These cities often get overlooked in favor of more famous destinations, but they offer unique charm, cultural richness, and unforgettable experiences. Here’s why each city is underrated and what makes it worth a visit.
These underrated cities offer unique experiences, fewer crowds, and a more authentic taste of their regions. By venturing off the beaten path, you’ll discover hidden gems that rival (and sometimes surpass) the charm of their more famous counterparts.
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Most Underrated Cities to Visit In The World
1. Valencia, Spain
Why It’s Underrated: Overshadowed by Madrid and Barcelona, Valencia doesn’t get the attention it deserves.
Highlights:
The futuristic architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences.
Sandy beaches and the Albufera Natural Park for nature lovers.
Home of paella, Spain’s most famous dish.
Vibrant festivals like Las Fallas.
2. Bologna, Italy
Why It’s Underrated: Tourists flock to Rome, Florence, and Venice, leaving Bologna largely unexplored.
Highlights:
Birthplace of bolognese sauce and a paradise for food lovers.
Home to Europe’s oldest university and vibrant student life.
The stunning porticos and twin towers, Asinelli and Garisenda.
3. Porto, Portugal
Why It’s Underrated: Often overshadowed by Lisbon, Porto offers a quieter yet equally charming experience.
Highlights:
The colorful Ribeira District by the Douro River.
Famous for port wine and its historic cellars.
Stunning tiled facades like Igreja do Carmo.
4. Gdańsk, Poland
Why It’s Underrated: Warsaw and Kraków steal the spotlight, leaving this coastal gem overlooked.
Highlights:
Beautifully restored Old Town with colorful buildings.
The historic Neptune Fountain and the medieval Crane Gate.
Learn about WWII history at the Museum of the Second World War.
5. Tbilisi, Georgia
Why It’s Underrated: While Georgia is growing in popularity, Tbilisi remains relatively undiscovered by mainstream tourists.
Highlights:
The fusion of old and modern architecture, including the futuristic Peace Bridge.
Relax in the city’s famous sulfur baths.
Explore the Narikala Fortress for panoramic views.
6. Luang Prabang, Laos
Why It’s Underrated: Southeast Asia’s main draws like Bangkok and Hanoi overshadow this serene city.
Highlights:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with breathtaking temples like Wat Xieng Thong.
Visit the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls.
Participate in the daily almsgiving ceremony with Buddhist monks.
7. Québec City, Canada
Why It’s Underrated: Often overshadowed by Montreal and Toronto, this French-speaking gem deserves more attention.
Highlights:
The historic charm of Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stunning views of the Château Frontenac and St. Lawrence River.
Unique winter experiences, like the Québec Winter Carnival.
8. Malmö, Sweden
Why It’s Underrated: Stockholm takes the spotlight, leaving this southern city in the shadows.
Highlights:
The modern Turning Torso and eco-friendly neighborhoods.
Öresund Bridge, connecting Sweden and Denmark.
A vibrant food scene, with local markets and sustainable eateries.
9. Medellín, Colombia
Why It’s Underrated: Its past reputation often overshadows its transformation into a thriving, modern city.
Highlights:
The innovative Metrocable system for stunning views.
A thriving art scene with works by Fernando Botero.
Year-round spring-like weather, earning its nickname, City of Eternal Spring.
10. Fukuoka, Japan
Why It’s Underrated: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka dominate Japanese itineraries, leaving Fukuoka less visited.
Highlights:
Famous for its ramen culture, especially Hakata-style ramen.
Beautiful beaches and the stunning Ohori Park.
Historical temples like Shofukuji, Japan’s first Zen temple.
11. Kaunas, Lithuania
Why It’s Underrated: Often bypassed for Vilnius, this artistic city offers a unique charm.
Highlights:
Stunning modernist architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage designation.
Quirky attractions like the Devil’s Museum.
A burgeoning street art scene and lively riverside vibes.
12. Christchurch, New Zealand
Why It’s Underrated: Many travelers skip Christchurch for Queenstown or Auckland.
Highlights:
Rebuilding beautifully after earthquakes with innovative architecture.
Explore the serene Botanic Gardens and Avon River.
Gateway to New Zealand’s South Island adventures.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.