16 great alternatives to popular and overcrowded destinations

Surely, you must have experienced the disappointment of a particular travel experience – it happens to all of us. Sometimes, we build up such unfounded expectations that when reality finally hits, there’s no escape from the feeling of letdown. It could be the overwhelming crowds, the exorbitant tourist prices or simply the stark contrast between the polished, filtered images we see on social media and the actual, unfiltered reality. It’s a common occurrence, and it’s likely to happen more often, especially when it comes to super-popular destinations.

That is why, in order to avoid such a terrible feeling, taking the path less traveled can sometimes be the best solution. And that’s exactly what we’re here to advocate for: exploring countries or cities that tend to fly under the radar, far from the popular tourist spots that attract hordes of visitors. Are you intrigued? Then join us on this journey as we unveil 16 amazing alternatives to some extremely popular destinations!

16 alternatives to insanely popular destinations

Lombok, as an alternative to Bali

Is there any destination more overexposed on social media than Bali? Once a beloved haven for hippies and backpackers, Bali has now transformed into a playground, overrun by the infamous troupe of influencers and adults attempting to “reconnect with their inner selves”. In fact, the influx of tourists is so high that the local government has had to implement measures to address the discontent among the local population.

So, if you’re longing for a more authentic experience in a place where you’ll actually feel like you’re welcome, venture east and explore the neighboring island of Lombok! While it may not boast the same array of Hindu temples or a bustling nightlife, the truth is that Lombok’s beaches are far better than those of its Balinese counterpart. Furthermore, the mountains and natural landscapes of Lombok are also far superior. Therefore, if what you truly seek is a quaint experience with a lot of swimming a few walks in the nature, leave behind the chaos of Bali and head to Lombok instead.

Albania, as an alternative to Croatia

Thanks to the popularity of “Game of Thrones” and the country’s further integration into the EU, Croatia has become an incredibly popular destination in Europe. However, as is often the case, this newfound fame has brought along massive crowds of tourists and sky-rocketing prices! This is particularly evident along the Dalmatian Coast, home to popular spots like Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar and Hvar.

However, just a few hundred kilometers further south, you’ll be able to discover a destination capable of offering you more at significantly lower prices. Although Albania has been gaining momentum on the tourism scene in recent years, the “Land of Eagles” remains relatively unfamiliar. When visiting the Albanian Riviera, not only will you get to enjoy far better beaches than those you’d find in Croatia, but you’ll also be immersed in a culturally richer experience, where you’ll have the chance to visit historic Ottoman cities (like Berat or Gjirokaster), picturesque seaside villages (like Dhermi or Vuno) and ancient archaeological ruins (Butrint National Park).

Norway/The Azores, as alternatives to Iceland

If Iceland’s remoteness and ridiculously high prices are standing in the way of your visit to the “Land of Fire and Ice”, then we’re excited to let you know that there are fantastic alternatives to its enchanting natural landscapes. Case in point: the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores! Just like Iceland, the Azores boast a unique culture and a seemingly never-ending array of natural wonders that are truly worth exploring. Whether you go on an island-hopping adventure or choose to stick to the most popular São Miguel and/or Terceira, we can guarantee that you’ll have plenty on your plate!

Alternatively, if your desire to visit Iceland is fueled by the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights, you can always turn to Norway. Considering the vast expanse of the country, you’ll want to head as far north as possible, with the region of Tromso (and its surroundings), nestled within the Arctic Circle, offering the perfect conditions for witnessing this awe-inspiring natural spectacle of dancing lights and colors.

Cesky Krumlov, as an alternative to Prague

Although Prague stands as one of the best cities in all of Europe (and a place that everyone should experience), it’s hard to ignore the impact tourism has had on the Czech capital. Looking at stats, Prague receives a mind-blowing 60% of Czechia’s total tourism revenue, making it the most uneven destination in the entire European Union. That being said, it’s wise to explore alternative places that receive fewer visitors for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

One such place, although still quite popular, is the charming city of Cesky Krumlov, located a mere 2 hours away from the capital. Much like Prague, Cesky Krumlov boasts a well-preserved historic center with magnificent baroque and medieval architecture, but with significantly fewer crowds and better prices. Moreover, the fact that it’s quite smaller only adds up to a more intimate and relaxed ambiance. Other Czech cities that deserve a visit include the likes of Olomouc, Karlovy Vary, Kutna Hora and Brno.

Botswana, as an alternative to Kenya

For a long time, Kenya has been a beloved destination among safari enthusiasts and nature lovers, making it one of the most popular tourist spots in all of African. However, contrary to many might think, traveling in Africa can be quite expensive… and I mean really expensive! Especially when it comes to experiencing the wilderness, prices per person can easily reach 300-400 USD per day. Sadly, this reality extends to countries like South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania and even Botswana – our recommended alternative!

As such, our suggestion isn’t based on budget considerations, but on the exceptional quality of wildlife offerings in Botswana, as the sheer variety of experiences is nothing short of astounding. Wish to visit a lush wetland? Look no further than the Okavango Delta. See the world’s largest concentration of elephants? Make your way to Chobe National Park. A desert safari? Just take a detour to the captivating Kalahari. Nighttime sightings? There’s nothing quite like the Tuli Block, located by the Limpopo River. After all, if you’re going to splurge anyway, might as well go all out and experience everything you’ve ever dreamed of!

Guatemala, as an alternative to Mexico

Regarded as one of the world’s most popular destinations during and right after the pandemic, Mexico has gained extraordinary fame, largely thanks to the captivating Yucatan Peninsula and its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins and charming colonial towns. However, limiting yourself to the peninsula, no matter how impressive it may be, means missing out on the true essence of Mexico, which extends far beyond the artificial hubs of Cancun or Tulum.

That being said, if you’re seeking to explore an entire country that can offer you similar vibes and experiences, we wholeheartedly recommend exploring none other than Guatemala, Mexico’s southern neighbor! While it’s true that Guatemala may not quite be on the same level when it comes to pristine beaches, it more than makes up for it with its rich cultural heritage, giving Mexico a run for its money. Whether it’s the colonial beauty of Antigua Guatemala, the impressive eruptions of the Acatenango or the serene landscape of Lake Atitlán, it’s rare to find a visitor who doesn’t leave Guatemala completely enamored. Last, but certainly not least, this is also the home of the magnificent Tikal, an ancient Mayan city that could easily rival Chichén Itzá for the title of Wonder of the World.

Siena, as an alternative to Florence

While, at least ideally, every single Tuscany itinerary should include these two stops, if you find yourself with limited time or a tight budget, it’s wise to delve deeper into the region rather than focusing solely on Florence (which you can easily visit on its own). In this case, if you’re searching for the perfect city to serve as your base, we highly recommend choosing Siena and its enchanting narrow, winding streets!

Not only is Siena generally lighter on the wallet, but it’s also smaller, allowing you to explore every nook and cranny without wasting any time time, before leaving to discover the rest of Tuscany. Regardless of the time constraints, this is still an extremely beautiful and picturesque city, boasting one of the most stunning squares in all of Europe: the majestic Piazza del Campo. Once you’ve explored this alternative to Florence, hit the road and venture to other renowned destinations in the region, such as San Gimignano, Lucca, Pisa, Montepulciano or Elba.

Milos and Naxos, as alternatives to Santorini and Mykonos

When it comes to Greece, the sad reality is that most visitors flock to the famous Santorini and Mykonos, even though the country is comprised of thousands of islands, each offering its own piece of heaven. While these islands are undeniably stunning, they have become victims of overtourism, leaving little room for authenticity, tranquility or affordability.

If you’re looking forward to experiencing the best of the Greek islands but are open to going off-the-beaten-path, then we recommend paying a visit to Milos and Naxos, two underrated gems with all the star power of their renowned counterparts. In fact, they even belong in the same island group – the Cyclades – but attract far fewer tourists. As a result, Milos and Naxos still offer pockets of untouched Greek island life, without jeopardizing the picture-perfect beaches or the traditional Greek villages, with their iconic blue-domed churches and whitewashed houses.

Oman, as an alternative to Dubai

I have to admit, I don’t quite understand why people choose to vacation in Dubai. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a fantastic place to live or even enjoy a layover, but deliberately spending your precious vacation days in Dubai… well, that’s beyond my comprehension! When it comes to futuristic architecture, beaches, deserts or experiencing Islamic culture, there are other destinations that are much more suitable (and, by the way, cheaper) and offer a more fulfilling experience in each of those criteria.

That gets even more puzzling when we look at Oman, the UAE’S next-door neighbor. Not only is it a more affordable destination (although it’s not exactly cheap), but it’s also a hidden gem waiting to be explored. A country where you can discover stunning mountains and breathtaking canyons (wadis), majestic fortresses and lush oases, the sea and the desert. A country with a deeply traditional, yet hospitable culture. A country where Islam is enshrined in the constitution and values are conservative, but a world-away from the strictness of Saudi Arabia. And yet, despite its proximity to Dubai, you’ll rarely encounter other tourists here! That being said, go to Oman… and if you really insist, you can always enjoy a short 3-day layover in Dubai!

The Philippines, as an alternative to the Maldives

Have you ever had the thought of surprising your better half with an amazing getaway to those charming little villas perched above the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean, only to almost faint at the look of the prices? I totally get it, my friend, the Maldives couldn’t be further from being considered a budget-friendly destination! When you factor in the cost of accommodation, flights, meals and all sorts of activities, it’s highly likely that you’ll end up breaking the bank.

Fortunately, the Philippines can offer you the same breathtaking beaches as the Maldives, at a fraction of the cost (and, by the way, with a friendlier local population). Looking at a map and realizing the country is made up of over 7000 islands – 2000 of which are inhabited – I understand the task to pick the perfect spot might sound like a daunting one, but we’re here to help! Enter the islands of Palawan and Boracay, two idyllic havens where you can find some of the most stunning sandy shores you’ll ever lay your eyes on, do a series of delightful boat tours along the surrounding islets and get up and close with the vibrant marine life while snorkeling or scuba-diving.

Turkish Riviera, as an alternative to the French Riviera

While it may not be as popular among the younger crowds these days, there’s still an undeniable allure to the French Riviera. From Menton to Nice, without forgetting the likes of Villefranche-sur-Mer, the Principality of Monaco, and – of course – the iconic Saint Tropez, this region is famous worldwide for its exclusive charm. However, the French Riviera also pretty well-known for its… let’s call it “extravagant” prices.

Luckily, on the cusp of the Asian continent (depending on who you ask), the Turkish Riviera is a much nicer and, dare I say, more interesting alternative to its French counterpart. It’s a captivating blend of traditional Greek villages and historic Ottoman fortresses, all infused with the warm and welcoming Turkish hospitality. Besides, the region’s breathtaking beaches never seem to get overcrowded, so you can always enjoy some sort of quaintness and privacy while taking in the beauty of golden sands and turquoise waters. Some of the best places to visit along the Turkish Riviera include Antalya, Marmaris, Cirali and Bodrum.

Utrecht, Leiden and Delft, as alternatives to Amsterdam

If we’re being honest here, I must say Amsterdam is truly a one-of-a-kind city, as few cities can compare to the Dutch capital when it comes to its aesthetics and atmosphere. However, it’s no secret that the local authorities have expressed their desire to limit the number of arrivals and attract visitors who are willing to spend more, filtering the type of tourist they wish to receive. When looking at overall prices around the city, we must admit that visiting Amsterdam can put quite the strain on your wallet, as the city tends to be on the pricey side.

Well, then why not look for alternatives within the Netherlands? After all, and for a fraction of the cost, you can still enjoy the picturesque canals and stunning Dutch architecture, and you won’t even have to jostle with the crowds for every little bit of space. So, instead of spending all your time in Amsterdam, we recommend taking a short 3 or 4-day trip – the time you’d spend in the capital anyway – to discover other charming cities in the country, such as Utrecht, Leiden, and Delft!

Khao Lak, as an alternative to Phuket and Krabi

As famous and idyllic as Phuket and Krabi might be (and they are), they have become such tourist hotspots that it’s hard to find any authentic experiences in these Thai destinations. Especially in Phuket, it’s like you can’t even escape the clichés anymore.

So, how about trying something different? I mean, those dreamy bays, turquoise waters and pristine beaches can be found all over Thailand, not just in those places. Khao Lak, a little gem located slightly further north stands as the perfect proof! Surrounded by the lush forests and the green hills of the national park that shares its name, Khao Lak is made up of several charming coastal villages, bathed by the tempting waters of the Andaman Sea. Aside from all the fantastic diving and trekking opportunities, this is also a pretty popular spot to witness the nesting and hatching of various species of wild turtles!

Bordeaux or Lyon, as alternatives to Paris

You know what they say, “we’ll always have Paris”. Well, here’s a suggestion: let them keep the French capital! Don’t get me wrong, Paris is undeniably beautiful, but it’s also one of the most visited cities in the world, making it extra hard to find something truly unique and off the tourist trail.

On the other, there are plenty of other French cities that could surely dispute the attention of visitors with Paris, if only given the chance. After all, alongside Italy and Spain, France is one of the most culturally rich countries in Europe! That’s where Lyon and Bordeaux come into the picture. Lyon, the third-largest city in France, is renowned as the culinary capital, offering a gastronomic experience that surpasses that of Paris; while Bordeaux, on the other hand, is famous for its wines, attracting enthusiasts from all corners of the globe keen on trying the infamous sweet nectar. Aside from its soul-comforting prowesses, both cities also boast classic architecture, grand squares and all the quintessential charm you can only find in France!

The Georgian Caucasus, as an alternative to the Dolomites

Having recently made quite the buzz, everyone seems to be finally paying attention to the Dolomites, a mountain range nestled in northwest Italy. However, the truth is that long before its recent popularity, the Dolomites had already captured the hearts of mountain and nature enthusiasts, which is why the region’s trails can get quite crowded during the summer months.

If you’re in search of an alternative that offers similar trekking opportunities and awe-inspiring landscapes, I’d suggest shifting your gaze to the Caucasus region. Tucked between Europe and Asia, this mountainous area is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with Svaneti standing out among the rest. Situated in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains, this Georgian province is enveloped by majestic peaks soaring over 3000 meters, some even reaching an impressive 5000 meters. In Svaneti, you simply can’t miss the chance to visit Ushguli, officially one of the highest settlements in Europe and rightfully recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, as an alternative to Patagonia

Finally, let’s wrap up this list by shining a spotlight on the captivating Central Asia. From the vast Kazakh steppe to the enchanting cities along the historic Silk Road in Uzbekistan, this is truly one of the world’s most underrated regions. However, for the purpose of this article, let’s delve into the remarkable Pamir Highway, a mountainous road that connects the city of Osh, in Kyrgyzstan, to Dushanbe, capital of Tajikistan.

However, this is no ordinary freeway, standing as one of the rawest and most beautiful road trips in the world. Throughout the course of the journey, which can span several days, accommodation options can be quite primitive and humble, and you’ll probably end up staying with locals in their family house or crashing with the nomads in their cozy yurts. As you traverse this breathtaking route, you’ll see nothing but endless stretches of untouched landscape, and you may even make a detour to the Wakhan Valley, a natural border shared with Afghanistan. As such, if you don’t have the budget to get to the equally fabulous Patagonia, the Pamir Highway is an extremely affordable alternative to add to your travel bucket list.

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