15 Underrated Cities Around the World That Deserve More Attention

Aerial panoramic view of Ljubljana decorated for Christmas holidays. Roofs covered in snow in winter time. Slovenia, Europe.

There are many cities worldwide that are underrated. Travelers are sharing their best-hidden gems that offer unique landscapes and experiences that you won’t find in well-known tourist destinations such as New York City or Los Angeles.

1. Luang Prabang, Laos

Asian woman wearing a Lao national costume visits Wat Xieng Thong in Luang Prabang, Laos
Photo credit: chanchai duangdoosan // Shutterstock.com

One of the most underrated cities in the world is Luang Prabang, Laos. This charming city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, blending French colonial architecture with rich Lao traditions. Nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, Luang Prabang offers serene beauty, incredible temples like Wat Xieng Thong, and natural wonders such as the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls.

The city’s peaceful vibe, vibrant night market, and opportunities to engage with local culture, like the daily alms-giving ceremony, make it a hidden gem for travelers seeking authenticity and tranquility.

2. Arequipa, Peru

An aerial image of Plaza de Armas Arequipa in Peru. South America on a sunny day.
Editorial credit: Stephanie van Deventer / Shutterstock.com

While travelers flock to Cusco and Lima when touring Peru, Arequipa is not often on many Peru itineraries. However, according to many explorers, it is one of the country’s hidden gems. Framed by 3 volcanoes, it’s filled with baroque buildings constructed from sillar, a white volcanic stone. Truly a beautiful city.

3. Bern, Switzerland 

An aerial view of the old Bern, Switzerland city center and Nydeggbrucke bridge over river Aare on a picturesque, sunny day.
Editorial credit: SCStock / Shutterstock.com

With its blend of history, beauty, and authenticity, Bern truly deserves recognition as an exceptional travel destination. This is evident in its stunning architecture and museums, which offer visitors a captivating glimpse into Switzerland’s past. Plus, Bern’s relaxed atmosphere, away from the bustling tourist crowds, allows for an authentic Swiss experience, where you can wander through tranquil parks, savor delectable Swiss cuisine, and take in breathtaking views of the Aare River.

4. Salzburg, Austria

A snowy landscape image of Salzburg, Austria, showing a large castle at the top of a tall hill and the city buildings blow, covered in shadow and snow.
Photo credit: Canva

Salzburg is a town in Austria known for being where Mozart was born. It offers stunning views and architecture and is also one of the towns with the most important musical heritage.

The streets are filled with opera singers, performers, and musicians, which makes this city so unique and unforgettable.

5. Romania, Sibiu

A charming town square known as The Large Square in Romania, Sibiu is bustling with people at sunset.
Photo credit: Canva

A must-visit for all medieval lovers who want to explore the spirit of Transylvania, Romania. The town certainly offers a lot, packed with charming medieval buildings and history.

The beautiful natural landscape surrounds the city, and the Old Town is a maze of winding streets, vibrant architecture, and churches that take you back to the time of Kings.

6. Sarajevo, Bosnia

An aerial landscape view of the city of Sarajevo, BiH. Smaller colorful homes and building in the foreground are followed by taller, modern buildings, with vast mountains in the background.
Photo credit: Canva

The City where History is made and where World War I started, but besides its cultural and historical monuments, Sarajevo offers a lot of beautiful things to see. According to many users, Sarajevo is a destination for people who want to explore the Balkans, watch and see extraordinary views, eat the best food, and meet good people.

7. Chicago, Illinois, USA

The Bean sculpture in Millennium Park in the middle of downtown Chicago, surrounded by skyscrapers lit up against a cloudy night sky.
Photo credit: Canva

One European described Chicago as a must-visit City when in the US. The city lies on Lake Michigan, one of the planet’s largest and most beautiful freshwater lakes. According to many, the city offers stunning and iconic architecture. The people are kind and hospitable, and for all foodies, the city provides its deep-dish pizza and a thriving cuisine worldwide.

8. Budapest, Hungary

An aerial shot of the city of Budapest, Hungary at dusk. An orange sky looms over ancient buildings, with St. Stephen's Basilica in the center.
Photo credit: Canva

Somebody described Budapest as a city where the exact moment people lay eyes on it, it takes their breath away. The mixture of the old and modern world with grand architecture makes travelers lose their minds. Whether you try Turkish thermal baths or go on a city cruise at night, the time spent in this city will be the best. Also, someone mentioned the low and affordable prices that are always welcome.

9. Salvador, Brazil

Colorful buildings line an empty street in Salvador, Brazil on a cloudy day.
Photo credit: Canva

The famous City of Salvador is a not-so-often-mentioned gem of Brazilian heritage. The city leaves you breathless with its unique mix of culture, architectural design, and natural beauty. The moment people enter the city, they breathe in the Brazilian spirit.

It offers various festivals, celebrations, beautiful beaches, incredible food, and famous Brazilian hospitality.

10. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Aerial panoramic view of Ljubljana decorated for Christmas holidays. Roofs covered in snow in winter time. Slovenia, Europe.
Photo credit: Matej Kastelic // Shutterstock.com

One wanderlust traveler shared their experience talking about the city set in a romantic fairytale. Europe’s green capital offers its visitors a unique culture and history blend. It’s made for people who just want to live in their fairytale, drinking wine, eating good food, and imagining that they are in a castle. The charming old town depicts the example of the hidden European beauties.

11. Kotor Crna Gora

A sunning aerial view of Kotor Crna Gora at sunset. The winding waters weave through mountain ranges on one side, and a bustling city center on the other side, packed with buildings and green trees.
Photo credit: Canva

Kotor is a hidden gem located in the small Country of Montenegro. Coming under UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, Kotor is one of the Adriatic’s oldest and best-preserved medieval towns.

The first foundation’s settlement of the city dates back 2000 years. Offering its visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and cuisine. Recommended to all people who love to explore and unravel historic beauty.

12. Belgrade, Serbia

The Temple of Saint Sava in Belgrade, Serbia -- a looming white stone building against a clear blue sky.
Photo credit: Canva

According to many internet travelers, The heart of the Balkans, Belgrade, is also an often underrated city in Europe that offers great fun. The dynamic and ancient City of Belgrade serves as the nation’s capital and is home to a tasty fusion of mixed cuisine, a fascinating history, and lively nightlife.

The city’s intriguing history dates back more than 7000 years, and for travelers who love history and museums, it’s a great place to stay. Besides the cultural and historical relevance, the city is famous for its nightlife. Many people described the nightlife as legendary because of the many bars, clubs, underground clubs, and boat parties.

13. Taipei, Taiwan

The busy, bright Raohe Street Night Market in Taipei, Taiwan features hundreds of stores, bright lights and traditional decorations, and more for tourists and locals.
Photo credit: Canva

Known for its rich culture and fascinating destinations, Taipei is often an overlooked and underrated city wonder. Many people described their experience and travel to Taipei as magnificent. With its rich culture and a unique fusion of modern and traditional Taiwanese culture, the city represents a location where every travel-holic has to go.

It offers a beautiful landscape with hot springs, beaches, mountains, and many more. The cuisine is among the best in the world, and for all shopping lovers, Taipei represents a paradise.

14. Chengdu, China

Three baby panda's sit on a wooden table. Chengdu, China is famous for their population of Giant Pandas.
Photo credit: Canva

In the Sichuan province in China lies the ancient capital city of Chengdu, A wonder that most of the world has never heard of. The over two millennia-old city holds one of China’s most significant historical markers, among the historical sites and temples.

The city is also famous for its most significant inhabitants: the giant pandas. Several users suggested this city to all travelers who love ancient history and big chunky adorable animals.

15. Belfast, Northern Ireland

A view of Belfast City Hall at dusk in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The quiet street is lined with buildings leading towards the city center.
Photo credit: Canva

A city that never gets the attention it needs is the capital city of Northern Ireland. Filled with fascinating history and culture, the city offers a unique experience that many famous places don’t. All Titanic lovers and fans can find and explore more about Titanic’s connections to the city.

Being surrounded by stunning natural beauty, all under the UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers breathtaking views and experience. But, of course, for beer lovers, the city offers some of the best beer on the planet too.

Source: Reddit

10 of the Most Beautiful Cities in the World According to Travelers

Rachel Carson Bridge (aka Ninth Street Bridge) at night, spanning Allegheny river in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Editorial credit: Mihai_Andritoiu / Shutterstock.com

Have you ever visited a place that astounded you with its beauty and allure? People recently revealed the most stunning city they had ever seen in person on an internet platform. These cities are very lovely, with beautiful natural landscapes and historical architecture.

Read more: 10 of the Most Beautiful Cities in the World According to Travelers

12 of the Most Underrated Cities in Europe to Add to Your Bucket List

An aerial view of the old city of Bologna, Italy, where people walk the streets lined with ancient buildings.
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Explore the hidden gems of Europe as we unveil a curated list of 12 of the continent’s most underrated cities that deserve a coveted spot on your travel bucket list. While iconic destinations like Paris, Rome, and Barcelona often steal the spotlight, Europe boasts a plethora of captivating yet lesser-known urban treasures waiting to be discovered.

Read more: 12 of the Most Underrated Cities in Europe to Add to Your Bucket List

12 of the Most Boring Major Cities in the World According to Travelers

A view overlooking Art Mountain in Brussels on a beautiful simmer day.
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While travel experiences can be exciting and memorable, not every destination leaves a lasting impression. Now I will explore the cities that have been labeled as lackluster by travelers who were seeking more vibrant and captivating experiences.

Read more: 12 of the Most Boring Major Cities in the World According to Travelers