8 hidden hotspots from Europe to Asia that you should visit on your next holiday

Sometimes, we're just tired of crowded tourist traps and cookie-cutter itineraries. It's time to explore destinations that feel fresh, vibrant, and a little unexpected. These eight gorgeous picks go beyond the usual city breaks—not all are entire cities; some, like Peckham in London or Horie in Osaka, are neighbourhoods bursting with local character, creative energy, and cultural flair. After beachside charm, historic depth, or design-forward streets? These under-the-radar spots offer everything you love about travel—minus the crowds. So skip the long lines and overpriced cafés. These are the places that belong on your travel list, now more than ever.

Peckham isn’t trying to be flashy. Once overlooked, this South London neighbourhood has transformed into a hub of creativity. It’s about rooftop bars with skyline views (Frank’s Cafe, anyone?), bold street art, independent galleries, pop-up restaurants, and Afro-Caribbean culture around every corner. It’s gritty and stylish, worth a visit.

Hidden in Osaka’s Nishi Ward, Horie is where hip local life meets Japan’s design culture. This walkable, low-rise district is full of independent boutiques, vintage stores, coffee roasters, and concept shops. The vibe is laid-back, stylish, and hyper-local—a great contrast to the corporate buzz of Tokyo. Bonus: Osaka’s food scene is arguably the best in Japan.

Yes, it’s the birthplace of The Beatles, but Liverpool is so much more. It has a world-class waterfront (UNESCO-listed), bold architecture, and a thriving arts and music scene that rivals any capital. Moreover, the people are famously friendly and the nightlife is electric. For fans of football, galleries, and northern grit, with a maritime twist, Liverpool punches well above its weight.

Why go instead of Sydney or Melbourne: Perth offers sunshine, pristine beaches, and a booming food and coffee scene, without the East Coast crowds. It’s the most isolated major city in the world, which makes it feel like a well-kept secret. Day trip to Rottnest Island for adorable quokkas, explore Fremantle’s markets and bars, or unwind along the Swan River. Perth is where laid-back living meets wild beauty.

Why go instead of Rome or Florence? Palermo is raw, romantic, and full of contrasts. You’ll find crumbling Baroque palaces beside bustling street markets, Arab-Norman architecture, and some of Italy’s most satisfying food. It includes panelle, arancini, and cannoli served with fierce Sicilian pride. The city’s slightly chaotic energy is part of its charm, this is Italy unfiltered, where every alley tells a story.

Why go instead of Phuket or Bangkok: Often misunderstood, Pattaya is reinventing itself. Beyond its reputation for nightlife, it’s becoming a destination for foodies, families, and digital nomads alike. There are sleek beachfront hotels, art galleries, water parks, and cultural experiences like the Sanctuary of Truth.

A hidden gem in the Dutch Caribbean, Curaçao is where colourful colonial architecture exists, with wild, unspoiled beaches. The capital, Willemstad, looks like a tropical Amsterdam, and the island’s coral reefs are a dream for divers. Unlike its more tourist-heavy neighbours, Curaçao offers a relaxed, authentic vibe with rich Afro-Caribbean and European influences in its food, music, and festivals.

Why go instead of Montreal or Toronto: Quebec City is like stepping into a European fairy tale—without the transatlantic flight. With its cobbled streets, 17th-century architecture, and French-Canadian flair, this UNESCO-listed city is culture-packed and postcard-perfect. Visit in winter for snow-covered charm or in summer for festivals and terrace culture. It’s romantic, walkable, and wonderfully different from the rest of North America.