10 underrated destinations to add to your 2026 travel list

2026 is fast approaching so it's time to bring those vision boards to life! And what else could be more important than to add some new, underrated travel destinations on there!? So, in true Sassy Travels style I have brought you a mix of destinations to look out for in 2026 before they get overly touristy. I had my own little collection and then I was curious what others may recommend, so of course I asked ChatGPT to give me 5 underrated destinations that would be worth exploring next year.

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One of the best ways to approach travel in 2026 is to look beyond the obvious choices and consider destinations that haven’t yet reached peak popularity. Not only does this often mean fewer crowds, but it also allows you to experience places in a way that feels more genuine and less shaped by mass tourism. These destinations also tend to offer better value, which makes a noticeable difference if you’re planning multiple trips throughout the year. Lower costs, combined with a more relaxed atmosphere, can completely change how you experience a place.

Travel trends are slowly shifting towards places that feel less crowded and more intentional, and that’s exactly why underrated destinations are becoming more appealing. Instead of focusing on places you’ve already seen countless times online, these locations offer something that still feels personal, whether that’s through quieter streets, more local interactions, or simply the feeling that you’re discovering somewhere for yourself rather than following a well-worn path.

When putting this list together I kept 2 things in mind: underrated and slow travel destinations. I feel like we are moving away from the old travel styles, where everything was about ticking off every single tourist attraction and 'must see or do' things on a list, while creating the most perfect looking IG photos. I think these days people want to be more mindful when it comes to travelling, feel more like a local and slow down a bit. So, I kept this in sight when curating my recommendations and also when asking ChatGPT for recommendations. This is how the below list came to be. First, I will share my top picks and then I will share the ChatGPT list. As you can see, some of them are more solo travel friendly than others, and I can only express my opinion on this aspect if I have been to the given country, but I added my two cents wherever I could.

Albania

I recently visited this wonderful hidden gem, and I know I will be back for more. Albania has beautiful nature, incredible food, friendly locals and even friendlier prices. Compared to other European countries it gets way less attention on a global scale, so it's definitely still in the underrated travel destination category. In terms of solo female travel safety, I felt comfortable exploring the Albanian capital alone and would not hesitate to explore more of the country alone. I think organised day trips (like GetYourGuide) are your best bet for comfort and safety when travelling to Albania solo.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Albania depends slightly on whether you’re focusing more on the coast or the cities, but overall, late spring to early autumn offers the most balanced experience. May, June and September tend to be ideal, with warm temperatures, fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to peak summer. July and August are perfect if your main goal is to enjoy the Albanian Riviera, although this is when it becomes busiest. If you prefer a quieter trip with more comfortable conditions for exploring, the shoulder seasons are where Albania really stands out.

Sri Lanka

It is one of those destinations that exceeded my expectations: we're talking lush, green nature, beautiful shores, great food and welcoming locals. Sri Lanka is the perfect slow travel destination. You can join various health and fitness retreats across the island. Compared to SEA, I think it still gets less attention, so it's a destination to look out for in 2026. One of the best things about this island is that there isn't really a full off season during the year. There are two monsoon seasons that impact the country but these two never overlay, so one side of the island is always sunny! In addition, the island is known for its solo female travel friendly nature, and based on my experience staying here for a month alone, I have nothing but good things to say about Sri Lanka when it comes to solo female travel.

Best time to visit

Sri Lanka is one of those destinations where timing your visit can completely shape your experience, but the unique thing is that there is always a good region to explore depending on the season. The south and west coasts are best between December and April, while the east coast is ideal from May to September, meaning you can plan your route around the weather rather than avoiding the country altogether. This flexibility makes it easier to travel at different times of the year while still making the most of what each area has to offer.

The Baltics

I could not pick one specific Baltic country as all three of them, Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia are equally incredible, underrated and deserve a spot on your 2026 travel destination list. They are definitely overlooked compared to other Western European countries, but are just as incredible and charming. I first visited Tallinn, Estonia back in 2018, and was very impressed with the architecture, the food scene and how affordable it was. So, I knew that eventually I would have to be back to visit the rest of the Baltic countries. They are great to visit any time of the year, but they are said to be incredibly magical especially during Christmas time, so in 2025 I returned to the Baltics for a Christmas market adventure in Vilnius and Riga. When it comes to solo female travel safety, all of these countries are top picks, many solo female travellers report how comfortable and safe they felt visiting this region of Europe.

Best time to visit

The Baltics are particularly enjoyable in summer, from June to August, when the days are long, the weather is mild and the cities feel more lively and open. This is the best time if you want to explore multiple countries in one trip and make the most of the extended daylight hours. However, winter offers a completely different experience, especially in December, when Christmas markets and snowy streets create a much slower and more atmospheric setting, making it a great option if you’re looking for something quieter and more seasonal.

China

Okay, it may not be as underrated, but China has recently relaxed its visa policies, making it more attainable to visit for many nationalities worldwide. The crowds haven't caught up with this change yet, but the tourism is definitely expected to grow in the coming years. So, if you would like to explore the wonders of China, 2026 may be a great year to do this. I recently had 2 longer layovers here, so I got a sneak peak I would say of the life in China, and I was very impressed I must say. There is so much beauty to see in this country, I will definitely be back for a proper visit. It may not be obvious at first, but China actually has a lot to offer on the slow travel side of things, there are tea ceremonies, cultural experiences and tranquil gardens waiting for the soulful travellers who wish to slow down. While I haven't spent much time in China on my own, based on my research and also how nice and welcoming locals were during my short visits, I think China is an ideal destination for solo female travel. Getting around may be tricky due to the limitations of the apps we are normally used to in the EU, UK or US, but other than that it is reported to be generally safe.

Best time to visit

China is best visited during spring and autumn, particularly from April to May and September to October, when temperatures are more comfortable and the weather is generally clearer. These seasons make it easier to explore major cities and cultural sites without dealing with extreme heat or cold. Summer can be intense, especially in larger cities, while winter tends to be quieter but significantly colder in many regions. Choosing the right season can make a noticeable difference in how enjoyable and manageable your trip feels.

Guatemala

Out of the 5 recommendations, this is a destination I am yet to visit, and I am so excited for this one. It is on my list for 2026 mainly because of its tranquil, yet impressive nature scenes. I mean Lake Atitlán literally screams slow travel to me: cozy cafés by the lakeside, morning yoga and fresh, local food. Sounds like the place to be in 2026! Not to mention the beauties of the old capital, Antigua or the fact that you can climb an active volcano here! Guatemala is a Central American hidden gem, I am excited to explore in 2026. Based on my research, the touristy areas of Guatemala are considered to be safe for solo female travellers. *Edit: I did travel to Guatemala in early 2026, and I can tell you, it is 100% worth it. More on that in later posts!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Guatemala is during the dry season, which runs from November to April, when you’ll experience clearer skies and more reliable weather for exploring both cities and natural landscapes. This is especially important if you’re planning to visit places like Lake Atitlán or Antigua, where outdoor activities are a big part of the experience. The rainy season can still be an option, but showers are more frequent, often in the afternoons, which can slightly affect travel plans.

And now let's see what ChatGPT recommends.

Georgia (the Caucasus)

This small but stunning country is quietly becoming a haven for creative slow travellers. Think dramatic mountain views, ancient monasteries, thermal baths in Tbilisi, and cozy wine-country stays. It’s affordable, culturally rich, and perfect for solo travellers seeking authenticity.

Best time to visit

Georgia is best visited between May and October, when the weather is warm and suitable for exploring both the cities and the surrounding mountains. This period allows you to experience a good mix of cultural and outdoor activities without the limitations of colder weather. Autumn, in particular, adds something extra, with vineyards, harvest season and a slightly slower pace that makes the overall experience feel more relaxed and grounded.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

White-sand beaches, spice markets, and a relaxed rhythm that’s ideal for slow travel. It’s safe, welcoming, and has a soulful mix of African, Arab, and European influences. Great for wellness escapes and reconnecting with nature.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Zanzibar is during its dry seasons, from June to October and again from December to February, when the weather is warm, sunny and ideal for spending time by the sea. These months offer the most consistent conditions for beach days and exploring the island at a slower pace. The rainy seasons, particularly March to May, tend to bring heavier showers, which can affect travel plans and overall experience.

South Korea (beyond Seoul)

Travellers are starting to move beyond the capital to discover Jeonju, Gyeongju, and the tea fields of Boseong. It’s a blend of mindful rituals, beautiful scenery, and delicious food culture — a dream for solo female travellers.

Best time to visit

South Korea is most enjoyable in spring and autumn, particularly from April to June and September to November, when temperatures are mild and the scenery adds an extra layer to the experience. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers colourful foliage, both of which make exploring beyond Seoul even more rewarding. These seasons strike the right balance between comfortable weather and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the peak summer months.

Slovenia

Still underrated compared to Italy or Austria, Slovenia offers serene lakes, green valleys, and a real focus on sustainability. Ljubljana’s small-city charm and Lake Bled’s beauty make it perfect for slow, conscious travel. Slovenia also ranks high when it comes to solo female travel safety making it an ideal bucket list destination for solo female travellers in 2026.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Slovenia is between May and September, when the weather is warm and ideal for exploring both cities and nature. This is when places like Lake Bled and Ljubljana feel at their best, with longer days and more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Late spring and early autumn are particularly appealing if you want to avoid peak crowds while still experiencing pleasant conditions throughout your trip.

Oaxaca, Mexico

While Mexico’s beach towns get all the attention, Oaxaca is where culture, food, and spirituality meet. Ideal for mindful travellers drawn to slower rhythms — mezcal tasting, artisan crafts, and mountainside villages. Out of all the destinations CHatGPT recommended this may be the least solo travel friendly, but is doable alone with the right approach and safety precautions.

Best time to visit

Oaxaca is best visited during the dry season from November to April, when the weather is warm but not overly humid, making it comfortable for exploring the city and surrounding areas. This period also tends to bring a more vibrant atmosphere, with festivals and cultural events adding to the overall experience. The rainy season can still be manageable, but higher humidity and occasional downpours can make travel feel slightly less predictable.

This bring me to the end of this blog post, I hope you enjoyed this mix of travel destinations to look out for in 2026. I think it has a good variation of countries across the globe, so everyone will find something that fits their travel style.