10 Cities Always Crowded By Tourists & 10 Hidden Gems You Have To Visit
Some of the Most and Least Touristic Cities
There are so many amazing cities in the world. Many are flocked to by millions of people each year while others are well-kept secrets. Whether you like to go with the crowds and see the most famous sites the world has to offer, or you prefer to take the road less traveled, this is the list for you. Here are 10 cities always crowded by tourists and 10 hidden gems you have to visit.
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1. Paris, France
This one should come as no surprise as Paris has long been considered one of humanity’s main cultural bedrocks. Dubbed The City of Light for its beautiful and romantic atmosphere, Paris is the home of some of the world’s most iconic monuments like the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, The Louvre, and the Palace of Versailles. The city’s charming boulevards, world-class restaurant scene, and rich history attract tens of millions of tourists each year.
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2. Rome, Italy
Considered one of the main centers of the Renaissance movement, Rome is an unparalleled cultural behemoth. The city offers a blend of ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and vibrant street life. Millions of tourists flock to Rome each year to visit the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Pantheon—imposing relics of one of the world’s greatest civilizations.
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3. New York City, USA
New York City is a bustling metropolis of almost 8.5 million people. Visitors worldwide come to experience the dynamic energy and nightlife in the city that never sleeps, see plays on Broadway, and visit landmarks like Times Square and Central Park. Foodies have a field day visiting world-class restaurants and fashionistas fall in love with the endless offerings on the iconic Fifth Avenue. NYC really does have something for everyone.
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4. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo, with its opulent temples contrasted against neon-lit skyscrapers, offers a unique blend of modern and historical. Visitors come for the bustling Shibuya Crossing and serene Meiji Shrine, and stay for the fantastic food and art. Of course, you’ll also have iconic cherry blossoms and excellent museums to peruse.
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5. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is known for its vibrant street life, majestic shrines, and rich cultural heritage. Tourists can grab delicious pad thai or get a glimpse into the country's unique history at one of Bangkok’s museums. Every year, visitors are attracted to its iconic landmarks and floating markets.
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6. London, United Kingdom
London’s home to many cultural landmarks such as the Tower of London, the iconic ‘Big Ben’ clock tower, and the British Museum, which houses countless precious artifacts from around the world. Modern architecture and heritage buildings captivate visitors while its vibrant nightlife entertains and thrills.
7. Barcelona, Spain
Tourists flock to Barcelona for its vibrant street life, art, and architecture. Sprinkled around the city are celebrated works by Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí, though modern art fans can enjoy Museo Picasso and Fundació Joan Miró. The city also offers beautiful beaches, fantastic restaurants, and amazing weather.
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8. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai, an ultramodern city in the Arabian Peninsula, is known for its luxury. Dotting the coastal city are glitzy hotels, beach clubs, first-class restaurants, and lively nightclubs bringing some of the world’s best DJs. It’s also home to the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa, and the marvelous Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island.
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9. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is the most populous city in Europe. Iconic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Hippodrome of Constantine, showcase its unique history under the rule of many different empires. The city’s rich history, distinctive aesthetic, and vibrant nightlife attract millions of tourists each year.
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10. Sydney, Australia
A hub of coastal life and Australia’s cultural center, Sydney attracts outdoor adventurers and urbanites alike. Tourists can surf the waves and stroll through the Royal Botanical Garden before seeing a show at the iconic Sydney Opera House.
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If you’re not into going to the places that everyone has been, or maybe you really don’t like people that much, have no fear. There are plenty of lesser-known gems you’re bound to love.
1. Ghent, Belgium
If you adore quaint European cities but don’t love the crowds, head over to the charming city of Ghent. It used to be a major cultural center in the Middle Ages but is now a university town. Visitors can walk along the pedestrian-only city center, visit the 12-century Gravensteen Castle, and check out the well-preserved medieval buildings.
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2. Valletta, Malta
Capital of the Mediterranean island nation, Malta, Valletta is home to just over 5,000 residents and is the smallest capital in Europe. Despite its small size, it’s still home to over 300 monuments. The city’s 16th-century baroque architecture, museums, historic forts, and beautiful coastline make it a joy to visit.
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3. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Dubbed the green capital of Europe, Ljubljana is a university town surrounded by lush mountains and rivers. Its unique mix of baroque and neo-classical buildings makes it a paradise for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. Visit the medieval Ljubljana Castle, check out the Modern Art Museum, or enjoy a coffee at one of their many lively cafés.
4. Colmar, France
Nestled in the beautiful Alsace region of France is the quaint Colmar. Its cobblestone streets and scenic canals give the town a charming atmosphere that feels like it’s been preserved in time. As if that’s not incentive enough to visit, Colmar is also home to numerous vineyards specializing in Reisling and Gewürztraminer, semi-sweet white wines.
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5. Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, has a unique and varied aesthetic that reflects its complicated history under the rule of numerous empires. A 4th-century fortress looms over the city, with Eastern Orthodox churches, elaborate art nouveau buildings, and modern soviet architecture sprinkled throughout.
6. Porto, Portugal
As the second largest city in Portugal, Porto has plenty to offer any traveler. Take a jaunt down the cobblestone streets, poke about in the contemporary art museums, and be sure to check out of the many port wine cellars along the Duoro River.
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7. Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and spectacular natural surroundings. It’s been inhabited for thousands of years and was the capital of Laos until 1975. Tourists can explore the many sacred Buddhist sites and go hiking in the lush jungles surrounding the city.
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8. Riga, Latvia
With historic buildings and a beautiful Alpine setting, Riga truly is a hidden gem in the Baltic region. Its historic city center is pedestrian-only, making it highly accessible for tourists to take in the art nouveau architecture. They can also visit the many shops, restaurants, and nightclubs near Livu Square.
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9. Matera, Italy
Situated on the bank of the Gravina River, Matera is unique for its ancient cave dwellings carved right into the mountainside. Though it was evacuated in 1952 due to poor living conditions, the enchanting town has been preserved and is open to visitors. It houses museums where you can see ancient artifacts, period furniture, and impressive rock churches that house 13th-century frescoes.
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10. Salzburg, Austria
Last but definitely not least is the picturesque Salzburg. Offering breathtaking views of the Alps, Salzburg was the birthplace of Mozart and his childhood home has been preserved as a museum. Visitors can take in the cleansing mountain air while checking out the gorgeous baroque architecture in the Old City, or stroll along the Salzach River for a schnitzel at one of the local restaurants.
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