Do you want a peaceful and serene travel experience away from the hustle and bustle? Then, plan your vacation away from the popular and overcrowded tourist destinations. Offbeat destinations offer unique experiences you may not find in popular tourist spots.
However, always check the visa requirements while planning your trip, as some countries may have unique and mandatory requirements. For instance, the Schengen visa mandates travel insurance for tourists, so you must get insured if you plan to visit a Schengen country.
Top 8 Underrated Travel Destinations That You Must Explore in 2025
Here are some of the best underrated tourist attractions of the world that are worth exploring:
- Lithuania
This Baltic country offers captivating scenic views and many historical locations to explore. If you visit Lithuania during Christmas, you can explore outstanding decorations that bring a festive feeling. What adds a unique charm to this country is “Uzupis”, a self-proclaimed fun, quirky “country” in Vilnius (capital of Lithuania).
Things to Do
- Enjoy beautiful views of Vilnius from Gediminas Tower and Three Crosses Monument.
- Learn about the Republic of Uzupis’ history, explore its fun souvenirs, etc.
- Gather knowledge about the dark days of Soviet and Nazi rule from the Freedom Fights and Museum of Occupations.
Best Time to Visit: June to August
Visa Requirements: Indian visitors should have a valid Schengen visa to visit Lithuania and a Schengen travel insurance for added safety.
- Estonia
Located in the northeast corner of Europe, Estonia remains underrated due to other European tourism giants like Italy, Germany, Portugal, etc. However, this small European country is worth visiting in every aspect. Apart from being the leading country in cybersecurity, Estonia is known for its medieval turrets, old traditional towns, scenic beauty, and more.
Things to Do:
- Visit Lahemaa National Park and explore the rugged Gulf of Finland
- Take a tour of the KGB Cells museums
- Walk down the cobbled streets of Tallinn Old Town
Best Season to Visit: June to September
Visa Requirements: Indian tourists must have a Schengen visa to enter Estonia
- Latvia
Situated between Estonia and Lithuania, Latvia is famous for its Art Nouveau capital, Riga, pristine forests, and sandy Baltic beaches. The country offers a mix of vibrant city life and tranquil nature, with highlights like Gauja National Park and Jurmala’s beaches. Latvia’s rich history and folk traditions make it a rewarding destination.
Things to Do:
- Explore the cosy bars and old-school European architecture in Riga
- Enjoy the scenic beauty of Jurmala beach
- Explore medieval castles and outstanding hiking trails at Guja National Park
Best Season to Visit: June – August, April – May, and September – October
Visa Requirements: Indian visitors must have their Schengen visa to enter Latvia
- Bhutan
Bhutan is a small country that borders Tibet and India, offering several adventurous activities such as hot-stone baths, river rafting, hiking, etc. The fortified monasteries in Bhutan, also known as dzongs, are carved with detailed architecture, attracting tourists to its exceptional beauty.
Things to Do:
- Plan the Tiger’s Nest Monastery hike
- Visit the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan
- Explore Punakha Dzong
Best Season to Visit: March-May and September – November
Visa Requirements: Bhutan is a visa-free country for Indian citizens. All you need to do is get an entry permit.
- Taiwan
Taiwan is an underrated destination in East Asia, offering a vibrant mix of modern city life, rich religious traditions, and stunning natural scenery. Taipei dazzles with its night markets, gaming arcades, and iconic Taipei 101, while the countryside boasts waterfalls, mountain villages, and unique geological parks.
Things to Do:
- Explore Taipei’s night markets and temples, including Longshan Temple and the bustling Raohe Night Market.
- Hike Elephant Mountain for panoramic city views and visit Taipei 101 for shopping and observation decks.
- Take day trips to Jiufen mountain village, Shifen Waterfall, and Yehliu Geopark for nature and local culture.
Best Season to Visit: October – November, March-May
Visa Requirements: Indian tourists can apply for an e-visa through the website of the Bureau of Consular Affairs
- Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, often overshadowed by its neighbours like India and Maldives, is a diverse island. It offers ancient Buddhist sites in Kandy, wildlife safaris in Yala National Park, and scenic hill towns like Ella. Its compact size allows travellers to experience beaches, culture, and adventure within a few hours’ journey across the country.
Things to Do:
- Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
- Go on a wildlife safari in Yala National Park.
- Visit the Sacred Tooth Relic temple in Kandy.
Best Season to Visit: December – April
Visa Requirements: Indian tourists require ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) for short stays of up to 30 days.
- Vietnam
Vietnam is a captivating destination known for its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. Highlights include the emerald waters and limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, the historic charm of Hoi An, the bustling streets of Hanoi, and the scenic rice terraces of Sapa.
Things to Do:
- Cruise through HaLong Bay’s emerald waters and limestone karsts, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Wander Hanoi’s Old Quarter or explore Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant markets, museums, and street food scene.
- Experience Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets and historic architecture, or take a boat ride in the lush Mekong Delta.
Best Season to Visit: March-May, October – April
Visa Requirements: Indians can apply for an electronic Vietnam visa (e-Visa) for up to 30 days or on arrival.
- Istria
In northwestern Croatia, Istria is a hidden gem blending medieval hilltop towns, stunning Adriatic beaches, and lush countryside filled with vineyards and olive groves. Known as the “Croatian Tuscany,” it boasts a rich history, world-class cuisine, Roman ruins, and authentic charm—without the crowds of Croatia’s more famous coast.
Things to Do:
- Explore the romantic coastal town of Rovinj and its old town.
- Visit the ancient Roman Arena and historic sites in Pula.
- Discover hilltop villages like Motovun and Grožnjan for art, wine, and truffles.
Best Season to Visit: May – June, September – October
Visa Requirements: Indians require a Schengen visa to enter Istria.
Things to Consider While Going on a Foreign Trip
Here are some of the basic things that you must check while travelling to a foreign country:
- Keep Your Passport Handy
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your journey. Keep photocopies separate from the original and carry them with you.
- Check the Visa Requirements
Do your homework on the destination’s visa requirements well in advance. Some countries offer e-visas or visas on arrival, while others require applications at embassies.
- Get Your Travel Insurance
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, baggage, and health. However, proof of travel insurance is mandatory for entrance into some countries. Travel insurance is a protective shield during your journey in a foreign land. Be it a medical emergency or passport loss, everything is covered under travel insurance.
For instance, Digit Insurance achieved a 100% claim settlement ratio for travel insurance in FY’24 and FY’25, settling over 5,500 international travel claims. In FY’25 alone, the company settled 9.16 lakh claims with an impressive 99.9950% accuracy.
- Keep All Travel-related Documents Handy
Print and organise your flight tickets, hotel bookings, and any required permits. Digital copies are helpful, but hard copies are essential in case of device failure.
Thus, with thoughtful preparation and planning beyond the well-trodden path, you can have an unforgettable experience at these underrated destinations. Whether you’re drawn to the forests of Lithuania, the monasteries of Bhutan, or the beaches of Sri Lanka, the journey promises to be as enriching as the destination.
