Top 9 Hidden Gem Cities Recommended by iBestTravel A-List Advisors

If you’ve hit all the major capitals, consider planning a trip to one of these secondary, less-crowded cities.

The first time you visit a country, you likely spend time in its capital or most famous city. You want to see the well-known sites—whether it’s the Eiffel Tower, the Acropolis, or Machu Picchu. However, if you truly wish to go deeper into a country, consider adding a few days in a “second city.” This allows you to slow down and savor what makes each destination unique. To round up some compelling places to add to your travel wish-list, iBestTravel consulted our A-List of veteran travel advisors about their favorite underrated, non-capital cities.

Thessaloniki, Greece

My go-to destination as an alternative to Athens is Thessaloniki, undoubtedly Greece’s second capital. With a fascinating history and a rich cultural tapestry shaped by generations of different peoples, this city boasts excellent cuisine, beautiful sea views, and a vibrant local character. Each neighborhood is like a small world, brimming with its own distinct history and atmosphere. Old meets new as Roman monuments and Byzantine churches coexist with modern buildings and bustling streets.

Fez, Morocco

Visiting Fez is akin to traveling back in time. This fortress-like medieval city features a maze of steep, narrow streets filled with vibrant sellers and craftsmen. The air is rich with the scent of the tanneries, particularly the largest and oldest, Chouara Tannery, located in the oldest medina quarter, Fes el Bali. From above, you can observe numerous stone cauldrons used for dyeing and softening leather, utilizing a process unchanged for centuries.

Hobart, Tasmania

This hidden gem is often overlooked for more cosmopolitan hubs. Hobart and greater Tasmania offer a perfect blend of Australian and New Zealand culture. For food enthusiasts, there are oyster farms, farm-fresh cheeses, and award-winning whisky distilleries to explore. Additionally, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) playfully pushes artistic boundaries. Outdoor lovers will find incredible hiking opportunities in Freycinet and Cradle Mountain, both accessible within a day.

San Sebastian, Spain

This quaint coastal town in the Basque country is celebrated for its outstanding restaurants and also offers excellent surfing opportunities. Its pedestrian-friendly old town provides a peaceful atmosphere while being close to local wineries.

Porto, Portugal

During my last European trip before the pandemic, I instantly fell for Porto, a charming cobblestone industrial city that boasts a rich soul. Its unique 18th-century Baroque facades adorned with Portuguese tiles, along with the port cellars located just across the river in Villa Nova de Gaia, create a striking landscape. The gateway to the Douro Valley’s vineyards further enhances its charm. Although its museums are few, don’t miss the influential Serralves Foundation, which manages Porto’s highly respected Contemporary Art Museum.

Bath, England

Located just an hour by train from London, Bath offers a splendid alternative to the bustling capital. Rich in history from the Romans through to the Regency era, this city boasts exquisite architecture paired with the charm of where Jane Austen and her characters strolled. The shopping experience rivals London but tends to be more affordable, complemented by an excellent theatre scene where many productions debut before heading to the West End.

Verona, Italy

Verona is filled with shopping, culinary delights, wines, and an extraordinary 2,000 years of history, dating back to 300 AD, and made famous by Romeo & Juliet. Wine enthusiasts can easily journey to Trento for the sparkling producer Bellavista or visit Valpolicella for its famed Amarone. Enjoy Lake Garda with a rental boat or surf its reliable Ora winds. Don’t forget to dine at the famous Dal Pescatore, a Michelin-starred restaurant near Mantua, and visit the magnificent Ducale Palace.

Adelaide, Australia

Adelaide is a cosmopolitan, coastal city in southern Australia, frequently recognized as one of the world’s most livable cities. Its ideal location allows easy access to stunning beaches, wine regions, and the Adelaide Hills, which offer excellent hiking and outdoor activities.

Avignon, France

Small yet historic, Avignon was the seat of the Catholic Papacy in the 1300s. Spend a day exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting the majestic Palais des Papes and the famous Pont d’Avignon, along with other medieval monuments.