Most of us spend months counting down to our summer trips. They offer a welcome respite from stressful jobs and the general responsibilities of life. With most people looking for a refuge from everyday stress, it can be frustrating to choose a vacation destination only to arrive to find it packed with tourists, making it hard to get around or have a quiet moment. Not to worry! There are countless destinations around the world that are just as amazing as the popular tourist spots, but these places have remained relatively under the radar. Read on for some vacation tips that are a little off the beaten path.

Krakow, Poland

Krakow offers all the beauty of Europe without the staggering crowds of London or Paris. The city offers incredible history, as well as castles, impressive churches, guided ghost tours and friendly people. Krakow even offers free walking tours led by locals with tons of knowledge and experience to share. Since the city is small, you can walk pretty much anywhere and still feel safe. Enjoy relaxing in the market square, surrounded by cafes and shops.

Lisbon Portugal

Lisbon is excellent for travelers on a budget. Flights to Portugal are usually much less expensive than flights to other areas of Europe, and the country itself is quite affordable. It is a beautiful city, full of picturesque parks and squares to explore. It is also a great option if you are looking for a beach, since the towns of Estoril and Cascais are just a few kilometers away.

South Africa

South Africa has many great cities worth visiting, including Cape Town and Johannesburg. You will have the amazing opportunity to tour busy city centers and go on game drives in famous locations such as the Kruger National Park. You can even set aside some time to visit the Western Cape vineyards and sample some delicious local wines. After that, climb to the top of the Tabletop Mountains and enjoy stunning views of the country. You can also travel off the coast to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for years.

Montreal

Montreal is a great option for those who want to experience Europe without undertaking such a long journey. Although located in Canada, Montreal has a very European feel. Old Montreal is full of cafes, cobblestone streets, and beautiful old buildings. It is a very creative city that is full of live music, murals and art installations. Montreal also offers a great opportunity for you to practice your French as it is the main language of most residents.

Whether you want to stay in North America or are willing to hop on a plane to South Africa, there are tons of vacation options that aren’t as touristy as places like Miami, Paris, and Rio. It just takes a little research and an adventurous spirit to find your new favorite vacation spot!