Popular destinations are popular for good reason – they offer incredible sights, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and memorable experiences. But as more and more people flock to the same hotspots, overtourism becomes a problem.
Overtourism is when too many visitors negatively impact a destination’s environment, local residents, or your experience as a tourist. Think hour-long lines, damage to cultural sites, and environmental degradation.
Luckily, our vast world is filled with underrated alternatives where you can avoid crowds yet still have an amazing trip. Here are four lesser-known spots to consider instead of overrun favorites:
1. Visit Underrated Sicily Instead of Mainland Italy
With its long coastline, temperate climate, and ancient history, it’s no wonder Italy attracted 58.3 million international visitors in 2017 alone. Cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence struggle to manage the hordes arriving daily. From pickpockets to price gouging, overtourism takes its toll.
So next time you plan an Italian getaway, try the underrated island of Sicily instead. Lower visitor numbers means you can better immerse yourself in Sicily’s vibrant culture – all at a more affordable price.
Why Visit Sicily
This Mediterranean island dazzles with its dramatic coastline, smoldering volcanoes, delicious food, and layers of Arab, Greek, Norman, and Italian heritage. It may be part of Italy, but Sicily has a culture all its own.
Beyond beaches and brooding Mt. Etna, top attractions include:
- Valley of the Temples – Ancient Greek ruins in Agrigento.
- Palermo street markets – Outdoor stalls brimming with local delicacies.
- Monreale Cathedral – 12th century Norman cathedral renowned for glittering mosaics.
- Taormina – Charming coastal town with panoramic views.
- Cefalù – Small seaside medieval town.
Sicily combines natural and cultural treasures with a more relaxed vibe. Locals embrace the Italian love of la dolce far niente – the sweetness of doing nothing.
Linger at a sidewalk cafe sipping espresso, stroll picturesque cobblestone lanes, and soak up Sicilian life. The slower pace lets you connect more authentically with people and place.
Perks of Traveling to Sicily
Compared to mainland Italy, Sicily offers:
- Less crowds at major attractions like churches, archaeological sites, and beaches. No need to battle tour groups!
- More reasonable prices for accommodations, food, and museums.
- Unique fusion cuisine with Arabic and Greek influences. Be sure to try arancini rice balls, eggplant caponata, and cannoli pastries.
- Accessible active volcano! Hike Mount Etna for stunning views of craters and lava flows.
- Immersion in traditional festivals and markets.
- Proximity to nearby islands like Aeolian Islands and Pantelleria.
Sicily encapsulates the beauty of Italy without the challenges of overtourism on the mainland. For culture and natural splendor minus massive crowds, put this Italian jewel on your radar.
2. Discover Underrated Guatemala Instead of Costa Rica
With epic surfing, lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and perfect beaches, Costa Rica tops many travelers’ wish lists. Unfortunately, its gorgeous landscape and eco-tourism have made it a victim of overtourism.
Around 3 million people visit yearly, straining infrastructure and harming fragile ecosystems. But just south lies an underrated alternative: Guatemala. This Central American gem offers all the nature and culture of Costa Rica, often at a fraction of the cost and crowds.
Why Visit Guatemala
Though lesser known than Costa Rica, Guatemala wows visitors with its dramatic landscapes. Volcanoes, jungle, colonial architecture, and ancient Mayan sites will capture your imagination.
Top experiences include:
- Exploring the lively capital Antigua’s cobbled streets and preserved Spanish buildings.
- Hiking pacaya and fuming Fuego Volcanoes near Antigua.
- Relaxing at breathtaking Lake Atitlán ringed by indigenous villages.
- Discovering lesser-visited Mayan ruins like El Mirador and Tikal.
- Shopping colorful indigenous textiles and crafts at markets.
- Sampling traditional cuisine like pepian stew and tamales.
With far fewer tourists than Costa Rica, you’ll have room to soak up Guatemala’s vibrant living culture. Watch indigenous ceremonies, explore local villages, and interact with welcoming locals.
Benefits of Visiting Guatemala
Compared to overcrowded Costa Rica, Guatemala offers:
- Smaller crowds at sites like Lake Atitlán, Antigua, and key ruins. No need to book months in advance!
- Lower prices for tours, transport, hotels, and food. Budget further by staying in homestays.
- More cultural immersion with opportunities to learn from locals.
- Greater sense of adventure with untamed landscapes and unpaved roads.
- Close access to Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador, and Belize for extended exploration.
With rich culture, stunning scenery, and limited tourism, Guatemala lets you better connect to Central America’s heart and soul.
3. Relax on Cambodia’s Islands Instead of Thailand
Postcard-perfect beaches. Towering palms. Bright turquoise waters. For tropical paradise, Thailand’s islands like Phuket and Ko Samui top many bucket lists. And with good reason – they’re stunning. However, over 32 million tourists flocked to Thailand in 2017 alone. Crowds degrade natural habitats and local culture. For a more relaxed island vibe, consider underrated Cambodia instead.
Why Visit Cambodia’s Islands
Largely overlooked, Cambodia’s southern islands share Thailand’s idyllic scenery – but without the masses. Blissful beaches, rustic bungalows, colorful coral reefs, and fresh seafood await.
Top islands include:
- Koh Rong – Lively island with stunning Long Beach and rainforest interior.
- Koh Rong Sanloem – More secluded island perfect for diving, snorkeling, and relaxing.
- Koh Thmei – Undeveloped island to unplug with limited electricity.
- Koh Totang – Scuba diving haven with untouched coral reefs.
With their laid-back atmosphere and limited development, Cambodia’s islands allow you to immerse in tropical life. Dine on just-caught fish, sway in a hammock under rustling palms, and enjoy sunsets without crowds. The possibilities for relaxation are endless.
Benefits of Visiting Cambodia’s Islands
Compared to Thailand’s popular islands, Cambodia’s island life offers:
- Fewer tourists and more unspoiled natural environments.
- Lower costs for food, lodging, and activities like diving.
- Opportunities for deeper connection with locals.
- Quieter, less crowded beaches, villages, and walking paths.
- More environmentally conscious development and amenities.
Love island life but not the crowds? Cambodia awaits with paradise potent enough to rival Thailand – minus the overtourism.
4. In Europe, Try Romania Instead of Paris or Venice
For stunning architecture, rich history, and artistry, few places compare with Paris or Venice. But after seeing crowds elbowing for selfies at the Louvre or Rialto Bridge, you may long for a more tranquil experience.
Enter underrated Romania. With romantic towns, soaring castles, monasteries tucked in clouds, and storybook countryside, Romania dazzles – minus hordes of tourists.
Why Visit Romania
Beyond Romania’s legendary castles lies a country ripe for exploration, from centuries-old villages to energetic cities. Top experiences include:
- Transylvanian countryside – Dramatic mountains and lush forested valleys.
- Brasov – Medieval walled town surrounded by the Carpathians.
- Sibiu – Charming cobblestoned city with Baroque architecture.
- Sighisoara – Enchanting citadel town where Dracula was born.
- Monasteries – Painted monasteries with stunning murals dot the landscape.
- Black Sea – Relax on wide sandy beaches and take scenic hikes along the coast.
- Bucharest – Romania’s underrated capital blends eccentric architecture, hip cafes, leafy parks, and a pulsating nightlife scene.
Romania dazzles with unspoiled landscapes, deep history, and rich culture – all away from mass tourism. You can fully immerse yourself without navigating swarms of tourists.
Benefits of Visiting Romania
Compared to overrun European hotspots, Romania offers:
- Intriguing blend of eastern and central European influences.
- Lower prices for accommodations, food, attractions, and transport.
- Lesser-known towns and regions without heavy tourist traffic.
- Preserved folk customs, cuisine, and architecture.
- Stunning mountain ranges like the Carpathians ideal for hiking.
- Monasteries and churches housing beautiful frescoes and icons.
- Vast countryside made for scenic road trips or train journeys.
- Dynamic cities like Bucharest, Cluj, and Timisoara with vibrant culture.
From rustic villages to refined cities, Romania rewards travelers seeking culture, history, and dramatic landscapes minus the crowds.
Start Exploring the World’s Underrated Places
Overtourism creates unnecessary hassles and harms popular destinations. Luckily, our planet still has countless underrated spots to satisfy your wanderlust instead.
By venturing beyond obvious hotspots to lesser-known gems, you enjoy all the perks of travel without the downsides of crowds. Your trip leaves less impact while you better connect with locals. It’s a win-win.
So what intriguing underrated destination will you explore next? The world is full of hidden gems waiting to be uncovered by mindful travelers seeking adventure away from the masses. Be bold – get off that bucket list and blaze your own trail!
FAQs
What is overtourism?
Overtourism is when too many visitors negatively impact a destination, like through overcrowding, environmental damage, and disrupting local lifestyles. Popular destinations often suffer from overtourism.
How can I avoid overtourism on my travels?
Avoid mainstream hotspots and visit lesser-known alternative destinations instead. Underrated places provide similar experiences without the crowds.
What are some examples of underrated destinations?
Sicily instead of mainland Italy, Cambodia’s islands instead of Thailand’s, Guatemala instead of Costa Rica, Romania instead of Paris or Venice. Each offers great sights minus hordes of tourists.
Why should I visit underrated places?
You can better immerse yourself in local culture, have more authentic experiences, and avoid hassles of crowds. It’s also often more affordable and sustainable.
How do I find the hidden gems not overrun by tourists?
Research destinations off the main tourist trail. Ask locals for tips. Check travel blogs or guidebooks focused on underrated spots. Steer clear of anywhere described as “must-see.”
