In a world where social media showcases the same iconic landmarks on repeat—Eiffel Tower selfies, Santorini sunsets, and Bali swings—it’s easy to overlook the lesser-known treasures that offer rich culture, unforgettable adventures, and fewer crowds. Fortunately, platforms like Expedia have evolved beyond booking flights and hotels. With smart filters, tailored suggestions, and robust reviews, Expedia can actually be your secret weapon in uncovering hidden gems around the globe.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to use Expedia to discover off-the-beaten-path destinations, how to customize your search to find unique experiences, and spotlight some underrated locales worth putting on your radar.
Why Look for Hidden Gems?
Before we dive into Expedia’s functionality, it’s important to ask: why even seek out hidden gems?
- Authenticity: Hidden destinations often offer more genuine cultural experiences than heavily touristed spots.
- Affordability: Less popular destinations usually come with lower costs for accommodation, food, and activities.
- Sustainability: Overtourism is a growing concern. Exploring alternative destinations can reduce the strain on crowded cities and help support smaller communities.
- Personal Discovery: Nothing beats the thrill of feeling like you’ve “discovered” a place that hasn’t been overly commercialized.
Now, let’s talk strategy—because Expedia is more than a tool for finding generic package deals.
How to Use Expedia to Uncover Hidden Travel Gems
1. Let the Recommendations Guide You
Expedia’s homepage isn’t just for mainstream destinations. When you first visit, scroll through their curated travel guides and trend reports. Expedia frequently features articles like “Best Underrated Beaches in Europe” or “Hidden National Parks in the U.S.” These features are great for inspiration and often highlight overlooked places based on seasonality, user reviews, and booking trends.
2. Use Filters to Discover the Unusual
When searching for accommodations, use filters creatively:
- Type of property: Filter by “B&B,” “Farm Stay,” “Houseboat,” or “Ryokan” to find more authentic lodging options.
- Neighborhoods: In larger cities, you can choose to stay in a less touristy district that gives you more local flavor.
- Guest ratings and themes: Sort by “Exceptional” and choose themes like “Adventure” or “Unique.”
For example, searching “Unique stays in Portugal” might lead you to a treehouse in the Algarve or a cliffside villa in Madeira that doesn’t make it to the top of most travel blogs.
3. Explore the “Things to Do” Section for Local Secrets
Once you pick a destination—or if you’re still undecided—head over to the “Things to Do” tab. This section is Expedia’s treasure chest. You’ll find local experiences and guided tours you may not find elsewhere.
Try searching with broader terms like:
- “Northern Italy” instead of “Milan”
- “Pacific Northwest” instead of “Seattle”
You might come across small-group truffle hunting tours, forest bathing excursions, or indigenous-led cultural walks that reveal the deeper layers of a place.
4. Search Flights with an Open Mind
Here’s a hack: When booking flights on Expedia, leave the destination blank and enter your departure city with a flexible date range. Expedia will populate a list of options sorted by price and popularity. You’ll likely see both top-tier cities and random ones you’ve never considered.
Use the “Map View” option to visualize where you could go. Often, places that are off the radar show up with surprisingly low fares—perfect for spontaneous adventurers.
5. Read Reviews with a Critical Eye
Once you’ve narrowed down a place, dive into user reviews—especially for boutique hotels, eco-lodges, or unique experiences. Look for insights about location, crowd levels, local interaction, and authenticity. Travelers often drop valuable intel about whether a place feels “touristy” or untouched.
10 Hidden Gem Destinations You Can Find on Expedia
To spark your imagination, here are ten hidden gems easily bookable through Expedia, complete with unique stays and one-of-a-kind experiences.
1. Sibiu, Romania
A pastel-colored medieval town in Transylvania that feels like a fairy tale. Stay in a guesthouse inside the city walls and explore cobbled streets, charming cafés, and local markets. Nearby: the Carpathian Mountains for hiking.
2. Tulum’s Neighbor: Bacalar, Mexico
While Tulum has become ultra-trendy, Bacalar—known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors”—offers natural beauty without the crowds. Expedia lists eco-resorts and kayaking tours that let you enjoy its tranquil vibe.
3. Aït Benhaddou, Morocco
This ancient village near the Atlas Mountains is a UNESCO World Heritage site—and not yet overrun with tourists. Stay in a kasbah with rooftop views and book a desert camel trek through Expedia’s “Things to Do.”
4. Isle of Eigg, Scotland
Accessible by ferry, Eigg is a self-sustaining island with dramatic cliffs, wildlife, and starry skies. Use Expedia to find rustic lodgings and arrange transportation via ferry packages.
5. Chiang Dao, Thailand
North of Chiang Mai, this sleepy town offers jungle hikes, limestone caves, and hot springs. Find boutique bungalows and Thai cooking classes not available on larger booking sites.
6. Kotor, Montenegro
Often overshadowed by Dubrovnik, Kotor is a medieval coastal town surrounded by fjord-like mountains. Expedia lists heritage hotels and bay cruises that rival the best of the Adriatic.
7. Flåm, Norway
Nestled in a fjord and connected by one of the world’s most scenic train rides, Flåm is stunning and serene. Book panoramic rail passes and hiking excursions directly through Expedia.
8. Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico
Mexico’s answer to Napa Valley—without the crowds or prices. Use Expedia to find chic vineyard stays and private wine tours.
9. Tasmania, Australia
An island off Australia’s southern coast, Tasmania is a hub for eco-tourism and wild beauty. Expedia’s search filters will help you find secluded forest lodges and wildlife safaris.
10. Salento, Colombia
A colorful coffee town in Colombia’s lush Cocora Valley. Explore local fincas, hike among giant wax palms, and book everything from boutique hostels to horseback tours on Expedia.
Tips for Booking Hidden Gem Trips on Expedia
- Go Incognito (Literally): Use incognito mode to avoid price hikes based on search history.
- Bundle Flights + Hotels: Use Expedia’s bundle deals to get discounts—this works especially well for offbeat destinations.
- Use Price Alerts: Set alerts for specific regions or countries you’re curious about to get deals when prices drop.
- Check “Travel Deals”: The “Deals” tab often highlights unique destinations offering seasonal promotions.
- Use Expedia Rewards: Earn points on every booking, which can be used for discounts on future stays—especially handy for longer or remote trips.
Final Thoughts: Let Curiosity Lead
Traveling to hidden gems isn’t about ticking off a list; it’s about embracing the unexpected. Whether you’re sipping coffee in a quiet Colombian town or watching the Northern Lights from a cabin in Norway, these moments stay with you long after your return flight.
Expedia, with its global reach and customizable features, is more than just a booking engine—it’s a discovery platform. With the right filters, flexible searching, and a little wanderlust, it can be the perfect tool to unlock corners of the world you didn’t know you were missing.
So the next time you feel the urge to travel, skip the usual suspects. Let Expedia show you the road less traveled—and who knows, your new favorite place might be one you’ve never even heard of.
If you’d like this formatted into a blog post layout, expanded with more imagery suggestions, or localized for a specific audience (e.g., U.S., Europe, solo travelers), let me know!
