If you’re like us, you probably prefer a vacation that doesn’t involve elbowing your way through crowds, waiting an hour for a table, or accidentally photobombing everybody else’s selfies.
So, how’d you like to stroll through a few peaceful places where you can hear yourself think, recharge your batteries, and evade the tourist funnel? We’ve gathered a list of ten off-the-beaten-path gems where we believe you’ll be able to fully relax without all the noise.
Cadaqués, Spain
Cadaqués is a quiet coastal village that’s a world apart from the buzz of Barcelona. Tucked away on the northeastern coast of Spain, you’ll find cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, and dreamy Mediterranean breezes. And here’s a fun fact: Salvador Dalí had a house here. So, there’s also a cool artists’ community without all the crowds.
You can stroll along the rocky beaches, sip wine at seaside cafes, or just get lost in the winding alleys of the old town. Cadaqués is mellow, beautiful, and doesn’t feel like a place that’s been Instagrammed to death. All in all, it’s perfect for slow mornings and sunset swims.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Oregon has some well-known spots, but Cannon Beach keeps things low-key. Sure, there’s Haystack Rock (which is stunning), but this little beach town doesn’t attract the same mobs as other coastal destinations. It’s more about the sea breeze and bookshops than nightclubs and long lines.
You can spend your days walking along the misty shorelines, exploring the tide pools, or ducking into cozy cafés for clam chowder or coffee. Cannon Beach has a quiet charm, especially in the off-season when it’s just you, the ocean, and maybe a couple of locals walking their dogs.
Bohinj, Slovenia
Lake Bled gets all the attention in Slovenia, but if you want something more serene, head to Lake Bohinj. It’s nestled deep in the Julian Alps and has an untouched, postcard-pretty kind of beauty. Think glassy waters, alpine air, and quiet forest hikes.
It’s easy to find opportunities to kayak, paddleboard, and hike. But, the best activity might be just doing nothing – sit by the lake with a picnic and let your brain fully exhale. No crowds, no chaos, just nature wrapping you up in its sweet embrace.
Puglia, Italy
If you’re dreaming of Italy, but not the crowds of Venice or Rome, Puglia is your answer. This southern region (the heel of the boot) is filled with olive groves, quiet beaches, and ancient towns that don’t have an overflow of tourists. Try to picture whitewashed villages, rustic food, and turquoise waters.
You can wander through towns like Ostuni or Alberobello, where time seems to move a little bit slower. And wait until you try the food – fresh pasta, burrata, and seafood straight from the Adriatic. Truly, it’s Italy at its most relaxed.
Hokkaido, Japan
Japan is full of vibrant, busy cities, but Hokkaido is where you go to breathe. This northern island is filled with wide-open landscapes, peaceful lakes, and hot springs. It’s especially magical in the summer when the lavender fields are in full bloom and the hiking trails are in tip-top shape.
You won’t find massive tourist crowds here, just peaceful mountain towns, cozy ryokans, and outdoor onsens where you can luxuriate beneath the stars. If your idea of a vacation involves forest walks and steaming bowls of ramen, Hokkaido is your dream come true.
Idyllwild, California
Just a couple of hours from Los Angeles, Idyllwild feels like it belongs on another planet – one with pine trees, art galleries, and mountain air instead of traffic and noise. It’s a tiny, artsy town in the San Jacinto Mountains, perfect for a weekend away.
There are nice hiking trails if you’re up for it, but you can also just cozy into a cabin if you’d rather a good book and a glass of wine. Idyllwild is peaceful, quirky, and completely lacking in pretension. No one’s in a hurry, and we suspect that’s kind of the point.
Colchagua Valley, Chile
If you like the idea of Napa, but could do without the price tags and crowds, head to Chile’s Colchagua Valley. It’s a lesser-known wine region with rolling hills, small vineyards, and some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet.
Spend your days sipping Carménère, biking through the countryside, or just enjoying long, slow meals at local farm-to-table restaurants. It’s not flashy or overdeveloped – just great wine and peaceful vistas.
Syros, Greece
While it’s undeniable that the Greek Islands are gorgeous, sometimes, Santorini and Mykonos feel like they’re bursting at the seams. Enter Syros, a lesser-known island that still has the classic Cycladic beauty, without the crowds from the cruise ships.
Ermoupoli, the main town, has colorful neoclassical buildings and a relaxed café culture. You can explore the quiet beaches, stroll along charming harbors, and enjoy your moussaka in peace. Syros is for those of us who want some Greek magic without the mayhem.
Gaspé Peninsula, Quebec
How about some dramatic coastal views and fresh air? This peaceful slice of heaven juts out into the Gulf of St. Lawrence and is filled with rugged cliffs, lighthouses, and charming fishing villages that seem untouched by time.
Parc National Forillon is a great spot for hiking and whale-watching, and the food scene is full of local seafood and cozy comfort meals. Your heart rate will immediately lower when you feel how wild, scenic, and refreshingly uncrowded the Gaspé Peninsula is.
Lofoten Islands, Norway
Of course, Norway is known for its fjords, but the Lofoten Islands are a little more off the radar – and wildly worth the trip. With its jagged peaks, sleepy fishing villages, and the kind of scenery that makes you swoon, there’s no denying the beauty of these islands.
In the summertime, you’ll enjoy endless hours of daylight and stunning hikes. In the winter, there’s a real chance you’ll catch the Northern Lights from your cozy red cabin by the water. Lofoten is a peaceful, soul-stirring place you’ll want to keep all to yourself.
Your Little Slice of Heaven
What do you think? Will it be the valleys of Chile or the mountains of Norway? We’d love to return to Ostuni or Alberobello; time truly does seem to tick a little slower there.
Whichever direction you’re headed, be sure to make a quick stop in our library of destination guides. Filled with off-the-beaten-path spots and unique alternatives to some of our favorite big cities, we’re here to help you pack your bags for some peaceful and relaxation. And, if all goes well, we’ll clink our glass of Carménère with yours someday!