12 Underrated Cities That Should Be on Your Bucket List
Discover 12 underrated cities around the world, each offering unique culture, stunning architecture, and unforgettable experiences that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
- Alyana Aguja
- 4 min read
Seeking to get off the beaten tourist track? These 12 underappreciated cities have the best of history, culture, and secrets yet to be discovered. From Valparaíso’s colorful streets to Plovdiv’s ancient atmosphere, every destination guarantees memories to last a lifetime that will transform your travel bucket list.
1. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Image from Britannica
Slotted between Croatia and Italy, Ljubljana is a picturesque town famous for its parks and coffee culture. Ljubljanica River passes through the central part of town, lined up with bright-hued buildings and busy markets. Its eco-friendly atmosphere and fairy-tale buildings make it a little-known treasure of Europe.
2. Guanajuato, Mexico
Image from Britannica
This UNESCO World Heritage city is a labyrinth of narrow streets, underground passageways, and multicolored colonial architecture. It has a rich history of silver mining and the famous Callejón del Beso, or Alley of the Kiss. Go there during the Cervantino Festival for an unforgettable experience.
3. Ghent, Belgium
Image from National Geographic
Usually eclipsed by Bruges, Ghent is medieval charm minus the hordes of tourists. Its canals, imposing castles, and thriving art community make for an ideal combination of history and contemporary culture. Sample the local favorite, “stoverij,” a rich Flemish beef stew served with fries.
4. Valparaíso, Chile
Image from Fora Travel
Referred to for its kaleidoscope street art and colorful, sloping hills, Valparaíso is a world of imagination. Its network of alleyways and stairs presents secrets at each bend, from street art to bizarre coffeehouses. Catch a glimpse of one of the historic funiculars overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
5. Tbilisi, Georgia
Image from Georgia Travel
Tbilisi combines traditional charm with bold, modern style. Stroll through cobblestone streets, visit ancient sulfur baths, and marvel at Soviet-style architecture mixed with cutting-edge art venues. Georgian food and wine alone make the trip worthwhile.
6. Lecce, Italy
Image from Travel + Leisure
Known as the “Florence of the South,” Lecce impresses with its lavish Baroque buildings. Sandstone structures of the city give a golden glow during sunset, generating an otherworldly feeling. Don’t leave without trying pasticciotto, a regional pastry with rich custard.
7. Puebla, Mexico
Image from Inspirato
Home to breathtaking colonial architecture and the origin of mole poblano, Puebla is a sensory delight. Its Talavera ceramics are famous around the globe, injecting vibrant color into the city. Take in the views at the nearby Popocatépetl volcano.
8. Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Image from The Guardian
One of the oldest European cities, Plovdiv is rich in history, from Roman amphitheaters to Ottoman mosques. The Kapana neighborhood overflows with art galleries, craft stores, and intimate cafés, a wonderful combination of the ancient past and contemporary creativity.
9. Colombo, Sri Lanka
Image from andBeyond
Too often ignored in favor of the beaches, Colombo is a cultural blend of colonial structures and vibrant marketplaces. Drop by the Gangaramaya Temple to experience a bit of Sri Lanka’s religiosity. Wasting away with street food as the sun goes down at the Galle Face Green is done by locals.
10. Riga, Latvia
Image from Britannica
Riga’s breathtaking Art Nouveau architecture and lively nightlife make it a Baltic jewel. The Old Town, with its cobbled streets, medieval churches, and lively squares, is a UNESCO site. The top of St. Peter’s Church tower offers panoramic city views.
11. Zadar, Croatia
Image from Luxury Travel Advisor
Avoid Dubrovnik’s tourist crowds and visit Zadar, which is famous for its unusual sea organs and sunset. The ancient Old Town is ringed by Roman ruins and medieval churches. Don’t miss the stunning “Greeting to the Sun” light installation along the waterfront.
12. Kaohsiung, Taiwan
Image from WarmCheapTrips
Taiwan’s second-largest city is a lively port city with modern art mixed with green natural scenery. Go to the Lotus Pond for temples and dragon statues or the Pier-2 Art Center for art installations. Night markets here serve some of Taiwan’s finest street food.