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Croatia is a country of many islands- over 1,000 to be somewhat exact- and you’re likely to have heard of a trendy Hvar, an up-and-coming alternative to Ibiza, the resort-filled Krk at some point, or the idyllic Brač and its white-pebble beaches at some point. 

Croatian islands are nowhere near Greece’s level of popularity, but they’re getting there, and every passing year feels busier than the last one.

If you’re dreaming of an idyllic Mediterranean summer island-hopping around the Adriatic nation, your options aren’t limited to the top 3 most popular:

According to the experts at Condé Nast Traveller, these are 5 practically unheard-of Croatian islands you can hop around this summer, with cheaper prices and almost no crowds:

Dugi Otok

Literally called the ‘long island’, Dugi Otok lies off the coast of Zadar, and it’s best known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, boasting diverse landscapes, including sea cliffs and serene bays bathed by turquoise seas, and pleasant temps year-round.

Its main attraction, Telašćica is a coastal preserve lined with secluded coves, including a handful of naturist spots, and if you’re here primarily for swimming, you should know the white-sand Sakarun routinely features on lists of Croatia’s most beautiful beaches.

Other landmarks include the Veli Rat Lighthouse, one of the tallest in the country, and the quaint Sali, the largest settlement, where houses are built from stone, and a seafood main and some local wine will set you back by around $15.

Vis

Vis is distinguished for being the most remote island in Croatia: it is the farthest one from the mainland, and you can only reach it by boat, usually from the bustling port city of Split, which only adds to its unspoiled character and historic charm.

From Vis Town, the picturesque capital, to the sleepy fishing village of Komiža, there’s plenty of sightseeing opportunities, not to mention the numerous beaches: Stiniva, for instance, has little to no crowds, and its seas are of the turquoise-most blue.

Speaking of blue, Vis is a popular day trip for Split-based guests thanks to its Blue Cave, or Biševo, where the water seems to almost glow in an ethereal-like blue light, and its rich Vugava white: if you’re a wine lover, a tour of the ancient wineries costs only $60.

Rab

For the culture buffs out there, you might want to check out Rab, a tiny island accessible from the port of Stinica, revolving around a tiny Rab Town: the main settlement, it is dotted with Romanesque bell towers and criss-crossed with medieval, cobbled alleys.

Outside Rab Town, you should visit the aptly-named Paradise Beach (or Rajska Plaža), near Lopar, the busiest beach on the island thanks to its sandy banks and shallow, clear waters—well-frequented, but nowhere near the mainland’s staggering levels of overtourism.

Staying overnight? Arbium has double rooms, with pool access, from as cheap as $53-a-night, and you can add a ‘superb’ breakfast for only $9 extra, though we would recommend you also try the capuccino and fresh pastries at the nearby Felix Caffe Bar.

Korčula

Within easy reach of Dubrovnik with the short-distance ferry, Korčula may form a tiny landmass, but it is by no means devoid of natural or even man-made wonders: picture fine-pebble beaches, vineyard-dotted hills, and an intact medieval capital.

Korčula Town is often referred to as the ‘Little Dubrovnik’, due to being completely surrounded by walls, similarly to its mainland counterpart, except you’ll find none of the usual hordes of Instagrammers flocking into its winding streets.

Oh, and in case you’re wondering what else Korčula is famous for, Marco Polo is said to have been born here, and there are many signature wines produced on the island, including Grk and Pošip—keen on some wine tasting? A glass of indigenous red in a local tavern costs around $4.

Šipan

Nicknamed ‘Golden Island’—only fitting, considering its glorious weather and sun-drenched shores—Šipan has historically offered Dubrovnik residents an escape from the humdrum of their daily routine, having served as a summer getaway for the city’s elites.

Now, it’s beckoning you to come and check it out for yourself, and we’re sure you’ll find that dolce vita (or should we say, uživanje) somewhere between Suđurađ, the main port, where ocher-colored houses encroach on a boat-filled marina, and a heavenly Priježba Beach.

Should you not want to rush it, and savor every $5 ćevapi, whilst taking in every blood-orange sunset by Šipanska Luka, a rare sandy strip you won’t easily find elsewhere in Croatia, overnights at the privately-managed Studio Apartments & Rooms Lela start from only $65 per night.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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Often considered the largest city in the world, Tokyo’s efficiency in navigating an endless sea of crowds is a remarkable achievement.

One would think the narrow alleyways teeming with hidden izakayas would be impossible to explore in a city north of 14 million residents, and that’s not factoring in the number of tourists in Tokyo at all times either.

Even as efficient and streamlined as Tokyo may be, there’s a reason the city employs “pushers” to quite literally stuff passengers into subway trains when the doors won’t close.

Hard pass on that if you ask me…

Well, even though Tokyo tops my travel bucket list, after reading Condé Nast’s take on Japan’s new travel hotspot, the allure of Osaka even has me questioning if crossing off Tokyo is the right decision this year.

With a never-ending array of cultural delights, new luxe hotels, and hip and funky vibes, Osaka has been rightfully crowned Japan’s new “it” destination for 2025.

Japan’s ‘Second City’ Is Rising Fast

Let’s be real. Tokyo isn’t going anywhere. That being said, Osaka has created a name for itself where many travelers are now double-dipping in Japan making sure to visit both cities.

Of course, Japan’s bullet trains make that quest a lot easier. There are nonstop flights from Los Angeles and San Francisco, as well as Toronto and Vancouver. Obviously, Tokyo is more connected, but Osaka is easy to reach by lightning-speed trains in under 4 hours, and the precision is masterful.

Point being Osaka has been surging as of late and Condé Nast isn’t the first or last to report on Japan’s new hotspot.

Whether it be more Americans scratching their wanderlust itch or solo travelers from all over the world, Osaka ticks off many boxes from fascinating cultural experiences to sensational food and cheaper hotels than Tokyo, where it’s not uncommon to find 4-star stays in the low $100’s.

No More Quiet Time: Slurping Encouraged

If you’ve researched Tokyo as your next passport-required adventure or have already visited, you’re probably well aware of the efficiency I mentioned up top.

Locals are almost unrecognizable, respectful of other people’s surroundings, and must think Americans are absolutely nuts if they were to ride on the New York subway — and it’s not just the pizza-eating rats.

Whether it be restaurants, train rides, or public spaces, locals are polite and try not to draw any attention to disrupt your day, but Osaka is a different story.

While Osaka locals are still friendly and respectful, it’s okay to slurp your noodles and engage in conversation without concern for your neighbor.

Osaka is actually considered Japan’s party playground, so noise is pretty common as this vibrant city also permeates a grittier edge than Tokyo’s notable tidiness.

You’ll find an array of fun bars, including karaoke-themed clubs and backrooms, and of course, gaming centers, which have become all the rage.

Most importantly, you’ll never go hungry in Osaka. The food is truly phenomenal, whether it be sushi you’ve never fathomed back home and different variations of authentic noodles, seafood, Japan’s famous Kobe beef, and local favorites such as okonomiyaki.

The Dotonbori district is the most sought-after region of Osaka for foodies, but isn’t everyone a foodie when visiting Japan?
You’ll also find scenic canal cruises here.

What’s New In Osaka: Luxe Hotels, Cutting-Edge Tech, & Cherry Blossom Blooms

Osaka will host the World Expo 2025, a massive event showcasing the latest global innovations of gizmos and gadgets and expected to draw a surge of visitors from all over the world.

Condé Nast highlighted the following 3 newbies to Osaka travelers need to check out this year:

Of course, a trip to Japan in spring is one of the prettiest places in the world as cities such as Osaka see blushing blooms of cherry blossoms spread all over the city.

Even more locals come outside of their four walls to embrace their vibrant city to participate in the tradition of hanami, a time to enjoy cherry blossoms by spending more time outdoors such as picnics.

Here are 5 great spots to enjoy Osaka’s cherry blossoms this spring:

• Osaka Castle Park (formerly Japan’s largest castle; free to enter)
• Kema Sakuranomiya Park
• Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
• Osaka Mint Bureau
• Okawa River

Or if you prefer to have someone else lead the way, simply book a cherry blossom tour or scope out the best spot when you visit by checking out this updated forecast.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.