Beautiful but Underrated Cities to Visit Before They Become Tourist Hotspots

Let the influencers chase crowds—you’re after something real. The world is full of cities that haven’t yet made it onto souvenir mugs or overexposed travel blogs, and that’s exactly what makes them magic. We’ve expanded our list to 37 Beautiful but Underrated Cities to Visit Before They Become Tourist Hotspots—destinations where charm hasn’t been paved over by tour buses, and discovery still feels personal. These aren’t just pretty backdrops; they’re places where everyday life still leads, where beauty hides in quiet corners, and where culture runs deep beneath the surface. From coastal towns with weathered façades to inland gems still humming with history, these cities invite you to arrive without a checklist—and leave with a story.

City One: The Timeless Beauty of Gjirokastër, Albania

Nestled in the Drino Valley, Gjirokastër is a city that seems to have been sculpted from the very rock on which it stands. Known as the "City of Stone," its Ottoman-era architecture is a testament to its rich history. The cobblestone streets wind through the city like veins, leading to the imposing Gjirokastër Castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, yet it remains one of Europe's hidden treasures, largely untouched by the masses. Visitors can explore the traditional tower houses, or "kullës," which are emblematic of the city’s architectural style. Each building tells a story, with its own unique blend of history and culture. Gjirokastër is also a cultural hub, home to festivals that celebrate everything from folk music to culinary arts, providing an immersive experience into Albanian traditions. The city’s charm lies not only in its physical beauty but also in the warmth and hospitality of its people, who are eager to share their heritage with those who seek to explore beyond the familiar.