La Oreja de Van Gogh

A guide to five seriously underrated, off-the-beaten-path cities Tired of the crowds of popular destinations? Explore these five understated yet captivating cities—perhaps not on your typical travel bucket list, but they offer unexpected delights. 1. Berat, Albania: The City of a Thousand Windows Berat, nicknamed the "City of a Thousand Windows," boasts whitewashed Ottoman-style houses nestled against a hillside, resembling a fairytale in the sunlight. The old town's winding cobblestone streets hide ancient churches and mosques, while the castle offers panoramic views. The city offers affordable living, warm locals, and a leisurely pace of exploration on foot. 2. Guanajuato, Mexico: A Celebration of Color and Art Guanajuato is a city splattered with paint. Its bright yellow walls, pink rooftops, and azure skies create a vibrant, romantic atmosphere. Street bands often jam in its alleyways, while the legend of Kissing Alley (Callejón del Beso) adds to its mystique. Take the cable car up to the Pipila Monument, where the city transforms into a vibrant palette of colors at sunset. 3. Ipoh, Malaysia: A Timeless Nanyang Experience Known as Malaysia's "Little Penang," Ipoh is renowned for its colonial architecture, cave temples, and delicious cuisine. The vintage murals of Concubine Lane are perfect for photo ops, while nearby Perak Cave houses a massive Buddha statue. Don't forget to try the white coffee and bean sprout chicken; this is a foodie's paradise. 4. Wrocław, Poland: City of Elves and Bridges Wrocław boasts one of Europe's most beautiful squares, but its most fascinating attraction lies in the hundreds of bronze elf statues hidden throughout its streets—some playful, some adorable, and some begging for visitors to discover. The Old Town is connected by 12 bridges, and the night view along the Oder River is particularly captivating. Summer's open-air concerts are vibrant and lively. 5. Jianshui, China: A Living Fossil of Southern Yunnan Culture Jianshui, Yunnan, retains its authentic ancient charm: the exquisite wood carvings of the Zhu Family Garden, the Confucian atmosphere of the Confucian Temple, and the reflections of the seventeen arches of the Shuanglong Bridge all tell of its history. Take a train through the countryside, experience handmade pottery on Purple Pottery Street, and savor the delicious flavor of steamed chicken – it's as if time has stood still. These five cities may not have the most traffic, but their unique culture, scenery, and human touch make them hidden gems for discerning travelers. Escape the crowds and discover their hidden gems beneath the hustle and bustle!