While most of us like going on holiday, dealing with throngs of tourists is rarely enjoyable.
Even if you’re a people person, hardly anyone likes visiting towns or sites that are jam-packed with other travellers. Not only can it ruin the experience and stop you from exploring at your own pace, but it’s also stressful – and nobody wants to be stressed on holiday!
But, the good news is that there are many gorgeous places all over the world where you can follow the path less travelled.
From locations that are off-the-beaten-track to towns that are simply overlooked in favour of their more famous neighbours, here are 11 places to go on holiday if you want to avoid crowds.
1. Peruvian Amazon
Peru is known for many things: Incan history, Andes mountains, Machu Picchu, and having some of the best food in South America. But it’s also home to one of the world’s most unexplored regions – the Amazon Rainforest.
While over half of the Amazon is in Brazil, 13% of it is found in Peru, and it’s here where the biodiversity is at its greatest. If you’re looking for a nature-focused holiday far away from the crowds, the sweltering and seductive Peruvian Amazon is ideal – as this is where the rainforest is at its most wild.
This is a truly enormous place where indigenous communities and captivatingly rare wildlife hide away from prying eyes. Of course, travelling through such a protected place should be done responsibly, and a river cruise is an excellent way to do this.
You can venture into the depths of the jungle without disturbing the wildlife, and enjoy some luxury and comfort while experiencing an intrepid adventure. Swim with pink dolphins, visit native communities, and marvel at the unique flora and fauna that surrounds you
2. Valencia, Spain
If you’re thinking about a city break in Spain – perhaps somewhere where you can stroll through historic streets, soak up plenty of culture, and kick back on the beach – there’s a good chance that Barcelona is the first place that comes to mind.
But while undeniably exciting and beautiful, Barcelona is also crowded, and walking around the popular Gothic quarter can be uncomfortably busy.
So why not head further down the coast and visit Valencia instead? As Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia is packed with culture, history, and beauty, but is more low key than Barcelona or Madrid, and allows tourists to explore on their own terms and at their own pace. Boasting a lovely old quarter, fantastically futuristic buildings, and plenty of gorgeous green spaces, it’s ideal for a city break.
And then there are the beaches. The Valencia region, on Spain’s east coast, is home to the Costa Blanca – the ‘White Coast’ – and there are more than 200 metres of sugary white sand beaches to visit.
Whether you’re looking for captivating culture, compelling history, idyllic beaches, or lively restaurants, Valencia has it all – just without the throngs of tourists.
3. Senegal, West Africa
Senegal is tipped to be the next must-visit African holiday destination, and while the colourful capital city of Dakar is lively and exhilarating (and at times overwhelming), other places in this captivating country are blissfully tranquil.
If you’re looking for a serene beach break, you’re in the right place, as the Petite Côte and Cap Skirring coastlines boast wide strips of beaches where you can relax undisturbed. The beaches of Île de Gorée, Yoff, and N’Gor are also ideal if you want to avoid crowds yet still enjoy a fun and laid back ambience.
Just two hours south off Dakar is one of Senegal’s best resorts, the idyllic Pointe Sarene. Once a sleepy fishing village, this six-mile-long stretch of coast is fast becoming one of the country’s most popular areas. And despite the increasing number of luxury hotels and villas popping up, the crowds haven’t yet caught on, so things still feel surprisingly quiet.
If you’re into nature, you can find peace and solitude – as well as fascinating wildlife – in one of Senegal’s six national parks. The easiest to access is Saloum Delta National Park, a 440,000-acre stretch of saltwater canals and forest-swathed wetlands where you can spot countless species of exotic birds, take breathtaking boat rides, and enjoy being in such scenic surroundings.
4. North Macedonia, Southeast Europe
If you’re looking for an idyllic European destination that isn’t overcrowded, a holiday in North Macedonia might be ideal.
Bordered by Greece, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Albania, North Macedonia isn’t only one of Europe’s lesser-known spots, but it’s also one of the most unique. Its culture is both Mediterranean and Balkan.
It might be small, but North Macedonia isn’t short of dramatic beauty. Around 80% of its land is blanketed with looming mountains and gleaming lakes, so if you’re into hiking, cycling, or kayaking, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Animal enthusiasts will be just as happy, as you can spot bears, wild boars, wolves, foxes, and deer here – as well as over 200 species of butterfly.
If you’re more into culture and history, there’s just as much to keep you busy. The Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires have left their mark all around, and there are many amphitheatres, statues, and monasteries to visit. The food is a delicious blend of these cultures too!
While Lake Ohrid and its town can feel busy in summer, much of the country feels wonderfully unexplored.
5. Northumberland, England
The UK may be small compared to some other countries, but there are still places that feel almost deserted.
If you’re thinking about a staycation, you may be tempted to visit the Pembrokeshire coast, the charming Cotswolds, or the rugged Scottish highlands. But the famous beauty of these places means they’re popular with tourists all year round.
If you really want to stay away from throngs of tourists and crowded attractions, why not head to Northumberland instead? Known as ‘England’s last great wilderness’, this beautiful county is home to the least populated national park in the country, and more castles than anywhere else in England. And that’s without mentioning its gorgeous moorland and miles of craggy coastline.
Hikers will love exploring Coquet Valley and Breamish Valley, while history buffs can visit magnificent castles like Dunstanburgh, Alnwick, or the Holy Island of Lindisfarne just off the coast.
Or, to venture further off the beaten track, why not head to the Farne Islands? Known for being David Attenborough’s favourite place in the UK, these wild, lonely islands are home to puffins, seals, and dolphins.
6. The Mekong, South East Asia
If you’ve always dreamed of visiting South East Asia, but don’t want to face the crowds in sprawling cities like Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh City, why not take a cruise down the Mekong River?
Asia’s third-longest river flows for more than 3,000 miles and begins high up in the Tibetan Plateau. It then passes through the stunning landscapes of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.
Exploring these spectacular countries from the water will give you a unique perspective on your surroundings, and you’ll see far more diversity than you would while jostling your way through crowded cities.
In Vietnam, the Mekong Delta winds its way through emerald rice fields and floating markets. Then in Cambodia you can explore the fascinating Phnom Penh with its Silver Pagoda. If you like, you can also visit tourist sites like Angkor Wat or embrace the frenetic energy of Bangkok, knowing you can escape to the tranquillity of the river any time you want.
To learn more about a trip to this part of the world, you might like to join the free talk, We really need to talk about Vietnam, running on Rest Less Events on 1st November 2024.
7. Hamburg, Germany
Germany’s second largest city, Hamburg, is often overlooked in favour of Berlin – but if you’re looking to explore the arts, culture, and food scene of an important and historic city, there’s no denying that Hamburg is one of the best places in Europe.
Named “one of the coolest cities on earth” by Lonely Planet, this city combines the history and significance of Berlin with the canal charm of Amsterdam…just without all the crowds.
Known across the world for its nightlife, you don’t have to hit the clubs to have a good time here. With many exceptional cocktail bars, pubs, concert halls, and a 300-year-old state opera, you won’t be short of things to do.
There’s also the food scene, which is a masterclass of gastronomic diversity and culinary trends – perfect if you like trying new things!
This modern, exciting city is steeped in history too. A centre of international trade during the Middle Ages, Hamburg’s maritime past still pervades the city, and the lively waterfront along the Elbe River is home to many of Hamburg’s best attractions. Visit the historic fish market, pop into breweries, explore museums, and admire the gorgeous sea-facing architecture.
8. British Columbia, Canada
As the world’s second-largest country, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to learn that vast swathes of Canada remain totally untouched by tourism.
Canada is an incredibly diverse country, home to dense forests, thundering waterfalls, majestic mountains, and shimmering lakes, as well as many cosmopolitan cities. But British Columbia is arguably one of the most beautiful provinces.
While parts of British Columbia (like Vancouver and the popular ski town of Whistler) are tourist hotspots, other parts are more remote and far less frequented by travellers. The Sunshine Coast in particular is where to go to escape the crowds, as this 180km stretch of captivating coastline and pristine wilderness is only accessible by plane or boat.
If you’re a keen hiker (or just an admirer of nature), chances are you’ll love exploring the spectacular scenery. You can trek up the craggy Mount Elphinstone summit trail, and wander through mossy rainforests in Malaspina Provincial Park. There are charming fishing villages to relax in, gorgeous beaches to kick back on, and dazzling fjords that will take your breath away – all without crowds.
9. Lombok, Indonesia
The Indonesian island of Bali is famous throughout the world for its beauty, spirituality, nature, and nightlife. But with fame comes crowds, and even in the off-season, this tropical paradise can be chock-full of tourists.
If you’re looking for a blissful beach break, the neighbouring island of Lombok has all the charm and beauty of Bali – except there’s more space to lay down your beach towel. Plus, it has more mystery and better trekking opportunities.
The south of the island is home to silky beaches lapped by warm turquoise waters and backed by sheer cliffs. This gorgeous island is also known as a surfer’s paradise, so if you’re into surfing, or you’d like to learn, there are few better places for wave-chasing.
For those into trekking, you’ll almost certainly want to climb Gunung Rinjani, which is Indonesia’s second-highest volcano. Hiking up its jungle-clad paths takes a few days, but it’ll be an experience you’ll remember forever. When you reach the top, the view of volcanic calderas silhouetted against the spectacular sunrise will most likely take your breath away.
10. Uzbekistan, Central Asia
Uzbekistan is one of those places you may have never even thought about visiting – but, once you go, you’ll wonder why you left it so long.
Throughout history, Uzbekistan’s charms were well-known to adventurous explorers as this Central Asian country is the heart of the old Silk Route. And, aside from its spectacular mountainous landscape and welcoming locals, it has much to offer tourists.
The reason that Uzbekistan hasn’t been very popular with travellers in recent years was to do with its complex visa regime and Soviet-era controls – but today the country is a very different place. Now that Uzbekistan has flung its doors open to tourists, it won’t take long for the crowds to start streaming in, so if you want to visit before the rest of the world wises up, now’s your chance!
If you’re into culture, history, and architecture, the Silk Road cities of Bukhara, Samarkand, and Khiva are a must-visit. You can admire some of the world’s most elaborate Islamic buildings, from delicate minarets to opulent, turquoise-tiled palaces.
A trip to Uzbekistan will offer you the chance to stroll through bustling bazaars, explore remote desert citadels, and immerse yourself in a mesmerising country that’s as ancient as it is unforgettable.
11. Bhutan, South Asia
It’s no exaggeration to say that Bhutan is like no other country in the world. Closed off to visitors until 1974, entering this fascinating country that’s locked between China and India feels like stepping back in time…
Red-robed monks wander through ancient monasteries, locals stroll the streets in traditional dress, the hills tinkle with the ring of yak bells, and archery remains the national pastime.
Bhutan is a beacon of sustainability and preservation – both of environment and culture. Not only is it carbon neutral, but it’s also carbon negative, and it’s built on a philosophy of low-impact tourism.
Much is made of the country’s tourist tariff, which sees visitors paying $100 per night to visit. This tariff protects Bhutan from the millions of visitors who would otherwise flock to this unique country and allows you to access one of South East Asia’s most spectacular places.
Located in the midst of the world’s highest mountains, this Himalayan Kingdom is home to towering peaks, lush valleys, and remote monasteries – not to mention the enigmatic snow leopard!
If you’re thinking about a holiday but dread the thought of being crammed into tourist hotspots like a sardine, we hope this article has inspired you. From far-flung corners of the world and continental breaks to holidays on our very own shores, the world might be overpopulated, but that doesn’t mean every part of it is crowded…not by a long shot.
If you’re interested in a city break, you might be tempted by Valencia or Hamburg, or if you’re after a coastal break that feels like a genuine escape, Lombok or Canada’s Sunshine Coast might appeal to you. Alternatively, if you just like being by the water, you could take a cruise along the beautiful Mekong River.
If it’s culture and history that you’re looking for, you’ll find that in abundance in both Uzbekistan and North Macedonia. Or, if you’re into adventure, and like the idea of heading somewhere remote, then the Peruvian Amazon or Bhutan will certainly tick the box!
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