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|Updated in October, 13,2024|

Are you tired of combing through lists with the same old recommendations of where you should travel next? If you think about the globe, there are thousands and thousands of destinations – many of them have not gotten the attention they deserve! So go against the status quo and plan an unexpected trip of a lifetime to any of these top travel destinations.

 

There are 50 unique places to visit in the United States, with cities, parks, coastlines, and towns waiting to be explored. You constantly hear about trips to New York, Napa Valley, Denver, San Francisco, and other popular destinations.

 

Make this year a year when you travel off the beaten path and explore some of the most underrated top travel destinations across the U.S. and the rest of the world.

 

The Unique Destinations to Travel to in 2024

The Unique Destinations to Travel to in 2024: USA

1. The Oregon Coast

Dozens of beaches line the coast of Oregon, beckoning a visitor at sunset. But, unfortunately, the Oregon coast is less visited than the coast of Washington or California.

 

The tourism dip allows the coast to feel peaceful, serene, and captivating. Similar to other west coast beaches, the terrain is rugged and immaculate. Many small towns are lining the Oregon coast where you can dine on fresh seafood, watch for whales, and watch winter storms from a cozy lodge.

 

Top Things to Do in Oregon

• Oregon Coast Day Tour: Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock
  Explore beautiful Oregon’s coastline and visit unforgettable vistas of the Pacific and its wide sandy beaches
  

2. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is loaded with history, natural sites, and fantastic food. However, one of the most intriguing aspects of Santa Fe is the rich art culture. Some streets, such as Canyon Road, are lined with incredible art structures and architecture. In addition, Santa Fe is known for its Native American and Mexican cuisines. Check out 25 things to do in Santa Fe to see a local’s list of the top attractions in Santa Fe.

 

3. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is a romantic getaway located in North Carolina. Many fantastic hiking trails and walking paths exist within a few miles of the city. The best time to visit Asheville is as the leaves change in the fall. Visit Downtown Asheville to experience amazing breweries, enjoy live music, and eat farm-to-table cuisines.

 

The Biltmore Museum is a popular attraction located in Asheville. This estate is incredible and has immaculate botanical gardens and an outstanding winery.

Top Things to Do in Asheville, North Carolina

• 2.5-Hour City Electric Bike Tour with Views in Asheville
  Explore the best of Asheville, North Carolina, by e-bike.

• 1-Hour Haunted Walking Ghost Tour
  Explore historical places in Asheville and learn chilling legends and mysteries.

• Guided Waterfall Hike with Snack in Asheville, NC
  Hike through the jungle to beautiful waterfalls and learn about flora and fauna. 

4. Alaska National Parks

There are so many options for National Parks to visit in Alaska: Denali, Katmai, Glacier Bay, and Kenai Fjords, to name a few. These national parks are some of the least visited national parks in the country. There are opportunities for snowmobiling, kayaking, climbing, berry picking, and various other activities.

 

A trip to a national park in Alaska will be the adventure trip of a lifetime, as it is such a unique place to go!

 

Top National Parks to Visit in Alaska

• Denali: Highway Jeep Excursion
  See glaciers, mountains, and wildlife on a 100+ mile excursion through the Alaska wilderness.
  

• Denali National Park: Wilderness ATV Adventure
  View beautiful mountains on the way and wildlife from panoramic viewpoints in Alaska.
  

• Seward: Kenai Fjords National Park 6-Hour Cruise
  Explore the fantastic world of whales, wildlife, and glaciers on an incredible cruise through the Kenai Fjords National Park.
  

5. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Enjoy theater, the coast, and world-renowned cuisine in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Portsmouth is a small town that thrives off seasonal happenings, outdoor activities, and tax-free shopping. This small town makes for a relaxing getaway.

 

You can stay in an old colonial home and spend your days biking along the shore. You could even make this a stop on a road trip through the Northeast if you want. See the top 10 USA road trip routes for ideas on itineraries for a road trip across the Northeastern states.

 

Many European vacations include Rome, Paris, Dublin, and other world-renowned destinations. When planning your next trip to Europe, add some goals that may be new to you. Some European cities are charming but do not get the attention they deserve. If you are hungry for more obscure European destinations, check out the most underrated destinations in Europe.

 

The Unique Destinations to Travel to in 2024: Europe

1. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a city that has the perfect mix of modern architecture and rich history. Moreover, since tourists do not encompass Budapest, it is an affordable place to visit.

 

Budapest holds much character expressed in the lively nightlife, the frequent festivals, and the popular attractions. Budapest is a city where you could be thrilled whether you were hopping between shopping and bars or strolling the streets and soaking in the architecture. So add Budapest to your bucket list if you want to experience a rich culture and character!

Top Things to Do in Budapest

• Budapest: 24, 48, and 72-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
  Join the hop-on-hop-off open-top bus tour and visit the city’s critical landmarks of Budapest, Hungary.

• Dinner Cruise with Live Music
  Eat a delicious dinner on the Danube river cruise and enjoy the beautiful city views.

• Explore Budapest on the 2.5-Hour Segway Tour
  With this city tour, you will learn about Budapest’s history and how to ride a Segway on a private city Segway tour.

2. Riga, Latvia

Riga is the perfect destination for you if you like to meet locals and learn how they experience daily life. Not only can you befriend locals, but many locals allow visitors to stay in their homes and apartments with them!

 

The streets are stunning and express the city’s history, religion, and culture deeply embedded. Riga has many cuisines and traditions that differ from other European countries. Riga is the perfect destination if you want to be removed from the bustling city and rest and wander through fairytale streets.

Top Things to Do in Riga, Latvia

• Best of Riga Walking Tour
  Are you tired of touristy places? Then, this tour might be a good fit for you. On this tour, you will see many sites that tourists do not know.

• Get your entrance ticket to the House of the Black Heads
  Visit one of the most beautiful and historical buildings in Riga.

• Mini Baltic Day Tour to Sigulda, Ligatne & Cesis
  If you travel with a group of people and want to visit places, this tour is your best choice. You will see the main sights of Latvia with the Mini Baltic Tour.

3. Porto, Portugal

If you enjoy fine wine, Porto is the perfect destination for you. Porto is known for its wine estates in Porto and museums that are spread across the city. The city lies beside the Douro River, making great riverfront walks. The narrow, cobblestone streets are enchanting. Consider participating in a boat or history tour to learn more about the beautiful, whimsical city.

 

Want to save money on public transport and Porto attractions?! Get your Porto Card with Transportation (1, 2, 3, or 4 Days) and get over 150 discounts and benefits, including free access to 6 museums and 50% off on a visit to a port wine cellar.

Top Things to Do in Porto

• Douro Valley Tour – Wine Tasting, Lunch & River Cruise
  Explore the beautiful valley of Porto with a wine tasting, lunch, and cruise

• Porto: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, River Cruise, & Port Cellar Tour
  Explore the city’s sights with this combo ticket that provides two days’ access to 2 hop-on, hop-off bus tours, 1 Douro river cruise, and 1 tour of the Calém Port Wine cellars.

• 3-Hour Port Wine Walking Tour with Tastings in Porto
  Learn how wine was produced on a 3-hour walking tour with 10 delicious wine tastings.

• Unique Live Fado Performance with Port Wine
  Enjoy a traditional concert in a small live music venue.
  

4. Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki is a pretty popular tourist destination. But, did you know that Finland is also the happiest country to live in? Who could think about it, right? Explore Helsinki’s vibrant neighborhoods and world-renowned saunas. While many people are concerned with the effects of traveling on their health, Helsinki is where you can better your health by visiting saunas and dining on the most amazing locally sourced cuisines. The city is the perfect size to navigate by foot and even offers opportunities to see the northern lights.

Top Things to Do in Helsinki, Finland

• 90-minute Helsinki Boat Sightseeing on the Beautiful Canal Route
  Enjoy a cruise along Helsinki’s canal and view the sights along the shores, including city highlights such as the historic Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress, the Helsinki Zoo, and the fleet of icebreakers.
  

• Helsinki and Suomenlinna 5-Hour Sightseeing Tour
  On a 5-hour guided tour, you will explore the main sights in Helsinki as well as you will be able to take the ferry to Suomenlinna and explore the islands on foot.

• From Tallinn: Return Day Trip Ferry Ticket to Helsinki
  Are you in Tallinn and want to go to Helsinki? No problem at all. Take this day-trip ferry to Finland’s capital, Helsinki.

5. Montenegro

Although Montenegro is one of the smallest European countries, it holds mountains, seas, and unique villages. Montenegro has mountain trails that offer some of Europe’s finest and most challenging hiking experiences. In addition, Montenegro has beautiful, pebbly shores and unique cuisine. It is the perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts.

Top Things to Do in Montenegro

• Durmitor, Tara & Ostrog Monastery Day Trip (save up to 20%)
  Explore the beautiful coastline of Kotor Bay, the deepest canyon in Europe, and Tara Canyon, and hike around Black Lake before visiting Ostrog Monastery.

• From Dubrovnik: Montenegro Boat Trip to Kotor and Perast
  Enjoy this day trip to Montenegro from Dubrovnik. You will also enjoy the Old Town of Kotor and the town of Perast at leisure.

The Unique Destinations to Travel to in 2024: Asia

1. Hangzhou, China

One of the most common reasons to visit Hangzhou is for its reputable green tea farms and festivals. In addition, Hangzhou offers opportunities to participate in art and cycling in a new way.

 

When visiting Hangzhou, you will be immediately immersed in the city’s culture. Biking around to local markets, visiting different tea farms, and making art of your own are everyday activities for those who visit Hangzhou. However, instead of experiencing Chinese culture in the chaos of a large city, see how locals on the outskirts of town enjoy their daily lives.

Top Things to Do in Hangzhou, China

• Hangzhou Private Half–Day Tea and Gardens Tour
  Learn the culture of Hangzhou, view the West Lake, sip a cup of Longjin tea, and learn how the tea is produced.

• Private Ultimate Hangzhou Sightseeing Tour
  Enjoy a full-day sightseeing tour with a cruise around the mist-shrouded West Lake, the UNESCO site, and wander around Flower Harbor Park and more.
  

• Private tour of serenity and beauty of nature in Hangzhou
  Take a boat around the West Lake, explore the beautiful mother nature of China, and familiarize yourself with the tea ceremonies.

2. Chiang Rai, Thailand

Chiang Rai is a hidden gem of Thailand that offers a fantastic Thailand experience without crowds and tourists. With its Night Bazaar and Jazz Festival, Chiang Rai has what it takes to provide fantastic nightlife.

 

In addition, the majority of the riverfront is undeveloped, which makes for incredible landscapes that are unaltered and uninhibited. Perhaps the most spectacular part of Chiang Rai is the Wat Rong Khun “White Temple,” which is so stunning that many people visit the city to see it.

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Top Things to Do in Chiang Rai, Thailand

• White Temple & Black House Small Group Tour
  Visit the famous White Temple and Blue Temple on a guided tour from Chiang Rai.

• Chiang Rai: Full-Day Customizable Private Tour
  Explore the natural beauty of the Chiang Rail city on a private guided tour.

• From Chiang Mai: Chiang Rai Famous Temples Small Group Tour
  Visit the famous temples of Chiang Rai on a small group tour from Chiang Mai.

3. Luang Prabang, Laos

Nestled among the northern mountains and multiple rivers, Luang Prabang is a tranquil city that is best to visit in October-April. Luang Prabang offers various unexpected activities, including cave exploration, playing with elephants, and visiting artisan cafes.

 

Luang Prabang has fantastic food, dozens of temples, kind citizens, and landscapes beyond your imagination.

Top Things to Do in Luang Prabang, Laos

• Luang Prabang Local Food Tour At Night By Vintage Tuk-Tuk
  You can’t leave Laos without trying its famous food. Get your tickets to this local food tour.

• Half-Day UNESCO Heritage Sites Guided Tou
  Visit the Wat Xieng Thong Temple, Wat Mai Suwannaphumaram Monastery, and more.
• Mekong River: 2-Hour Luxury Sunset Cruise with Canapés
  Cruise along the Mekong River for 2 hours during the sunset.

4. Palawan, Philippines

Have you ever visited an underground river? The underground river is one of the most incredible natural wonders of the Philippines. Between the rivers, stunning beaches, great seafood, and friendly locals, you could easily spend weeks immersed in the Palawan culture.

 

Palawan offers an island getaway that includes much more than just sandy beaches. While in Palawan, get off the coast and visit El Nido- a diverse coral submerged in emerald lagoons and surrounded by limestone cliffs.

 Best Things to Do in Palawan, Philippines

• Puerto Princesa: Honda Bay Island Hopping & Optional Massage
  Discover the marine life of the Philippines and enjoy the beach.

5. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Although Kuala Lumpur is an exotic, large city – it is not a huge tourist destination. However, Kuala Lumpur has all the components that make for a perfect city vacation.

 

Not only are their incredible dining options featuring dishes from across the globe, but a large percentage of the population comes from everywhere!

 

It is straightforward to find transportation around the city. And the city is filled with unbelievable shopping, exotic wildlife, and an immaculate skyline. The city is so full of entertainment that you could quickly fill your days with endless activities, so choose your actions wisely!

Top Things to Do in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Kuala Lumpur Sightseeing by Private Vehicle with Driver
  If you are a group of people, join this tour.

• Putrajaya Tour with Traditional Boat Cruise
  Enjoy a half-day tour and see a mix of futuristic and traditional architecture.

• Kuala Lumpur: Sunway Lagoon Ticket & 1-Way Transfer
  Why not spend a fun day at the water-based theme park?

• From Kuala Lumpur: Private Full-Day Tour to Taman Negara
  On this 8-hour tour from Kuala Lumpur, you will visit Taman Negara National Park and will be able to enjoy such activities as jungle treks, rock climbing, fishing, and more.
  

Check out the top 10 budget destinations.

The Unique Destinations to Travel to in 2024: The rest of the world

1. Durban, South Africa

Beaches, sunshine, and mountains, Oh my! Durban is a city that offers a wide variety of activities and maintains a beautiful climate year-round. For the last three years, it has been voted the best city in South Africa to maintain a good quality of life.

 

If you want a chance to restart, consider visiting Durban and taking early morning jogs or surfing lessons to experience the breathtaking sunrise. Families, surfers, beach bums, and history buffs can all find a place to relax in Durban.

Top Things to Do in Durban, South Africa

• Durban Half-Day City Tour – Golden Mile, Botanical Gardens
  Explore the Botanic Garden, enjoy the views of the Golden Mile, and visit the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
  

• Gondola Ride
  Enjoy the gondola boat ride and experience amazing views.

• From Durban: Sani Pass and Lesotho by 4WD Vehicle
  Visit the capital of KwaZulu Natal along the way and observe the highlights of Pietermaritzburg.
  

2. Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua, Guatemala, is a beautiful city surrounded by volcanos. You can easily take day trips to hike the volcanos or spend days exploring the various markets spread across the cobblestone streets of the brightly colored city.

 

Antigua is not a typical tourist destination, so it can easily be explored without the chaos of long lines and selfie sticks. Instead, try the typical Guatemalan cuisine if you want to excite your taste buds.

Top Things to Do in Antigua, Guatemala

• From Antigua: Pacaya Volcano Trek
  Get this fantastic opportunity and trek to the Pacaya Volcano, where you will see the cold ashes and dry lava at the summit.

• From Antigua Three Mayan Villages on Lake Atitlan Day Tour
  Familiarize yourself with Mayan culture and experience the breathtaking views

• Chichicastenango and Lake Atitlan Tour From Antigua
  On this full-day tour, you will visit the site of Latin America’s largest and most colorful outdoor market.

3. Tasmania, Australia

Tasmania is one of the unique vacation spots in Australia. It is the smallest state and perhaps the most intriguing. Not only can you see what an actual Tasmanian devil looks like, but you can also visit the picturesque white sand beaches and the underground art world. In addition, Tasmania has incredible hikes with unique views and the purest air pollution in the world.

 

Perhaps the most exciting journey is through the Tasman National Park, with views unlike any you have seen before.

Top Things to Do in Tasmania

• Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise
  Enjoy a 3-hour wilderness cruise to explore Bruny Island’s
• Tasman Island: 3-Hour Wilderness Cruise
  Enjoy a trip along the spectacular coastline between Port Arthur and Eaglehawk Neck in southern Tasmania.

• Tasman Peninsula Tour, Cruise & Port Arthur Historic Site
  Get a taste of morning tea, and lunch along with the cruise tour to the Port Arthur Historic Site

• Cradle Mountain: Day Trip from Launceston with Lunch
  Enjoy the beauty of mother nature, walk in the rainforest, eat lunch, and more on a small group tour of Cradle Mountain National Park

• Bruny Island: Full-Day Food, Lighthouse & Sightseeing Tour
  Get your tickets to an all-inclusive gourmet & sightseeing tour of the Bruny Islan.

 

Final Thoughts

Thousands of destinations around the world are waiting to be explored! Instead of going to the most popular destinations, try venturing to a less traveled place. You will have the opportunity to get to know local civilians, explore amazing natural wonders, and experience the rich cultures of cities worldwide.

 

What other unique countries visit can you recommend? Feel free to share in the comments below.

 

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