We asked 10 travel agents: What's the top under-the-radar destination? Here's what they said

Table of Contents

• Ten travel agents shared their top picks for the least-known destinations around the globe.
• They weigh in with their reasoning, recommending can't-miss activities and the best times to visit.

A vision for the year 2025 and beyond?

You won't find a better list: We consulted 10 travel agents and gathered their advice on the globe's most overlooked destinations, along with expert tips and recommended experiences for each place, and the best times to visit.

You'll also find average round-trip airfare from U.S. airports. The data, provided by travel app Hopper, is based on average fares that were available to book from January 15 to January 22. Prices are for May-July 2025, when most Americans typically plan their longer vacations, according to Hopper.

, it said.

Albania

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The Albanian Alps, also known as the Accursed Mountains, are a mountain range that is often overlooked by tourists, yet offers some of the most breathtaking and dramatic hiking trails in all of Europe. However, you can still experience the area's charming hospitality firsthand by staying at guesthouses, mountain huts, and hotels owned and operated by local families, who maintain the traditional way of life and culture of the region.

Hiking in Valbona Valley National Park

June to September

$926 to Tirana, Albania

Ecuadorian cloud forest

Allie Almario, South America and Galapagos expert with Premier Tours.

Most people associate Costa Rica with cloud forest, but Ecuador has another allure with the Galapagos Islands, making it a fantastic combination. Around three hours from Quito, Ecuador's capital city, the cloud forest has a primeval and otherworldly feel to it.

I'm really drawn to the Mashpi Eco Lodge, which is situated at the edge of the rain and cloud forest in its own private nature reserve. This secluded area boasts exceptionally varied and abundant wildlife - so isolated, in fact, that the stillness is almost overwhelming.

It's an over an hour-long ride in an open-air cable car that can seat only four guests along with a naturalist, soaring over the treetops. You'll only hear the wind, bird calls, and the distant sound of waterfalls more than 500 feet below. The butterflies, meanwhile, add a vibrant touch, fluttering about like confetti in the air.

Temperatures are pretty consistent throughout the year, but there's a clear distinction between the rainier and drier periods. Regardless, you should be prepared, and hiking in the cloud and rainforest will always be an exciting experience.

$588 to Quito, Ecuador

Hamburg, Germany

Kareem George, Chief Executive Officer of Culture Traveler

This ultra-fashionable city is stunningly beautiful, sophisticated, and an absolute blast, offering a diverse range of attractions for people of all ages and interests. The city's scenery is quite idyllic, situated between the Elbe River and Alster Lake, with numerous canals weaving in and out. It's an exceptionally walkable city, with many historic landmarks in the heart of the city - such as the Rathaus (City Hall) and St. Nikolai Church - surrounded by trendy neighborhoods like the Speicherstadt (Warehouse) District, lively St. Pauli, and eclectic Schanzenviertel.

We strongly advise purchasing tickets in advance for both events.

Hamburg is a wonderful destination for a visit at any time of year, but I especially loved visiting during the fall. The weather was ideal, allowing me to stroll along the lake and canals and explore the many neighborhoods on foot.

$1,090

Kyushu, Japan

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Bursting with natural wonders around every turn, the southern island of Japan's Kyushu might be overshadowed by its more famous northern counterparts, Tokyo and Kyoto, but it's just as exciting. Plentiful with active volcanoes, palm-lined coastlines and rejuvenating hot springs to escape to, you'll fall in love with the great outdoors here. I highly recommend visiting the vibrant metropolis of Fukuoka and Beppu, a mountainous gem that boasts the country's most hot springs.

Visiting the famous hot springs, especially the Jigoku Circuit, which are all clustered together and within walking distance, is definitely a sight to see.

During the spring, when the cherry blossoms are in bloom and the weather is mild, or in the fall, as the leaves start to change colors with the seasons.

The top three airports in Kyushu, based on search demand from the U.S., are:

• Fukuoka: $1,326
• Nagasaki: $1,617
• Kumamoto: $1,594

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil

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Far away from civilization, this stunning park featuring vast sand dunes, mangrove forests, and serene freshwater lakes is perfect for both unwinding and venturing out - swimming, strolling through the dunes on a four-wheeler, birdwatching, etc.

Swimming in the lagoons.

Determining the best time to visit is somewhat personal, but the peak months are generally considered to be July and August: The lagoons are full and warm, without being uncomfortably hot, and the rain has passed, while the surrounding towns are also quite busy. Alternatively, the time leading up to and following these months might be the better option, as while the overall park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is quite large and won't feel overly crowded during the peak season.

A flight from Sao Paulo, Brazil to Washington, D.C. is available for $1,069.

The Nordic countries include Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Norway.

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You'll get the best value for your money on some of the freshest and tastiest seafood you'll ever have.

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In Stockholm, the capital and largest city of Sweden, visitors can find an outstanding selection of museums with some very special attractions. The ABBA museum is a must-visit for music fans, while the Viking Museum and Vasa Museum, which is home to a salvaged ship from the 17th century, pay tribute to Sweden's rich history. And no trip would be complete without a visit to the Spiritmuseum, which honors Sweden's drinking culture.

In the Nordic countries, there's always something special to see, regardless of when you visit. The long days of summer are followed by breathtaking fall foliage, which is later complemented by festive Christmas markets and stunning ice hotels in the winter. Meanwhile, springtime visitors get to enjoy leisurely island-hopping excursions. Not to mention, Stockholm's cherry blossom trees reach their peak bloom in mid- to late-April, creating a stunning display that's as beautiful as, if not more popular than, the famous ones in Washington, D.C. and Kyoto.

Average flight price:

• Copenhagen: $769
• Helsinki: $890
• Oslo: $826
• Stockholm: $801

The Philippines

Tesa Totengco, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Travels with Tesa.

Although it's a part of Southeast Asia, the Philippines stands out from its neighboring countries. I recommend dedicating your entire trip to the Philippines and exploring its many islands.

Pride ourselves on having some of the most stunning white sand beaches (such as Palawan, Boracay, and Bohol). The country has a thriving contemporary art scene, with notable events like the Art Fair in Manila, typically held in February. This bustling art scene is represented by galleries like Silverlens, Artinformal, Gravity Art Space, and Orange Project, all committed to showcasing local artists. Visitors to the capital can walk through Old Manila and discover the region's rich history, from its 16th-century Spanish colonial past to its liberation from Japanese occupation by the Americans. The country also celebrates its flair for design through pop-up shops throughout the year, as well as through celebrated chefs who have their own restaurants serving authentic Filipino cuisine. As the majority of the people in the country speak English, tourists will never feel disconnected.

This nation is comprised of more than 7,000 islands, each boasting its own distinct culture, history, and culinary scene. To truly experience it, you should try a "halo-halo" (which means "mixed"): its iconic beaches, but also much more.

The Philippines is a tropical country, with hot and humid temperatures throughout the year. It's best to avoid visiting during the rainy season, which typically runs from June to October, and instead come between December and February, when the country is at its coolest."

Average flight price:

• Manila: $1,296
• Cebu City: $1,446
• Angeles City: $1,461

Tunisia

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Carthage, the erstwhile potent city-state, boasts a grandeur that rivals the world-renowned Colosseum in Rome. It is home to the remnants of an ancient civilization that had a profound impact on the history of the Mediterranean region.

The Sahara Desert's rolling dunes lead to Hammamet's and Djerba's pristine beaches, providing an ideal backdrop for both adventure and relaxation. Matmata's unique troglodyte dwellings, which have been featured in the Star Wars movies, lend an air of cinematic magic to the experience.

Tunisia's cuisine is a culinary highlight that captures the hearts of food enthusiasts. With its robust flavors and Mediterranean influences, dishes such as brik (a savory pastry), couscous, and stews flavored with harissa showcase the authentic flavors of the area. The country's growing wine industry adds to its charm.

Sidi Bou Said, with its white-washed houses and blue shutters; and Carthage."

Thanks for considering Tunisia! You can explore it all year round.

• This time of year, quote: "Warm, ideal for exploring ruins and nature," March through May is the best season.
• Summer (June-August): "Warm and sunny, ideal for beach trips, but beware of inland temperatures."
• Autumn (September-November): "Mild, perfect for both beach vacations and cultural activities."
• Winter (December-February): "Cooler, ideal for the Sahara and fewer tourists."

$1,360 to Tunis

Uzbekistan

Jonathan Alder, Chief Executive Officer of Jonathan's Travels.

This incredible mix of cultures is one of the world's most amazing travel destinations, with architecture, history, and natural wonders that will surprise even the most experienced traveler.

The cuisine, a delicious blend of Persian, Indian, Italian, and Chinese flavors with a touch of Russian flair, is a must-visit for food enthusiasts. As a major stop on the ancient Silk Road, the country's architecture is unlike anything anywhere else. I recommend starting in the capital city of Tashkent, a thriving modern metropolis, and then journeying to the more ancient regions on the other side of the desert to experience a piece of history. The mosque in Samarkand is an architectural wonder that will leave a lasting impression.

When you leave the cities, you can opt for a trip to the mountains, which is equivalent in beauty to the Himalayas, and experience nature's grandeur and serene valleys amidst the vast desert landscapes that dominate most of the country.

Samarkand. This was once the capital of the Silk Road, the intersection point for all trade routes between Europe and Asia. The attractions here are the largest in the country and include some of the top highlights.

Spring and fall are ideal seasons, while summers are quite warm and winters are extremely cold. This area can also be a popular ski destination in the winter, offering opportunities to combine a skiing holiday with travel to other parts of the country.

Average flight price:

• Tashkent: $1,470
• Samarkand: $2,226

Western Australia

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People usually associate Australia with Sydney and the East Coast. I'm not saying that's not true - the East Coast is stunning. However, I've always been particularly drawn to Western Australia. It's incredibly diverse, and the scenery is truly breathtaking.

They have extraordinary landscapes, incredibly diverse wildlife, and an unparalleled and special quality.

Imagine snorkeling or scuba diving in a secluded reef that dwarfs the crowds found at the Great Barrier Reef in Cairns. You can swim alongside whale sharks here from March to August. For a truly exclusive experience, stay at the upscale Sal Salis glamping retreat.

This is a prime time for visiting - April through to September. It's when they experience their 'winter,' although temperatures remain milder than what we have in the northern hemisphere during that season. This season allows for traveling farther north into the Kimberleys, avoiding the wet season and before the area heats up from October onwards.

Average flight price:

• Perth: $2,043
• Broome: $3,094