Underrated Cities Worth Visiting: 15 Hidden Gems Around the World
As an avid traveler who’s explored over 50 countries, I’ve discovered that the world’s lesser-known urban destinations frequently surprise and delight in ways the famous metropolises simply can’t match. From Europe’s architectural treasures to Asia’s vibrant cultural hubs, these 15 underrated cities worth visiting deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
Discovering underrated cities offers authentic experiences without the crowds
Why Visit Underrated Cities?
Before diving into our list of hidden gems, let’s explore why underrated cities make for such rewarding travel experiences:
Authentic Experiences
Without the pressure to cater exclusively to mass tourism, underrated cities often maintain more authentic cultural experiences. You’ll find locals going about their daily lives, traditional businesses thriving, and genuine interactions that aren’t scripted for tourists.
Better Value
Less demand typically means lower prices. Your travel budget stretches further in underrated destinations, with more affordable accommodations, dining, and activities compared to their famous counterparts.
Fewer Crowds
Imagine exploring historic streets, visiting museums, or dining at local restaurants without fighting through crowds or waiting in long lines. Underrated cities offer the luxury of space and time to truly appreciate your surroundings.
Bragging Rights
There’s something special about discovering places your friends haven’t visited yet. Underrated cities give you unique stories to tell and recommendations to share that go beyond the typical tourist experience.
1. Ghent, Belgium
While tourists flock to Brussels and Bruges, Ghent remains Belgium’s best-kept secret. This medieval city combines small-town charm with big-city energy, creating an atmosphere that’s both historically rich and vibrantly modern.
Why Visit Ghent
- Stunning medieval architecture without Bruges’ overwhelming crowds
- Vibrant student population creating a lively atmosphere year-round
- World-class museums including the Design Museum and SMAK
- Thriving vegetarian food scene (Thursday is official “Veggie Day”)
- Beautiful canal system perfect for boat tours or waterside dining
When to Go
Visit between May and September for pleasant weather and outdoor festivals. July brings the massive Gentse Feesten (Ghent Festival), transforming the city into one giant cultural celebration for 10 days.
Local Tip
Skip the tourist restaurants around Graslei and head to Patershol neighborhood for authentic Belgian cuisine in a charming medieval setting. Try waterzooi (traditional Ghent stew) at Het Groot Vleeshuis, housed in a 15th-century meat market.
Experience Ghent Like a Local
Discover Ghent’s hidden corners and fascinating history on a guided bike tour through this medieval gem.
2. Valparaíso, Chile
Often overshadowed by Santiago, Valparaíso is a colorful port city built across 42 hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a living art gallery, with vibrant street murals adorning buildings throughout its winding streets.
Why Visit Valparaíso
- Unparalleled street art scene with murals covering entire buildings
- Historic funiculars (ascensores) connecting the flat plan to hillside neighborhoods
- Pablo Neruda’s quirky former home, La Sebastiana
- Fresh seafood markets and innovative Chilean cuisine
- Bohemian atmosphere with thriving arts and music scene
When to Go
December through March offers warm summer weather perfect for exploring the hills. Visit during New Year’s Eve to experience Chile’s biggest celebration, featuring spectacular fireworks over the bay.
Local Tip
The best way to experience “Valpo” is to get lost in its labyrinthine streets. Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción neighborhoods offer the most picturesque wandering, with hidden cafés and viewpoints around every corner.
Discover Valparaíso’s Colorful Spirit
Explore the best street art, hidden viewpoints, and local stories on a guided walking tour with a local artist.
3. Riga, Latvia
The Baltic gem of Riga offers an enchanting blend of medieval charm and Art Nouveau splendor. Latvia’s capital remains one of Europe’s most affordable and least crowded cultural destinations, despite its UNESCO-protected historic center.
Why Visit Riga
- The world’s largest collection of Art Nouveau buildings (over 700)
- Charming medieval Old Town with winding cobblestone streets
- Central Market housed in repurposed zeppelin hangars
- Thriving food scene blending Baltic traditions with modern techniques
- Beautiful parks and green spaces throughout the city
When to Go
May through September offers pleasant temperatures and longer daylight hours. June 23-24 brings Līgo and Jāņi (Midsummer) celebrations with bonfires, folk songs, and flower crowns.
Local Tip
For the best views of Riga, skip the touristy St. Peter’s Church tower and head to the Latvian Academy of Sciences. This Soviet-era “Stalin’s birthday cake” building offers panoramic views for a fraction of the price.
Explore Riga’s Hidden Treasures
Discover Riga’s fascinating mix of medieval history and Art Nouveau splendor with a knowledgeable local guide.
4. Thessaloniki, Greece
While Athens draws the crowds, Greece’s second-largest city offers a more relaxed Mediterranean experience. Thessaloniki blends Byzantine history, Ottoman influences, and vibrant modern culture with a stunning seaside setting.
Why Visit Thessaloniki
- Rich archaeological sites spanning 2,300 years of continuous history
- Stunning 5km waterfront promenade with views of Mount Olympus
- UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches with incredible mosaics
- Exceptional food scene with influences from Asia Minor
- Vibrant nightlife in the Ladadika district
When to Go
May-June and September-October offer pleasant temperatures without summer crowds. Visit in November for the International Film Festival or December for the city’s magical Christmas markets.
Local Tip
Join the locals for “volta” (evening stroll) along the waterfront promenade at sunset, then head to Bit Bazaar for mezedes (small plates) at traditional tavernas where one dish is often served free with your drinks.
5. Tirana, Albania
Once closed off to the world under communist rule, Albania’s capital has transformed into one of Europe’s most colorful and energetic cities. Tirana surprises visitors with its painted buildings, growing café culture, and fascinating blend of Ottoman, Italian, and Soviet influences.
Why Visit Tirana
- Fascinating communist-era bunkers converted into museums and galleries
- Vibrant street art and colorfully painted Soviet-era apartment blocks
- Thriving café culture with excellent coffee and rakia (fruit brandy)
- Beautiful Grand Park with artificial lake for outdoor activities
- Some of Europe’s most affordable prices for accommodation and dining
When to Go
April-June and September-October offer pleasant temperatures for exploring. Summers can be hot but bring outdoor festivals and events throughout the city.
Local Tip
Visit Bunk’Art 1 and 2, massive underground bunkers built for the communist elite, now transformed into contemporary art spaces and history museums that tell Albania’s complex story.
Uncover Tirana’s Colorful History
Explore Tirana’s transformation from isolated communist state to vibrant European capital on a guided tour with a local historian.
6. Galway, Ireland
While Dublin gets most of Ireland’s visitors, Galway offers a more authentic Irish experience on the wild Atlantic coast. This medieval city combines traditional Irish culture with a bohemian spirit, creating an atmosphere that’s both timeless and contemporary.
Why Visit Galway
- Vibrant traditional Irish music scene with nightly sessions in local pubs
- Gateway to the stunning Connemara region and Aran Islands
- Thriving arts scene with year-round festivals and events
- Fresh seafood straight from Galway Bay
- Walkable medieval center with colorful shopfronts and street performers
When to Go
June through September offers the best weather and longest daylight hours. July brings the Galway International Arts Festival, while September hosts the famous Galway Oyster Festival.
Local Tip
Skip the touristy pubs on Quay Street and head to The Crane Bar on Sea Road for authentic traditional Irish music sessions with local musicians. Arrive early to get a seat upstairs where the best sessions happen.
7. Oaxaca City, Mexico
While Cancún and Mexico City dominate tourism in Mexico, Oaxaca City offers a more authentic cultural experience. This colonial gem in southern Mexico is renowned for its indigenous cultures, complex cuisine, and vibrant arts scene.
Why Visit Oaxaca City
- UNESCO-listed historic center with well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture
- Culinary capital of Mexico, famous for seven unique mole sauces
- Rich indigenous traditions including Day of the Dead celebrations
- Thriving artisan communities producing textiles, pottery, and woodcarvings
- Monte Albán archaeological site just outside the city
When to Go
October through April offers dry, pleasant weather. Late October through early November brings the spectacular Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) celebrations, while July hosts the Guelaguetza indigenous cultural festival.
Local Tip
Visit the Central de Abastos market on Saturday morning when indigenous vendors from surrounding villages bring their produce and crafts. For the best chocolate, skip the tourist shops and head to Mayordomo where locals buy their chocolate for mole and hot drinks.
8. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Slovenia’s charming capital remains one of Europe’s most underrated cities despite its picture-perfect setting. Ljubljana combines Central European architecture, Mediterranean atmosphere, and Alpine influences in a compact, pedestrian-friendly package.
Why Visit Ljubljana
- Car-free city center with beautiful riverside cafés and markets
- Architectural masterpieces by Jože Plečnik throughout the city
- Ljubljana Castle offering panoramic views of the city and Alps
- Vibrant food scene blending Balkan, Italian, and Austrian influences
- Gateway to Lake Bled and other natural wonders of Slovenia
When to Go
April through October offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Summer brings the Ljubljana Festival with outdoor concerts and performances, while December transforms the city with charming Christmas markets.
Local Tip
On Friday evenings (March-October), join locals at the Open Kitchen (Odprta Kuhna) food market in the central market area, where Slovenia’s top chefs and restaurants serve small plates in a festive outdoor setting.
9. Porto, Portugal
While Lisbon gets most of Portugal’s visitors, Porto offers equal charm with fewer crowds. This historic port city cascades down hillsides to the Douro River, creating a picturesque landscape of colorful buildings, baroque churches, and wine cellars.
Why Visit Porto
- UNESCO-listed historic center with winding medieval streets
- World-famous port wine cellars offering tastings and tours
- Stunning bookshops including Livraria Lello, which inspired J.K. Rowling
- Magnificent tile-covered churches and train stations
- Vibrant food scene centered around the Bolhão Market
When to Go
May-June and September-October offer pleasant temperatures without summer crowds. June 23-24 brings the São João Festival, Porto’s biggest celebration with street parties, grilled sardines, and sky lanterns.
Local Tip
Skip the touristy Francesinha sandwiches in the center and head to Café Santiago on Rua Passos Manuel for the authentic version of this Porto specialty. Pair it with a local craft beer from Letra or Sovina breweries.
10. George Town, Malaysia
On the island of Penang, George Town offers one of Asia’s most fascinating cultural blends. This former British trading post combines Chinese, Malay, Indian, and European influences to create a unique architectural landscape and one of the world’s most exciting food scenes.
Why Visit George Town
- UNESCO World Heritage architecture blending Chinese, Indian, and colonial styles
- World-renowned street food scene, especially along Gurney Drive
- Interactive street art and iron caricatures throughout the old town
- Diverse religious sites including Kek Lok Si Temple and Kapitan Keling Mosque
- Traditional crafts including batik, rattan weaving, and joss stick making
When to Go
November through April offers drier weather with less humidity. January-February brings Chinese New Year celebrations, while August-September hosts the George Town Festival with art installations and performances.
Local Tip
For the best laksa (spicy noodle soup) in town, skip the tourist spots and head to Air Itam Laksa near the market. Come early as they often sell out by early afternoon. Pair it with a refreshing nutmeg juice, a Penang specialty.
11. Bologna, Italy
While tourists crowd Rome, Florence, and Venice, Bologna offers an equally rich Italian experience with a fraction of the visitors. This medieval university city is Italy’s gastronomic capital, known for its authentic cuisine, terracotta skyline, and lively atmosphere.
Why Visit Bologna
- Authentic Italian cuisine in the country’s gastronomic capital
- Nearly 40km of elegant porticoes (covered walkways)
- Medieval towers offering panoramic views of the red-roofed city
- Europe’s oldest university (founded 1088) with historic libraries
- Vibrant markets and food halls including Mercato di Mezzo
When to Go
April-June and September-October offer pleasant temperatures without summer heat or winter chill. October brings the Mortadella Festival celebrating Bologna’s famous cured meat.
Local Tip
For an authentic Bolognese dining experience, avoid restaurants advertising “spaghetti bolognese” (not a local dish). Instead, order tagliatelle al ragù at a traditional trattoria like Trattoria Anna Maria, where pasta is still made by hand daily.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Underrated Cities
Are underrated cities safe for tourists?
Most underrated cities are just as safe as their more famous counterparts. However, as with any destination, it’s important to research specific safety concerns before visiting. Many underrated cities actually have lower crime rates than overtouristed destinations where pickpocketing and scams targeting tourists are common.
Always practice standard travel safety precautions: be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and respect local customs and laws.
Are underrated cities difficult to reach?
While some underrated cities may require additional connections, many are surprisingly accessible. Cities like Porto, Bologna, and Thessaloniki have international airports with direct flights from major European hubs. Others, like Ghent and Ljubljana, are easily reached by train from nearby major cities.
The extra effort to reach some underrated destinations is often rewarded with a more authentic experience and fewer crowds.
Are underrated cities more budget-friendly?
Generally, yes! Underrated cities typically offer better value than their famous counterparts. Accommodation, dining, and activities often cost significantly less than in major tourist destinations. For example, a comparable hotel room in Riga might cost half what you’d pay in Paris, while offering similar quality and amenities.
Your travel budget will typically stretch much further in these lesser-visited destinations, allowing for longer stays or more luxurious experiences.
What’s the best way to explore underrated cities?
Walking is often the best way to discover underrated cities, as many have compact, pedestrian-friendly historic centers. Consider starting with a guided walking tour to get oriented and learn about the city’s history and culture from a local perspective.
Public transportation in these cities is typically efficient and affordable. Many also offer bike-sharing programs, which provide a fun way to cover more ground while still connecting with your surroundings.
When is the best time to visit underrated cities?
Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) typically offer the best balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices in most underrated cities. However, this varies by location and climate zone.
One advantage of underrated cities is that they rarely experience the extreme overtourism that plagues famous destinations during peak season, making them more pleasant to visit year-round.
Planning Your Trip to Underrated Cities
Ready to explore these hidden gems? Here are some essential resources to help you plan your journey to these underrated cities worth visiting:
Getting There
Search for flights to nearby major hubs and connect via train or bus. Consider multi-city itineraries to visit several underrated destinations in one trip.
For European destinations, rail passes offer flexibility and value when visiting multiple cities.
Where to Stay
Look beyond international hotel chains to find locally-owned boutique hotels and guesthouses that offer more authentic experiences.
Consider apartment rentals for longer stays, especially in cities with strong food cultures where you might want to cook with local ingredients.
Getting Around
Most underrated cities have excellent public transportation systems that are affordable and efficient.
Walking tours provide orientation and historical context, while bike rentals offer freedom to explore at your own pace.
Ready to Discover Underrated Cities?
Start planning your journey to these hidden gems with our comprehensive travel resources.
Embrace the Road Less Traveled
The world’s underrated cities offer travelers something increasingly rare in our age of mass tourism: authenticity. By venturing beyond the Instagram hotspots and tourist trails, you’ll discover rich cultural experiences, connect with locals, and create memories that feel uniquely your own.
Whether you’re drawn to the medieval charm of Ghent, the colorful hillsides of Valparaíso, or the culinary paradise of Bologna, these underrated cities worth visiting promise adventures that go beyond the ordinary. The next time you’re planning a trip, consider giving these hidden gems a chance to surprise and delight you.
Discovering underrated cities creates unique travel memories that last a lifetime
What underrated cities have captured your heart in your travels? Share your discoveries and experiences in the comments below!
Sharon Molly is a content creator in lifestyle, fashion, and travel, delivering style-savvy advice and destination insights to inspire confident living. With a background in digital media, she combines aesthetics with practical guidance for modern women on the go.
