A picturesque coastal view of Cadaqués, Spain, with clear blue waters in the foreground and whitewashed buildings with terracotta roofs lining the shore. Small boats are docked along the beach, and people can be seen enjoying the waterfront. The Church of Santa Maria stands atop a hill, overlooking the town, with green hills and rugged mountains forming a scenic backdrop under a bright blue sky.

Off The Beaten Path: 13 Detour Destinations Worth Visiting In 2025

ByMelissa Kruse Hours Posted on Hours Updated on

Detour destinations are growing in popularity so visit now before these up and coming vacation spots become mainstream!

While iconic destinations like Paris, Barcelona, and Rome draw millions of visitors each year, savvy travelers are increasingly seeking alternatives to overtourism by exploring lesser known locations. These “detour destinations” offer authentic experiences without the crowds, often at more reasonable prices than their famous counterparts.

From ancient monasteries perched on dramatic cliffs to hidden tea plantations, these emerging destinations are quickly gaining recognition among travelers who prefer to venture beyond the guidebook. Here are 13 detour destinations you should consider for your next trip.

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Best Detour Destinations

I’ve rounded up 13 incredible detour destinations I’ve personally visited that promise unforgettable experiences without the usual crowds. Each offers a unique twist on a classic getaway.

1. Girona, Spain

Detour from: Barcelona, Spain

Step into a fairytale with Girona’s medieval streets, well preserved medieval city walls, colorful houses along the Onyar River, and a thriving food scene. It’s a quieter, more intimate alternative to bustling Barcelona.

Explore the Jewish Quarter, visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria, and cross the Eiffel-designed Iron Bridge.

This compact city can be explored completely on foot, so no need to rent a car. Trains depart from Barcelona throughout the day with express trains taking only about 40 minutes. Also, you could rent a car after your stay in Girona and explore Costa Brava’s quaint seaside towns.

Where To Stay In Girona

📍Hotel Històric: Charming boutique hotel in the heart of Girona’s Old Town

Panoramic view of the city of Girona Spain from the city walls.

2. Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

Detour from: Ella or Kandy, Sri Lanka

Known as “Little England,” this hill station is a haven of lush tea plantations, colonial charm, and cool mountain air—a refreshing break from Sri Lanka’s tropical lowlands.

Don’t miss a visit to a working tea estate. An easy way to see the highlights of Nuwara Eliya is a tuk-tuk tour from a local guide.

Sri Lanka is growing in popularity as a travel destination, so planning to visit lesser known spots along the popular tourist circuit is where you’ll find the hidden gems and Sri Lankan charm that made the island famous.

Where To Stay In Nuwara Eliya:

📍The Golden Ridge Hotel: Offers mountain views, elegant colonial-style decor, and top-notch amenities, including a heated indoor pool.

A scenic blue train travels through the lush green hills of Sri Lanka, winding along the mountainside. The train's windows are open, with passengers leaning out to enjoy the breathtaking view of rolling tea plantations, misty mountains, and dense forests under a cloudy sky.

3. Meteora, Greece

Detour from: Athens, Greece

Marvel at ancient monasteries perched atop towering rock formations. Meteora’s spiritual serenity and stunning landscapes offer a peaceful contrast to Athens’ bustling streets.

Most people think of the Cyclades Islands when they think of a Greek vacation, but if you have time in your itinerary, a trip up to this unique mainland destination adds diversity to your Greece travels. If you’ve already had the chance to explore Athens, take a day or two to check out this unique place.

There are overnight and day trips from Athens. If you prefer flexibility it’s easy to drive yourself as the route is along a couple well maintained highways. I rented a car on my visit and liked the flexibility it afforded us in Meteora to drive up to different monasteries and around town on our own schedule.

Where To Stay In Meteora:

📍Hotel Doupiani House: Offers warm hospitality, traditional decor, and peaceful location near hiking trails. The perfect base for a trip to Meteora, offering breathtaking views of the monasteries and rock formations right from your balcony.

Sunset view of monastery in Meteora from the main observation point with the sun setting behind the mountain.

4. Naxos, Greece

Detour from: Santorini, Greece

For a quintessential Greek island experience without the crowds, head to Naxos. Think pristine beaches, charming villages, and an authentic local vibe.

While Naxos is often bypassed for Santorini or Mykonos, it has some of Greece’s best beaches alongside ancient ruins. The Portara (Apollo’s Gate) greets visitors as they arrive by boat.

The island’s interior villages, marble quarries, and local cheese-making traditions provide authentic Greek experiences without the cruise ship crowds.

Where To Stay In Naxos:

📍Mariet Naxos Elegant Suites: Its convenient location near Naxos Town and the island’s beautiful beaches makes it an ideal choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and easy access to top attractions.

Sandy beach in Naxos, Greece with wooden boardwalk leading to rows of thatched umbrellas and loungers along turquoise waters. Mountains visible in the distance under clear blue skies.

5. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Detour from: Lake Como, Italy

Lake Bled is a postcard-perfect lake, with its island church and medieval castle. Bled combines Alpine beauty with a touch of fairytale magic. A dreamy alternative to Italy’s iconic lakes.

I got married here in 2024, so I personally have a lot of love for this charming lake town! Slovenia is an underrated European gem that has it all – mountains, forest, cute towns, and coastline.

Where To Stay In Lake Bled:

📍Bled Rose Hotel: Its prime location near the lake and Bled Castle makes it a perfect choice for travelers looking to explore the area’s natural beauty while enjoying top-tier comfort.

Lake Bled in Slovenia, featuring its iconic island church surrounded by turquoise waters, with the Julian Alps and Bled Castle visible in the background. Lush green forest frames the view.

6. Cadaques, Spain

Detour from: Barcelona, Spain

Once home to Salvador Dalí, this coastal town enchants visitors with its whitewashed houses, bright blue waters, and artistic heritage. The narrow cobblestone lanes of old town are fun to walk around as you shop and admire art galleries. There are a couple beaches right in town and the neighboring Cap de Creus National Park has even more beaches and coastline to explore if you’re up for a hike.

I personally pitch Costa Brava’s beautiful seaside towns as an alternative to the pricey and overrun coasts of Italy. 

Where To Stay In Cadaques:

📍Boutique Hotel Villa Gala by Fimedhotels: Excellent boutique hotel with a prime location on the edge of town, making it a perfect spot to explore from.

A picturesque coastal view of Cadaqués, Spain, with clear blue waters in the foreground and whitewashed buildings with terracotta roofs lining the shore. Small boats are docked along the beach, and people can be seen enjoying the waterfront. The Church of Santa Maria stands atop a hill, overlooking the town, with green hills and rugged mountains forming a scenic backdrop under a bright blue sky.

7. Toulouse, France

Detour from: Paris, France

Known as “La Ville Rose” (The Pink City) for its terracotta architecture, Toulouse has an interesting history and a laid-back Southern French charm.

The city boasts stunning landmarks like the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, one of Europe’s best-preserved Romanesque churches, and the Capitole de Toulouse, an architectural masterpiece at the heart of the city. Toulouse is also the hub of France’s aerospace industry, home to the Cité de l’Espace museum and Airbus headquarters, making it an interesting destination for space and aviation enthusiasts.

While Paris impresses with grandeur and Bordeaux with wine culture, Toulouse offers a unique mix of southern French warmth and a lively cultural scene that makes it truly special.

Where To Stay In Toulouse:

📍Boutique Hotel SOCLO: Located in the heart of Toulouse with a tranquil garden and pool. Its central location provides easy access to the city’s historic sites, making it a perfect choice for travelers seeking both charm and convenience.

A charming cobblestone street in Toulouse, France, lined with historic red-brick and pastel-colored buildings featuring shuttered windows and wrought-iron balconies. People stroll along the lively pedestrian street, with outdoor cafés, shops, and bicycles adding to the vibrant atmosphere. In the background, the tall brick tower of a historic church rises above the rooftops.

8. Nazare, Portugal

Detour from: Lisbon, Portugal

This seaside town is a mecca for surfers chasing record-breaking waves. Even if you’re not a surfer, Nazaré’s dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches are worth the visit.

Watch surfers tackle massive waves at Praia do Norte, take the funicular to Sítio for sweeping views, and explore nearby towns and beaches.

Portugal’s Silver Coast offers a refreshing alternative to the Algarve’s tourist-heavy beaches. The coastline features pristine beaches, medieval towns, and excellent surfing spots without the crowds of the south.

Where To Stay In Nazare:

📍Hotel Mar Bravo: Offers oceanfront views and a prime location right on the beach.

Nazaré, Portugal viewed from above, showing the town's white buildings with terracotta roofs nestled between dramatic coastal cliffs and a sandy beach. Tall grass frames the foreground.

9. Carcassonne, France

Detour from: Nice, France or Lourdes, France

Step back in time within the medieval walls of Carcassonne. Its well-preserved fortress and cobblestone streets feel like a real-life fairy tale.

The history of Carcassonne’s castle dates back over 2,500 years, with fortifications built by the Romans and later expanded during the Middle Ages. After centuries of neglect, the citadel was meticulously restored in the 19th century by architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, making it one of Europe’s most impressive medieval restorations.

You can walk around the walled city and explore the castle in one full day. I recommend pairing a visit here with a trip to Toulouse or other Southern France destinations like Collioure, a nearby charming seaside town.

Where To Stay In Carcassonne:

📍Hotel de la Cité & Spa MGallery: This hotel is located within the medieval walls of Carcassonne, providing castle views, a garden, and spa.

Side view of the stone castle in the walled city of Carcassonne with the new city beyond it.

10. Ronda, Spain

Detour from: Seville, Spain

Famous for its dramatic cliffside location and the stunning El Tajo Gorge, Ronda is a historic gem offering breathtaking views and a taste of Andalusian culture.

Cross the iconic Puente Nuevo, explore the historic bullring, and wander through the old Moorish quarter.

The surrounding countryside is ideal for hiking and wine tasting.

Where To Stay In Ronda:

📍Catalonia Ronda: Features a stunning rooftop infinity pool with panoramic views of the Puente Nuevo and the bullring. With a top-rated restaurant and a prime location, it’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking comfort and scenery.

A view of the Puente Nuevo bridge in Ronda, Spain. The picture is taken from the bottom of the canyon looking up at the three arched medieval bridge. Buildings of the town of Ronda can be seen on either sides of the bridge.

11. Córdoba, Spain

Detour from: Granada, Spain

Córdoba is steeped in history and known for its blend of Moorish, Jewish, and Christian influences. While many travelers flock to Seville or Granada, Córdoba offers a unique charm with its stunning architecture, unique old town, and cultural heritage.

Home to the awe-inspiring Mezquita, a mosque-cathedral with a labyrinth of striped arches. Explore the charming Jewish Quarter, stroll across the Roman Bridge, and visit the stunning patios filled with flowers during the annual Courtyard Festival.

Unlike larger Spanish cities, Córdoba has a more relaxed, intimate feel, making it a perfect place to wander through hidden alleyways, savor tapas, and soak in history at every turn.

Where To Stay In Cordoba:

📍Hotel Casa de los Azulejos: Offers a charming and authentic stay in Córdoba, with its beautifully tiled Andalusian courtyard and vibrant colonial-style decor. Centrally located, just a short walk from the Mezquita.

A view of the Roman Bridge in Cordoba, Spain. The bridge is a medieval bridge first built in the 1st Century by the Romans. It is made of brownstone with arches. There is a church and a medieval old town in the background. The sky can be seen at sunset with clouds scattered with orange, red and blue hues.

12. Meghalaya, India

Detour from: The Golden Triangle / Kolkata, India

Explore Meghalaya’s waterfalls and lush green landscapes. Known as the “Abode of Clouds,” this northeastern state is a nature lover’s paradise.

My husband is from Meghalaya’s capital city, Shillong, and I can’t wait to go back and explore this underrated destination more!

Meghalaya offers unique experiences like exploring Mawsmai Cave and visiting what was once dubbed the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong. Don’t miss the chance to hike to the double-decker living root bridge in a village near Cherrapunjee.

Where To Stay In Meghalaya:

📍Shillong:
Courtyard by Marriott Shillong is one of the best options for a stay in the heart of Meghalaya’s capital, with comfortable rooms, dining, and warm hospitality.

📍Cherapunjee:
Jiva Resort is easily my top recommendation for a hotel stay in Cherapunjee. I’ve personally stayed here. There’s comfortable rooms, a nice on-site restaurant, good service, and beautiful views.

Laitlum Canyon, a lush green canyon with rolling hills. This is a top destination to visit in Meghalaya.

13. Munnar, Kerala

Detour from: Kochi (Chochin) or Alleppey, Kerala

Swap Kerala’s backwaters and coastal cities for the misty hills of Munnar, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala. Known for its tea plantations, spice gardens, and cool climate, Munnar is a peaceful retreat into nature.

Head to Eravikulam National Park to spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr (a type of mountain goat). Spots like Top Station and Echo Point offer beautiful views of the surrounding hills. Whether you’re boating on Kundala Lake or exploring spice gardens, Munnar’s natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it one of India’s most enchanting hill stations.

Where To Stay In Munnar:

📍The Panoramic Getaway: A luxurious stay with beautiful hilltop views, an infinity pool, and a relaxing spa.

Lush green tea plantations rolling over hills under a clear blue sky in Munnar, India

Best Detour Destinations Around The World

These detour destinations prove that there’s so much more to discover beyond the usual tourist spots. Whether you’re drawn to medieval cities, serene lakes, or natural wonders, these places promise unforgettable experiences that are well worth the journey.

✔️Renting a car is a great way to get to a detour destination, look for cheaper deals with Discover Cars.

✔️GetYourGuide is a helpful website for local guides, tours, and activities in detour destinations all over the world.

✔️Get your trip covered with travel insurance by SafetyWing. Especially helpful if you don’t have a credit card that covers things like lost luggage (be sure to check what’s covered!).

✔️Score deals on hotels with Booking.com. Sign up for their free membership and filter for Genius deals. The more you book through them, the better deals you’ll get!