10 Underrated Travel Destinations for Summer 2026 That Aren't Overrun With Tourists

I love traveling, but I hate crowds. There's nothing worse than saving up for a vacation only to spend it shuffling through a line at the Colosseum or fighting for a spot on a crowded beach. So for summer 2026, I set out to find places that are still under the radar. Places where you can actually relax, explore, and connect with the local culture. Here are ten that blew me away.

1. Piran, Slovenia

Everyone talks about the Slovenian capital, Ljubljana, but the coastal town of Piran is the real gem. It's a tiny medieval town on the Adriatic coast, with narrow cobblestone streets, a Venetian-style harbor, and the best seafood I've ever had. The sunset from the town walls is breathtaking. And it's cheap: a room at a boutique hotel costs around $80 a night.

2. Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor is like Dubrovnik without the crowds. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a maze of alleys and squares. The bay is stunning, surrounded by mountains. Take a hike up the fortress for an incredible view. The best part? A meal at a local konoba (tavern) costs $15. I had grilled squid, fresh bread, and local wine for less than a pizza in New York.

3. Gjirokastër, Albania

Albania is having a moment, but most tourists head to the coast. Gjirokastër, a mountain town in the south, is a fortress city with Ottoman-era houses and a castle that dates back to the 12th century. The local food is incredible: try the qifqi (rice balls) and the lamb roasts. The people are incredibly friendly. I felt like I was discovering a secret.

4. Essaouira, Morocco

Marrakech is a circus. Essaouira, a coastal town on the Atlantic, is the antidote. It's a former Portuguese fort with whitewashed buildings, blue shutters, and a laid-back vibe. The wind makes it perfect for kiteboarding. The medina is small and easy to navigate. The seafood market is a must: pick your fish, and they'll grill it for you on the spot.

5. Galle, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's southern coast has been discovered, but Galle still feels authentic. The Dutch colonial fort is a UNESCO site, with boutique shops, cafes, and galleries inside the walls. Outside, the beaches are empty. I spent a day at Unawatuna Beach, swimming in warm water and eating fresh curry from a beach shack. No crowds. No noisy resorts.

6. Salento, Colombia

Everyone goes to Cartagena or Medellín. Salento, in the coffee region, is a small town with colorful colonial architecture, a lively square, and some of the best coffee in the world. I toured a coffee finca (plantation) and learned how my morning brew is made. The Valle de Cocora, with its towering wax palms, is a short drive away. It's one of the most beautiful landscapes I've ever seen.

7. Hoi An, Vietnam

I know Hoi An is getting popular, but it's still manageable if you visit during the week. The old town is a lantern-lit wonderland, with tailor shops, street food stalls, and historic buildings. The food is incredible: cao lau (noodles with pork and herbs) and banh mi from a street cart. Take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River at night. It's magical.

8. Luang Prabang, Laos

Laos is often skipped by travelers heading to Thailand or Vietnam, but Luang Prabang is a highlight. It's a UNESCO-listed town with Buddhist temples, French colonial architecture, and a nightly夜市 (night market) that sells handmade crafts. The Kuang Si Waterfalls are a short drive away, and you can swim in the turquoise pools. The pace of life here is slow and peaceful.

9. Matera, Italy

Rome and Florence are overcrowded. Matera, in the southern region of Basilicata, is an ancient city carved into a canyon. The sassi (stone houses) are now converted into boutique hotels and restaurants. It's hauntingly beautiful, especially at sunset. The food is rustic and delicious: try the orecchiette with cime di rapa (broccoli rabe). I felt like I was in a movie.

10. Chefchaouen, Morocco

Yes, I'm including another Moroccan town, but Chefchaouen is worth it. The blue-washed city in the Rif Mountains is Instagram-famous, but it's still authentic. The medina is small and walkable, and the mountain views are stunning. I hiked to a nearby waterfall, then came back to the main square for mint tea and people-watching. It's a place that makes you slow down.

These ten places restored my faith in travel. They're not perfect—some have limited infrastructure, and a few are starting to get attention. But for now, they still feel real. If you're planning a summer trip, skip the usual suspects and try one of these. You'll thank me later.