When summer rolls around, most people rush to the same destinations — Paris, Rome, or Bali 🌴. Don’t get me wrong, those places are beautiful, but they’re also crowded, expensive, and often overhyped. If you’re looking for something different this year — quieter streets, hidden cafes, and authentic culture — it’s time to look beyond the usual tourist map.
Here are 8 underrated cities that deserve a top spot on your travel list this summer. Each one has its own charm, affordable experiences, and stories waiting to be discovered.
1. Ljubljana, Slovenia 🇸🇮
You might need to practice saying its name (it’s lyoo-blyah-nah), but trust me — Ljubljana is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. This small city blends old-world charm with eco-friendly living. You’ll find pastel-colored buildings, peaceful riverside cafes, and locals who are genuinely warm and welcoming.
One of the coolest things? The city is practically car-free in the center! You can walk or cycle everywhere without worrying about traffic. Visit the Ljubljana Castle, take a boat ride on the Ljubljanica River, or explore the Central Market for fresh pastries and cheeses.
| Highlights | Best Time to Visit | Average Daily Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Ljubljana Castle, Tivoli Park, River Cruise | June to August | $70–$100 |
2. Porto, Portugal 🍷
Lisbon might steal the spotlight, but Porto quietly outshines it in charm and authenticity. Set along the Douro River, Porto offers cobbled streets, colorful houses, and the best port wine in the world.
Walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge, explore the Livraria Lello bookstore (it inspired J.K. Rowling!), and taste local dishes like Francesinha, a sandwich you won’t forget soon.
Summer evenings here are magical — with music echoing through narrow alleys and the sunset painting the river gold.
| Must Try | Perfect For | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Port Wine, Francesinha Sandwich | Foodies & Art Lovers | Cozy, Vintage |
3. Tbilisi, Georgia 🏔️
Tbilisi is a city where Europe and Asia shake hands. Its architecture tells stories from both worlds — medieval fortresses meet Soviet designs, and hipster cafes sit beside ancient churches.
The Abanotubani sulfur baths are a must-do — they’re not only relaxing but also part of the city’s soul. Wander through the Old Town, ride the cable car to Narikala Fortress, and try Georgian cuisine — think khachapuri (cheese bread) and khinkali (dumplings) that’ll melt your heart.
And guess what? Tbilisi is still very budget-friendly!
| Reason to Visit | Average Meal Cost | Summer Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| History + Affordability | $5–$10 | 25–32°C |
4. Ghent, Belgium 🌉
When people visit Belgium, they usually head straight to Brussels or Bruges. But Ghent — oh, Ghent is a surprise waiting to be unwrapped. It’s medieval, youthful, and full of life. The canals shimmer with reflections of gothic towers, and the food scene is a dream for vegetarians and chocolate lovers alike.
The best part? It’s less crowded but equally stunning. Take a boat ride on the Leie River, visit the Gravensteen Castle, and enjoy a waffle while watching street performers by the water.
💡 Fun fact: Ghent has more bicycles than cars. The city feels relaxed, clean, and peaceful — a true summer escape.
5. Luang Prabang, Laos 🕊️
This one’s for the spiritual travelers. Nestled between mountains and rivers, Luang Prabang is pure serenity. The mornings begin with monks collecting alms, while evenings bring glowing lanterns and slow riverboats drifting along the Mekong.
Don’t miss the Kuang Si Waterfalls — a turquoise paradise perfect for swimming and photos. The night market is also amazing, filled with handmade crafts and fresh local food.
| Activity | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Kuang Si Falls | Multi-level waterfalls for swimming | $3 entry |
| Night Market | Handicrafts and street food | Free to explore |
🌿 Everything here feels slower, simpler, and deeply meaningful — ideal if you want to reset your mind and body this summer.
6. Bergen, Norway 🌦️
Norway isn’t exactly cheap, but Bergen is worth every penny. Surrounded by fjords and misty hills, this colorful port city feels like a painting. Summer brings long daylight hours, perfect for exploring the outdoors.
Walk through the Bryggen Wharf, a UNESCO site with colorful wooden houses, and ride the Fløibanen funicular for stunning views.
Yes, it rains often ☔, but that’s part of Bergen’s magic. Just grab a warm drink and enjoy the cozy atmosphere.
| Experience | Why Visit | Budget Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Fjord Tours, Hiking, Seafood | Breathtaking scenery | Book fjord tours early for discounts |
7. Oaxaca, Mexico 🌮
Oaxaca (pronounced wah-HAH-kah) is Mexico’s cultural gem. It’s where colors, flavors, and traditions come alive. If you love food, you’ll be in heaven — mole, tlayudas, and fresh mezcal are everywhere.
Summer is festival season here, with Guelaguetza, a vibrant dance celebration that fills the city with music and joy. Visit the Monte Albán ruins, one of the oldest Zapotec cities, and take a day trip to Hierve el Agua, natural rock pools with mountain views.
| Best For | Highlights | Local Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Food & Culture Lovers | Monte Albán, Local Markets | Mole Negro, Mezcal |
🌞 Oaxaca gives you everything — flavor, color, history, and hospitality — without the touristy chaos.
8. Tallinn, Estonia 🏰
Last but not least, Tallinn feels like stepping into a fairytale. The Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, with cobbled streets, red rooftops, and cozy cafes hidden behind stone walls.
Summer here is lively but never overwhelming. Locals gather in outdoor markets, musicians play on corners, and the Baltic Sea breeze keeps everything fresh.
Visit Toompea Hill for panoramic views, try Estonian rye bread, and enjoy the long northern sunsets that stretch until midnight.
| Why Go | Best Thing to Do | Travel Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Old Town Charm | Explore medieval walls | Calm, Storybook |
Why Choose Underrated Cities This Summer?
Traveling to lesser-known cities has its own rewards — fewer crowds, lower prices, and more genuine experiences. You get to see places where people live, not just where tourists pose for photos.
Here’s a quick comparison table 👇
| Aspect | Popular Cities | Underrated Cities |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | High 💸 | Affordable ✅ |
| Crowds | Overwhelming | Relaxed |
| Local Experience | Limited | Authentic |
| Discoveries | Predictable | Full of Surprises |
Some Travel Tips for Exploring These Cities
✨ Always check visa requirements before you go.
💳 Use local SIM cards or eSIMs for cheaper internet.
🌍 Respect local culture — learn a few basic phrases.
📸 Don’t just take photos — talk to locals and learn their stories.
🧳 Pack light but keep a rain jacket (yes, even in summer).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Are underrated cities safe to travel to?
Yes! Most underrated destinations are perfectly safe, especially those listed above. Always use common sense — avoid unsafe areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings.
Q2: Which city is the most affordable from this list?
Tbilisi (Georgia) and Luang Prabang (Laos) are the most budget-friendly. You can enjoy full meals and accommodation for under $30 a day.
Q3: How do I find cheap flights to these cities?
Use comparison tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights, and try flexible dates. Flying midweek is often cheaper.
Q4: What’s the best way to explore these places?
Walk or cycle whenever possible! Most of these cities are compact and perfect for exploring on foot. You’ll discover hidden spots that aren’t on maps.
Q5: Can I visit multiple of these cities in one trip?
Yes — especially in Europe. For example, Ljubljana, Ghent, and Tallinn can be easily connected by short flights or trains.
Final Thoughts 🌍
Sometimes, the best adventures happen when you go off the radar. Big cities might have big names, but small, underrated ones have big hearts.
This summer, skip the crowded landmarks. Instead, find yourself wandering through quiet alleys, laughing with locals over coffee, and creating stories that aren’t already written in travel guides.
After all, real discovery starts where the tourist trail ends. 💫
