Dreaming of a summer pleasure that’s off the beaten path? Dont worry! In this guide, we’ll explore 12 underrated summer travel ideas that promise adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. From charming and beautiful villages to breathtaking landscapes, these hidden gems are waiting to be discovered by curious travelers seeking something extraordinary. Lets dicuss these places one by one.
1. Ghent, Belgium:
Ghent, Belgium, is a city filled with history and culture, dating back to the Middle Ages. Its historical significance can be seen in its well-preserved medieval architecture, with landmarks such as the Gravensteen Castle standing as a testament to its past. The castle, dating back to the 12th century, offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s feudal past and boasts panoramic views of Ghent from its ramparts. Additionally, Ghent’s Old Town is famous for its Gothic buildings, cobblestone streets, and picturesque canals, making it a delight to explore on foot. The city is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, art galleries, and festivals celebrating its rich heritage.
2. Guanajuato, Mexico:
Mexico’s Guanajuato is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is well-known for its colourful colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and intriguing past. The city, which dates back to the 16th century, was once among the richest silver mining communities in Mexico. Today, the city’s mining legacy is preserved at sites like the Mina de la Valenciana. In the city’s historic centre, which is a tangle of winding cobblestone alleys, vibrant homes, and charming plazas, guests may engage in live cultural events, try regional food, and peruse artisan markets to fully experience the local way of life. The yearly Cervantes Festival, which honours literature, music, and theatre and draws artists and performers from all over the world, is another reason Guanajuato is well-known.
3. Puglia, Italy:
Southeast Italian province of Puglia is renowned for its breathtaking coastline, quaint towns, and rich cultural history. The area is well-known for its distinctive trulli houses, which are historic limestone homes scattered over the countryside with conical roofs. The greatest concentration of trulli homes may be seen at Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that provides tourists with a window into the region’s architectural past. Puglia is particularly well known for its gastronomy, which is highlighted by locally farmed vegetables, olive oil, and fresh seafood. Taste classic fare like burrata cheese, olio di oliva, and orecchiette pasta, all accompanied by a glass of Primitivo wine, made from grapes cultivated in the area’s vineyards.
4. Salta, Argentina:
Salta, a colonial city in northwest Argentina, is renowned for its magnificent architecture, lively culture, and spectacular natural surroundings. Having been established in the sixteenth century, the city is home to several historic sites, such as the commanding Cerro San Bernardo, which provides sweeping views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The mummified bones of Inca children found atop neighbouring mountains are housed at the Museum of High Mountain Archaeology (MAAM) in Salta, which offers insight into the native civilizations of the area. Beyond its cultural attractions, Salta is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes like the Salinas Grandes salt flats, the Quebrada de Cafayate canyon, and the Calchaquí Valleys.
5. Lofoten Islands, Norway:
Norway’s Lofoten Islands, which are situated above the Arctic Circle, are well known for their striking scenery, quaint fishing towns, and active cultural life. The islands are a nature lover’s dream come true because of their majestic beaches, glistening fjords, and towering mountains. Hikers may climb to stunning vistas like Offersøykammen and Reinebringen, kayak through picturesque fjords, and take boat cruises to discover secret coves and lonely islands. The islands are also home to quaint fishing communities like Å, where guests may eat freshly caught seafood and learn about traditional fishing methods. The Lofoten Islands provide visitors with an absolutely remarkable experience because of its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural legacy.
6. Luang Prabang, Laos:
Northern Laos’ Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is well-known for its exquisite natural beauty, colonial architecture, and well-preserved Buddhist monasteries. The city is home to several ancient sites, including as Wat Xieng Thong, Wat Mai, and Wat Wisunarat, all of which date back to the 16th century. It served as the capital of the Kingdom of Laos until 1975. By taking part in the daily alms-giving ceremony, when monks gather food offerings from neighbourhood inhabitants, or by ascending Mount Phousi to see sweeping views of the city and surrounding countryside, visitors may learn more about the spiritual legacy of the city.
7. Sintra, Portugal: A short drive from Lisbon is the enchanted town of Sintra, Portugal, which is tucked away in the foothills of the Sintra Mountains. The town is a well-liked day trip destination from the capital because of its enigmatic forests, beautiful gardens, and colourful palaces. The Pena Palace, a charming 19th-century castle built on a hill overlooking the town, is one of Sintra’s most recognisable sights. In addition, visitors may meander through the enchanted gardens of Monserrate Palace, which are renowned for its exotic flora and breathtaking views, or discover the hidden tunnels and underground passageways of Quinta da Regaleira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sintra provides visitors with an incredibly enchanted experience because of its magnificent architecture, extensive history, and spectacular scenery.
8. Jodhpur, India: Situated in the centre of Rajasthan, India, Jodhpur is referred to as the “Blue City” because of its buildings painted blue to keep off insects and keep the interiors cool during the sweltering summer months. One of India’s biggest forts, the imposing Mehrangarh Fort, dominates the city and provides sweeping vistas of the surrounding desert environment. Discover the region’s royal legacy through the fort’s elaborate carvings, large courtyards, and museum artefacts. Jodhpur is renowned for its vivid festivals and cultural events, such as the Rajasthan International Folk Festival and the Marwar Festival, as well as its busy marketplaces where tourists may purchase handicrafts, textiles, and spices. Read more about the city on following link. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jodhpur
9. Faroe Islands: The Faroe Islands are a remote island in the North Atlantic Ocean between Norway and Iceland that is well-known for its spectacular cliffs, untamed scenery, and diverse birds. The islands consist of eighteen main islands and several smaller islets, each with its own distinct experiences and attractions. In the Faroe Islands, tourists may kayak through glistening fjords, climb to famous sites like the sea stacks of Drangarnir and Tindhólmur, and discover charming fishing communities with turf roofs. The people of the islands still engage in customs related to music, dance, and storytelling, showcasing their rich cultural legacy. Travellers can expect an absolutely unique experience in the Faroe Islands with its breathtaking natural beauty and distinctive cultural traditions.
10. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic: The scenic town of Cesky Krumlov is situated in the southern region of the Czech Republic and is well-known for its charming riverfront setting and well-preserved mediaeval architecture. The most famous feature in the town is Cesky Krumlov Castle, a 13th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site that provides expansive views of the surrounding landscape. In addition to exploring the intricate network of courtyards, gardens, and rooms within the castle, visitors may also take in the colourful Renaissance and Baroque structures that border the Old Town. In addition, Cesky Krumlov is well-known for its outdoor pursuits, which include hiking in the neighbouring Bohemian Forest, biking along picturesque routes, and rafting on the Vltava River. Travellers should make time to visit Cesky Krumlov because of its breathtaking architecture, fascinating history, and lively cultural environment, it could be one of the underrated summer travel ideas.
11. Tasmania, Australia: Tasmania is an island state off Australia’s southern coast that is renowned for its untainted wilderness, craggy coastline, and rich cultural legacy. Numerous national parks may be found in the state, including as Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park, which provides hiking, animal viewing, and camping amid alpine lakes and ancient rainforests. Historic landmarks like the Port Arthur Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was formerly a prison colony for British prisoners, are another reason Tasmania is well-known. Discover quaint towns and villages, indulge in locally produced seafood at markets, and take part in exciting cultural events like Hobart’s Dark Mofo festival when visiting Tasmania. Tasmania is one of underrated summer travel ideas and provides visitors with an experience that will never be forgotten because of its breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and distinctive species.
12. Chefchaouen, Morocco: Nestled in the northern Moroccan Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is a charming town renowned for its vivid souks, twisting alleyways, and stunning blue architecture. One of the town’s most recognisable aspects is its unique blue colour scheme, which is claimed to have been adopted by Jewish immigrants in the 1930s. Explore the winding lanes of the medina in Chefchaouen; around every curve, you’ll find a different hue of blue and undiscovered gems. The town is also home to a number of historically significant sites, including as the Grand Mosque, which has an impressive octagonal minaret, and the Kasbah Museum, which is situated in a stronghold from the 18th century. Travellers may have a genuinely unique and unforgettable experience in Chefchaouen with its breathtaking architecture, extensive history, and lively environment.
To sum up, these 12 undiscovered treasures provide visitors the opportunity to experience amazing summertime activities off the main track. Every site, ranging from the pristine vistas of the Lofoten Islands to the mediaeval alleyways of Ghent, is abundant in natural beauty, history, and culture. Thus, take into consideration visiting one of these amazing locations if you’re searching for underappreciated summer trip suggestions that provide exclusive encounters and off-the-beaten-path excursions. There are a tonne of undiscovered treasures just waiting to be found, whether you’re drawn to the ethereal appeal of Sintra, the spectacular views of Salta, or the historical charm of Guanajuato. So gather your belongings, get off the beaten path, and experience the enchantment of these lesser-known summer travel spots.
