Hidden Gems: 10 Underrated Cities You Should Visit This Year

Famous capitals are irresistible, but lesser-known cities often offer richer, quieter experiences. We highlight 10 underrated cities that combine character, value, and accessibility for curious travelers seeking something off the typical route.

1. Wrocław, Poland

Why go: A charming market square, waterways, and luminous street art. Best time: May–September. Tip: Search for the city’s famed dwarf statues scattered across neighborhoods.

2. Valparaiso, Chile

Why go: Hilltop murals, vibrant port culture, and a creative community. Best time: October–March. Tip: Ride the funiculars and explore local art spaces on foot.

3. Lviv, Ukraine (post-conflict recovery visits)

Why go cautiously: Lviv’s resilience and cultural heritage are significant; choose safe, sanctioned travel options and support vetted local initiatives. Best time: June–September. Tip: Connect with cultural preservation projects when possible.

4. Kochi (Cochin), India

Why go: Colonial architecture, art biennale draws, and spice trade history. Best time: November–February. Tip: Explore the mix of colonial forts and contemporary galleries in Fort Kochi.

5. Gdańsk, Poland

Why go: Maritime history and a revitalized riverfront with excellent seafood. Best time: June–August. Tip: Combine with a slow drive along the Baltic coast for quieter beaches.

6. Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Why go: Harbor parks, contemporary museums, and food markets that rival Taipei at lower crowds. Best time: October–April. Tip: Take a ferry to nearby Cijin Island for seafood and seaside cycling.

7. Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy

Why go: A compact old town, stunning beaches nearby, and a distinctive island culture. Best time: May–June, September. Tip: Rent a scooter for coastal exploration outside peak season.

8. Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Why go: Ancient theaters, creative neighborhoods, and affordable gastronomy. Best time: April–June. Tip: Attend a small music or arts festival for local flavor.

9. Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal

Why go: Island ecology, whale watching, geothermal baths, and farm-to-table cuisine. Best time: May–September. Tip: Reserve guided hikes in protected areas to minimize ecosystem disturbance.

10. Pláž (Zadar region), Croatia

Why go: Small coastal towns outside the Dubrovnik surge, with Adriatic charm and quieter beaches. Best time: May–June, September. Tip: Explore local olive oil producers and seaside tavernas for authentic meals.

How to travel responsibly to underrated cities

Underrated doesn’t mean unprepared. Respect local norms, use public transport where possible, and support locally owned businesses. Doing so helps communities benefit from tourism sustainably.

Where to stay and what to do

Choose small guesthouses or boutique hotels that employ locals. Seek walking tours led by residents and tours that reserve proceeds for restoration projects. Food markets are often the best way to experience flavor and meet artisans.

Value considerations

These cities usually offer better value for accommodation and dining compared to major tourist centers. Bargaining is rare in restaurants; tipping practices vary, so learn local norms before you go.

Final thoughts

Visiting underrated cities yields encounters that feel more authentic and less staged. Approach them with curiosity and respect, and you’ll often leave with memories and connections that last longer than a standard bucket-list visit.