10 October 2024 | Latest News
Every year millions of tourists from the UK go around the world to see and explore some of the best holiday destinations in the world, and there are a lot. Most of them book holiday packages through travel agencies, as they don’t cost an arm and a leg. Dubai, the Maldives, Singapore, and the Phi Phi Islands are among some of the most popular places for vacations, whether tourists want to spend them alone or with their family, it is up to them.
However, these destinations are quite well-known, as we see travellers come and go through them throughout the year. But there are places in the world that are just as beautiful and exciting to explore. The only catch is that they are not quite as popular among tourists. That is why this article will detail the hidden gems for travellers to discover on their next holiday from the UK.
For those of you wondering why go to these less popular places when the mainstream destinations offer a complete experience as is? The answer to that is two things: cost and crowds. The former is directly proportional to the latter. When more tourists visit a place, the demand for accommodations skyrockets, which leads to elevated prices for hotel rooms, flights, and more.
These hidden gems not only offer a complete holiday experience to tourists but also don’t break the bank. On top of that, these places are more akin to off-the-beaten-path, as they offer unique experiences soaked in local flavour instead of the same old things that popular holiday destinations provide. The following are the seven best hidden gems that are a must-visit for UK tourists:
No, we are not talking about the fictional organisation in the Marvel movies or comics. Located in the Argosaronic Gulf, Hydra is a cosmopolitan island that is quite close to Athens, and tourists can hop to the other side if they feel like it. Mansions from the 18th century, churches, and wells line up the coast and can be found throughout the island.
This holiday destination has a rich history too, soaked in revolution. This island nurtured the revolution that won an entire country its independence. To this day, the cannons aim at the Aegean Sea. This rich history is one aspect of why it is a favoured vacation destination for rock stars and the wealthy.
As for what Hydra has to offer, it has incredible views that tourists can enjoy at The Periptero while they admire the cannons and enjoy local cuisines at Idroneta. If tourists feel adventurous, they can make their way to Spilia, enjoy a cup of coffee there, and jump off the rocks for a quick swim.
The island also welcomes art lovers to its Kaminia, its artistic finishing village. Here, tourists can explore art exhibitions at the Red House, which was originally built in 1786 for Admiral Miaoulis. If the view from the Periptero isn’t enough to impress you, then walk up to the monastery of the Prophet Elias, however, travelers must prepare themselves as it is quite a hike. From there, go to the summit of Mount Eros and enjoy the panoramic view of Hydra and the Aegean Sea, which will enchant tourists.
Italy itself is a beautiful country and sees tourists in droves every year that come here to spend their holidays. However, there is more beauty to it than the mainland, as there are beautiful islands in the Mediterranean Sea that tourists can explore. If they want, they can visit these hidden gems during their trip to Italy, which means that travellers can enjoy the sights of mainland Italy and the scenic beauty of the outer islands in a single trip. Words can’t do justice to the beauty of these places and have to be seen in person to appreciate it. But we will do our best to summarise them in the text here.
Among them is Sardinia, which is the second largest island in the country. It features spectacular coastal scenery with rocky coves covered with lush greenery. During the day, the sun shines over the island, revealing its true beauty, and if tourists like to bask under the light, then they can make their way to one of the many sandy beaches of Sardinia. Want to go for a swim? The water here is clean, and tourists will find that there are many shades of blue in the ocean.
Another hidden treasure among these islands is Ponza, however, travellers have to make an effort to get here. Only a handful of mainland ports offer ferry service to this island, which takes around 90 minutes to get there. Since it is so far away from mainland Italy, Ponza has maintained itself as an exclusive holiday destination. Ischia, Procida, Pantelleria, Stromboli, and the list goes on. There are more islands here that a tourist might have to book multiple Italy holiday packages from the UK throughout their life to explore.
This is a place where Pannonian, Alpine, and Mediterranean worlds merge with one another to create a tapestry that is not unique but beautiful to experience. Slovenia boasts natural, cultural, and culinary diversity that is hard to match. If we have to define it in a single sentence, it is a place where outdoor activities and exquisite cuisine intertwine with health and fitness. The cuisines themselves are made with local and seasonal ingredients that not only enhance the taste of the food but also help keep locals here healthy.
Want to stay at one of the most beautiful Alpine resorts in Europe? Bled Castle is the one you are looking for. The castle itself is perched on a cliff and is the oldest castle in Slovenia. The real thing to see here is the lake itself, where the castle is perched over. Lake Bled is said to be an image of paradise, it features a mild healing climate.
For those tourists who want to see the hustle and bustle of the city during their trip, they can make their way to Piran, which is the most beautiful town they will find on the Slovenian coast. The town itself is a historical and cultural monument featuring remnants of a mediaeval wall and other architectural marvels from the time long past. On top of that, the country is home to a treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage sites. The land encompasses both natural and cultural sites that are a must-visit for tourists.
This city is a hidden gem of Belgium, which is a vibrant alternative to Bruges but with fewer crowds. Why visit Ghent? Well, it has a thriving culture, a rich history, and striking architecture. There are so many things to do and places to explore in the city that one trip to this marvellous place is not enough. There are beautiful castles, mediaeval structures, canals that sparkle during the day, and intriguing architecture.
Lovers of castles and museums should visit Gravensteen, which is also known as the “Castle of the Counts." Originally built in 1180, it is divided into two museums, the Arms Museum and the Museum of Judicial Objects. The former is a display of weapons used in mediaeval warfare, while the latter exhibits tools and contraptions used to torture and punish.
In case tourists are interested in exploring a place that is equal parts nature and equal parts man-made structure, then they must see St. Bavo’s Abbey. It dates all the way back to the 7th century, however, most of it was destroyed during the Revolt of Ghent in 1539. However, what remains has been taken over by nature. To this day the structure is still standing, which is a marvel in itself.
Aside from historical buildings, tourists can enjoy sights around Graslei & Korenlei, shop in Patershol, located amidst stunning architecture, and enjoy a meal at Vrijdagmarkt.
Coffee is a drink that is consumed worldwide. It energises the mind and body, which is why people drink it at the start of the day to be more productive. For those tourists who just love coffee, why not take a holiday trip where the beans of their favourite drink originate?
Filandia is a quaint coffee town in Colombia. Aside from offering a cup of coffee made from freshly ground beans, it has colourful architecture, secret waterfalls, and classy restaurants. Despite having all the bearings of an ideal holiday destination, it remains undiscovered by tourists. The reason it is overlooked by travellers is its more popular neighbour, Salento.
Strolling through the town is a feast for the eyes. The colourful wooden houses add a unique charm, making every corner feel like a scene from a postcard. But beyond the picturesque streets lies an authentic Colombian vibe. Engaging with locals is effortless; their warmth and hospitality make you feel like part of the community.
Coffee lovers will feel right at home here. Its coffee culture is rich and inviting. Tourists can wander through local farms, dive into the coffee-making process, and savour some of the finest brews in the world. Each cup tells a story, connecting them to the land and its people.
For adventure seekers, the surroundings offer a playground of activities. Hiking trails, birdwatching, and exploration in Los Nevados National Natural Park are just a stone’s throw away. And when hunger strikes, local eateries serve up delicious traditional dishes crafted from fresh ingredients.
The only landlocked country in Southeast Asia, Laos is often overshadowed by its border states like Vietnam and Thailand. The latter is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, it has culturally rich cities, white sand beaches, islands, lakes, and lush forests.
However, Laos is no slouch either, as it has stunning natural beauty, rich culture and history, and mouth-watering local cuisines. As stated, the reason we are listing obscure holiday destinations is that they have fewer crowds and it costs less to get there. This country is no different in this regard. In terms of affordability, it is an attractive option for tourists as it is very budget-friendly with a low cost of food, hotels, and activities.
On top of that, it has mountains adorned with lush greenery, serene rivers, and beautiful waterfalls. Aside from that, it is also home to Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The highlight of this site is the colonial-era architecture. Since it is a Buddhist country, there is an abundance of ancient temples, villages, and vibrant markets. Also, given that it is not as popular as Thailand, there are fewer crowds of tourists here. This results in a relaxed vibe and a perfect place to visit for tourists who are looking to spend some time away from hustle and bustle.
Oman is a true hidden gem for those looking for a distinctive holiday experience. Imagine stunning landscapes that shift from the rugged Hajar Mountains to the tranquil beaches of the Arabian Sea. The Wahiba Sands, with their mesmerising dunes, offer a perfect backdrop for immersing yourself in Bedouin culture.
Culturally, the country is rich and layered. Ancient forts and vibrant souks beckon, each telling a story of a time long past. Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to the country’s architectural heritage. And let’s not forget the people. Omanis are known for their incredible warmth and hospitality. You might find yourself invited into a local home, sharing a meal, and making connections that last beyond your visit.
What we have listed here are some of the best holiday destinations for UK tourists to explore. Forget the crowded beaches and bustling tourist traps. Imagine sipping coffee in the charming streets of Filandia or hiking through the stunning landscapes of Laos. Virikson Holidays offers you cheap travel deals that include flights, meals, hotel stays, and even transport. Since they are customisable, tourists can even add or remove services to make the bundle suit their needs and budget. Visit our website and get a quote for your ideal holiday package from the UK.
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