Discover Hidden Travel Gems: Best Times to Visit and How to Get There
Discover the world's most enchanting hidden gems. Find out the best times to visit and how to reach these off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Discovering Hidden Gems: Your Ultimate Guide to Timing the Perfect Trip
Embark on a journey to some of the world’s most enchanting, lesser-known destinations. From the fairytale village of Hallstatt to the blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen, these hidden gems offer unique experiences far from the well-trodden tourist paths. Here’s how to get there and when to visit to make the most of your adventure.
1. Hallstatt, Austria
Best Time to Visit: April to October
Nestled between the towering Dachstein mountains and the serene Hallstätter See, Hallstatt is a village straight out of a fairytale. The ideal time to visit is from April to October when the weather is mild, allowing you to fully appreciate the stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Spring and summer bring blooming flowers and lush greenery, while autumn sets the scene with vibrant foliage.
How to Get There:
- By Air: Fly into Salzburg Airport (SZG) or Vienna International Airport (VIE).
- By Train: From Salzburg, take a scenic train ride through the Alps to Hallstatt.
- By Car: Drive through the picturesque Salzkammergut region.
2. Chefchaouen, Morocco
Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November
Known as the "Blue Pearl" of Morocco, Chefchaouen offers a tranquil escape with its blue-painted streets and stunning mountain backdrop. The best time to explore this gem is from March to May and September to November when the temperatures are pleasant, making it perfect for wandering through its medina.
How to Get There:
- By Air: Fly into Tangier Ibn Battuta Airport (TNG) or Fes-Saïss Airport (FEZ).
- By Bus: Take a bus or shared taxi from Tangier (2 hours) or Fes (4 hours).
- By Car: Enjoy a scenic drive through the Rif Mountains.
3. Lofoten Islands, Norway
Best Time to Visit: May to September or October to March
The Lofoten Islands offer rugged adventure amidst towering peaks and pristine beaches. Visit from May to September to experience the midnight sun and enjoy hiking and fishing, or from October to March to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
How to Get There:
- By Air: Fly into Leknes Airport (LKN) or Svolvær Airport (SVJ) via Oslo or Bodø.
- By Ferry: Take a ferry from Bodø to the Lofoten Islands.
- By Car: Drive from Bodø and explore the islands at your own pace.
4. Matera, Italy
Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to October
Matera, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, is best visited in April to June or September to October. The weather is warm, perfect for exploring the ancient cave dwellings and enjoying outdoor dining, without the extreme heat of summer.
How to Get There:
- By Air: Fly into Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI).
- By Train: Take a train from Bari Centrale to Matera Centrale.
- By Car: Drive from Bari through the Puglia region.
5. Jiufen, Taiwan
Best Time to Visit: September to November
Perched high in the mountains, Jiufen is a former gold mining town that feels like stepping into a storybook. The best time to visit is from September to November when the weather is cooler and less humid, perfect for exploring the town’s narrow, lantern-lit streets.
How to Get There:
- By Air: Fly into Taipei Taoyuan International Airport (TPE).
- By Train/Bus: Take a train to Ruifang Station, then a bus or taxi to Jiufen.
- By Car: Drive from Taipei through winding mountain roads.
6. Colmar, France
Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to December
Colmar, in the heart of the Alsace region, is a town that seems to have sprung from a fairytale. Visit between April to June for blooming flowers and mild weather or September to December for a magical Christmas market experience.
How to Get There:
- By Air: Fly into EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL/MLH/EAP).
- By Train: Take a train from Basel to Colmar.
- By Car: Drive from Basel or Strasbourg.
7. Utrecht, Netherlands
Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November
Often overshadowed by Amsterdam, Utrecht offers Dutch charm with fewer crowds. The best time to visit is from April to June during tulip season or September to November when the autumn colors are at their peak.
How to Get There:
- By Air: Fly into Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS).
- By Train: Take a direct train from Schiphol to Utrecht Centraal.
- By Car: Drive from Amsterdam through the Dutch countryside.
Embark on Your Adventure
These hidden gems are just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re wandering the blue streets of Chefchaouen, gazing at the Northern Lights in the Lofoten Islands, or exploring ancient caves in Matera, your journey will be filled with unforgettable experiences. Ready to plan your trip? Which destination will you explore first?
