Up-and-Coming Destinations of 2025: Lesser-Known Detour Spots Worth Exploring

Travel has always been about discovery—finding those hidden corners of the world that surprise and delight. In 2025, as international tourism continues to recover and expand, travelers are increasingly seeking out “detour destinations”—lesser-known places that offer the same wonder as iconic cities and landmarks, but without the overwhelming crowds or inflated costs. Expedia has highlighted these emerging travel gems as part of its 2025 insights, revealing where adventurous globetrotters are headed next.

If you’re ready to go beyond the obvious, here’s your guide to some of the most exciting up-and-coming destinations, along with tips on how to plan, where to stay, and what offbeat experiences to look forward to.

Why Detour Destinations Are Trending

Travelers are moving away from the well-trodden paths for several reasons:

• Crowd avoidance: Overtourism in cities like Venice or Santorini has pushed people toward quieter alternatives.
  
  

• Authenticity: Visitors crave genuine cultural connections, local foods, and neighborhoods untouched by mass tourism.
  
  

• Value for money: Hidden gems often mean lower costs for accommodations and activities.
  
  

• Environmental awareness: Sustainable travel encourages exploration of regions beyond overcrowded hotspots.

These detour destinations give travelers a chance to create unique stories and memories—while easing pressure on overstretched tourist hubs.

1. Ljubljana, Slovenia – Europe’s Green Capital

Slovenia’s charming capital is finally earning its place on the global travel map. Known for its pedestrian-friendly old town, leafy riverbanks, and innovative sustainability practices, Ljubljana is a smaller, calmer alternative to Prague or Vienna.

Where to Stay

Boutique hotels in the old town, such as riverside stays near Preseren Square. Eco-conscious travelers can find green-certified accommodations easily.

Offbeat Experiences

• Take a local-led food tour to discover Slovenian wines and farm-to-table cuisine.
  
  

• Explore Metelkova Art Center, a repurposed military barracks turned creative hub filled with murals and installations.
  
  

• Day trips to Lake Bled or the Julian Alps for breathtaking nature.

2. Valletta, Malta – A Mediterranean Surprise

While Rome and Athens steal the spotlight, Malta’s tiny capital is an overlooked treasure. With its fortress walls, baroque architecture, and coastal charm, Valletta blends history with seaside relaxation.

Where to Stay

Converted palazzos now functioning as boutique hotels give travelers the feel of living in centuries-old mansions.

Offbeat Experiences

• Visit underground wartime tunnels and learn about Malta’s WWII history.
  
  

• Take a ferry to the Three Cities for authentic Maltese neighborhoods.
  
  

• Try pastizzi (a flaky pastry snack) in local bakeries tucked into side streets.

3. Salta, Argentina – The Soul of the Andes

Skip Buenos Aires for a moment and head north to Salta, a cultural hub known for its colonial architecture, colorful Andean landscapes, and traditional folk music.

Where to Stay

Hacienda-style hotels and rustic lodges in surrounding valleys.

Offbeat Experiences

• Ride the Tren a las Nubes (Train to the Clouds) through mountain passes.
  
  

• Sample regional empanadas and Torrontés wines unique to Salta.
  
  

• Drive through Quebrada de Humahuaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with rainbow-colored hills.

4. Da Nang, Vietnam – Beyond Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam’s coastal city Da Nang is quickly transforming from a stopover into a destination in its own right. Known for its sandy beaches, mountains, and modern vibe, it offers both relaxation and adventure.

Where to Stay

Affordable beachfront resorts and stylish city hotels that won’t break the budget.

Offbeat Experiences

• Visit the Marble Mountains and hidden pagodas within caves.
  
  

• Wander the Dragon Bridge at night when it lights up and breathes fire.
  
  

• Explore nearby Hoi An for lantern-lit evenings without staying in the crowded old town.

5. Plovdiv, Bulgaria – Ancient Meets Hipster

Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city is finally catching travelers’ attention. Plovdiv is a quirky mix of Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, and creative art spaces.

Where to Stay

Cozy guesthouses in the Old Town, surrounded by cobbled streets and colorful houses.

Offbeat Experiences

• Visit Kapana district, now home to artists, galleries, and indie cafes.
  
  

• Attend the Plovdiv International Fair or music festivals in ancient amphitheaters.
  
  

• Explore Thracian tombs and wine cellars nearby.

Planning Tips for Visiting Detour Destinations

Traveling to lesser-known places requires a bit more research, but the payoff is worth it. Here are some planning essentials:

Transportation

Many detour destinations are connected by regional flights or rail. Always check if public transport is limited and whether you’ll need to rent a car.

Accommodation

Expedia’s filters let you find boutique stays or eco-certified hotels in these regions. Book early, as smaller cities often have limited inventory.

Local Etiquette

Fewer tourists mean locals may be less accustomed to international visitors—always learn a few local phrases and cultural dos and don’ts.

Sustainability

Respect the environment by sticking to designated trails, supporting local businesses, and minimizing waste.

Safety & Connectivity

Research medical facilities, internet availability, and payment systems (some areas remain cash-heavy).

Offbeat Experiences to Seek Everywhere

No matter which detour destination you choose, keep an eye out for these universal experiences:

• Local Markets: The best place to understand culture through food, crafts, and people.
  
  

• Festivals: Smaller cities often host vibrant events that give authentic glimpses of tradition.
  
  

• Outdoor Activities: Hiking, cycling, and water sports in less-visited regions are often less crowded and more rewarding.
  
  

• Community Tours: From cooking classes to farm visits, these tours create meaningful exchanges with locals.

Why Expedia Helps with Detour Travel

Expedia makes it easier to explore new corners of the globe by offering:

• Customizable packages that combine flights, hotels, and activities.
  
  

• Price alerts to find affordable deals for emerging destinations.
  
  

• Verified reviews so you know exactly what to expect in smaller, less-documented locations.
  
  

• Sustainability filters to align your travel choices with eco-conscious values.

2025 is shaping up to be the year of detour travel—when more people embrace paths less taken, opening themselves up to cultures, foods, and landscapes beyond the ordinary. Destinations like Ljubljana, Valletta, Salta, Da Nang, and Plovdiv may not yet have the recognition of Paris or Tokyo, but they promise something even more special: authenticity.

With careful planning, a spirit of curiosity, and the right travel tools, these spots can give you stories that no guidebook can replicate.

If you’re ready to make your next journey memorable, skip the usual icons and explore the detour destinations that are redefining travel in 2025.