This blog post was updated on August 9, 2023.

Who wants to spend their entire vacation standing in line? Even if you’re headed to a wildly popular tourist destination, there are still lesser-known sites to take you away from the clamor of the crowds. These hidden gems turn the average vacation into a one-of-a-kind adventure.

The world is full of underrated, less-trafficked spots to explore on your urban sojourn. You’re less likely to find these places in the average travel brochure, but most of these spots are the pride of their local communities. When you return home, instead of telling your friends about all the crowds you endured, you’ll be regaling them with stories of all the interesting things you saw on your vacation. You might even become your group’s resident travel expert.

In Paris, Try Sainte Chapelle

In Paris, many people head straight to the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre. But you’ll have a much more relaxing time if you visit Sainte Chapelle. Established in 1248 as the personal chapel of King Louis IX, Sainte Chapelle is one of the most beautiful buildings in the City of Light. In the world, really. A fine example of the Rayonnant form of Gothic architecture, Sainte Chapelle is located not far from the Notre Dame on the Île de la Cité, inside the grounds of the Palais de Justice, which formerly served as the residence of the French royal family.

Sainte Chapelle’s biggest draw is its upper chapel, which is adorned with richly colored stained glass windows and radiant vaulted ceilings. Historically important as the place where the king prayed each day, the upper chapel is also home to the church’s signature rose window, a later addition to Sainte Chapelle that depicts scenes from the Book of Revelation. Also of note at Sainte Chapelle is the lower chapel, a separate place of worship for the palace’s workers that is dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

In New York City, Try the Cloisters

Of course the mother of all New York City museums is the Metropolitan Museum of Art. But everyone knows this, and sometimes it’s hard to even get near the Rembrandts and Vermeers. Try heading north to the Met’s satellite location, the Cloisters. Nestled in Fort Tryon Park — way way up in Inwood, Manhattan’s northernmost neighborhood — the Cloisters is a medieval sanctuary in Manhattan’s concrete jungle. Visitors will be fascinated by the incredible juxtaposition of the Cloisters’ medieval architecture against New York’s modern cityscape.

The Cloisters itself was built from five European monasteries dating back to the Middle Ages that were disassembled, moved, and then rebuilt brick-by-brick in the 1930s. Replete with wondrous outdoor gardens, the Cloisters and its calming architecture stand as a testament to the serenity of the monastic life in the medieval era. Indoor exhibits at the Cloisters focus on the great variety of medieval art. One of the museum’s most prized exhibits is The Hunt of the Unicorn, a set of 7 tapestries from the 15th century depicting the capture of a unicorn by a group of nobles.

In San Francisco, Try Telegraph Hill

Instead of rushing to see the Golden Gate Bridge or taking the ferry out to Alcatraz, consider taking a hike up to San Francisco’s Telegraph Hill, one of the city’s quirkiest and most picturesque neighborhoods. One of Telegraph Hill’s defining features — other than the iconic Coit Tower that sits atop the hill — is a flock of wild parrots that call the neighborhood home. Believed to be former pets who escaped from their owner, Telegraph Hill’s parrot flock first appeared in the late 1980s. While originally numbering only four, today’s flock now boasts over 100 birds. Regularly perching on trees and filling the neighborhood with their melodious calls, the parrots of Telegraph Hill have become an enduring part of life in San Francisco, even serving as the subject of several books and a documentary film. Visitors to Telegraph Hill should also consider climbing Coit Tower for panoramic views of the city.

In Sydney, Try Milk Beach

Sydney is known for its beautiful beaches. While visitors to the city might be tempted to immediately head for the famous Bondi Beach, or perhaps the surfer favorite Manly Beach, a less crowded alternative is available in the form of Milk Beach. Milk Beach sits in the secluded suburb of Vaucluse, barely a stone’s throw away from Bondi.

Although not as large as Bondi, Milk Beach makes up for its relatively modest size with fantastic views of Sydney Harbor and the city skyline. Milk Beach is further advantageous because of its proximity to two of Sydney’s biggest tourist draws: Nielsen Park, one of the best recreational centers in the city, and Strickland House, a 19th-century mansion that offers tours of its walkable gardens and great views of Sydney Harbor.

In Florence, Try San Miniato

While the Duomo might be the most famous building in Florence, the Basilica of San Miniato al Monte offers some of the best views in the city. San Miniato is dedicated to the Armenian martyr St. Minias who, after being beheaded for his faith, allegedly picked up his head and threw it to the spot where the basilica now stands. Built over 1,000 years ago, San Miniato is a fine example of Romanesque architecture, making it a true standout amongst Florence’s more numerous Renaissance-inspired edifices.

The interior of the building is decorated with colorful mosaics relating to the life of St. Minias and St. Benedict, whose order also called the basilica home for several years. The basilica’s placement on a hill overlooking the city allows for great views and exemplary photography opportunities. The site offers particularly amazing views of the Duomo, which is best enjoyed during the early evening and dusk hours.

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In Rio de Janeiro, Try Parque Lage

Public parks seldom get any grander than Parque Lage, Rio de Janeiro’s most beautiful hidden gem. While everyone else is headed up to the admittedly spectacular view at the foot of the famed Christ the Redeemer statue, Parque Lage is more likely to give you a moment or two to yourself. The site’s signature attraction, the Roman Palace, was built in the 19th century and remodeled in the 1920s under the direction of the famed industrialist Enrique Lage, from whom it gets its name.

Lage gave his namesake park to the city and, since the 1960s, Parque Lage has offered something for every visitor to Rio de Janeiro. The main building now houses an art school that regularly exhibits student work, while the grounds throughout the site offer amazing walking trails through a tropical forest that is home to many different friendly species of monkey. Waterfalls, gardens, and even small caves also dot the landscape throughout Parque Lage.

FAQs: 

Q: Are these hidden gems suitable for solo travelers? 

A: Absolutely! Hidden gems offer a more intimate and personal experience, making them ideal for solo travelers seeking authenticity.

Q: How do I find reliable transportation in these places? 

A: Research local transportation options, such as buses, trams, or rideshares, to reach hidden gems. Offline maps and navigation apps are your allies.

Q: Are these hidden gems usually budget-friendly? 

A: Yes, these hidden gems are typically budget-friendly, catering to travelers seeking unusual experiences without breaking the bank.

Q: Can I access these places without knowing the local language? 

A: While knowing the local language can be helpful, many hidden gems are designed to welcome diverse visitors, so language barriers are usually not a significant issue.

Q: Are these hidden attractions family-friendly? 

A: Absolutely! Families can enjoy hidden gems together, providing an enriching experience for both kids and adults.

Q: What’s the best way to learn about the history of these hidden gems? 

A: Look for guided tours or informational plaques at the location itself. Local guides and online resources can also provide valuable insights.

Q: How do I ensure my safety when exploring lesser-known areas? 

A: Prioritize safety by researching the area, avoiding dimly lit areas at night, and keeping your belongings secure. Trust your instincts and always stay aware of your surroundings.

Do you have any hidden gems in any of these cities that you’d like to share with us? Let us know in the comments below!