Hidden Gems: Underrated Places Worth Visiting

1. Colmar, France

Nestled in the Alsace region, Colmar is a fairy-tale town lined with half-timbered medieval buildings and canal-side cafés. Often overshadowed by Paris or the French Riviera, it offers a quieter charm with colorful facades and abundant vineyards nearby.

• Highlights: Wander the charming Little Venice district, sample Alsatian wines at local cellars, explore the Unterlinden Museum's impressive art collection.
• Why It's Underrated: Despite its picturesque looks, many travelers skip it in favor of bigger cities—meaning fewer crowds for you.
• Local Tip: Consider visiting in December for the dreamy Christmas markets featuring glühwein, crafts, and a storybook holiday ambiance.

2. Hpa-An, Myanmar

While Bagan and Inle Lake get most of the spotlight in Myanmar, Hpa-An is an unassuming capital of Kayin State blessed with karst mountain landscapes, hidden caves, and a laid-back rural vibe. It's perfect for a slower, more immersive Burmese experience.

• Highlights: Marvel at Sadan Cave's massive interior and secret lake exit, climb Mount Zwegabin for panoramic vistas, and enjoy riverside dining at local teahouses.
• Why It's Underrated: Tourist infrastructure is minimal, but you'll find warm welcomes from locals eager to share their customs.
• Local Tip: Rent a motorbike or hire a tuk-tuk driver to explore the scenic countryside in your own time.

3. Lake Bled's Neighbor: Lake Bohinj, Slovenia

Slovenia's Lake Bled draws huge crowds to its iconic island church, leaving nearby Lake Bohinj in the peaceful shadows. Surrounded by the Julian Alps, Bohinj is a paradise for hikers, swimmers, and those seeking serene alpine beauty without the bustle.

• Highlights: Swim or kayak in crystal-clear waters, trek the Vogel slopes, or visit Savica Waterfall for an Instagram-worthy nature escape.
• Why It's Underrated: Bled often overshadows Bohinj, but many locals argue Bohinj's raw, unspoiled scenery is more enchanting.
• Local Tip: Visit mid-week or off-peak seasons for the quietest trails, and sample local cheese or honey from nearby Alpine farms.

4. Kotor Bay, Montenegro (But Away from Kotor Town)

Kotor's old town is widely known, but much of the Bay of Kotor remains unexplored. Quaint villages like Perast or Prčanj boast stunning views of fjord-like waters, Venetian architecture, and a fraction of the foot traffic bustling Kotor endures.

• Highlights: Boat to Our Lady of the Rocks near Perast, climb hillside chapels for sweeping bay panoramas, laze at small pebble beaches or café terraces.
• Why It's Underrated: Day-trippers typically remain in Kotor, skipping lesser-known settlements dotting the bay's edges.
• Local Tip: An evening stroll through Perast's waterfront is especially magical—tranquil waters reflect the twilight sky in mesmerizing patterns.

5. The Catlins, New Zealand

While Queenstown, Auckland, and Rotorua host throngs of tourists, the Catlins region on New Zealand's southern coast remains a hidden wonder. Dramatic waterfalls, remote beaches, and abundant wildlife (think penguins and sea lions) create an off-grid experience for nature lovers.

• Highlights: Visit Purakaunui Falls, watch for Hector's dolphins near Curio Bay, or explore the petrified forest at low tide. The scenic Southern Scenic Route ties it all together.
• Why It's Underrated: The southern location and limited accommodations deter large crowds, preserving raw, rustic charm.
• Local Tip: Bring warm layers, as weather can turn quickly. Off-peak months yield even more solitude—just be ready for potential drizzle or wind.

6. Matera, Italy

Tucked in Basilicata, southern Italy, Matera's ancient “Sassi” cave dwellings carved into rock cliffs form one of the oldest continuous settlements worldwide. Despite a UNESCO designation, it remains less visited compared to Rome or Venice.

• Highlights: Explore Sassi di Matera's winding alleys, discover rock-hewn churches, savor rustic Southern Italian cuisine, or stay overnight in a refurbished cave hotel.
• Why It's Underrated: Historically overshadowed by more famous Italian cities, Matera only recently gained broader recognition.
• Local Tip: Arrive near sunset for golden light across the ravine, a photographer's dream. Don't miss the panoramic viewpoint from Murgia Timone across the canyon.

8. Taveuni, Fiji

Fiji conjures images of luxurious resorts, but Taveuni offers a more low-key, nature-centric alternative. Known as the “Garden Island,” it's lush with rainforest, waterfalls, and underwater wonders for snorkelers and divers—minus the big resort crowds found on main islands.

• Highlights: Trek the Bouma National Heritage Park, cool off at Tavoro Waterfalls, dive the Rainbow Reef's vibrant corals, and sample fresh tropical fruits from local villages.
• Why It's Underrated: Tourists typically flock to larger main-island hotels, overshadowing Taveuni's tranquil vibe and eco-lodges.
• Local Tip: If diving, plan between April and October for optimal visibility, though Taveuni remains pleasant year-round.

Quick Overview: Hidden Gems & Key Highlights

Each location offers distinct charm across different continents—whether you crave European fairy-tale towns or remote tropical getaways.