We all know the world is our oyster, but when you think about it, that oyster is pretty huge. With so many countries, cities, and towns in the world, it can often be hard to whittle down your bucket list to a more manageable size. If you are looking for some overlooked cities in U.S. or Europe to visit for your next vacation, we have a great list below for you.

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5 Most Underrated Cities In The US

Travel to Columbus, OH in May for great weather and lots of big-city attraction to experience.

1. Columbus, OH

The United States is full of incredible cities to explore, and many people opt for the obvious choices such as New York City or San Francisco. However, Columbus is one of my favorites. Not known as a tourist destination, it’s one of the most underrated cities in America, and makes for a great vacation in May.

Located in the state of Ohio, Columbus has often known for being a sleepy city, but that’s not true anymore. This growing metropolis offers travelers all sorts of adventures, from an impressive nightlife scene through to art galleries and museums that will keep you entertained for hours.

The Missouri Botanical Garden founded by Henry Shaw.

2. St. Louis, MO

How about a unique experience in the famous Gateway Arch by the legendary Eero Saarinen in St. Lous? This arch is a $380 million project with the surrounding park that took over five years to complete. Be sure to take a stroll through the 105-acre Laumeier Sculpture Park in the Sunset Hill neighborhood.

Love beer? Even if you don’t, visit the Anheuser-Busch Brewery. You will get to learn about American beer history, the state, and also get free samples at the end of the tour (21+).

The Portland Head lighthouse in Cape Elizabeth Maine.

3. Portland, ME

If you want to experience European architecture in Europe, Portland is the place to go. Even though this is the most populous city in the state of Maine, it’s one of the underrated places to visit in the US. In Portland, enjoy one of the best restaurant experiences in converted warehouses on its pier, Victorian-era homes, and scenic mountain views from Western Promenade.

Enjoy a great summer vacation in Destin, FL.

4. Destin, FL

Looking for the perfect summer vacation in America? Destin is an underestimated holiday spot on the emerald Florida coast. Once you see the beautiful bright green water and sandy beaches in Destin, it will become your number one family vacation place.

Plan to enjoy some water adventures, snorkeling, and sailing. There are even illusionists shows to attend to, or enjoy some good old pubs for a night out in Destin.

The Baltimore Estate in Asheville, NC.

5. Asheville, NC

If you love food, you will love the culinary-scene in Asheville. From southern recipes to worldwide influences, the gastronomy here is one of the best in the South. The nightlife in Asheville is not far behind. From 18+ craft beer breweries to the legendary music hall The Orange Peel, there is plenty to try and do to keep you busy in this U.S. city.

3 Underrated European Cities

The Old Town of Cagliaria.

6. Cagliari, Sardinia

According to The Secret Traveller blog at 1Cover, Sardinia is the kind of destination that nobody knows about. Although this is a shame, it’s probably best that this island stays a secret.

If you do want to explore this hidden gem, why not start with the only metropolitan city on the island? Sardinia’s capital Cagliari is one of the most underrated cities in Italy. It is a seaside town that does need to be seen to be believed. From the multi-colored houses to the bustling marina, and the roaming flamingos, it’s truly incredible.

Downtown district of Minsk, in former USSR, Belarus.

7. Minsk, Belarus

Minsk is a city of two halves, but that’s what makes it so charming. On the one hand, you have hints of its Soviet past with dramatic squares, robust architecture, and museums packed full of fascinating history. On the other hand, you have a contemporary art scene filled with culture, galleries, and artisan coffee shops for when you need a much-needed break.

Don’t have this affordable European destination on your bucket list? You should add it now!

Search for the best places to stay in Minska.

Find cheap flights for Europe.

Get a quick bite at Coffeevarium.

Downtown Lisbon, Portugal.

8. Lisbon, Portugal

There are so many European cities that people can’t wait to tick off of their bucket lists every year, including Barcelona, Milan, Paris, and Rome. However, many are missing out on the pure joys that some of the most underrated cities have to offer, such as Lisbon in Portugal.

Even though the Algrave region is one of the most beautiful places in the world, this coastal capital is boasting with pastel-colored buildings, a bustling entertainment district, and sleepy, historic villages on the outskirts. The turquoise waters are enough to keep you coming back year after year, too.

3 Underrated Cities in AAA

The triple-A here is for Asia, Africa, and Australia.

Plenty to see from the Haeundae beach and skyscrapers in Busan, Korea.

9. Busan, South Korea

When you think of South Korea, you probably think of bustling cities and beautiful temples. However, South Korea, as one of the most beautiful countries in the world, also offers various coastal towns to explore, and Busan is one of the best. In this hidden gem, you will find its golden sands and clean water.

It’s overlooked by imposing mountains in the background, making it a traveler’s dream. You’ll also be spoiled for choice when it comes to their temples too. It is still South Korea, after all!

Sand hills in a desert in Morocco.

10. Essaouira, Morocco

Morocco is one of the most incredible underrated destinations in the world, but there’s so much more to this country than just Marrakech and Fez. Essaouira is a historic walled city that stands on the edge of the ocean and captivates anyone who sets foot within the walls.

As a former set for the fantasy epic series Game of Thrones, it’s a destination you don’t want to miss. The best part of visiting Essaouira, it’s a budget-friendly destination. Make sure you also check out a traditional souk while you’re there, which is the kind of market that Morocco is so famous for.

11. Canberra, Australia

Many people forget that Canberra is the capital of Australia, and it’s often skipped with Sydney or Melbourne. It shouldn’t be the case, its most beautiful cities in the world! This city may not have the beaches of Bondi or the architecture of Sydney, but it does have a charm that just won’t quit.

As well as having some of the trendiest coffee shops and bars in the country, Canberra also offers some of the most excellent museums and galleries. This city is one of those places that you don’t ever want to leave.

Overlooked Cities In The World – Bottom Line

Although it can be easy to follow the crowd and book a vacation where countless others have been before, why not give somewhere else a try? There are so many underrated destinations around the world, and you should check them out as soon as possible.

All you need to do is pack your bags and go! Got any other suggestions to add to the list? Let us know on our Facebook page.