1. Puglia
Puglia, the lesser-known gem of Italy, continues to captivate travelers with its rustic charm and untouched beauty. From the iconic trulli houses of Alberobello to the stunning Baroque architecture of Lecce, this region offers a glimpse into traditional Italian life.
The unique conical-roofed trulli houses of Alberobello are believed to have originated as temporary shelters used by shepherds, but have now become an iconic symbol of the region’s architectural heritage.
Puglia is celebrated for its exceptional wine production, particularly its signature grape varieties, Primitivo and Negroamaro, which are known for their bold, full-bodied flavors.
Exploring Puglia is like stepping back in time, where every corner tells a story of its rich history and culture.
2. Setenil de las Bodegas
Setenil de las Bodegas, a Spanish marvel, is renowned for its unique architectural style where many buildings are literally carved into the cliffs. This troglodyte (cave-dwelling) architecture is a testament to the ingenuity and adaptation of the local population over centuries. The town’s name translates to "Setenil of the Cellars," reflecting the fact that the town’s residential and commercial structures were originally built into natural caves and rock formations, serving as both living spaces and wine cellars.
Surprisingly, Setenil de las Bodegas experiences a Mediterranean-continental climate, with hot, dry summers and relatively mild, wet winters, which has allowed the town’s unique architectural style to thrive over the centuries.
Despite its remote and seemingly isolated location, Setenil de las Bodegas has a well-developed network of underground tunnels and passages that connect the town’s various structures, demonstrating the ingenuity of its inhabitants in adapting to the challenging topography.
Visitors can explore the town’s troglodyte architecture, where dwellings are built into and underneath the rock overhangs, creating a truly mesmerizing experience. In addition to its remarkable architecture, the town is also home to the 12th-century Castillo De Setenil De Las Bodegas, adding to its rich historical and cultural charm.
Setenil de las Bodegas is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
3. Madeira
Madeira, a hidden gem off the coast of Portugal, offers travelers a true paradise of lush landscapes and stunning coastal vistas. From the cascading waterfalls and natural springs of the Laurissilva Forest to the secluded beaches and panoramic viewpoints, the island’s diverse array of hidden treasures are waiting to be discovered by the adventurous explorer.
Madeira’s coastal landscape is characterized by dramatic cliffs, hidden sea caves, and natural swimming pools, making it a popular destination for outdoor adventurers and water sports enthusiasts. Madeira’s Laurissilva Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to some of the oldest and most well-preserved laurel forests in the world, dating back millions of years.
- Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo hikes
- Charming coastal towns
- Unique natural pools of Porto Moniz
Madeira is home to a thriving agricultural industry, with the production of bananas, sugarcane, and other tropical crops playing a significant role in the island’s economy and local cuisine.
4. Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands, an archipelago located between Iceland and Norway, are a true hidden gem in the North Atlantic. With their dramatic landscapes and unspoiled nature, these islands offer a unique travel experience away from the crowds. The Faroe Islands are perfect for those who love outdoor adventures, including hiking, bird watching, and exploring quaint villages.
- Hiking: The islands boast numerous trails that take you through breathtaking scenery, from rugged cliffs to serene valleys.
- Bird Watching: Home to thousands of seabirds, the Faroe Islands are a paradise for bird enthusiasts. You can spot puffins, guillemots, and other species in their natural habitat.
- Quaint Villages: Explore charming villages with traditional grass-roofed houses and experience the local culture and hospitality.
For a comprehensive travel experience, consider using a [guide to Faroe Islands](#) to find the best tours and activities. Easy and instant booking is guaranteed, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, the Faroe Islands promise an unforgettable escape into nature’s beauty.
5. Bhutan
Wedged between India and China, this gorgeous little Himalayan kingdom is more than just a quick stopover on the around-the-world circuit. The dollar goes far, attitudes toward Americans are mostly positive, and nearly half of the locals speak English, easing the initial culture shock of being dropped in a city as wonderfully manic as Kathmandu. Though the country is predominantly Hindu, Buddhist pilgrimage sites are everywhere, affording travelers a chance to tap into the country’s strong spiritual vibe.
Not far from the bustling capital is the ancient city of Bhaktapur, where a stunning collection of religious sites make for the perfect day trip for quiet reflection before you explore the rural cliffside dwellings of the Annapurna range, drink yak butter tea in the trekking region around the city of Pokhara, or attempt to scale the famous peaks of Mt. Everest. While mountaineering is the chief activity for a majority of Western travelers, you can also uncover lesser-known sites like the remote Chitwan.
Bhutan offers a unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual richness, making it a must-visit for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.
6. Albania
Albania is one of the more off the beaten track places in Europe, yet it offers almost all of what Croatia does (and in some ways more) but at a fraction of the cost. It’s a quite friendly country and one that you feel like you could stay in for a long time, between the beaches, mountains, and very affordable prices. And it definitely has the off the beaten path feeling: Albania receives less than half the number of tourists of Croatia. It’s truly one of the best hidden travel gems in Europe.
Top Things to Do in Albania
- Long, white sandy beaches: Three beach towns we recommend are Sarandë, Dhërmi, and Ksamil.
- Sarandë has excellent food and rocky cliffs along with a good beach. You can even take a ferry to the Greek island of Corfu for the day!
- Dhërmi has both excellent beaches and a charming Byzantine town.
Tirana: The Eclectic Capital
Tirana, the eclectic capital city of Albania, offers a mix of Ottoman-era architecture and modern buildings. The vibrant streets are filled with trendy cafes and bars where you can enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine or sip on local raki.
The Stunning Albanian Alps
If breathtaking nature is what you’re after in your dream destination, look no further than the stunning Albanian Alps. Hiking enthusiasts will love trekking through pristine lakes and picturesque valleys while experiencing unforgettable moments off the beaten path.
7. Georgia
Georgia, despite its small size, is a true powerhouse when it comes to offering a remarkable travel experience. It boasts a fascinating history, mouthwatering cuisine, stunning beaches along the Black Sea coast, and awe-inspiring peaks of the Caucasus mountains.
A visit to Tbilisi’s charming old town is an absolute must, where you can wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, marvel at the architectural wonders, and indulge in the vibrant local culture.
When you are in Georgia, expect Old World hospitality at every turn and a steady stream of wine, which Georgians’ Stone Age ancestors arguably invented. And don’t forget to pile into a 4×4 and zoom up to Gergeti Trinity Church, a mossy candlelit chapel that was built above the cloudline in the 14th century. It sits in the shadow of Mount Kazbek, Europe’s fifth-highest peak.
The most dangerous thing in Georgia these days? Chacha, the zillion-proof moonshine that locals will foist on you in the outdoor markets.
Georgia’s diminutive geography is deceptive—everything here is dazzlingly over-the-top, from the epically cheesy khachapuri to the whirlwind folk dances.
8. Laos
Laos may be often overlooked among its neighboring countries, but this underrated gem has plenty to offer for adventurous travelers. With UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the captivating town of Luang Prabang and the awe-inspiring Vat Phou Temple Complex, history and culture enthusiasts will be in their element.
Nature lovers can bask in the beauty of Laos with attractions such as the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall and the mesmerizing Kong Lor Cave. What sets Laos apart even more is its affordability, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious explorers looking for underrated countries to visit.
Thanks to shared borders, Laos is home to some of the best food in Asia, drawing similarities to neighboring Thailand and Vietnam, but diverging in regional specialties. Coffee, too, is world-class: Many of the plantations around the waterfalls of the verdant Bolaven Plateau offer tastings and overnight stays and make great bases for exploring the plateau’s cave systems and underwater lakes.
In Laos, the old-school ’60s backpack culture—when starry-eyed hitchhikers learned to meditate with monks and lived in dollar-a-day beach huts—is alive and well. For proof, look no further than the “4,000 islands” of the Mekong River, and Don Det in particular, where hostels spill out on stilts into the quiet water, or the spectacular limestone mountains around Luang Prabang.
To fully immerse yourself in the local culture, consider exploring work exchange and volunteer programs in Laos.
9. Slovenia
Slovenia is a hidden gem in Europe that offers a diverse range of attractions, from stunning natural landscapes to charming medieval towns. Lake Bled is one of the most Instagrammable spots, featuring a picturesque island church and a medieval castle perched on a cliff. Another must-visit is Predjama Castle, a dramatic fortress built into a cave mouth.
- Lake Bled: Perfect for photography and boat rides.
- Predjama Castle: A unique architectural marvel.
- Ljubljana: The capital city, known for its vibrant culture and beautiful architecture.
Slovenia is still relatively uncrowded compared to its neighbor Croatia, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore without the hustle and bustle of more popular tourist spots.
10. Uruguay
Wedged between powerhouses Brazil and Argentina, tiny Uruguay is more than able to compete with its neighbors when it comes to food, art and design, and natural beauty. From the vibrant, cosmopolitan capital of Montevideo to hip beach towns to the emerging wine region of Garzon, major sites are within an hour or two of each other.
Gaucho culture is strong here, as there are more cattle than people in Uruguay (you may find yourself waiting for cows to cross the bucolic road). Those cattle, it should be noted, are the cornerstone of carnivore-focused dishes through this culinarily rich country, where dining is often alfresco and paired with wine from local vineyards.
Meanwhile, if you’re looking to party, the beach community of Punta del Este has long been a playground for jetsetters, while a lower-key beach escape is available at José Ignacio, a former fishing village that’s still pretty sleepy if you avoid the post-Christmas high season.
Bold: Uruguay is more than able to compete with its neighbors when it comes to food, art and design, and natural beauty.
Italics: Gaucho culture is strong here, as there are more cattle than people in Uruguay.