Many fascinating cities in the world have been overshadowed by adjacent tourist favorites. Despite not being well-known or on the radar of many travelers, these are less crowded and have much to offer. Here are the top 10 most underrated cities in the world that you must include in your bucket list.
- Nara, Japan
Nara was the first permanent capital of Japan. Established in 710, it houses the largest Buddha statue in Japan at Todaji temple. Just adjacent to the temple is Nara Park which is home to tame deer wandering freely. Located an hour away from Osaka and Kyoto, this Japanese city is full of cultural treasures, sacred mountain ranges, early Japanese artifacts, and spiritual sites. Many of these sites feature flower gardens that enhance their surroundings. Explore this beautiful city for cherry blossoms, deer, ancient temples, and pilgrimage routes in Japan’s first permanent capital.
Link: https://www.pexels.com/photo/brown-deers-on-brown-sandy-ground-5236400/
- Malaga, Spain
Although Spain is popular for cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville, Malaga is an all-popular destination that has risen to fame for being the birthplace of the world-renowned artist Pablo Picasso. The Picasso Museum houses 4,251 of his works. The coastal region is popular for medieval fortresses, castles, stunning beaches, food, and culture. Malaga should be your go-to destination if you want to spend your summer in Spain.
- Tallinn, Estonia
Although this place is not frequently visited like other European nations, the city’s soaring Gothic architecture has plenty of sightseeing marvels to offer to its visitors. You can visit Valjaha church and St.Olaf’s Church to explore ancient remnants. The city is also littered with ruins of Middle Ages castles. The Old Town has earned the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site and is worth exploring.
- Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore has a lot to offer to visitors in the form of breathtaking waterfront views, experiences, and more. Also referred to as the “Charm City”, you can explore the wonders of the undersea world at the National Aquarium. Explore out-of-this-world art at the American Visionary Arts Museum if you are an art fanatic. You get to experience the rich culture, history, and creative spirit at the Lewis Museum of African American History & Culture. Adventure, charm, and art await everywhere you go in this mesmerizing city.
Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/the-interior-of-the-george-peabody-library-in-baltimore-12899487/
- Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is one of the greatest cities in Europe you would not want to miss exploring on your trip. The gorgeous Danube River that flows through the city divides it into nearly two sections, Buda and Pest. It is also referred to as the “Paris of the East”. The city has a delightful attitude, gorgeous architecture, and a distinct vibe. Its refined culinary scene is worth relishing.
- Busan, South Korea
Although this second-biggest city in South Korea hasn’t earned international recognition, it does have beautiful attractions waiting to be explored. Hometown of K-pop sensation, Jeon Jungkook, this city has brightly-colored attractions such as the Gamcheon Culture Village, the Buddhist temple in the lap of the mountains, and much more.
- El Nido, Philippines
El Nido is a beautiful beach city located on the island of Palawan. This little known-gem is home to massive limestone cliffs protruding from the ocean and surrounds fantastic white dunes and crystal blue waters. It is the best place to explore new marine life and has top spots for diving and snorkeling. The white sand beaches, picturesque lagoons, glassy seas, towering limestone cliffs, and rocky islands make El Nido a popular tourist destination.
Link: https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-boats-on-sea-near-the-gray-rock-formation-5329069/
- Banff, Alberta, Canada
Banff is a cute, little resort town nestled within Banff National Park. It promises breathtaking views of the lake and the nearby mountains. This serene Canadian town is the best place to be for wildlife observation and seems nothing less than a slice of heaven. Excellent hiking spots, magnificent sights, abundant fauna, and the towering mountains welcome the visitors when at Banff.
- Cafayate, Argentina
Named one of the best wine destinations in the world by Wine Enthusiast magazine, this magical place houses scenic vineyards where you would want to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of a busy life. It is also home to Quebrada de las Conchas which has earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here the visitors are free to hike among vibrant red rock formations that are simply breathtaking.
Source: https://pixabay.com/photos/argentina-quebrada-de-cafayate-3800458/
- Chail, Himachal Pradesh, India
Dotted with Deodar and pine trees, this quaint hill station is situated in the heart of the Indian state Himachal Pradesh. This offbeat destination is located close to Shimla, which is often crowded with tourists. Chail has magic and freshness oozing from every corner. You can explore Chail Sanctuary, Lover’s Hill, Kali ka Tibba and Sadhupul Lake in this tiny little city in India.