Underrated Destinations to Enjoy in 2025 

While tourism is great for a country’s economy, over-tourism is a real concern for some destinations, as they simply don’t have the infrastructure to support the tourism boom. On the other side, over-tourism also influences the atmosphere of these places for those who are visiting and, as the world is coming out of a global pandemic, raise concerns about guests’ health and safety.

While big cities like Paris or New York are probably at the top of your travel bucket list, there are plenty of off-the-radar destinations that deserve your attention. From overlooked second cities to beautiful desert oases, WorldHotels presents twelve unexpected spots that you’ll want to visit. With a variety of arts, culture, history, wine & dine, and relaxation sure to satisfy even the most well-traveled guests, we invite you to rediscover the true allure of travel and get lost in the beauty of these unexplored places.

Between Colonial Architecture and Coral Reef in Mandaue City (Philippines)

Seating in the Central Visayas region, on the island of Cebu, Mandaue City is a bustling, gritty, industrial city. On the other side, Mandaue is mostly known to tourists for its natural wonders: feel the coolness of the Sirao Garden, the Temple of Leah, or the Taoist Temple or head to the nearby mountains: here, streams, falls, caves and trails are waiting to be explored.

Of course, beaches are the most popular places to visit and hang out in Cebu and the Mactan Island beaches are especially enticing: being a coral island, Mactan offers some of the best diving, snorkeling, island hopping, jet ski, sailing, and cultural activities of any island in the Philippines.

Overlooking Mactan, just across the Sergio Osmeña Bridge, is the Bai Hotel Cebu. This newly opened, striking hotel presents spectacular harbor and city views and offers ultra-modern amenities and facilities. A mere 25-minute drive from Mactan International Airport, the hotel’s 668 stylish and modern guestrooms and its 360-degree infinity pool, gym, and spa make it an oasis of relaxation in the heart of the bustling Mandaue City. Eight different dining options cater to all your culinary needs, including authentic Japanese fare, a steakhouse, and the Twilight Roof Deck.

For a bit of history, venture to the nearby Cebu City, the oldest city in the Philippines and its second largest (after Manila), with its numerous historic sights. Get lost in the Colon Avenue side-streets and make sure to visit Fort San Pedro (stone fortress) and the Baluarte watchtower, the Basilica del Santo Nino (colonial-style, century-old church) and the popular Magellan’s Cross, the Museo Sugbo and Mercado, and the Yap-San Diego Ancestral House (said to be the oldest house in the city and the first Chinese house built outside of China).

For something different, head to the Upside-Down World Museum or the 4,200-square meter SkyWaterpark Cebu situated high atop JCentre Mall, where you can enjoy some of the best views of the city skyline while making a splash.

Bridging German wanderlust and Italian dolce far niente in Bolzano (Italy)

Surrounded by small mountain villages, seemingly endless vineyards, several castles, and the ever-impressive Italian Dolomites, in Bolzano you’ll experience a city like nowhere else in Italy.

Cradled amidst the verdant peaks, Bolzano has been a conduit between Mediterranean and northern European cultures for millennia. Strolling through its romantic cobblestone streets, Bolzano’s unique mix of traditional and cosmopolitan character entices you with its pastel-painted townhouses, candle-lit cafés where German-speaking hosts serve-up Wiener sausages with beer, and Tyrolean crafts and clothing in the arcade of shops along Via dei Portici.

If you’re in the mood for some culture, the Museion boasts an impressive display of international works. Besides, it is a wonderful location to marvel at the breathtaking mountain scenery. The star of Bolzano’s museums must be the Museo Archeologico dell’Alto Adige though: the museum is home to ‘Ötzi’, an astonishingly well-preserved 5,300-year-old iceman, still clad in his original clothing and displaying tattoos on his legs!

The Parkhotel Laurin, located right in the city center, is an elegant 4-star hotel, lovingly renovated to augment its 1910’s Art Nouveau splendor. The hotel combines state-of-the-art technology with modern service perfectly: Its 100 rooms (including 7 suites), for example, feature marble bathrooms, LCD satellite TVs, and modern Wi-Fi but the true highlight are the original 20^th-century artworks that decorate them.

Art plays a central role at the Parkhotel Laurin and guests can appreciate beautiful frescos by Bruno Goldschmitt at the Laurin Bar. The elegant Restaurant Laurin offers sumptuous cuisine from the Mediterranean and South Tyrol.

Relax in the hotel’s swimming pool and summer lounge bar, take advantage of the exuberant, private 4,000 square meters park, or enjoy the smokers’ lounge. If you’re looking forward to exploring the corseting Tyrolean Mountains, the Parkhotel Laurin is your perfect base – and Bolzano’s cables cars and scenic railway will soon get you to all the favorite hiking and wandering spots.

Experience the great outdoors in Sooke (British Columbia, Canada)

Nestled on the breathtaking coastline of Sooke, British Columbia, the Prestige Oceanfront Resort invites you to experience the tranquility and beauty of Vancouver Island. Just a short drive from Victoria, this charming resort offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Immerse yourself in the stunning natural surroundings with a variety of outdoor activities. Explore the rugged coastline with a scenic hike, or venture out onto the pristine waters for a kayaking adventure. For those seeking a thrill, world-class fishing and whale watching tours are available nearby. Golf enthusiasts will delight in the challenging courses that dot the island landscape, offering stunning views at every turn.

Back at the resort, indulge in a leisurely stroll along the shoreline or take a dip in the heated outdoor pool overlooking the ocean. Pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa treatment, or simply relax and unwind in the comfort of your elegantly appointed guest room, complete with modern amenities and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

When it’s time to dine, savor the flavors of the Pacific Northwest at the resort’s signature restaurant, where locally sourced ingredients are expertly crafted into delectable dishes. After dinner, gather around the fire pit with friends and family to share stories and marvel at the starry night sky.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the Prestige Oceanfront Resort in Sooke offers the perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty for an unforgettable getaway on Vancouver Island.

Uncover artistry in Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)

Ho Chi Minh City, still known to many by its colonial name of Saigon, is the business and financial hub of Vietnam. With a prominent history going back hundreds of years – from the Khmers settlements to the Vietnamese take over in the 17th century, from the French conquest of Saigon in 1859 to the Vietnam War in 1969 – the city’s architecture and culture are a marvelous mix of influences and legacies. Classic French buildings and broad boulevards blend with sleek skyscrapers, ornate temples and pagodas; and its many rooftop bars, restaurants and street food stalls offer a combination of French, Chinese, and, of course, local Vietnamese cuisine.

A thriving city, pulsating with endless energy, Ho Chi Minh City is also home to a flourishing art scene that is rapidly gaining international recognition. Over the years, the city has formed a close-knit group of artists, gallerists, curators and educators collaborating to promote contemporary art in Vietnam. For art and culture aficionados, the historic Caravelle Saigon, a landmark five-star hotel in Ho Chi Minh city center, is the perfect base for exploring the city’s buzzing art scene. The hotel boasts 335 spacious newly renovated guest rooms, and Deluxe City rooms offer outstanding views of either the historic Opera House or the meandering Saigon River. Head to the acclaimed rooftop Saigon Saigon Bar for some of the best views of the city (and the best cocktails) or to any of the other 5 restaurants and bars offering gourmet cuisine and superb drinks. Guests also have use of the Kara Spa & Fitness, complete with sauna, steam bath and beauty salon, and a well-equipped 24-hour gym overlooking the pool terrace.

A stone’s throw away from the Caravelle Saigon, you can also unveil such hidden gems as the Couleurs by Réhahn Fine Art Photography (Dong Khoi, Saigon) and the Vietnam Art Gallery – two local galleries popular with the modern crowd, housed in remarkably well-preserved colonial buildings.

History buffs shall make sure not miss to visit the War Remnants Museum and the Notre Dame Cathedral while a day spent at either the Ben Thanh or Binh Tay market or a day trip to the Mekong river Delta will certainly make it to the list of highlights of those looking for a taste of the local life.

Discover “Mainhattan” (Germany)

Discover Frankfurt, the pulsating financial hub of Germany, where tradition meets modernity in a captivating blend of history and innovation. As Germany’s financial capital, Frankfurt boasts a skyline dotted with sleek skyscrapers, earning it the nickname “Mainhattan” in reference to the Main River that flows through its heart.

Marvel at the iconic skyscrapers of the Frankfurt skyline, including the towering Commerzbank Tower and the distinctive Eurotower. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque banks of the Main River, where you’ll find charming cafes, bustling promenades, and scenic parks offering respite from the urban hustle and bustle.

Delve into Frankfurt’s rich cultural heritage with a visit to the historic Römerberg square, home to the city’s beautifully restored medieval buildings, including the iconic Römer City Hall. Explore the vibrant Zeil shopping street, where trendy boutiques, upscale department stores, and traditional markets beckon shoppers to indulge in a day of retail therapy.

For a taste of Frankfurt’s renowned culinary scene, venture into the Sachsenhausen district, where traditional cider taverns known as “Äppelwoi Lokals” serve up hearty German fare alongside locally brewed apple wine. Sample regional specialties such as handkäse mit musik (marinated cheese) and grüne soße (green sauce) while soaking up the lively atmosphere of this historic neighborhood.

Nestled just minutes away from Frankfurt Airport, the b’mine Hotel Frankfurt Airport offers a tranquil retreat for weary travelers. Head to the hotel’s rooftop restaurant and bar for an unparalleled dining experience with panoramic views of the Frankfurt skyline. Savor gourmet cuisine crafted with locally sourced ingredients while enjoying a refreshing cocktail or fine wine from the extensive beverage menu.

Additionally, the hotel’s innovative car lifts provide seamless access to underground parking, ensuring convenience and efficiency for guests arriving by car.

With modern amenities, stylish accommodations, and warm hospitality, the b’mine Hotel provides the perfect home base for exploring all that Frankfurt has to offer.

Looking for Nessie in Inverness, Scotland (United Kingdom)

Inverness, the self-proclaimed “Capital of the Highlands”, is Britain’s northernmost city. Surrounded by some of the world’s most breathtaking mountain and moor land scenery, straddling the River Ness and just a stone’s throw from Loch Ness (home of the legendary Monster), Inverness offers easy access to a huge choice of outdoor activities.

From lochs and castles to battlefields and nature reserves, Inverness has much more in store than most give it credit for. The city houses some outstanding historic buildings, including the Old High Church in the heart of the city, or the imposing battlements of Inverness Castle, which dominates the town and the River Ness from the hill.

Nestled on the leafy banks of the River Ness, lies the Ness Walk Hotel. This idyllic 5-star retreat, surrounded by impressive tress, allows guests to experience a secluded atmosphere in the heart of the vibrant city. The hotel is housed in a 19th century building, lovingly restored to retain its period features, and offers a perfect balance between its past and the most modern amenities and services. Rest in Ness Walk’s lavishly designed guest rooms and suites, featuring large floor to ceiling windows and garden or river views, or delight your palate at the grand bar and the innovative Torrish Restaurant: here, the menu combines traditional Scottish cuisine with flavors from throughout the world to deliver a dining experience rich in texture, color and intriguing flavors. The hotel’s extensive gardens and banquet rooms also make it the perfect venue for all types of social and business events.

Ready to get away from the city for a bit? Hop on board a Dolphin Cruise out into the Moray Firth and experience 75 minutes of action on the water. Besides dolphins, other wildlife such as seals and otters are commonly seen as well.

For a glimpse into the region’s rich history, head northeast to visit Fort George, an impregnable fortress, home to one of Scotland’s kilted battalions and the Regimental Museum of the Queen’s Own Highlanders. To the south, standing on a promontory jutting into Loch Ness, is Urquhart Castle – explore one of Scotland’s most spectacular medieval ruins and enjoy the stunning views of the loch and moors.

For a day out that offers both history and drama, head for the Culloden Battlefield: the site of the final Jacobite Rising – one of the most harrowing pitched battles in Britain’s history and the last one to be fought on British soil –the battlefield hosts, today, an interactive visitor center, displaying fascinating artefacts from both sides of the confrontation and allowing you to experience the battle in the immersive surround cinema. While you’re there, make a stop in the café and sample the local Culloden whisky.

Lending history and modernity in Kortijk (Belgium)

Sometimes referred to as Courtrai or Courtray, the city of Kortijk might be a stranger to most travelers but it has more to offer than meets the eye. Located in the northern part of Belgium, on the Leie River, Kortrijk was first established by the Romans and offers a good balance of tradition and innovation/modernism. Besides, its perfect location, close to the French border and near the romantic city of Lille, makes Kortrijk the perfect base for exploring the region.

The city is known as the Guldensporenstad (City of the Golden Spurs), after the battle of the Golden Spurs in 1302, and it used to be the center of the linen industry in the region, manufacturing lace and linen as early as the fourteenth century. When you visit Kortrijk, Belgium, you will notice that it is home to a variety of spinning and finishing mills and some offer guided tours and experiences – make sure to try them out.

Kortrijk has always been famous for shopping, and there are many traffic-free shopping zones to explore at your leisure. But the city center is also filled with historical sites and marvelous architecture: From the ancient Beguinage of Courtrai – a religious community with a chapel dating back to the 1200s – to the imposing Groeninge Gate and the lovely Broel Towers (two conical medieval forts made of limestone and sandstone, placed on either side of a 14th-century bridge over the river) or the Gothic Saint Martin’s Church, there is much to see around the city. Make sure not to miss the Belfry of Courtrai, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Not far off, you’ll find the boutique Hotel Damier. This charming 4-star boutique and lifestyle hotel has a fascinating history, dating back to the 14th century and reflected in its magnificent Rococo façade. The hotel is situated on the famous Great Market Square and each of the 65 beautifully appointed rooms has its own intimate refined character and the hotel’s vivid atmosphere invites you to enjoy the surroundings. The elegant restaurant and the brasserie are superior among Kortrijk hotel dining venues and the high-end cocktail bar Sprezza is an eclectic space where guests can enjoy signature cocktails, an exquisite collection of whiskeys, unique rums, and tequila. Insider tip: make sure to try the hotel’s own Copperhead gin!

For those looking forward to some culture, a visit to Stedelijk Museum Voor Schone Kunsten (Municipal Museum of Fine Arts) is a must. The museum is home to one of Belgium’s finest art galleries, displaying paintings of the 16th-century painter Roeland Savery, as well as the remarkable works of other famous painters. In addition, inside you’ll find a variety of archeological objects, ceramics, porcelain, and pottery. And, as the museum is located in a 17th-century Patrician house, you can appreciate the breathtaking beauty of Renaissance architecture during your visit.

Take in the Nordic scenic coastal feel in Helsingborg (Sweden)

Located just up the Swedish coast (around 50 km North of Malmö), on the shores of the Öresund Strait, Helsingborg is Sweden’s eighth largest city. Although small enough to feel cozy and intimate, the city is full of energy: from boutique shops, and cultural events to lush gardens and castle ruins – there’s plenty to do, whatever the time of the year!

Wander along Kullagatan, the main pedestrian street, to find most of the major city shops but take your time to wonder up the smaller cobblestone lanes too, where some hidden gems are waiting to be found.

Located on the higher plain of Helsingborg, Fredriksdal is one of the largest open-air museums in Sweden and not to be missed! You will fall in love with the botanical gardens (including the magnificent rose garden), historical buildings, the vegetable and herb gardens, and the well-preserved town quarter which is now a museum. Visitors are particularly taken by the Grafiska Museet – the largest working graphic museum in the Nordics and the Trädgårdscafé which sells some of the best cakes in town. If you visit Fredriksdal, keep an eye on the daily schedules and calendar for guided walks, forest bathing and various talks.

Dramatic steps and archways lead up from Stortorget to Kärnan – this 34m tall tower is all that remains of the medieval castle. Enjoy the regal views of the city and the strait from this privileged location.

Sitting against the archways that surround Kärnan is the majestic The Vault Hotel. Housed in an authentic bank vault from the beginning of the XIX century, this boutique hotel comprises 56 exquisitely decorated rooms oozing Wow! factor, a wine bar where the murmured conversation flows freely, an intimate but relaxed Italian ristorante and the trendy Atrium Bar, a local hotspot for those looking to enjoy a stylish evening out.

Located in the very heart of Helsingborg, The Vault Hotel is the perfect base to explore Helsingborg and its surroundings.

Stroll down to the harbor and explore the many cafés and restaurants along the sea front promenade, enjoying the magnificent views of the sandy beach and Denmark just over the water. Take a 20-minute ferry-ride to Helsingør and explore this picturesque Danish town and its magnificent Kronborg castle (home to Hamlet).

For a day away from the city, you might want to visit the Ödåkra Spritfabriken – built in 1897, this historical building served as a spirit distillery for a century and recently has been transformed into a creative space for arts, fashion, homeware and food.

On the way back to Helsingborg, stop in at Sofiero, the old royal summer residence, featuring a magnificent palace and a beautiful park with views over the Öresund strait. Keep an eye out for seasonal events including light shows, Christmas markets, the rhododendron festival and summer dahlias, as well as concerts and other special events.