10 Underrated Alternatives To The Most Visited Destinations

We all have a few famous global attractions on our bucket list, but unfortunately, with the rise of social media influence, some of these places tend to suffer from overtourism. So, if like me you’re always on the lookout for less traveled places where you can actually breathe and enjoy where you are, here are my 10 underrated alternatives to the most visited destinations.

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What is overtourism?

This fairly new term describes how tourism negatively affects the livelihoods and destinations visited by tourists.

Because yes, while tourism is important and a great source of economy in many countries around the world, too many people in one place also creates overtourism, sometimes turning one of the most beautiful destinations into an inauthentic and unpleasant experience.

The situation has become so overwhelming in some places that countries like Spain have even held protests again overtourism, taking the issue to another level.

So to combat overtourism and highlight other less traveled or unknown destinations that are also worth visiting, here are my 10 underrated alternatives to overly visited destinations.

My 10 underrated alternatives

1. Daegu/Namwon instead of Seoul

Don’t get me wrong, I love Seoul (although my heart goes out to Busan), and the capital, with its history, architecture, shopping, food… is quite the unmissable destination, but the city can quickly become stifling too. So many people are already living there that if you add to that the millions of tourists who visit every year, you’ll soon want to escape its noisy hustle and bustle – unless, of course, you love it.

For my part, I rarely like big, busy capitals and more often seek to enjoy a quiet, relaxing experience, preferably with fewer people around me.

If you like that too, I’d recommend checking out the cultural city of Daegu or the romantic Namwon. Both offer picturesque lanscapes, a tasty food scene and authentic experiences without the crowds. They may be flying under the radar for many travelers, but I guarantee they’re worth a visit if you’re willing to give them a chance!

2. Battambang instead of Phnom Penh

Wandering the streets of Cambodia, and Phnom Penh in particular, is nice and all, but the chaotic, crazy cacophony of noise and pollution will soon get the better of you, I’m sure.

In contrast, Battambang, which I visited a few years ago and which has since gained in popularity, is more on the rural side with its abandoned railroads, ancient temples, history and more relaxed vibe. Although many people have started to flock there because of its pleasant atmosphere, I’d avoid visiting it if you have less than 10 days in Cambodia, as getting there is not the easiest.

Still, I think the city is more underrated than Sihanoukville, for example, although that’s just my humble opinion.

3. Java Island instead of Bali

I know and agree that Bali is a beautiful island, I mean I’ve been there twice so I won’t say I don’t like it, I’ll just say there’s much more to Indonesia than Bali and it would be a shame to miss out on the adventures on Java Island.

Plus, if you like thrilling activities, don’t forget tha Java is home to active volcanoes and some of the best jaw-dropping hikes.

And when you consider that the country actually has over 17,000 islands, of which over 7,000 are inhabited, why not opt to get away from the crowds of Ubud and Kuta and visit Bandung or the popular Yogyakarta. Check it out and tell me if I’m wrong!

4. Amorgos island instead of Athens

Yes, the historic capital and its ancient ruins and monuments may seem like a must-visit destination for some, but for me, nothing would ever match the appeal and beauty of the scenic beaches of the Greek islands.

If you’re dreaming of crystal clear waters under the sun, mountainous or volcanic landscapes and want to avoid the noisy traffic and congestion of the biggest city, your best bet is to escape to an island like Amorgos. Less visited than its more popular counterparts such as Mykonos or Santorini, Amorgos’s rugged terrains and natural beauty are sure to win you over!

5. Montenegro/Serbia instead of Croatia

Croatia used to be one of those lesser-known destinations that only a few people knew about, but it quickly developed into what it is today: a country slowly affected by overtourism and soaring prices.

So if you’re looking for underrated alternatives, the next time you’re planning a trip to Europe, you might want to choose Montenegro or Serbia, both of which are located in the Balkans, boast beautiful nature, are easy to get around, even without a car, and are cheaper than Croatia.

Although, to be honest, I think Montenegro will quickly meet the same fate in a few years’ time.

Click here to discover my ideal 10-day itinerary in Montenegro!

6. Prince Edward Island instead of Montreal

While some travelers rave about Montreal, I didn’t find it to my liking, to say the least. I don’t know if it was the people doing drugs on the street or the fact that I didn’t feel very safe there, but I wouldn’t say it was my best experience.

That’s probably why I’m not most inclined to recommend it every time the subject comes up and instead highlight the lovely Prince Edward Island for its gorgeous beaches, slow paced lifestyle and coastal trails.

7. Tasmania instead of Melbourne

If you love cities, you’ll have a blast in Melbourne, the arts and culture city of Australia, but chances are you’ll quickly find yourself cramped in this big, bustling city. Then again, maybe it’s because I’m a Sydney girl, sorry but not sorry!

On the other hand, I feel like Tasmania, which is such a haven of beauty and peace, is often overlooked, even by Australians. Why? I don’t know, as the island state is a treasure trove of wonderful hikes, stunning beaches and unique national parks. Convinced yet?

And if you’re really into cities, why not visit Townsville or Brisbane? Charming, with lots to do but more laidback than the biggest cities!

8. Koh Lanta instead of Koh Phi Phi

Want to party? Sure, Koh Phi Phi will satisfy the night owls, and although there’s still a “quiet side” to the island, I wouldn’t go back there any time soon because it’s simply too overcrowded, so much so that you have to get up early if you want to enjoy a relaxing time on the beach without the hordes of boats on shore.

The good news is that there are still islands in Thailand where you can swim at ease in the beautiful turquoise waters without fear of banging your head as soon as you emerge from the water or having to elbow your way out.

Among others, Koh Lanta, with its secluded beaches, peaceful vibe and cheap prices, is the ideal place for people seeking a relaxing travel experience.

9. The Azores instead of Lisbon

Okay, I loved Lisbon when I was there, but I mostly think it was because I was traveling during shoulder season, so the tourist crowds weren’t there and I could enjoy the narrow cobblestone street to my heart’s content. However, the same can’t be said if you’re visiting during the peak season, when you’ll struggle to find a nice accommodation and be crammed into stuffy public transport.

In that case, perhaps the best option is to look for one of the underrated alternatives that Portugal has to offer, like the Azores, for example. I know that some of my friends went on a diving trip there and couldn’t stop talking and praising the breathtaking scenery where overtourism doesn’t yet exist.

10. Nong Khiaw instead of Luang Prabang

The truth is that Luang Prabang will always be a must-see destination, not only because of the superb Kuang Si Waterfall, its architecture and rich cultural heritage, but also its friendly atmosphere. But, to be perfectly honest, the city has also rapidly suffered from its success, making it sometimes difficult to get around the main attractions.

Still want the breathtaking scenery but somewhere less busy? Opt for Nong Khiaw, a charming village on the banks of the Nam Ou River where the sunsets are as beautiful as it gets!

How to avoid overtourism

Sometimes it seems impossible to visit a famous place and avoid overtourism. Of course, as I’ve mentioned here, you can choose to spend your vacation by going to underrated alternatives to the most trendy tourist spots, or you can also follow these tips:

• Don’t just visit the capitals: yes, a lot of main attractions are often in the capitals, but a country isn’t just about its capital! So why not visit the country’s second, third or fourth largest city? You might actually be surprised at how beautiful and uncrowded the place is, while discovering hidden gems!

• See the main attractions, but not only: the Sagrada Familia is beautiful, but have you visited the unique Casa Batlló or the overlooked Parc del Guinardó? No? Then this could be your chance!

• Prioritize travel during the shoulder season: if you’re traveling during the summer to do some island hopping in Europe, you’ll of course be accompanied by a throng of tourists, so why not try visiting during the shoulder season and appreciate the experience with half as many tourists?

• Help the locals: since overtourism affects the local way of life the most, don’t forget to support them as best you can by eating locally, buying handcrafted goods, staying in guesthouses…

• Choose to slow travel: by opting for this way of traveling, not only will you minimize your environmental impact, but you’ll also learn to live like a local and feel more immersed in the culture.

What about you? Do you have any other underrated alternatives to the most visited destinations, or other ways to avoid overtourism you practice? Feel free to share them in the comments!

Ready to hit the road? Check out 15 of the world’s best road trip destinations here!

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