10 Hidden Gems Recommended by Travel Bloggers
When it comes to travel inspiration, no one uncovers the world’s most captivating corners quite like seasoned travel bloggers. These globe-trotting explorers go beyond the guidebooks, uncovering offbeat places that many travelers overlook. From secluded islands to ancient villages, their recommendations bring fresh perspective to those seeking authentic, crowd-free adventures.
We asked travel bloggers and digital nomads to share their favorite under-the-radar destinations—the ones they loved so much, they almost didn’t want to reveal. Here are 10 hidden gems around the world that come highly recommended by those who know travel best.
1. Giethoorn, Netherlands – The Village with No Roads
Recommended by: Shivya Nath, The Shooting Star
Often called the “Venice of the North,” Giethoorn is a fairytale village where boats, bikes, and footpaths replace cars. Located in the Dutch countryside, this peaceful town is crisscrossed by canals and surrounded by thatched-roof cottages and flower-filled gardens.
Shivya recommends visiting outside peak hours to truly enjoy the calm and charm of this idyllic spot. Rent a whisper boat to explore the waterways, or stroll along the wooden bridges with barely another tourist in sight. It’s a quiet, slower-paced alternative to the tourist-heavy cities of the Netherlands.
2. Ksamil, Albania – The “Caribbean” of the Balkans
Recommended by: Gwen Delage, One Quarter at a Time
Tucked along Albania’s Ionian coast, Ksamil boasts clear turquoise waters, small offshore islets, and white sand beaches. Gwen describes it as one of Europe’s best-kept secrets—offering the beauty of the Greek islands without the steep prices or large crowds.
Visitors can take a quick boat ride to nearby islands, enjoy fresh seafood in seaside tavernas, and relax in budget-friendly boutique stays. Ksamil is especially great in shoulder seasons, when the weather is ideal and the coast is nearly empty. With its laid-back vibe and natural beauty, it’s a must-see in the Balkans.
3. Takayama, Japan – Time Travel in the Japanese Alps
Recommended by: Emily Luxton, Emily Luxton Travels
Nestled in the mountains of central Japan, Takayama is a well-preserved town that feels like a step back into the Edo period. Emily praises its wooden merchant houses, morning markets, and peaceful temples that offer a deep sense of history and culture without the crowds of Kyoto.
Visitors can explore the Hida Folk Village, enjoy sake tasting at family-run breweries, or stroll the old town’s narrow streets at sunset. It’s also a gateway to the stunning Japanese Alps and traditional ryokan experiences. For an authentic slice of Japan, Takayama is hard to beat.
4. Valbona Valley, Albania – Europe’s Wild Escape
Recommended by: Nick and Dariece, Goats on the Road
The Valbona Valley in northern Albania is a remote, rugged paradise for nature lovers and hikers. Surrounded by towering peaks and dotted with alpine meadows, it’s part of the Accursed Mountains—one of Europe’s least explored national parks.
Nick and Dariece recommend the Valbona to Theth trail, a scenic hike between two traditional mountain villages that passes through some of the Balkans’ most untouched landscapes. You’ll find simple guesthouses, homemade meals, and incredible hospitality along the way. It’s an immersive adventure that rewards travelers willing to go off the grid.
5. Comporta, Portugal – Chic but Unspoiled
Recommended by: Helena Bradbury, HelenaBradbury.com
Just 90 minutes south of Lisbon, Comporta is a coastal hideaway loved by Portuguese locals and in-the-know travelers. Helena calls it “Portugal’s Hamptons,” but with rice fields, wild dunes, and a more bohemian vibe than flash.
The area has quiet beaches, relaxed cafés, and a slow rhythm that makes it perfect for disconnecting. It’s not overdeveloped, and accommodations range from stylish guesthouses to eco-resorts tucked into pine forests. Comporta feels worlds away from the crowded Algarve and is perfect for summer serenity.
6. Isla Holbox, Mexico – A Rustic Island Paradise
Recommended by: Kate Storm, Our Escape Clause
Isla Holbox lies just off the Yucatán Peninsula, but it still feels like a world apart from the tourist-heavy resorts of Cancun and Tulum. Kate raves about its car-free streets, hammock-studded beaches, and friendly island pace.
Here, you can swim with whale sharks, kayak through bioluminescent waters, or sip cocktails on a sandbar as flamingos wander by. Accommodations are colorful and charming, and seafood is fresh and affordable. It’s a destination that feels like a secret—at least for now.
7. Sibiu, Romania – Gothic Charm Without the Crowds
Recommended by: Audrey Bergner, That Backpacker
Sibiu is a small city in Transylvania with pastel buildings, cobblestone streets, and a distinctly medieval vibe. Audrey describes it as “storybook Eastern Europe” and praises its relaxed pace compared to Prague or Budapest.
It’s home to vibrant markets, historic squares, and quirky details like the “houses with eyes” peeking from every rooftop. Summer months bring cultural festivals, live music, and open-air cafés. For a mix of history, beauty, and affordability, Sibiu delivers big time.
8. Raja Ampat, Indonesia – A Diver’s Dream
Recommended by: Chris and Heather Boothman, A Brit and a Southerner
Located in West Papua, Raja Ampat is one of the most biodiverse marine environments in the world. Chris and Heather call it the ultimate hidden gem for snorkelers and scuba divers seeking coral reefs untouched by mass tourism.
Remote and pristine, the region is made up of over 1,500 islands, many of them uninhabited. Visitors can stay in eco-lodges or homestays run by local communities and spend days exploring underwater caves, lagoons, and vibrant reefs. Getting there requires effort, but the reward is unmatched.
9. Colchagua Valley, Chile – Wine Country Without the Fuss
Recommended by: Nora Dunn, The Professional Hobo
Colchagua Valley is Chile’s answer to Napa, but with fewer tourists, lower prices, and just as much wine. Nora highlights its boutique wineries, scenic countryside, and warm hospitality as key reasons it stands out.
Travelers can enjoy private tastings, vineyard picnics, and horseback rides through rolling hills. It’s easy to reach from Santiago and makes a perfect two- or three-day getaway. For wine lovers looking to explore something new, Colchagua is a rewarding detour.
10. Flores, Guatemala – Gateway to Ancient Ruins
Recommended by: Steph Dyson, Worldly Adventurer
Flores is a tiny island town on Lake Petén Itzá and a base for visiting the ancient Mayan city of Tikal. Steph loves its colorful buildings, lakeside charm, and local vibe that’s far more relaxed than tourist-heavy areas in Guatemala.
You can wander the cobbled streets, take boat rides on the lake, and try traditional Guatemalan cuisine at open-air restaurants. It’s also a great jumping-off point for jungle treks and cultural experiences with local communities. For travelers seeking history and serenity, Flores offers both.
