Anthony Bourdain once said that travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering on the unknown. It’s an essential undertaking for any legitimate examination of the human spirit, and one that will always leave you better off than you were when you first began.
In my short time on this earth, I’ve had the opportunity to travel abroad and visit some truly remarkable places. So for anyone starting to feel the familiar itch of the travel bug, here are 15 underrated travel spots that absolutely everyone should go to.
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg is the birthplace of Mozart , the setting for Disney’s The Sound of Music , as well as one of the prettiest and most picturesque cities that central Europe has to offer. The old town is easily walkable and the views from Hohensalzburg Fortress are some of the best that Austria has to offer.
Transylvania, Romania
Transylvania has a rather infamous history thanks largely to the rantings and ravings of drunk Irish novelist, Bram Stoker . You’re unlikely to find any vampires lurking in the shadows these days, but what you will discover is old-world beauty draped in rustic charm.
Tobermory, Ontario, Canada
At first glance, you could easily mistake Flower Pot Island for some lush tropical paradise deep within the Mediterranean. The island is perfect for those looking to bask in the glory of the great outdoors and offers some of the best snorkeling/scuba diving out of anywhere in the province.
Prague, Czech Republic
If you’re someone who enjoys the taste of cold beer and hot hearty homecooked meals, Prague is the place for you. Known as “The City of 100 Spires”, this capital city of the Czech Republic also happens to be the beer capital of the world.
Rome, Italy
If you’re someone whose been told to skip Rome on your next trip to Italy, you need to rethink your strategy. While it may not possess the same architectural bravado as Barcelona or Paris, Rome still remains among the top spots on any seasoned traveler’s bucket list.
Niagara On The Lake, Ontario, Canada
Ontario’s wine region can now compete with the very best that Europe has to offer, and it’s all thanks to Niagara on the Lake. This quaint tiny town has more vineyards per capita than anywhere else in Canada.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Slovakia is an oft-neglected travel destination for Euro backpackers and it’s a downright shame. Bratislava is the only city in the country and arguably the world where you can go from sipping wine upon castle steps to eating a meal inside a flying saucer in a matter of just a few city blocks.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is the birthplace of the revered architect Antoni Gaudi and his imprint can be seen from the tallest spire to the smallest cobblestone. If you happen to be visiting in June, make sure to stick around for Sónar — the world’s most acclaimed and respected electronic music festival.
Islay, Scotland
For those looking to escape the trappings of big cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow, a trip to Islay along Scotland’s southwestern coast is just what the doctor ordered. Here, you can visit some of the country’s most famous distilleries — including Lagavulin and Laphroaig .
Praiano, Salerno, Italy
While it’s true that Positano and Capri are easily the most Instagrammable destination spots along the Amalfi Coast — you pay through the nose for the privilege. Instead, book your vacation in sleepy Praiano . It possesses all the same breathtaking scenery but for a fraction of the cost.
Berlin, Germany
Berlin is not for the faint of heart. It’s a hard city that breeds hard people — none of whom have any sympathy for the plight of the western tourist. But beneath Berlin’s stoic exterior beats the heart of a vibrant city and the soul of a poet.
Lagos, Portugal
It’s ironic how many travelers ignore Portugal entirely, especially considering it’s the most westerly country in all of Europe. Portugal’s Algarve gets more sunshine on average than any other country in Europe, and Lagos provides the perfect home base to explore it.
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Montreal, Quebec, Canada
The Canadian Province of Quebec is like visiting a whole other country, and no other city personifies that truth better than Montreal. If you’re visiting in the summer, make sure to attend the Osheaga Music and Arts Festival .
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is often referred to as “The Paris of the East.” This city is so jaw-droppingly beautiful that you simply can’t help but fall in love with it. Be sure to check out the Ruins Bars, specifically Szimpla Kert , for a once-in-a-lifetime nightlife experience.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon has everything that any traveler could ever hope for. It’s a coastal oasis bursting with all the amenities of a much larger city but in a much more compact and accessible way. The food culture is incredible, the architecture immaculate, and the Fado shows are like nothing you’ve ever witnessed in your lifetime.