"Last fall, I embarked on my first-ever trip to Europe. My travels took me to hotspots like Paris and London, and while these bustling cities were lovely, the experience left me craving more off-the-grid excursions. Thoughts of hunkering down in an English cottage or at a vineyard in the South of France crept in. There are simply so many destinations worthy of a visit, so why not plan a trip to some of these less-frequented spots?
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There’s just something uniquely exciting about heading somewhere that’s a bit more under the radar. As it turns out, this concept is picking up in popularity among travelers. In a recent report, Expedia named “detour destinations” as one of the top travel trends for 2025. Below, I’m covering all the details on why this trend should inspire your own travel plans for this year.
What Are Detour Destinations?
As I alluded to above, the term “detour destinations” refers to less-frequented places that travelers can tack onto their itineraries when visiting more popular spots. Alternatively, you could plan a whole trip around these destinations in place of more traditional tourist stops. For example, instead of visiting Los Angeles, you might head to Santa Barbara.
How you choose to utilize the detour destination approach is totally up to you. It can be a fun way to add more experiences to a trip or a tool to lower your travel costs while experiencing places with a more authentic, local feel.
Why Visit Detour Destinations
While there are many perks to visiting some of the world’s most popular vacation spots, there’s also a case for adding lesser-known destinations to your vision board. Here’s why detour destinations are worthy of your next trip:
They can be more affordable to visit
Visiting many of the world’s top travel destinations requires a hefty budget. Opting for less flocked-to cities is a foolproof way to cut costs while still experiencing a similar vibe. Plus, many detour destinations are close enough to major cities that you could still hit the highlights during a day trip.
They can be less crowded
The last thing I want when traveling is to deal with crowds of people or feel the need to fight someone over a lounge chair. Visiting detour destinations can naturally provide a calmer experience without the hordes of tourists.
You can get a more authentic feel for the culture
Smaller towns and suburbs outside of major cities often boast a more accurate overview of a place. For one, they can be less populated, and because of that, you can actually get to know locals in a more intimate way (rather than just meeting other travelers). Plus, the culinary scene outside of major cities can be more authentic since the restaurants aren’t catering specifically to tourists.
Detour Destinations Worthy of Your Next Trip
Ready to plan your own detour? All of these spots are located near highly coveted travel destinations, yet they each offer unique charm and appeal.
1. Reims (Detour from Paris, France)
Topping nearly every detour destination list, Reims is known for producing some of the world’s best champagne (you can even visit the Veuve Clicquot champagne house). It’s a much smaller city compared to Paris—one that’s suitable for those who would rather spend their time enjoying outdoor scenery as opposed to architecture and city views.
2. Todos Santos (Detour from Cabo, Mexico)
Known as one of the best destinations for surfing, landscape views, and major relaxation vibes, Todos Santos is becoming an increasingly popular beach destination. Just an hour outside of Cabo, this laid-back spot is ideal for family trips and honeymoons. Lounge by the pool, indulge in a sound bath, and sip margaritas without the party crowd. Sounds appealing, right?
3. Healdsburg (Detour from Napa Valley, California)
Wine country makes for the ultimate girls’ trip destination, but spots like Napa can be overcrowded and overpriced. Head just 40 miles north to Healdsburg for a more local take on wine country living. The small town is plenty close to tasting rooms and vineyards while boasting a downtown lined with beautifully designed restaurants and dreamy boutiques.
4. Bath (Detour from London, England)
A quick train ride from London, Bath is a town with ancient origins that will transport you into a different lifetime. Known for and named after its Roman-built baths, tourists can enjoy stunning Georgian architecture, small shops and eateries, and rolling green hills (just like in The Holiday).
5. Nantucket (Detour from Boston, Massachusetts)
There’s no destination that embodies the Nancy Meyers aesthetic better than Nantucket. While it can be a pricey place to find lodging, there are many ways you can make this spot more affordable. Sharing a hotel room with a friend, booking (and splitting the cost of) a rental home, and cooking in rather than eating out are some ways to cut expenses. Spring and summer are the best seasons to visit with beach days, bike rides, and farmers market visits in store.
6. Lake Louise (Detour from Banff, Canada)
While Banff is a timeless destination for skiing, canoeing, and hiking, Lake Louise offers the same activities in a quaint village setting. This spot is ideal for those seeking a nature-inspired or adventure-packed getaway.
7. Hilton Head Island (Detour from Savannah, Georgia)
There’s nothing quite like Southern charm, but if you’re looking for a more low-key alternative to Savannah (or somewhere to dip your toes in the water), consider tacking Hilton Head Island onto your trip. Flaunting beautiful scenery, pristine beaches, and several waterside resorts, this is the place to visit when you want to truly unwind.
8. Kennebunkport (Detour from Portland, Maine)
With a rich history and lively food scene, the Portland area is a great destination for groups. However, a scenic 30-mile drive south will bring you to the historic town of Kennebunkport. This seaside locale is worth visiting for a night or two, but a day trip is also an option. For the best weather, go in the summer so you can enjoy time spent on the sand and at oceanfront happy hours.
Kara Thompson, Contributing Home Writer
Kara Thompson is a Denver-based journalist with a bachelor’s in journalism from the University of Oregon. In 2022, she left her full-time job as an editor and started her own writing, editing, and social media firm, Kara Thompson and Co. She has over five years of experience writing lifestyle content for publications including townandcountrymag.com, elledecor.com, goodhousekeeping.com, and Parents, where she covered all things home, food, health, travel, fashion, and holidays.