit a “Punanga Nui” Market: The market in Rarotonga on Saturday mornings is the island’s lively center, with food, crafts, and live music.
- Cross-Island Trek (The Needle): Hike through the mountains in the middle of Rarotonga for amazing views.
- Go to a “Island Night” to see traditional dance, drumming, and a huge feast (umukai).
A travel tip from someone who knows
Rarotonga doesn’t have any traffic lights, and the speed limit is a slow 50 km/h (about 30 mph). Rent a scooter, get used to “island time,” and wave to everyone you pass. It’s the local way.
9. The Republic of Georgia: Where Europe and Asia Meet
Why It’s a Secret Treasure
Georgia is a country with a long history, great hospitality, world-class wine, and stunning mountain views. It is located in the Caucasus Mountains. It’s where wine came from (there’s been a tradition of growing grapes there for 8,000 years), and Tbilisi, the capital, is an interesting mix of old and new. The remote mountain areas of Svaneti and Kazbegi are simply stunning for hikers. They are one of the best “off-the-beaten-path” places to visit in the world.
Best Things to Do
- Explore Old Tbilisi: Walk around the cobblestone streets, check out the one-of-a-kind sulfur baths, and ride the cable car up to Narikala Fortress.
- Hike to Gergeti Trinity Church: This famous church from the 14th century is located in a dramatic spot at the foot of Mount Kazbek.
- Visit Kakheti for wine tasting: Go to traditional wineries and taste wine that has been fermented in large clay pots called qvevri, which is a UNESCO-listed method.
- Explore the tower houses of Svaneti: This high-altitude, remote area is known for its medieval defensive towers.
A tip for travelers
Have a supra, which is a traditional feast. There is a lot of talk about Georgian hospitality, and a supra is the best example of it, with a toastmaster (tamada) leading the way. If someone asks you to go, do. It will be one of the best parts of your trip. Check out our article on “How to Connect with Locals on Your Travels” for more information on immersive travel.
10. The Azores, Portugal: Europe’s Volcanic Paradise in the Atlantic
Why It’s a Secret Treasure
This self-governing part of Portugal is made up of nine volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. People often refer to it as the “Hawaii of Europe.” Each island has its own unique personality, but they all have lush green pastures, crater lakes, bubbling geothermal hot springs, and dramatic coastlines. It’s a great place for hikers, whale watchers, and anyone who wants to see nature in its most natural state.
Best Things to Do
- Hike to Sete Cidades on São Miguel: Look into the well-known twin blue and green crater lakes.
- Watch whales and dolphins: The Azores are one of the best places in the world to see these animals.
- Bathe in natural hot springs: You can do this in Furnas, where the water is rich in iron, or at Ponta da Ferraria, where the pools are by the ocean.
- Climb Mount Pico: Go up Portugal’s highest mountain on the island of Pico to see an amazing sunrise.
A travel tip from an insider
Don’t try to visit all nine islands in one trip. Concentrate on one or two groups of islands. São Miguel is the biggest and a good place to start, but Flores or Corvo would be better for a rougher, more remote experience.
We are still looking for hidden travel spots. There are ten more gems waiting to be found.
A spiritual coastal retreat in Ise-Shima, Japan
The Ise-Shima Peninsula in Mie Prefecture is Japan’s spiritual heartland, away from the touristy areas of Tokyo and Kyoto. The Ise Grand Shrine, the most holy place in Shinto, is located there. The area also has a beautiful coastline with steep cliffs, calm bays, and a long history of female free divers called ama.
12. The Northwest: Salta and Jujuy, Argentina
Most people go to Patagonia, but Argentina’s northwest has a completely different, equally beautiful landscape. This desert area at a high altitude has colorful mountains (like the Hill of Seven Colors in Purmamarca), huge cacti, and cute colonial towns. The culture here is very different from the rest of the country because it has a lot of Andean and Indigenous elements.
13. A Mythological Road Trip Through Greece’s Peloponnese
Leave the busy islands behind and go to the Peloponnese peninsula, which was the center of mythological Greece. Olympia (the birthplace of the Olympic Games), Mycenae (the city of Agamemnon), and Epidaurus (with its acoustically perfect ancient theater) are all here, but there aren’t as many people as in Athens. There are dramatic mountains, epic history, and empty beaches in this country.
14. Lake Atitlán in Guatemala is a lake with volcanoes all around it that will move your soul.
Lake Atitlán is often called the most beautiful lake in the world. It is a deep blue body of water surrounded by three tall volcanoes and a dozen small Mayan villages, each with its own unique culture. There is a strong spiritual energy in this place that draws travelers in. From the backpacker hub of San Pedro to the yoga and meditation retreat of San Marcos,
15. The Wadden Sea is Europe’s biggest tidal flat system that doesn’t have any breaks.
The Wadden Sea is a huge coastal wetland that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a birdwatcher’s and nature lover’s paradise. You can go “mudflat hiking” when the tide is low. This means walking for miles on the sea floor to find remote sandbanks where seals live. It is a truly unique travel destination that gives you a deep sense of peace and space.
16. The Camargue in France: A Wild West Paradise
There is a wild and beautiful area in southern France that is unlike any other in the country. It is between the Mediterranean Sea and the Rhône River delta. The Camargue is a place with salt marshes and lagoons. It is known for its semi-wild white horses, black bulls, and flocks of pink flamingos. It looks more like the wild west than Provence because it is rough and wild.
17. The Socotra Archipelago in Yemen is the strangest place on Earth.
This is the best “off-the-beaten-path” place to go. Because Socotra is so far away from other places in the Indian Ocean, its plants are strange and one-of-a-kind. Almost a third of its plant life can’t be found anywhere else on Earth. The famous Dragon’s Blood Trees and bottle-shaped Desert Rose make it look like a movie set from the future. Traveling here is hard and needs a lot of planning, but it’s an adventure like no other.
18. The Alentejo, Portugal: A Place with Lots of Sun, Wine, and Time to Relax
Tourists love the Algarve, but the Alentejo region to the north is still one of the most authentic and untouched rural areas in Europe. It’s a huge, sunny area with rolling plains, cork forests, olive groves, and whitewashed towns on hills. It’s the best place to travel slowly, eat simple food, drink great local wine, and live a peaceful life.
19. Kyrgyzstan is like Switzerland in Central Asia.
Kyrgyzstan is a great place to go for epic mountain trekking without the crowds of Nepal or the Alps. More than 90% of the country is mountainous, which means there are endless chances to hike, ride horses, and stay with nomadic families in traditional yurts. For people looking for raw, high-altitude adventure, this country is very friendly and cheap.
20. The Indian Ocean’s Comoros Islands smell great.
The Comoros are a group of islands between Mozambique and Madagascar. They are often called the “perfumed islands” because they grow ylang-ylang, vanilla, and cloves. This volcanic island nation has a lot of culture, with influences from Africa, the Arab world, and France. It is also one of the least-visited countries in the world, which makes it a true “secret travel spot.”
The Explorer’s Mindset: How to Use What You Learn from Hidden Gems in Your Daily Life
It’s not just about the destination that makes finding “hidden travel gems” so exciting; it’s also about the way you think. It’s about being brave, being curious, and seeing beauty in the unexpected. You don’t need to buy a plane ticket to bring this spirit into your daily life.
Plan Your Own “Off-the-Beaten-Path” Day
Set aside one day a month to explore your own city or area like a tourist. You can’t go anywhere you’ve been before; that’s the only rule. Go to a restaurant in a neighborhood you don’t usually go to, a park on the other side of town, or a small, strange museum in your area. You’ll be amazed at the “undiscovered places” right in your own backyard.
Try “Leve Leve” (From São Tomé)
The idea of “slowly, slowly” is a great way to fight burnout in today’s world. Do one thing at a time. Don’t scroll through your phone while you drink your morning coffee. Just drink the coffee. When you talk to a friend, pay attention to what they say. Taking your time lets you enjoy things that you would normally miss.
Find Your “Third Place” (Inspired by Cafés in Ljubljana)
Sociologists talk about the “third place,” which is a place outside of work and home where people come together. For a lot of people, it’s a library, a coffee shop, a park, or a community center. Find a cozy, inviting place to read, think, or just watch the world go by. It’s a small way to stay in touch with your community and break up your daily routine.
Welcome the Unplanned Detour (Inspired by Road Trips)
A wrong turn or an unexpected stop is often the start of the best travel stories. Use this in your life. Don’t be afraid of detours. If someone invites you at the last minute, say “yes.” Sign up for a class on something you don’t know anything about. Go down a different aisle in the grocery store. The best way to get new experiences and points of view into your life is to break your patterns on purpose.
Your next real adventure starts now
There are many beautiful places in the world that aren’t well-known. This list of “hidden travel gems” reminds us that there are still a lot of things to see and do if we’re willing to look beyond the obvious. These “off-the-beaten-path” places are more than just places; they are calls to travel more mindfully, connect more deeply, and come home with stories that no one else has.
The biggest secret is that you don’t have to stop exploring when you get home. It’s a way of life and a way of seeing. So, which of these “secret travel spots” do you want to visit? What secret treasure have you found that you think everyone should know about? Please leave a comment with your thoughts.
https://diolichat.rw/travel/destinations
Source Links & Further Reading
For those ready to dive deeper into planning their next adventure, these resources provide invaluable information:
- Bradt Guides: Known for their in-depth coverage of off-the-beaten-path destinations, including many on this list like Albania, Georgia, and São Tomé. www.bradtguides.com
- Atlas Obscura: The definitive guide to the world’s hidden wonders and curious places, perfect for finding unique spots within any destination. www.atlasobscura.com
- Wikitravel / Wikivoyage: Community-driven guides that often have practical, on-the-ground information for less-traveled regions. www.wikivoyage.org
- Local Tourism Board Websites: Always seek out the official tourism site for your destination (e.g.,
www.visitfaroeislands.com) for the most reliable and up-to-date information. - Nomadic Matt: A fantastic blog for practical travel tips on budgeting and planning for trips to both popular and undiscovered places. www.nomadicmatt.com
