Post by : Samjeet Ariff

Top 10 Underrated Destinations to Visit in 2026

Popular tourist hotspots draw attention year after year, but for travellers seeking quieter, more authentic experiences, lesser-known places often deliver richer encounters. These underrated destinations combine culture, nature and local charm without the crowds — making them excellent picks for 2026 itineraries.

Below are ten destinations worth considering if you want beauty, heritage and meaningful travel away from the busiest routes.

1. Ljubljana, Slovenia – Europe’s Green Capital

Tucked between neighbouring Italy, Austria and Croatia, Ljubljana is compact, walkable and committed to sustainability. Its riverside promenades, verdant public spaces and largely traffic-free centre make it ideal for relaxed exploration.

Why visit:

• A focus on sustainable tourism and a well-preserved urban environment

• Elegant architecture and lively riverside cafés

• Easy access to the famed Lake Bled for day trips

Don’t miss: An evening stroll along the Ljubljanica and the open-air market, where local produce and crafts are on display.

2. Salento, Colombia – Coffee Country Charm

The colourful town of Salento sits amid rolling hills and coffee estates. It retains a laid-back atmosphere that contrasts with Colombia’s larger cities, offering scenic hikes and authentic farm stays.

Why visit:

• Hike the Cocora Valley to see towering wax palms

• Stay on working fincas and learn about coffee production

• Sample fresh coffee and meet welcoming locals

Travel tip: Plan visits between December and March for favourable weather and active coffee tours.

3. Matera, Italy – The Stone City

Matera stands out with its ancient cave dwellings known as the Sassi. This UNESCO site offers a striking blend of history, architecture and intimate boutique stays within carved stone houses.

Why visit:

• Unique cave hotels and a strong culinary tradition

• Millennia-old architecture and evocative streetscapes

• Perfect for photographers and history enthusiasts

Insider tip: Visit after dark when the illuminated Sassi create a memorable atmosphere.

4. Luang Prabang, Laos – The Soul of Southeast Asia

Luang Prabang blends spiritual ritual, French colonial elegance and riverside calm. It’s a place to slow down, observe traditions and explore nearby natural sights.

Why visit:

• Tranquil setting on the Mekong River

• Daily alms ceremonies and numerous temples

• Access to waterfalls, caves and ethical wildlife experiences

Don’t miss: The multi-tiered Kuang Si Waterfalls, a standout natural attraction in the region.

5. Alentejo, Portugal – The Country’s Best-Kept Secret

The Alentejo region is a study in gentle landscapes: vineyards, cork oak plains and quiet villages. It appeals to travellers who prioritise food, wine and low-key cultural discovery.

Why visit:

• Excellent regional cuisine and boutique wineries

• Unspoilt coastal stretches and tranquil beaches

• Charming rural stays and historic hilltop towns

Best time to go: April through October for mild weather and lighter tourist numbers.

6. Tasmania, Australia – The Wild Island

Separated from the mainland, Tasmania is prized for its pristine wilderness, dramatic coastlines and rich local produce. It’s well suited to outdoor adventurers and food-focused travellers alike.

Why visit:

• Iconic parks such as Freycinet and Cradle Mountain

• Fresh seafood and artisanal farm products

• Outstanding hiking, birdwatching and wildlife spotting

Fun fact: Tasmania is home to the distinctive Tasmanian Devil, native to the island.

7. Tbilisi, Georgia – A Blend of Old and New

Tbilisi is an engaging city of contrasts, where ancient churches and thermal baths sit alongside contemporary cafés and a lively arts scene. It offers good value and warm hospitality.

Why visit:

• An affordable gateway to rich culture and cuisine

• Discover Georgian dishes like khachapuri and khinkali

• Historic sulfur bathhouses and an emerging nightlife

Best time to go: Spring or autumn, when the city is comfortable for walking and sightseeing.

8. Azores, Portugal – The Hawaii of Europe

The Azores archipelago in the mid-Atlantic rewards visitors with volcanic landscapes, green calderas and freshwater lakes. It’s an eco-conscious destination for outdoor pursuits.

Why visit:

• Opportunities for whale watching, diving and scenic hikes

• Thermal springs, crater lakes and abundant greenery

• Environmentally minded lodgings and dramatic scenery

Highlight: The emerald Sete Cidades Lake on São Miguel is a must-see for nature lovers.

9. Amman, Jordan – Ancient History Meets Modern Energy

Amman blends significant archaeological sites with a contemporary café culture. It’s often overlooked as more than a gateway, yet the city itself offers rewarding urban exploration.

Why visit:

• Historic sites like the Roman Amphitheatre and Citadel Hill

• Robust Middle Eastern cuisine, including mansaf

• Proximity to the Dead Sea, Jerash and other classic Jordanian sights

Travel tip: Pair time in Amman with excursions to Petra and the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum for a fuller itinerary.

10. Raja Ampat, Indonesia – A Hidden Paradise for Divers

Raja Ampat in West Papua is among the planet’s richest marine areas. Remote and carefully managed, it appeals to divers, snorkellers and photographers seeking untouched reefs.

Why visit:

• Exceptional snorkeling and diving on vibrant coral reefs

• Quiet islands, clear waters and secluded beaches

• Conservation-minded tourism supporting local communities

Perfect for: Ecology-focused travellers and visual storytellers chasing pristine marine environments.

Discovering Less-Traveled Routes

As travellers look for more meaningful and sustainable experiences in 2026, these underrated destinations provide alternatives to crowded landmarks. They offer chances to connect with local traditions, enjoy nature and travel more responsibly.

Whether you prefer sipping coffee in Colombia, trekking in Tasmania or diving in Raja Ampat, choosing lesser-known places can lead to memorable, authentic journeys.

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