Escape the Crowds: Best Underrated Destinations to Visit in 2025

Popular destinations like Paris, Rome, and London will always have their place, but if you’re looking for something a little fresher in 2025, it’s time to consider the underrated gems.

These spots deliver just as much culture, beauty, and adventure — often with fewer crowds and more authentic experiences.

🇵🇹 Porto, Portugal

Lisbon gets the spotlight, but Porto is equally magical. Wander through its colorful riverfront, sip world-famous port wine straight from the source, and enjoy a slower pace. Food lovers will find everything from Michelin-star dining to cozy taverns. Bonus: it’s usually more affordable than Lisbon.

Secret Tips: Skip the crowded Ribeira promenade at sunset and head to Miradouro da Vitória for panoramic city and river views with fewer tourists. Take a tasting tour at small, family-owned cellars for hidden history and secret barrels. And don’t miss the Francesinha sandwich at a tucked-away café in Cedofeita — locals swear by it!

🇯🇵 Kanazawa, Japan

If you’ve already checked Tokyo and Kyoto off your list, Kanazawa is your next stop. It’s home to Kenrokuen, one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens, plus preserved samurai districts and fresh seafood markets. It’s a perfect blend of culture, history, and calm.

Secret Tips: Explore Higashi Chaya District early in the morning to enjoy peaceful streets and traditional tea houses. Stop by Omicho Market for sushi breakfast and ask vendors for their daily “chef’s special” — often not on the menu. For art lovers, don’t miss the quieter installations at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.

🇨🇷 Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

Costa Rica isn’t exactly “undiscovered,” but the Osa Peninsula still feels untouched. Corcovado National Park is teeming with wildlife — from scarlet macaws to tapirs — making it a paradise for eco-travelers. You’ll also find secluded beaches and incredible jungle lodges.

Secret Tips: Book a guided night hike to see nocturnal animals like sloths and kinkajous. Stay in an eco-lodge supporting local conservation, and join community visits to learn from artisans and farmers. For snorkeling, take a boat to Caño Island Biological Reserve — fewer crowds and crystal-clear waters.

🇬🇷 Naxos, Greece

Skip the party crowds of Mykonos and Santorini. Naxos offers just as many breathtaking beaches, but with authentic Greek tavernas, charming villages, and a slower, family-friendly vibe.

Secret Tips: Explore Apiranthos Village for marble streets and artisan shops with almost no tourists. Sample kitron liqueur at a small distillery for a private tasting. And for a quiet sunrise swim, hit Plaka Beach early morning — soft sand, calm waves, and near-empty shores.

✨ Looking for a vacation that’s different from everyone else’s Instagram feed? Let’s create a trip that’s uniquely you — complete with insider tips and local experiences you won’t find anywhere else.