Top 5 Underrated Places to Visit in the World

We’re all itching to escape out living rooms in the midst of this global pandemic, and many of us have been wondering where we’d like to travel to once this is “all over” – perhaps to one of the most underrated places in the world.

Ever wondered where in the world is worth visiting the most?

After twenty countries I have visited so far, spanning Europe, Oceania, and Asia – here are my some of my top places so far. 

 

1. Melbourne, Australia

Australia, is hands down, one of the happiest places on Earth. They are the nicest people of any nationality I have ever met. Everything in Australia is chilled, laid-back, and peaceful. 

You’ll come back from your trip adapting their, “no worries” motto – and you’ll never want to stop hearing it. 

However, of all the major cities I visited in Australia, Melbourne was hands down my favorite.

It’s colorful, electric, and vibrant… the skyscrapers of the city speak for the atmosphere itself.

colorful skyline in Melbourne

View of colorful skyline in Melbourne, Australia ; January 2019

Why is it worth traveling to melbourne?

With music filled streets that reminded me of Barcelona, the Queen Victoria Market reminding me of cities for foodies, and the Central Business District screaming Manhattan – there is something in Melbourne for everyone.

Melbourne is the place to go if you crave places with a creative, energetic vibe – as it’s filled with the perfect mix of charm and hustle.

Exploring the Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne; January 2019

Exploring the Queen Victoria Market in Melbourne, Australia; January 2019

2. Prague, Czech Republic

Everyone is always blabbing how romantic cities like Rome and Paris are… but having visited them both, I dare to say that this one is more fairy-tale like and passionate than the other two. 

Old Town Square in Prague; January 2018

Old Town Square in Prague, Czech Republic; January 2018

Why is it worth traveling to prague?

The mix of old architecture, cuisine, and magical vibe of Prague make it an encapsulating and often overlooked European city.

With the cliché narrow, cobble stone streets of Europe, old, dark colored architecture, and endless jewelry shopping – this city is great for couple and solo travelers alike. 

Near the Charles Bridge in Prague

Near the Charles Bridge in Prague, Czech Republic; January 2018

Be sure to read more on the best views of the city and what else to do when you visit Prague here.

 

3. Budapest, Hungary

Having seen most of Europe’s big cities, everyone usually jumps to the conclusion that London is Europe’s New York City

… but they’re wrong.

Budapest is Europe’s New York City.

The Hungarian Parliament pictured in January 2018.

The Hungarian Parliament in Budapest, Hungary; January 2018

 The architecture is some of the most stunning I’ve seen anywhere in the world – with heavy influences from the Middle East.

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Buddha Castle in Budapest, Hungary; January 2018

Why is it worth traveling to Budapest?

Like New York City, there is infinite shopping and food to try, and when you’ve had your big day out in the city: you can close out by visiting one of Budapest’s famous bath houses.

Bottom Line: don’t miss out on Budapest.

 

4. Barcelona, Spain

 Spain is one of my favorite countries – and Barcelona is one of my all-time favorite cities. 

At La Sagrada Familia in December 2017

At La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain; December 2017

Why is it worth traveling to Barcelona?

Gorgeous weather, beach side, and unlimited, delectable Spanish food like Paella or tapas: this city is like diving into an ambitious painting.

One of the famous ‘casas’ in Barcelona, Spain.

One of the famous ‘casas’ in Barcelona, Spain.

It’s super easy to navigate, and packed with Gems like La Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, and the view from Tibidabo. 

The view from Park Guell in December 2017

The view from Park Guell in December 2017

There’s a reason why so many kids want to study abroad in Barcelona, and for reasons beyond the infamous nightlife – as it’s lively personality, food, beaches, and unique architecture attract over 15.5 million tourists every year. 

 

5.     Queenstown, New Zealand

 Dare I say, New Zealand is even more stunning than Switzerland

Swiss Alps; May 2017

Swiss Alps; May 2017

 The pictures speak for themselves.

Landing into Queenstown

Landing into Queenstown, New Zealand; January 2019

Lake Tekapo in New Zealand; January 2019

Lake Tekapo in New Zealand; January 2019

Queenstown, New Zealand in January 2019

Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown, New Zealand; January 2019

Why is it worth traveling to queenstown?

Although isolated from the rest of the world, Queenstown has a rugged, unspoken beauty that makes you feel profoundly connected to nature – alongside exciting excursions such as paragliding, speedboat riding, and visiting Milford Sounds.

A road trip through the southern island of the country is a must when traveling to this underrated travel destination!

Want to know more about other underrated places in the world? Click here!