18 Hidden Gems Around the World Where You Can Escape the Crowds and Unwind in Peace
You might be tempted to visit mainstream destinations like Paris or Rome, but they no longer seem too attractive. More and more travelers are now searching for peaceful and unique places where they can enjoy their trip without the stress of overcrowded tourist spots. If you’re looking for a destination that’s quieter but still has everything you’d expect from a popular spot and more, you’ll love exploring these hidden and unique countries.
Brunei

Located in southeast Asia, Brunei is one of the wealthiest countries in the world and boasts gorgeous landscapes. Discover Brunei’s beautiful rainforests and beaches, perfect for nature lovers. Tourists can explore Omar’Ali Saifuddien Mosque, boat over the Kampong Ayer River, and take canopy walks in Ulu Temburong National Park.
Vanuatu

A small archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, Vanuatu offers colorful reefs and volcanic sites. Tourists can climb Mount Yasur, hike the Millennium Cave, or dip their toes at its beaches. They can even visit local coffee plantations and learn how the coffee is grown.
Kiribati

A quaint Oceania country, Kiribati has pristine beaches and diverse wildlife that few people know about. Tourists can explore frigate bird colonies, snorkel in protected yet breathtaking areas, and even attend and learn about Te Aba, a traditional Kiribati dance performance.
Tajikistan

An underrated gem in Central Asia, Tajikistan boasts breathtaking mountain ranges and stunning landscapes and invites tourists to learn about its rich history. Tourists can trek the Fann Mountains, visit Khujand Bazaar, and explore Hisor fortress, among many other lesser-known attractions.
Azerbaijan

Straddling eastern Europe and western Asia, Azerbaijan brings the best of both worlds. Tourists must visit Baku to see UNESCO-listed architecture, such as Shirvanshah’s Palace and Maiden Tower. Azerbaijani mud volcanoes and Gobustan Rock Art engravings are also worth the visit.
Nauru

A small island country in Oceania, Nauru offers a rich culture with stunning beaches and gorgeous bays away from the crowds. Tourists can explore the local freshwater Buada Lagoon and snorkel in Anibare Bay. They can even view WW2 relics at Command Ridge.
Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso is a small landlocked country in West Africa with stunning landscapes and a unique culture like nowhere else. The UNESCO-listed Ruins of Loropeni are a popular tourist spot. You can also head to Banfora to explore the untouched Karfiguela Waterfalls.
Ivory Coast

Another West African delight, the Ivory Coast is home to rainforests, coastal areas, and savannahs. Tourists can enjoy stunning beaches along the Gulf of Guinea and explore wildlife at the Comoe National Park. Additionally, cities like Abidjan and Yamoussoukro’s vibrant culture and rich history offer a unique and immersive experience.
Tuvalu

Straddling the Pacific Ocean, this country welcomes visitors to enjoy its tranquil coral reefs. Tourists can attend the Tuvalu Arts and Culture Festival, explore local cuisine, and go island hopping across atolls. Also, the warm and welcoming local community provides an authentic and enriching cultural experience for travelers.
Andorra

Located in the Pyrenees bordering France and Spain, Andorra offers stunning mountain ranges, perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Tourists can also explore the capital city, Andorra la Vella, famous for its exquisite architecture. You can also relax in the renowned Caldea Spa, one of the largest in Europe.
Liechtenstein

Situated in the Alps between Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein boasts snowy mountain peaks, prehistoric castles, stunning hiking trails, and a rich culture. Tourists can visit the Gutenberg Castle, Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein, Kathedrale St. Florin, and the quaint cafes across the town.
Palau

Palau is an island country in Oceania famous for its jellyfish lake, pristine marine environment, and sustainable tourism practices. Palau offers a plethora of scuba diving opportunities, with Blue Corner Wall ranked among the top five dive sites in the world. Visitors can also enjoy kayak tours, museums, and historical attractions from 2000 years ago.
Eswatini

Not many people are aware of this landlocked country in Southern Africa. Eswatini has vibrant cultural festivals, wildlife reserves, and the Malolotja Canopy Tour, one of Africa’s longest ziplines. The country’s landscapes and wildlife offer unforgettable experiences, such as the Swazi music and dance.
Pakistan

Pakistan was long forgotten due to how the media always portrayed it. However, in the last few years, the country has started to gain popularity among international tourists, who praise its unique landscape, such as its cold desert, the second-highest plateau in the world, Deosai, and, most importantly, K2—the second tallest mountain in the world.
Mozambique

Mozambique is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life. This hidden gem offers pristine coral reefs perfect for diving and snorkeling. The diverse culture, a blend of African, Arab, and Portuguese influences, makes for a unique travel experience. Don’t miss Gorongosa National Park, where you can see a wide variety of wildlife.
São Tomé and Príncipe

São Tomé and Príncipe is a hidden gem in the Gulf of Guinea, featuring beautiful beaches and lush rainforests. You can hike to stunning waterfalls, explore the tropical forests, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. Be sure to visit the local cocoa plantations for a taste of some of the world’s best chocolate. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers away from the crowds.
Bhutan

Bhutan is a small, peaceful country tucked away in the Himalayas, offering some of the most beautiful landscapes you’ll ever see. You can visit the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which seems to cling to the side of a cliff or explore the capital, Thimphu, with its lively markets and traditional architecture. If you love hiking, the valleys and mountains here are incredible. What really sets Bhutan apart is its focus on sustainable tourism and the idea that happiness is more important than wealth.
Albania

Albania, in the Balkans, is home to beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and rich history. You can wander through the lively streets of Tirana, explore the ancient city of Butrint, or relax on the stunning beaches of the Albanian Riviera. The country is incredibly affordable, making it a hidden gem in Europe that you’ve got to see for yourself.
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This article was first published at Rbitaliablog.