One of the ultimate delights in life is traveling, as it brings together the opportunities to explore new cultures, savor delicious cuisines, and visually feast on breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. While many people make pilgrimages to iconic destinations around the globe such as Paris, New York, and Tokyo, there are literally a whole host of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Those destinations are usually less known, and one can enjoy the local culture more without the crowds. This article will let you discover ten of the world’s below-the-radar travel destinations that are well worth your attention.
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Albarracín, Spain
Nestled in the hills of the Teruel province, Albarracín is a medieval town that takes one back in time. With buildings blushing pink, narrow, winding cobblestone streets, and imposing fortress walls, this enchanting village has much to offer in terms of phenomenal views of the surrounding landscape. History began here in the 10th century when it had been an important strategic military point of the Moors.
Things to Do:
The Castle of Albarracín – Come for fabulous views over this town and the surrounding hills. Take an amble through its fabulously well-preserved walls and dream about times gone by, when this was a mighty fortress.
Dove Admiral’s Walk: A stroll down narrow streets lined with traditional houses and artisan shops; many of their facades bear wooden balconies.
Visit the Cathedral: The Albarracín Cathedral was built in the 16th century and had an imposing construction both in Gothic and Mudéjar styles. The interior part is just as impressive, which includes several altarpieces among other religious art.
Local Cuisine: “Ternasco” is a local delicacy-recommended to be tried. One of the favorite dishes for locals, lamb is really juicy.
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Hokkaido, Japan
While most visitors would head to Tokyo and Kyoto, where they experience bustling cities, Hokkaido provides a haven of tranquility with its beautiful natural landscapes and strong cultural exposure. Renowned for hot springs, ski resorts, and flower fields, Hokkaido is a mecca for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Things to Do:
Skiing in Niseko: Famed for its powder snow, Niseko is the most popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. From the area come a few slopes in different shapes and sizes to suit every level of skill, alongside vibrant après-ski options.
Flower Field Exploration: During summer, the flower fields in Furano are colorful. Pay a visit to Farm Tomita, which has been famous for its lavender fields, and enjoy the beautiful views from top hills.
Soak in Onsen: Natural hot springs-onset-bathe Hokkaido in their number, where relaxation can be entertained by a soak in mineral-rich waters. The town of Noboribetsu is one of the most historic onsen towns and boasts a therapeutic hot spring, surrounded by beautiful surroundings.
Local Food: Fresh seafood from Hokkaido-be it crab, scallops, or sea urchin-is another thing to try, as is regionally famous dairy.
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Gjirokastër, Albania
Among those, Gjirokastër is a charming city with Ottoman-era architecture and a cobblestone street, accorded the status of a UNESCO World Heritage site, located in Southern Albania. This city is rarely visited by tourists; as such, it is one of the best-kept secrets for anyone who wants to visit Albania.
Things to Do:
Gjirokastër Castle: This massive fort dates back to the 12th century and commands an outstanding view over the valley of the Drino. It houses a museum about the history of the city and the region.
Ethnographic Museum: This museum is situated in the former house of the Albanian dictator Enver Hoxha and provides insight into the home-based traditional lifestyle of the people associated with Gjirokastër.
Take a stroll around the Old Bazaar. The old bazaar has a string of little shops where handicrafts and souvenirs could be bought, along with local typical garments. Drink a cup of Turkish coffee in any of these quaint cafes.
Traditionally: One can’t miss the taste of “qifqi”, a traditional rice ball dish scented with herbs and spices, very often served with yogurt.
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Salento, Colombia
Salento is a quaint town situated right in the heart of the Coffee Triangle and boasts novelty coffee culture, along with a landscape that is truly breathtakingly beautiful. The colorful town sits amidst lush green hills and plantations of coffee, serving as a paradise for lovers of nature.
Things to Do:
Coffee Farms: Tours are conducted in a very informative way for customers to learn the procedure of coffee production, from beans to cups. Most guided tours end with a tasting, providing the opportunity to experience the richness of Colombian coffee.
Hike in Cocora Valley: The Cocora Valley is home to the imposing wax palms—the highest palms anywhere in the world. Walk through lush cloud forests that give glorious scenes over rolling hills.
Salento’s Colorful Streets: Full of nice-colored buildings and artisan shops, this is the place to spend the afternoon among local boutiques and a laid-back atmosphere.
Local Cuisine: Have the “bandeja paisa,” or big plate, a huge meal of beans, rice, avocado, ground meat, and plantains—a real Colombian classic.
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Visby, Sweden
This medieval town, located on the island of Gotland in the Baltic Sea, is still one of the best-kept secrets among travelers who are keen to sample history and magic combined. The city of Visby takes you through time itself, with enormously well-preserved medieval walls and cobblestone streets.
Things to Do:
Walks along the Medieval Wall: The city wall originates from the 13th century and received numerous reconstructions, finding a place in the modern town. There is an opportunity to get up to the tower and see the town and the Baltic Sea from above.
See the Ruins of St. Nicholas Church: This impressive ruin proves how important Visby was in medieval times as a Hanseatic trading center. In fact, it is an architectural catch that presents the beauty of medieval craftsmanship.
Botaniska trädgårdets: The gardens are an oasis with a number of plants and flowers native to Gotland. A great spot to take a Sunday stroll or have a picnic.
Local Food: Do not miss “saffranspannkaka,” a pancake made with saffron, which is also a very common Swedish treat. It is usually served with lingonberry sauce.
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Matera, Italy
Fama integrates the fame of ancient cave dwellings, and Matera claims to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site hosts a plethora of stone-carved homes that hint at a unique lifestyle.
Things to Do:
The Sassi di Matera is the cave-dwelling complex considered, rightly so, the heart of Matera. It is worth exploring for its narrow streets lined with ancient architecture and rock churches with frescoes.
Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario: Visiting the museum is like being taken through the simple life led by the people inhabiting these caves. The rooms are well-preserved so, through them, one gets a glimpse into the daily life of the inhabitants of Matera.
Belvedere di Murgia: It is a pity not to stop at this viewpoint, since the view over the Sassi and all the surroundings is truly breathtaking. At this place, one can get the best photographic shots, especially during sunset.
Local Food: Taste “cucina povera,” prepared with simple, local foodstuffs. The famous “pane di Matera,” flavored bread is another important thing to taste.
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Svaneti, Georgia
Svaneti has it all: different landscapes ranging from snowy peaks to green meadows, and curious medieval architecture. It contains the ruins of ancient watchtowers, with small villages making it a hub for any adventurer who happens upon its borders.
Things to Do:
Ushguli Village: Visit this picturesque village, one of the highest habitable places in Europe, and come across its medieval towers. Go for a hike in the surrounding area for breathtaking scenery with Mount Shkhara, the highest peak in Georgia.
Mestia: This is the major town of Svaneti and is an excellent blend of traditional culture with modern amenities. The Svaneti Museum in Mestia shows the history and culture of this region.
Day trek the Zeskho Valley: Pleasing walks in this valley with spectacular views across the Caucasus Mountains. Well-marked trails in this valley make accesses to the tracks possible for trekkers of any level.
Local Food: Do not especially miss the chance of tasting “khachapuri,” a kind of traditional bread with cheese filling, forming part of one of the main dishes in Georgian cuisine.
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Kotor, Montenegro
Smuggled into the Bay of Kotor, this coastal town offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and dramatic mountains. The well-preserved medieval architecture, vibrant main squares, and narrow, curving streets make Kotor something special to explore.
Things to Do:
Kotor Fortress Hike: A very difficult hike that immediately pays off when amazing views of the bay appear. It is a historically interesting fortress, too, since remains from as early as the 9th century are visible.
Old Town Visit the walled city of Old Town, Kotor. Narrow streets and quaint squares characterize it. There are many stunning Romanesque churches in Kotor that date back to the 12th century, including the famous St. Tryphon Cathedral.
Boat Tour: Take a boat tour across nearby islands and coastal towns. Our Lady of the Rocks: This small island has a picturesque church and museum that can be visited.
Local Cuisine: Taste “pršut,” the naturally smoked ham, a local delicacy usually served with cheese and olives.
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Lofoten Islands, Norway
Lofoten Islands have to be in the top five on the list for anyone who desires breathtaking scenery: dramatic peaks, secluded beaches, and picture-book villages make this archipelago an outdoorsman’s paradise.
Things to Do:
Hiking: The Lofoten Islands offer a variety of hikes from very casual walks to the more challenging ones. The views of surrounding fjords from the summit of Reinebringen are fantastic.
Visit the Fishing Villages: Its two main fishing villages are Reine and Hamnøy—the picture of traditional red rorbuer or fishermen’s cabins set beside stunning coastal scenery.
Midnight Sun: During summer, visitors experience the magic of the midnight sun, wherein the sun never sets for a couple of weeks. This is quite a mystifying feeling that allows one to stay outdoors and continue with various activities.
Traditional Cuisine: If you really want to try the most typical dishes of Norwegian cuisine, then “lutefisk”—a kind of traditional fish dish—or “klippfisk,” driedvery casual walks to the more challenging ones. The views of surrounding fjords from the summit of Reinebringen are fantastic.
Visit the Fishing Villages: Its two main fishing villages are Reine and Hamnøy—the picture of traditional red rorbuer or fishermen’s cabins set beside stunning coastal scenery.
Midnight Sun: During summer, visitors experience the magic of the midnight sun, wherein the sun never sets for a couple of weeks. This is quite a mystifying feeling that allows one to stay outdoors and continue with various activities.
Traditional Cuisine: If you really want to try the most typical dishes of Norwegian cuisine, then “lutefisk”—a kind of traditional fish dish—or “klippfisk,” dried and salted cod—are foods which you will be able to taste.
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Hampi, India
Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the erstwhile capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Hampi is a place of awesome ruins amidst breathtaking landscapes. This interesting boulder-strewn terrain houses ancient temples and a vibrant local culture, which is a sight to watch.
Things to Do:
Explore the Ruins: Hampi is strewn all over with ancient temples and palaces, which include the iconic Virupaksha Temple and the Vittala Temple complex that house a marvel of a stone chariot.
Royal Enclosure: At this area is housed the ruin of the royal palace which consists of a number of gigantic structures, such as Lotus Mahal and Elephant Stables.
Take a Coracle Ride: Take a ride over this unique mode of transport by getting yourself coracle-faced on the Tungabhadra River. Just simply float atop these round boats while taking in stunning sights.
Local Food: Taste “Ragi mudde,” a traditional millet dish with sambar or curry. The street food is an experience too, with colors and flavors galore.
Conclusion
Lastly, sightseeing at unexplored places might be a good change of environment as compared to the usual flocks of people one witnesses at hotspots. These destinations promise very different experiences, offer insights into the culture and amusing details of history.
Imagine how many stories can be heard about every single piece from Albarracín, with its medieval charm, to Lofoten Islands with their breathtaking landscapes. So pack your bags and set off on an adventure to explore these incredible hidden treasures around the world!
Ranging from adventure to relaxation, and from cultural enrichment, all these unnoticed treasures contribute to an unforgettable travel memory that will last for a very long time after the journey is over.
