Paris, London, Berlin, Sydney and New York are just a few cities that have millions of visitors a year and for good reason.
They offer a traveling experience packed full of sites, adventure and last but not least, tons and tons of people.
Then there are the cities throughout the world that also offer beautiful sites, a look into a different culture and endless amounts of adventure that are oftentimes unheard of and overlooked.
These cities can offer visitors a true look inside what life is like in another culture and how other people live. They tell great stories of history and provide scenes of dreamlike beauty that beg to be seen. Here are just a few of the places around the globe that you may not have heard of but definitely deserve to be considered for your next traveling adventure.Arles, France
Located on the southern coast of France, Arles (pictured above) is a city rich with history dating back thousands of years. The city has such awe-inspiring beauty that when painter Vincent Van Gogh lived there from 1888-89 he produced more than 300 paintings. There are Roman monuments throughout the city making visitors feel like they have taken a step back in time.
Things to do:
• Check out Museon Arlaten (Arles Folk Museum). The museum offers cheap admission and allows visitors to get a feel for the rich traditions that give life to Arles.
• Find Van Gogh’s easels. There are 12 concrete easels in various spots throughout the city where Van Gogh completed his works. Those interested have the option of purchasing a map to find the locations or set out to find the hidden gems for themselves.
• The Roman Arena is a must-see that takes visitors back 2,000 years to a time of bullfighting and ancient games. The arena offers a discount for students and represents a large part of the city’s history.
Pai, Thailand
Once a small, quiet village, Pai is slowly growing into an up and coming area to explore. Pai has been inhabited for more than 5,000 years and has a story to tell to those who visit. The area has a relaxed atmosphere that welcomes travelers from around the world. The scenery ranges from scenic mountains to waterfalls.
Things to do:
• Pai Zipline Adventure. Zipline with the greatest of ease through the glorious forests for an adventure of a lifetime.
• Elephant Trek. The dream of riding an elephant can come to life as you make the trek on an elephant to the Pai River, where the elephants are encouraged to shower participants for a once in a lifetime experience.
• Rent a bike and take a ride through the gorgeous countryside while you take in the beauty of the area at your own pace.
• Be sure to check out the Wednesday Markets that promise a diverse crowd and colorful culture.
Kraków, Poland
Dating back to the 7th Century, Kraków is one of the largest cities in Poland. The area leads in arts and culture and served as the capital of Poland from 1038 to 1569. During World War II, Kraków served as the capital of Germany’s General Government. Poland has long moved on from its dark past and now the city is a marvel to visit due to its abundant history and Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture.
Things to do:
• Climb to the top of Kopiec Kraka building for a breathtaking view of the city. It is free and allows visitors to get a birds eye view of the cityscape.
• Check out the modern design of the Kladka Bernatka Bridge, which spans across the Wisla River and stands out from the rest of the city. It provides access to the old border of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
• Street performers and artists are one of the great things about traveling through cities. Make sure to stop by the town’s main square to check out the numerous talented performers.
Darwin, Australia
Although Northern Australia lacks the population of the southern part of the country, it does not lack the beauty. Darwin has a rich multicultural mix and a relaxed charm that makes it a great site for tourists. The name of the city goes back to explorer John Clements Wickham, who named the region after the infamous Charles Darwin.
Things to do:
• Make your way down to one of the picturesque harbors to enjoy the beautiful skies and sea breezes. Trips to the beach are also a must for this area.
• Check out the Darwin Symphony Orchestra at The Darwin Entertainment Centre for a great night of music and culture.
• The area hosts various festivals throughout the year and the annual Darwin Festival is a chance to experience comedy, arts, dance, music, theatre and film.
• The city is packed with pubs, clubs, museums, parks and gardens to make sure visitors are never bored or lack something beautiful to see.
Regensburg, Germany
Located in the heart of scenic Bavaria, Regensburg is one of Germany’s best-kept secrets. The first settlements date back to the Stone Age, making the city one of the oldest in the country. The medieval architecture is breathtaking and almost appears as if the city was frozen in time. Regensburg was largely spared from bombings in World War II, and now the medieval city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Things to do:
• Visit one of the beer gardens in the city to enjoy a view of the famous Danube River as well as get a taste for true Bavarian beer.
• Make sure to try to Regensburg’s famous “Wurstkuchl” sausage to get a taste of authentic German cuisine.
• Go down the winding cobblestone streets where you are bound to stumble upon the various charming shops and bakeries.
• Don’t miss checking out the striking Dom Cathedral, medieval stone bridge, Wahlhalla monument and Thurn and Taxis Castle.
Santa Cruz, California
Santa Cruz represents all things that come to mind when picturing Cali while providing a great deal more. The area serves up all the sand, surf, diving and sailing you can handle. The central California city has a down-to-earth feel that is welcoming to those who visit.
Things to do:
• The area is ideal of surfing and even has a surfing museum. The Santa Cruz Surfing Museum is housed in a lighthouse and is a must-see for those who make their way to the city.
• The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a fun-filled place to visit in the city. It has the oldest amusement park in all of California.
• There are Redwood forests surrounding the area, which are a great exploring space for nature lovers.
Sacred Valley, Peru
Once serving as the heartland of the Inca Empire, the Sacred Valley has a deep history. Sitting at the valley of the Andes of Peru, Sacred Valley is a passing point for numerous rivers that serve as a great resource for the area. The city stretches between Cusco to the famous Machu Picchu, providing several places to see and explore.
Things to do:
• Hike The Inca Trail. This path provides a scenic route of the mountains, forests and ancient ruins for the area.
• Ollantaytamboo. This quaint area is home to numerous small cafes, views of the valley and serves as a getaway for those looking for less crowded areas.
• Machu Picchu. It is impossible to visit the area without visiting the famous site, which is sure to live up to all of the hype.
Chefchaouen, Morocco
With the Rif Mountains serving as a backdrop for the city, the wondrous beauty of Chefchaouen is apparent to all who visit. The streets are filled with gorgeous “blue” buildings and tell a story which dates all the way back to 1471.
Things to do:
• Visit Ras el Maa, a beautiful waterfall. It serves a place to come and cool off and as well as a chance to get away from the main square. Many local residents gather and do their laundry here, representing a different and more peaceful life.
• Take a hike through the Rif Mountains for a chance to soak up the dreamlike beauty of the town.
• Journey to the old mosque, Jemaa Bouzafar, which offers a beautiful scene to those who travel there. It is located on a hill behind a waterfall to add to the beauty of the area.
With all the places in the world to travel, narrowing down choices is no easy task. There is so much beauty to see and places to explore in the world that the possibilities seem endless. There is something special about adventuring into the path less traveled and exploring the hidden beauty of the world. Few things are more enjoyable than truly experiencing a different culture for what it is, not what years of tourism and foreigners have made it out to be. Take a different path and explore wonders that beg to be seen. After all, there is great beauty in the unfamiliar.
(Feature Photo via Pinterest)
