12 Cinderella Destinations Ready for Their Moment in 2027
Make 2027 the year you discover somewhere different.
You may not have heard the term Cinderella destination before. We use it to describe places that are often overlooked in favour of better-known neighbours, despite offering every bit as much culture, scenery, wildlife and adventure. Looking beyond the obvious can lead to some of the most rewarding travel experiences, and these are the destinations we believe deserve their moment in the spotlight in 2027.
From the Silk Road cities of Uzbekistan to Bhutan’s peaceful Himalayan valleys, these 12 destinations offer the history, culture, wildlife and scenery you love, with an extra sense of discovery.
We’ve matched each destination with a month when it truly shines. Whether you’re dreaming of winter sunshine, springtime sightseeing or spectacular autumn colour, there’s always somewhere wonderful waiting to be explored.
January: Discover Sri Lanka
Winter sunshine, wildlife and culture in one unforgettable island
If Thailand usually springs to mind for a winter escape, consider Sri Lanka instead. This compact island brings ancient temples, wildlife-rich national parks and palm-fringed beaches within easy reach of one another, so every day can feel completely different.
Why visit now? January brings warm temperatures and dry weather to much of the island, making it a wonderful time to combine cultural discoveries, safari experiences and time beside the sea.
February: Venture into Borneo
Cities, islands and remarkable rainforest wildlife
Malaysia and Borneo offer an exciting alternative to the better-known holiday favourites of Thailand and Bali. Explore energetic cities and colonial heritage in Malaysia, then venture into the rainforests of Malaysian Borneo for the chance to encounter orangutans in their natural habitat.
Why visit now? February’s generally dry conditions make this an appealing time to enjoy the region’s wildlife, culture and tropical scenery.
March: Experience Bhutan
A peaceful Himalayan kingdom with a character all its own
Set between India and China, Bhutan is easy to overlook, yet its mountain scenery, Buddhist traditions and carefully preserved heritage make it unlike anywhere else. Discover serene monasteries, sweeping valleys and communities shaped by centuries of tradition.
Why visit now? March offers pleasant temperatures and clear Himalayan views. You may also experience Paro Tshechu, the country’s renowned festival of masked dances and cultural celebrations.
April: Explore Transylvania
Medieval towns and mountain landscapes beyond the vampire tales
There’s far more to Transylvania than its famous fictional count. This atmospheric region of Romania is filled with fortified churches, traditional villages, historic castles and forested landscapes stretching across the Carpathian Mountains.
Why visit now? Visit in April as spring arrives, bringing milder temperatures and the chance to explore before the busier summer season.
May: Fall for Malta
A small island with a remarkable story to tell
When Italy and Greece dominate the Mediterranean wish list, Malta can be easy to miss. Yet this sunlit island nation packs more than 7,000 years of history into its honey-coloured cities, dramatic coastline and distinctive culture, shaped by its position between Europe and North Africa.
Why visit now? In May, pleasantly warm days are ideal for exploring Valletta’s UNESCO-listed streets, wandering through medieval Mdina and enjoying the coast before the height of summer.
June: Escape to Croatia
Historic cities, island scenery and the sparkling Adriatic
Croatia may no longer be a secret, but it still deserves a place alongside Europe’s best-loved summer destinations. Its clear waters, beautiful islands and historic coastal cities combine Mediterranean warmth with a culture shaped by Central Europe and the Balkans.
Why visit now? June brings long days, warm Adriatic waters and fewer crowds than peak summer. Explore Dubrovnik’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, the islands of the Dalmatian Coast and Split’s remarkably preserved Roman heritage.
July: Uncover Slovenia
Alpine beauty, lakes and lovely cities in one compact country
Slovenia brings together many of the experiences people love about Austria, Switzerland and northern Italy. You can travel from Lake Bled and the Julian Alps to vineyard-covered hills, medieval towns and the Adriatic coast, all within one wonderfully varied country.
Why visit now? July’s long days give you plenty of time to discover Triglav National Park, paddle across Lake Bled, linger in Ljubljana’s café-lined streets and finish beside the sea in Piran.
August: Safari in Botswana
A spectacular safari with space to take it all in
For an African safari that feels truly special, look beyond South Africa to neighbouring Botswana. Glide through the Okavango Delta by mokoro canoe, watch elephants gather in Chobe National Park and discover the otherworldly landscapes of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans.
Why visit now? August falls within the dry season, when wildlife gathers around rivers and watering holes, creating exceptional opportunities to see animals across Botswana’s best-known reserves.
September: Journey along the Silk Road
Silk Road cities filled with colour, history and wonder
For culture on a grand scale, Uzbekistan is hard to beat. The Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva reveal turquoise-tiled madrasas, intricate mosques and monumental squares shaped by centuries of trade between East and West.
Why visit now? By September, temperatures are easing after summer. Lose yourself in Samarkand’s Registan Square, explore Bukhara’s ancient trading domes and watch the sun set over Khiva’s mud-brick skyline.
October: Wander South Korea
Ancient traditions, dynamic cities and glorious autumn colour
Japan may be the first name that comes to mind in East Asia, but South Korea is every bit as compelling. Seoul’s royal palaces and lively neighbourhoods sit alongside forested mountains, Buddhist temples and a food scene worth travelling for.
Why visit now? October brings comfortable temperatures and spectacular autumn colour, ideal for exploring Seoul and walking beneath the golden foliage of Seoraksan National Park.
November: Encounter Nepal
So much more than Mount Everest
Nepal’s famous peak may command attention, but the country has much more to reveal. Discover sacred temples and stupas in the Kathmandu Valley, take a jungle safari in Chitwan National Park and meet centuries-old communities beneath the Himalayas.
Why visit now? November is renowned for crisp air, clear skies and spectacular mountain views, making it an ideal time to experience Nepal beyond its famous trekking routes.
December: Savour Vietnam
A winter escape filled with flavour and variety
Vietnam offers an extraordinary range of experiences from north to south. Cruise between the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, stroll through Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets and soak up the energy of Ho Chi Minh City, with unforgettable food at every turn.
Why visit now? December brings excellent touring conditions across much of the country, making it a timely month for sightseeing, cruising and sampling some of the world’s most celebrated street food.
