As overtourism reshapes some of the world’s most popular cities and travelers grow weary of competing for reservations, beach chairs, and photo opportunities, the most coveted destinations this summer aren’t necessarily the ones dominating social feeds. Instead, we’re seeing a shift toward cities with rich cultural identities but fewer crowds; coastal enclaves that still feel local, and mountain escapes where the pace of life remains refreshingly unhurried.

This year, Account Manager Sophia Wadih is heading to Fez, Morocco, drawn by its centuries-old leather workshops, intricate tile makers, and world-class food, all with a fraction of the visitors that flock to Marrakech. Meanwhile, Senior Vice President Sacha Bell is making her case for Bologna, Italy, where youthful energy, remarkable architecture, and one of the country’s great food scenes offer an appealing alternative to Rome, Venice, or Milan.

Here are a few more under-the-radar destinations our team is championing this summer:

Naxos by Amanda Kaden

“It’s like the Cyclades, but make it quieter. Fewer yachts, better beaches, and effortless, sun-drenched days that feel just the right amount of undone.”

With a population of approximately 20,500, Naxos is the largest island in the Greek Cyclades. It offers many of the same whitewashed villages and Aegean views as neighboring Mykonos and Santorini, but with a more relaxed pace and significantly fewer crowds. Travelers can fly directly to Athens from major U.S. gateways and connect via a short domestic flight or ferry. Standout stays include Naxian Collection, 18 Grapes, and Laguna Coast Resort.

Granada, Spain by Maggie McCartin

“Hidden in the heart of Andalusia it is the perfect place to retreat from the busy cities like Barcelona and Madrid. There’s some incredible architecture stemming from Spain’s histories with the Moors; and not to mention, it’s the last city in Spain to serve free tapas with a drink. It’s about finding the perfect excuse to have a glass of Albariño after a day of exploring.”

Home to the Alhambra and centuries of Moorish influence, Granada delivers one of Spain’s richest cultural experiences without the volume of visitors found in Barcelona, Madrid, or Seville. Most travelers arrive via Madrid or Málaga, which is connected to numerous nonstop flights from North America and sits roughly 90 minutes away by train or car. Consider stays at Hotel Alhambra Palace, Palacio Gran Vía, or Hospes Palacio de los Patos.

Camden, Maine by Courtney Young

“My friends and I are building a tradition of spending July 4th in coastal Maine, specifically at my friend’s home in Camden. Just a few hours drive from New York, it’s all hot dogs and hill house dresses at the marina. It’s a destination that offers mountain and ocean views in the same frame; from the summit of nearby Mount Battie, visitors can look out over Camden Harbor, a patchwork of islands, and the open Atlantic beyond. Summer brings sailing regattas, farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and a Fourth of July celebration that feels pulled from another era.”

With a population of approximately 5,200, Camden is one of coastal Maine’s most charming harbor towns. Nestled between the Camden Hills and Penobscot Bay, it offers a quieter alternative to Bar Harbor and Kennebunkport. The easiest access is via Portland International Jetport, about 90 minutes away by car. Local favorites include Camden Harbour Inn, Whitehall, and 16 Bay View.

Lake Champlain by Brooke Wasserman

“Lake Champlain (the Vermont side specifically) is for those itching for the quintessential New England boat day, but without the obnoxious crowds. Picture emerald green rolling mountains, glittering blue water, perfect weather that’s never too hot, and great activities everywhere from Burlington, to breweries, to hiking Smuggler’s Notch.”

The lake stretches 120 miles between Vermont and New York and serves as the centerpiece of one of New England’s most underrated summer regions. Burlington International Airport offers direct service from major East Coast hubs, making long weekends remarkably accessible. Stay at Hotel Vermont, Blind Tiger Burlington, or Basin Harbor on the lake’s shoreline.

Nashville by Madeline Myslow

“Between Prince’s hot chicken and a Tennessee summer, it’s one of the few cities that can literally and figuratively bring the heat. One of my favorite Nashville traditions is Robert’s Western World’s ‘recession special’– a fried bologna sandwich, a bag of chips, a MoonPie, and a PBR for just a few bucks. When I’m finally ready to cool off, I make my way to Four Walls at The Joseph for a Four Walls Negroni – or two.”

While Nashville is by no means a hidden gem, its appeal extends well beyond Broadway. The city has become one of the South’s most dynamic food, hotel, and cultural destinations, with nonstop flights from dozens of U.S. cities. Notable stays include The Joseph, Noelle, and The Hermitage Hotel.

Quebec’s Laurentian Mountains by Lauren Ryback Hurth 

“Bringing unexpected heat to the north, where adrenaline-fueled outdoor adventures, a burgeoning culinary scene, and Nordic-inspired wellness experiences prove that some of the hottest destinations aren’t found in the Caribbean… but in Canada.”

Located roughly 90 minutes north of Montreal, the Laurentians encompass dozens of mountain towns, lakes, and resort communities. Montreal’s airport offers direct service from major U.S. cities, making the region surprisingly easy to reach. Stay at Esterel Resort, Hotel Quintessence in Mont-Tremblant, or the newly elevated Far Hills.

Bologna, Italy by Sacha Bell

“I urge anyone planning a trip to Europe this year to join the young and stylish crowd in Bologna, a stellar alternative to the well-trodden paths of Rome, Venice and Milan. This under-the-radar gem has all the charm of Italy’s more famous cities, with far fewer tourists, a light and carefree energy, breathtaking architecture and warm, welcoming locals. You won’t miss a thing about the blockbuster cities. And, as the birthplace of the timeless Bolognese, it’s also one of the country’s most unspoiled food destinations.”

Long overshadowed by Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan, Bologna is quietly becoming one of Italy’s most desirable destinations for food, design, and culture-minded travelers. The city offers nonstop flights from several European hubs and high-speed rail connections throughout Italy. Hotel options include Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni, Casa Conventino, and The Social Hub Bologna. As the capital of Emilia-Romagna, it sits at the heart of one of the world’s most celebrated culinary regions.