World's Most Underrated Cities

World's Most Underrated Cities

Sure, popular cities have their place. But if you like exploring, there's interesting stuff in the world's most underrated cities.
 
By Jennifer ChenDetroit

Welcome to the urban underdogs—cities that aren't on the radar for most travelers. Some, like Slovakia's capital of Bratislava, might be overlooked because of their proximity to better-known cities. Others, like Detroit, can't seem to live down a bad rap. But if undiscovered art scenes, experimental cuisine, great architecture, and interesting neighborhoods are on your travel checklist, then these cities deserve a second look.

For a traveler, the main appeal of these neglected cities is authenticity. "You go to the Old Town in Prague, it's mostly tourists. In Bratislava, it's all locals," says Jaroslave Vitazka, a project manager for a private equity firm who has called the city home since 2002. Or, as Phillip Cooley says about Detroit: "It's real, it's honest. You can spend the day at an urban farm, and then head off to a Tigers game or the opera, just like the locals do."

Taipei, Taiwan

In the 1980s and '90s, this city of 3 million was choked in smog. Today, Taipei is one of Asia's most pleasant capitals, with acres of green space and an easy-to-use public transport system. And there's plenty to do for outdoor enthusiasts: Yangmingshan National Park, a hot springs in Beitou, hiking trails throughout the surrounding mountains, and riverside bike paths. But the biggest draw is the cuisine. Taipei has some of the best Chinese food in the world, from humble holes-in-the-wall to culinary temples. Don't fret if you can't speak or read the lingo—friendly locals are eager to help visitors.

Don't Miss: Lan Jia Gua Bao, near the Gongguan Night Market, serves superlative gua bao, or braised pork belly buns.