15 Underrated Destinations You Should Add to Your Bucket List

Are you tired of travel itineraries taking you to the same places over and over again? The world is full of beautiful destinations, but finding one that isn’t overrun by tourism or isn’t monotonous can be challenging. But it’s time to change that; whether you’re exploring remote islands or discovering hidden gems, here are some off-the-beaten-path destinations you’ll want to fly to immediately.

Svalbard, Norway

Head to the stunning Arctic wilderness, where icy mountains and snow-capped trees set the scenery. Svalbard lies between Norway and the North Pole, so it’s the perfect spot to see the Northern Lights or the Midnight Sun. Svalbard’s remote destination makes it ideal for introverts, but don’t think it’s not exciting; you can snowboard, tackle glaciers, visit abandoned mining towns, and embark on a polar bear-watching tour.

Faroe Islands, Denmark

Step into a land of pure bliss at Faroe Islands, a hidden gem in the North Atlantic Ocean. Known for its picturesque sceneries and gushing waterfalls, the Faroe Islands makes you speechless with every step. These volcanic islands are perfect for nature lovers; you can birdwatch, visit picturesque villages, hike along lush coastal paths, and embark on exciting journeys.

Tuvalu

Tuvalu is a small country in Oceania that offers a quiet escape in the Pacific. Most tourist itineraries skip Tuvalu, so you’ll be free of tourist footfall and experience authentic Polynesian culture. Tuvalu’s rugged landscape runs amok with pristine beaches and crystal-clear lagoons, so you can spend your days snorkeling, exploring its coral reefs, and enjoying local feasts.

Isle of Skye, Scotland

Head to Scotland, and you’ll find a dramatic destination with even more exciting landscapes: jagged cliffs, rolling hills, moody skies, cascading waters, and medieval castles. The Isle of Sky isn’t only a picture-perfect destination but also brings you closer to Mother Nature with every step. Explore its vibrant villages, stroll the charming streets, and if you’re looking for adventure, visit destinations like the Old Man of Storr.

Matera, Italy

Forget overhyped destinations like Rome and Venice—Matera gives you a glimpse into authentic Italian culture. This little city lies on a rocky outcrop and is famous for ancient cave dwellings, or Sassi. Sssi features ancient houses carved into hillsides that date back several centuries, so you’ll get a mix of wonder and history. You’ll also find modern destinations like boutiques, cafes, and restaurants etched into the caves.

Azores, Portugal

Known for its dramatic landscapes and traditional fishing villages, the Azores is an archipelago comprising nine volcanic islands in the Atlantic. It is ideal for nature lovers and thrill-seekers, with plenty of exciting hiking, snorkeling, and bird-watching opportunities. Besides being a nature retreat, the Azores is also the best place to experience authentic Portuguese culture and cuisine.

Comoros

Comoros is one of Africa’s finest destinations. This volcanic archipelago is a tropical paradise that remains largely untouched by tourists, making it even more perfect for people who want to escape life. Comoros offers a rich blend of culture, tradition, and tranquility. Explore the volcanic landscapes, snorkel and swim around coral reefs, and head to the traditional fishing villages to experience a blend of Arab, French, and African cultures.

Raja Ampat, Indonesia

If you’re a sucker for diving destinations, you won’t find a better place than Raja Ampat. This Indonesian destination turns heads right and left with its beauty, but this is barely scratching the surface. Home to over 1500 islands and cays, Raja Ampat brings deep lagoons, cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear waters, and unique caves. When you’re not exploring its marine beauty, traverse its lush jungles and hike up its limestone caves.

Vang Vieng, Laos

Largely unexplored by tourists, Vang Vieng is a quaint fishing village on the Nam Song River in Laos. Vang Vieng boasts a striking landscape with jagged limestone cliffs dipping into the shore. While it’s every photographer’s dream, Vang Vieng is known for its outdoor activities; you can snorkel, dive, swim, kayak down the rivers, and even spelunking in caves.

Maramureș, Romania

Visiting Maramureș is like going back in time to a simpler way of life. This beautiful part of Romania is famous for its old wooden churches, gentle hills, and traditional lifestyle. Here, you’ll still see locals dressed in traditional clothes, horse-drawn carts on the roads, and artisans working on crafts passed down through generations. Be sure to visit the UNESCO wooden churches and enjoy the calm and culture that make this area so unique.

Yakushima, Japan

Yakushima, an island off Japan’s southern coast, feels like a natural wonderland. Known for its ancient cedar trees, dense green forests, and mist-covered mountains, it’s a peaceful place that feels almost magical. You’ll find some of Japan’s oldest trees here, including the Jomon Sugi, which are thought to be thousands of years old. Explore Yakushima’s beautiful trails, unwind in its hot springs, and soak in the quiet beauty of this special island.

Tierra del Fuego, Argentina

This is the End of the World: Tierra del Fuego might have an intimidating name, but that’s only because of the archipelago’s location at the southern extremity of South America. Tierra del Fuego offers dramatic vistas and abundant outdoor activities like hiking, sailing, swimming, and wildlife watching. Its remote location makes it even more attractive for tourists who can’t handle crowded destinations.

Palau

An archipelago of over 500 islands, Palau is a country in Oceania in the western Pacific Ocean. Its pristine lakes, vibrant coral reefs, deep lagoons, and diverse marine life make it one of the best diving spots in the world. While snorkelers and divers find this destination a delight, Palau is lined with dense forests and diverse landscapes that’ll give you plenty of outdoor activities.

Alberobello, Italy

Alberobello feels like stepping right into a fairytale. The town is famous for its trulli—little white stone houses with funny cone-shaped roofs that look like something from a fantasy world. This charming place in Puglia is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s perfect if you love seeing unique architecture. You can wander through the winding streets, stop by local shops filled with handmade goods, and enjoy tasty Italian dishes.

Salento, Colombia

A colorful town that does justice to Colombia’s vibrant culture, Salento is a haven for coffee lovers. Known for its coffee plantations, Salento encompasses a diverse landscape and a rich spirit that makes every tourist want to extend their stay. Salento is a gateway to the Cocora Valley, home to the tallest wax palm trees, and leads to the snow-capped peaks of Los Nevados National Natural Park.

More For You

If you want to enjoy the beauty of the earth without the crowds, a cruise trip is perfect for you. It will let you unwind and enjoy nature in peace without worrying about standing in queues or finding that empty spot to capture a perfect moment.

This article was first published on RB ITALIA Blog.