While most Americans may be dreaming of a trip to Italy or Mexico to soak up some sights and sun, with travel finally back on the cards and after the uncertainty of the past few years, some may want to venture somewhere new. Whether it's discovering a lesser-known hidden gem or a remote island escape, here we take a look at some of the most underrated countries around the world that deserve a spot on your travel wish-list.
Overlooking the Adriatic Sea, with its incredible scenery, beautiful beaches and historic architecture, Montenegro is becoming the place to be in Europe. The country's highlights include idyllic mountain backdrops, charming port towns such as Kotor and the spectacular Durmitor National Park. Montenegro also boasts some excellent hiking trails, offering up some stunning views that make the effort worthwhile.
A beautiful blend of stunning Himalayan mountains, wildlife and ancient temples, Nepal is picture-perfect. While it's best known for being home to the magnificent Mount Everest, there’s more to this country than just epic mountain scenery. Nepal has a diverse population, making it rich in a variety of cuisines and heritage sites. It is budget-friendly too, with plenty of accommodation, transport and food that won't break the bank. Animal lovers will enjoy trying to spot the desination's abundance of wildlife, such as Royal Bengal tigers, rhinos, elephants and crocodiles.
Hailed for its pretty countryside, lakes and charming towns and villages, visiting Slovenia is like stepping into a fairy-tale. This enchanting wonderland in the heart of Europe has an ever-changing landscape steeped in natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy sights like the famous Lake Bled or delve deep underground and explore the country’s extensive cave system. For the environmentally conscious traveller, Slovenia has won numerous accolades for sustainable tourism too.
Poland might not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a trip to Europe, but this tiny country is filled with surprises. Rich in history, Poland is home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, from the picturesque old towns of Warsaw and Krakow to its oldest national park, Białowieża Forest. Beyond its impressive history, there are plenty of natural wonders including lakes, forests and mountains to discover. Foodies will love the array of traditional dishes to enjoy – a must-try Polish staple is Pierogi, which are dumplings filled with sweet or savoury ingredients.
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East Asian country Taiwan is an eclectic mix of Western, Chinese, Japanese and indigenous influences, reflected in its striking architecture and colourful food markets. The country’s biggest draws are its lush landscapes, the skyscrapers and buzz of Taipei and also its ornate temples; highlights include the magnificent Baoan Temple and the mighty Chung Tai Chan Monastery.
Located off the west coast of Africa, this stunning string of islands in the Atlantic Ocean provides the ultimate tropical escape. Cape Verde is an enchanting mix of beaches, mountains and peaceful seaside villages. With its European and African heritage, each island has a unique and distinct feel, all bursting with character. The tropical climate makes it a great winter sun destination, with warm waters that are perfect for swimming and sailing.
While Americans might be more familiar with England, Wales, with its spectacular landscapes, charming small villages and pretty coastline, is impressive in its own right. Just west of England, this small country packs in plenty of sights including a staggering 600 castles, three national parks and four World Heritage Sites. Visitors can also discover Wales' colourful market towns or relax on one of the many award-winning beaches.
Nestled between Austria and Switzerland, Liechtenstein's landscapes are straight out of a picture book. Set entirely in the Alps, this micronation is surrounded by some truly spectacular scenery, from crystal-clear lakes and lush forests to steep valleys. Skiing, hiking and walking are just a few of the must-do activities here that allow you to truly take in the sights. Hailed for its incredible architecture, Liechtenstein is dotted with medieval fortresses, including the enchanting Vaduz Castle, which is home to the country’s royal family.
With its incredible forests, shimmering lakes, spectacular castles and gorgeous coastline, Latvia is a great destination for all seasons. Sandwiched between Lithuania and Estonia, the Baltic country was formerly occupied by the Soviet Union, who left their mark on the incredible capital Riga. With over 800 years of history, the city’s Old Town is an architectural gem that is sure to draw history lovers and romantics alike. Beyond Riga, Latvia is home to 311 miles (500km) of coastline. From peaceful pine-fringed beaches dotted with fishing villages to beautiful seaside resorts, there is plenty to enjoy.
With its beautiful forests, lakes and nationlal parks, it’s easy to see why nature-loving Finland is often named the happiest country on Earth. Characterised by its wild beauty, Finland is famed for being a prime spot for seeing the mystical Northern Lights, which form a kaleidoscope of colours dancing across the inky black skies. Finland offers some of the best hiking, kayaking and canoeing in the world, while city breakers will love Helsinki for its great food and design.
Hidden in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, North Macedonia is not to be missed when travelling through Europe. The country has been shaped by various empires, from Greek to Ottoman and the mix of cultures and influences is reflected in its fascinating capital city Skopje, where weathered monasteries rub shoulders with ancient Roman ruins. The country's most famous sight is the mesmerising Lake Ohrid. Framed by mountains, this breathtaking wonder is one of the largest and oldest lakes in Europe.
Set in the heart of Central Asia, few destinations in the world offer epic, untouched scenery like Kyrgyzstan. Dominated by lofty peaks, more than 90% of the country is higher than 4,921 feet (1,500m), making it a paradise for walkers, trekkers and hikers. Other highlights from the landlocked nation include alpine lakes, rivers and glittering glaciers offering ample spots for kayaking, swimming and white-water rafting.
With its pristine white sand, blue waters and remote location, Mauritius is the perfect Indian Ocean escape. Lying 1,200 miles (1,921km) off the coast of southeast Africa, the tiny country is filled with art, food, music and nature and is beautifully bordered by 205 miles (330km) of dreamy coastline. Its idyllic setting makes Mauritius the perfect destination for couples or families wanting a relaxing but culture-rich island retreat.
A landscape of rolling hills and mountains dotted with stone churches, monasteries and ancient villages is what you’ll come across in Romania, which feels like it's been frozen in time. Ranging from snowy peaks and lush forests to sandy Black Sea beaches and picturesque countryside, it is one of the most biogeographically diverse countries in Europe. From medieval rural towns to the mysterious Bran Castle that inspired the setting for Bram Stroker's famous horror story Dracula, history fans will love everything Romania has to offer.
Known as Europe’s sunniest island, Cyprus has buckets of charm everywhere you look. The third-largest island in the Mediterranean, Cyprus is rich in history, dotted with breathtaking archaeological sites and cities dating back thousands of years. Its prime position at the crossroads of three continents means there is a variety of delicious cuisine, with Middle Eastern, Southern European and Central Asian influences to enjoy. The island enjoys year-round sunshine and blue skies, and its beaches are beautiful no matter what time of year you visit.
Romantic architecture, blissful scenery and soothing thermal spas are what you’ll discover on a trip to Hungary in central Europe. Whether it’s Roman ruins or medieval townhouses, the country is a treasure trove of architectural delights. Relaxation is at Hungary’s core, home to historic spa cities, towns and resorts which offer warm waters with legendary healing properties to bathe in. The most famous is the majestic Széchenyi Thermal Bath in Budapest, one of the biggest in Europe.
Famed for its fantastic fjords, glaciers and Viking legends, Norway is a dream destination for adventure travellers. An outdoor playground, hiking, camping and walking are some of the best ways to see the Scandinavian country in all its glory and with roughly 385,000 square miles (149,000sq km) of landscape, there’s plenty to discover. Norway’s wildlife is extremely varied: highlights include polar bears, moose, whales and reindeer, making it perfect for wildlife watching.
Hailed for its cheap flights and medieval cities, Estonia is fast becoming a favourite alternative to its more well-known European neighbours. Tucked away in the Baltics, the compact country offers laid-back European charm and unspoilt countryside without the crowds of Spain and Italy. Visitors will struggle not to fall in love with the historic capital Tallinn. With its winding cobblestone streets and dreamy architecture, Tallinn is one of the most enchanting places in northern Europe.
Characterised by its gorgeous beaches lapped by warm sapphire waters, Croatia is as dreamy as it gets. This Mediterranean gem has a small population (roughly 4.4 million) yet makes up for its small size with its rich culture, history and incredible landscapes. The photogenic coastline is Croatia’s biggest draw, perfect for lazying about or if you’re feeling adventurous, kayaking, diving or windsurfing are just a few of the water sports you can try. There are lots of interesting cities and towns to explore too, such as Split, famous for its incredible architecture, capital Zagreb and dreamy ancient walled city Dubrovnik.
Sandy beaches, dramatic mountains and glorious weather are sure to entice you to Bulgaria, another lesser-known country in the Balkans. The country’s coastline, famed for its Black Sea beaches framed by blue waters, is dotted with resorts that draw thousands from Europe each year. From historic towns and villages frozen in time to the impressive religious art and many chaurches of capital Sofia, you’ll be surprised to discover the wealth of attractions this small country packs in.
Located in Southeast Asia, with its vibrant cities, breathtaking beaches, incredible food and tranquil islands, Malaysia is bound to impress. The country is best known for being multi-ethnic and multi-religious and is one of the most diverse countries in Asia. Home to a variety of international cuisine, from Korean dishes to traditional street stalls, food is a real highlight here. Kuala Lumpur, the thriving capital city, is a glorious sight, with its plentiful shopping malls and bars, plus the famous Petronas Twin Towers, which soar high above the skyline.
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More than 10 times smaller than neighbouring Belgium, Luxembourg is another overlooked European gem. Home to classic castles, pretty small towns and natural beauty, the charming country has plenty to offer. Lying majestically over two river gorges is Luxembourg City, one of Europe’s most scenic capitals, where its UNESCO-listed Old Town is filled with museums, restaurants and cafés. In the heart of the city is Chemin de la Corniche, a pretty promenade overlooking the valley, often regarded as the continent's most beautiful balcony.
It'll be hard not to be enchanted by the Czech Republic. This landlocked county is home to the largest density of castles in all of Europe, from crumbling ruins to remarkably intact hidden gems, which add to its fairy-tale feel. Prague, the country's alluring capital, is the epitome of Czech culture. With its gorgeous Gothic architecture, historic streets and the world's largest castle complex, Prague Castle, the city offers a window into the past.
Lying halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand, this pretty cluster of islands can be found scattered across the South Pacific. An untouched paradise, the Cook Islands offer glittering beaches, swaying palm trees, bold blue waters and an all-year-round tropical climate. Activities here include swimming and snorkelling in the clear warm waters or diving among the country’s colourful coral reefs teeming with marine life. With plenty of unspoilt beauty, there's a plethora of natural trails to explore and wildlife to discover.
For those who love fairy-tale castles, pretty medieval streets and delicious food, look no further than San Marino, a charming nation in the heart of Italy. Measuring just 24 square miles (61sq km) on the slopes of Monte Titano, the country is thought to be the oldest republic in the world. Highlights include the medieval Three Towers, which loom above its namesake capital, tax-free shopping in boutique shops and riding the San Marino cable car, which offers panoramic views across the landscape.
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Another gem of the Caucasus, Georgia is one of the most ancient and fascinating countries in the world. Framed by the Caucasus Mountains, the largest mountain range in Europe serves as the backbone of the country, offering hiking and walking unlike anywhere else. There's also history at every turn, as Georgia is one of the world's first Christian countries, dotted with beautiful churches and monasteries dating back centuries. Georgia also claims to be the birthplace of wine, with boutique wineries offering some of the best (and most affordable) tastings and tours in the world.
Thanks to its favourable location between Sicily and North Africa, historic Malta is blessed with 300 days of sunshine on average, so there’s never a bad time to visit. From prehistoric temples to ancient cities, you will feel like you’re stepping back in time as you uncover Malta’s rich and diverse history. Fringed by beautiful blue waters, the country is dotted with hidden coves, picturesque lagoons and stunning stretches of sand.
Situated between Germany and France, Belgium is a pint-sized European country that certainly packs a punch. With its stunning architecture, picture-perfect canals and mouthwatering cuisine, Belgium is often regarded as the ‘Essence of Europe’. One of the world’s greatest cosmopolitan capitals, Brussels, can be found here, which is also considered the centre of the European Union. Characterised by its cobbled streets, fascinating museums mouthwatering chocolatiers, you won't want to leave.