17 Best Places to Travel in 2026 That Aren't Completely Overrun With Tourists

6. Azores, Portugal: Europe's Best-Kept Secret

The Azores archipelago, comprising nine volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, represents one of Europe's most spectacular and least crowded destinations, offering dramatic landscapes shaped by volcanic activity and a subtropical climate that supports year-round outdoor adventures. These Portuguese islands, located 1,000 miles from mainland Europe, feature crater lakes with impossibly blue and green waters, natural hot springs that provide therapeutic relaxation, and hiking trails that traverse landscapes ranging from lunar-like volcanic fields to lush forests filled with endemic plants. The islands' commitment to sustainable tourism is evident in their renewable energy initiatives, where geothermal and wind power provide clean electricity, and their support for local agriculture, including tea plantations, wine production, and traditional cheese-making that visitors can experience through farm stays and culinary tours. Each island offers distinct experiences: São Miguel's Sete Cidades crater lakes and Terra Nostra botanical garden, Pico's UNESCO World Heritage vineyard landscapes and whale watching opportunities, and Flores' dramatic waterfalls and pristine hiking trails. The Azores' location in the Atlantic migration route makes them exceptional for whale and dolphin watching, with over twenty species regularly spotted in surrounding waters. The islands' small scale and focus on nature-based tourism ensure that development remains sustainable while providing visitors with authentic experiences that include traditional festivals, local cuisine featuring fresh seafood and regional specialties, and opportunities to participate in conservation projects protecting endemic species and marine ecosystems.