Top 10 Hidden Gems You Must Visit

Here, we explore the hidden gems you must visit on your next trip. We rush to all the famous travel destinations—iconic cities, famous landmarks, and widely celebrated attractions. Yet, there are so many hidden gems of this world waiting for you to discover, giving a sense of discovery and deeper engagement with places we visit.

 

These destinations don’t always show up on the regular tourist radar, but that’s what makes them so special. If you are looking to get away from crowds and explore places that not so many people do, here are ten hidden gems you must visit on your next trip. 

1. Faroe Islands, Denmark

The Faroe Islands in the North Atlantic represent an archipelago of wonderful landscapes, harsh rugged cliffs, and peaceful silence. The place is known for its dramatic scenery consisting of waterfalls plunging off the mountains, luscious green valleys, and pretty villages positioned on the edges of the sea. It is one of the hidden gems you must visit on your next trip. 

Being relatively unspoiled by mass tourism, this is the place that nature lovers, hikers, and photographers need. Do not miss the picturesque village of Gásadalur, where you can see the iconic Mulafossur Waterfall. There are great opportunities to explore the hidden gems you must visit on your next trip.

Why Visit: 

• Unspoiled nature with stunning coastal views
• Ideal for trekking, birding, and photography
• Viking heritage and culture

Travel Tips: 

• The Faroe Islands are accessible by flight from Copenhagen, Denmark, and are best toured during the summer months when the weather is milder.

2. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China

As it inspires the famous floating mountains of Avatar, the surreal and amazing destination of China’s Hunan province is none other than Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. Thousands of tall sandstone pillars aggressively sprout out from the earth to produce an ethereal landscape.

This can be enjoyed in one of the several scenic walking trails or via the glass bridge. This makes one experience the full view from such a vantage point over such a long stretch below. It is one of the hidden gems you must visit on your next trip.

Why Visit:

• Otherworldly landscapes that quite literally seem a wonder to be in some fantasy film.
• Sanctuary for the globe’s highest glass bridge in China.
• Lush untamed and tranquil natural walking tracks.

Travel Tips:

• By train and flight in Zhangjiajie, one can cover up to reach the National Park. However one should fully prepare their climbing and strolls. Trekking shoes are worn.

3. Chefchaouen, Morocco 

There is little this phrase called Blue City isn’t doing justice. One of the most striking destinations in Morocco is the small Rif Mountain town, which is known for its blue-painted buildings. Be it the streets or rooftops, everything has these bright shades of blue.

The tranquil atmosphere blended with the beautiful surroundings makes Chefchaouen a perfect escape from the bustling markets of Marrakech. Stroll through the tight streets, the kasbah, and the colored souks stuffed with handmade commodities.

Why Visit:

• Photogenic blue-colored streets and houses.
• A relaxed and serene atmosphere.
• Superb trekking opportunities in the Rif Mountains.

Travel Tips: 

• Spend some time walking through Chefchaouen’s narrow streets very early in the morning when it is still yet to be stormed by people and tourists.

4. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Located within the Julian Alps, Lake Bled is one of Europe’s most breathtaking places of interest. The emerald-green waters, the tiny island church surrounded by the lake, and the medieval castle settling on top of a cliff make Lake Bled an oasis that perfectly describes any escape.

Though quite popular in the last few years, it still presents an alternative to the touristy destinations of Western Europe, which are quieter as well. Take the traditional Pletna boat to the island or enjoy a peaceful walk along the perimeter of the lake.

Why Visit:

• Breathtaking natural scenery with a magical atmosphere. 
• Historical Bled Castle has the most stunning panorama.
• Scope for outdoor adventure: trekking, swimming, rowing, and more.

Travel Tips: 

• One must try one of the cafes’ traditional cream cakes. It is a specialty in the desert there.

5. Sapa, Vietnam

The northern highland region of Vietnam has a gem, namely Sapa, which boasts stunning terraced rice fields, misty mountains, and villages from ethnic minorities. There are various aboriginal tribes there, such as H’mong and Dao, who still maintain the old-time tradition that would give visitors insight into the living pattern that seems not to have been affected for many hundreds of years.

It is worthwhile trekking down through the valleys and exploring all the villages while being off from other parts of Vietnam, which is very touristy. It is one of the hidden gems you must visit on your next trip. 

Why Visit:

• Superb rice paddies and mountain landscapes.
• Chance for experience of true local ethnicities.
• Great for trekking and nature walks.

Travel Tips:

• Sapa can be accessed by overnight train or bus from Hanoi. Prepare a good pair of hiking boots for the steep terrain.

6. Isle of Skye, Scotland

This treasure on the west coast of Scotland is a place for lovers of nature and adventure. On the island are dramatic landscapes that feature jagged mountains, hidden lochs, and rugged coastlines.

The most magical are, of course, the fairy pools, with their crystal-clear waterfalls, and the Old Man of Storr, a distinctive rock formation that rises high above the landscape. Skye offers a perfect combination of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Why Visit:

• Scenic beauty for outdoor lovers.
• Scotland’s rich history: castles, ancient ruins, and so much more.
• Secluded, tranquil retreat to relax and forget the world.

Travel Tip: 

• Skye is lovely in the summer. Just be prepared for weather that is quite unpredictable.

7. Colchagua Valley, Chile

The alternative to Napa Valley or Bordeaux for wine lovers is the wonderful Colchagua Valley in Chile. Located in central Chile, the valley boasts world-class red wines such as Carmenère and Cabernet Sauvignon. It is one of the hidden gems you must visit on your next trip. 

Vineyard tours and explanations of winemaking processes, as well as tastings, are available at quaint, family-owned wineries. The valley also has a rich cultural heritage, with visits to small towns and museums possible.

Why Visit:

• Breathtaking wine tasting tours amidst breathtaking views.
• Vastly less crowded than any of the world’s most famous wine regions.
• The beauty of the scenery with rolling hills and vineyards.

Travel Tip: 

• The Colchagua Valley is two hours south of Santiago, Chile’s capital. See it at harvest time for maximum effect.

8. Tulum, Mexico

Not by any stretch of the imagination unknown, Tulum still retains a laid-back atmosphere compared to its bigger cousins like Cancun or Playa del Carmen. This port town on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is known for its pristine beaches, environmentally friendly resorts, and Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Tulum is much smaller than Chichen Itza, but there’s an intimacy and serenity that cannot be rivaled at these Mayan ruins with its stunning turquoise waters as the backdrop. It is one of the hidden gems you must visit on your next trip. 

Why Visit:

• Stunning beaches and a chill atmosphere.
• Culture, history, and nature in one.
• The perfect destination for yoga retreats and wellness tourism.

Travel Tip: 

• Take a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters at the cenotes (natural swimming holes) around Tulum.

9. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

In contrast, while the whole world seems to be fawning over Croatia’s coastline, this treasure goes largely unnoticed by most. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a sequence of lakes and waterfalls lined with lush forests.

The beauty of Europe presents itself to the visitor, from which one may take in all the views through the wooden walkways and trails while discovering clear waters, cascades, and special wildlife. It is one of the hidden gems you must visit on your next trip. 

Why visit:

• A picture-perfect natural setting that is great for trekking and photo shooting.
• UNESCO-listed areas with flora and fauna species.
• Escape the tourist rush on beaches in Croatia.

Travel Tip: 

• Consider going to this park during the morning or late in the afternoon because the crowds that go there overwhelm it in between. 

10. Bhutan

Bhutan is one of the few countries that still exist as they are today, untainted. Bhutan is located in the eastern Himalayas and offers breathtaking mountain landscapes, vibrant monasteries, and a unique culture focused on happiness and sustainability. It is one of the hidden gems you must visit on your next trip. 

One of the most iconic sites in the country is the Paro Taktsang, or Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which sits high on a cliffside. Bhutan’s strict tourism policies ensure that it remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Why Visit:

• A peaceful, spiritual destination with a focus on sustainable tourism.
• Majestic mountain landscapes and cultural landmarks.
• Rich traditions and a unique approach to happiness.

Travel Tip: 

• Bhutan requires all tourists to book their visit through an approved tour operator. It’s worth the effort for an extraordinary, off-the-beaten-path experience.

Conclusion

Traveling to secret destinations gives a person a taste of the world in more personal and real ways. Some of these not-so-familiar places provide very unique landscapes, interesting cultures, and experiences you will remember forever. The next time you travel, try exploring one of these incredible hidden gems by straying off the beaten path. You may discover your new favorite place in the world.