Planning a summer getaway but want to skip the chaos of packed airports and selfie-stick mobs? While cities like Paris, Rome, and Cancun draw millions every year, there are quieter destinations that offer just as much charm—with a lot more breathing room. Here are a few underrated spots to explore in 2025.
🏞️ Marfa, Texas – Art Meets Desert Calm
Tucked away in West Texas, Marfa is a creative haven known for surreal desert landscapes, art installations, and a laid-back vibe. You’ll find contemporary galleries, oddball attractions like the Prada Marfa installation, and skies so dark they’re perfect for stargazing.
🏖️ Port Townsend, Washington – A Coastal Gem
This Victorian seaport offers breezy summer weather, scenic views of the Olympic Mountains, and a historic downtown full of bookstores, cafés, and quirky boutiques. It’s like a Pacific Northwest time capsule with way fewer tourists than Seattle.
🏕️ Ely, Minnesota – For Nature Lovers
If you love the outdoors, head to Ely for canoe trips in the Boundary Waters, wildlife spotting, and rustic lodges. Summer is peak season for this remote northern town, but it’s never too crowded thanks to its off-grid charm.
🏰 Lucca, Italy – Skip Florence, Stay Here
Florence is beautiful, but in summer it’s packed. Lucca, just an hour away, is a walled medieval town filled with cobblestone streets, charming piazzas, and a peaceful atmosphere. Rent a bike and circle the city walls at sunset—you won’t regret it.
🏝️ Isla Holbox, Mexico – Quiet Caribbean Vibes
Skip Cancun and take a ferry to Isla Holbox. There are no cars, the beaches are pristine, and you can swim with whale sharks in season. It’s still relatively undiscovered but quickly gaining fans—so go before the word really gets out.
Wherever you travel this summer, consider a detour off the beaten path. Less crowding, more connection—that’s the real win in 2025. Want help planning passport or visa details for these quieter escapes? Call Texas Tower Passport and Visa at 713-874-1420.