I Regret Visiting These 9 Countries (But These 13 Were Incredible)
You finally arrive, ready for that once-in-a-lifetime moment… and it just doesn’t hit. I’ve had a few trips like that—places that felt off, overrated, or just not worth the effort. But I’ve also found cities that completely won me over, often when I least expected it.
Some destinations left me disappointed, others reminded me why I love to travel in the first place. These are the ones that missed the mark—and the ones that got it exactly right.
1. Brussels, Belgium
The hyped European capital left me wondering what all the fuss was about. Brussels feels like a city searching for personality amid administrative buildings and tourist traps.
Compared to charming Bruges or vibrant Antwerp, it lacks distinctive character. The Grand Place is stunning, but one beautiful square doesn’t justify the overall bland experience.
2. Cairo, Egypt
Constant harassment from aggressive vendors made sightseeing nearly impossible. Every few steps brought another demand for money or unwanted ‘guide’ services that wouldn’t take no for an answer.
Cairo’s chaotic streets and overwhelming pollution created a stressful atmosphere far from the mystical Egyptian experience I’d imagined. Even the pyramids couldn’t compensate for the exhausting daily challenges.
3. New Delhi, India
Sensory overload doesn’t begin to describe the experience. The relentless honking, extreme pollution, and crushing crowds created constant stress that made enjoying any attractions nearly impossible. Walking New Delhi’s streets meant navigating through thick smog while dodging traffic from all directions.
Despite incredible historical sites, the physical discomfort overshadowed any potential for enjoyment or cultural appreciation.
4. Moscow, Russia
Bureaucratic nightmares began before even arriving. Obtaining a visa required mountains of paperwork, invasive questions, and weeks of waiting with no guarantee of approval. Once in Moscow, the language barrier felt particularly isolating compared to other European capitals.
The city’s imposing architecture and stern-faced locals created an unwelcoming atmosphere that made meaningful connections difficult despite the impressive Red Square.
5. Beijing, China
Breathing became a conscious effort throughout my stay. The notorious air pollution created a constant haze that obscured views and irritated my lungs, making outdoor exploration unpleasant.
Beijing’s omnipresent surveillance and internet restrictions added an unexpected layer of discomfort. While the Forbidden City amazed me, the overwhelming crowds at every attraction meant hours of queuing for brief glimpses of cultural treasures.
6. Casablanca, Morocco
Hollywood nostalgia quickly faded into disappointment upon arrival. The industrial sprawl and concrete buildings lack the charm found in other Moroccan cities like Marrakech or Fez. Casablanca’s architecture feels oddly European without the craftsmanship, creating a bland urban experience.
Besides the impressive Hassan II Mosque, the city offers little distinctive character to justify the journey compared to Morocco’s truly magical destinations.
7. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Crossing the street became a death-defying act requiring nerves of steel. The never-ending stream of motorbikes creates a constant cacophony that follows you everywhere, making relaxation impossible.
Green spaces are practically non-existent in Ho Chi Minh City’s concrete jungle. While the food scene offers incredible flavors, the relentless urban intensity without respite left me exhausted and yearning for Vietnam’s more balanced destinations.
8. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Manufactured paradise quickly revealed its artificial nature. The walled-off resort complexes create a sanitized bubble that bears little resemblance to authentic Dominican culture or daily life.
Venturing beyond Punta Cana’s manicured properties often means encountering aggressive tourism pitches. The beautiful beaches couldn’t compensate for the feeling I could have been anywhere with palm trees and pools, missing the cultural richness the country truly offers.
9. Istanbul, Turkey
Constant vigilance against scams became exhausting after just a few days. From taxi drivers taking unnecessarily long routes to carpet salesmen using aggressive tactics, the predatory tourism atmosphere was relentless.
Major landmarks in Istanbul suffer from extreme overcrowding. The magnificent Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque lose their spiritual impact when experienced shoulder-to-shoulder with hundreds of selfie-takers, creating an atmosphere more like a theme park than cultural immersion.
10. Lisbon, Portugal
Sun-drenched streets wind uphill, revealing breathtaking viewpoints around every corner. The affordable prices come as a welcome surprise in Western Europe, allowing deeper exploration without budget stress.
Lisbon’s colorful buildings and intricate tilework create a photographer’s paradise. The laid-back atmosphere perfectly balances cultural richness with relaxation, while the pastéis de nata alone justify the trip for anyone with a sweet tooth.
11. Kyoto, Japan
Ancient temples nestled among maple trees create moments of perfect tranquility away from modern life. The seasonal transformations make every visit unique, whether cherry blossoms paint spring pink or autumn turns the landscape fiery red.
Kyoto balances tradition and innovation beautifully. Centuries-old tea ceremonies continue just streets away from modern cafés, while geisha still hurry along historic Gion alleys. The city’s respectful preservation of culture feels like stepping through time.
12. Florence, Italy
Walking everywhere becomes a pleasure rather than a chore in this perfectly sized city. Around each corner waits another architectural marvel or hidden piazza, creating an open-air museum experience without entrance fees.
Florence houses world-class art in surprisingly intimate settings. The food culture elevates simple ingredients to sublime experiences, from perfect espresso to handmade pasta. The genuine warmth of locals adds a layer of connection often missing in more tourist-saturated Italian destinations.
13. Reykjavik, Iceland
Otherworldly landscapes begin just minutes from the city center. The compact, colorful downtown Reykjavik provides the perfect base for exploring Iceland’s natural wonders while offering surprising cultural depth.
This capital combines Scandinavian efficiency with quirky character. The pristine air and geothermal-heated public pools create daily luxuries for visitors. Despite high prices, the ease of accessing waterfalls, geysers, and lava fields from this clean, safe hub justifies every krona spent.
14. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Hidden gem doesn’t begin to describe this enchanting capital. The pedestrian-only center creates a relaxed atmosphere where riverside cafés invite hours of people-watching without big-city stress or crowds.
Ljubljana’s dragon bridges and castle views combine with an unexpectedly vibrant food scene. The small size means visitors quickly feel like locals, greeted with genuine smiles rather than tourist fatigue. Slovenia’s natural wonders all sit within easy day-trip distance.
15. Chania, Greece
Venetian harbor views greet visitors with a perfect blend of historic charm and seaside relaxation. Unlike overtouristed Greek islands, the authentic local life continues alongside tourism, creating genuine cultural experiences.
Narrow lanes reveal family-run tavernas serving grandmother’s recipes. The crystal waters and mountain backdrop create a postcard setting without the pretension. Cretan hospitality shines through in every interaction, making visitors feel like honorary locals.
16. Bergen, Norway
Surrounded by seven mountains and fjords, natural beauty frames every moment. The colorful wooden buildings of Bryggen wharf create a storybook setting that somehow maintains authenticity despite its UNESCO status.
Bergen balances outdoor adventure with cultural richness perfectly. The fish market offers direct-from-boat seafood while mountain hiking trails begin minutes from downtown. Despite famous rainfall, the city’s cozy cafés and museums turn even wet days into memorable experiences.
17. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Ancient temples sit alongside digital nomad cafés in perfect harmony. The laid-back northern Thai atmosphere creates space for authentic connections with locals and travelers alike, unlike the tourist factories of southern beaches.
Chiang Mai’s night markets showcase incredible craftsmanship and street food at honest prices. The surrounding mountains offer ethical elephant sanctuaries and hill tribe visits. The affordability allows travelers to experience Thailand deeply rather than just passing through.
18. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Walking the complete medieval walls offers perspective few cities can match. The dramatic meeting of ancient stone and azure Adriatic creates a setting that feels both timeless and vibrant. Dubrovnik preserves its heritage without feeling like a museum.
The limestone streets gleam from centuries of footsteps, while hidden cliffside bars provide perfect sunset views. Despite cruise ship crowds during peak seasons, early mornings reveal the authentic magic that captivated travelers for centuries.
19. Seville, Spain
Orange trees line streets where flamenco rhythms spill from hidden courtyards. The architecture blends Moorish influences with Spanish grandeur, creating a visual feast more impressive than better-known Spanish destinations.
Seville moves at a pace that prioritizes enjoyment over efficiency. The tapas culture encourages social connection while the evening paseo tradition brings all generations together. Despite scorching summers, the city’s shaded plazas and refreshing traditions make even heat waves bearable.
20. Queenstown, New Zealand
Adventure and tranquility exist in perfect balance amid jaw-dropping landscapes. The crystal-clear lake reflects snow-capped mountains, creating a natural beauty that feels almost computer-generated in its perfection.
Queenstown offers adrenaline activities alongside peaceful nature experiences. The small town atmosphere fosters connections between travelers from across the globe. Despite its reputation as an adventure capital, the genuine warmth of Kiwi hospitality creates a sense of belonging even for solo travelers.
21. Lucerne, Switzerland
Fairytale views greet visitors at every turn without the pretension found in other Swiss destinations. The medieval wooden bridge crosses crystal waters that reflect Alpine peaks, creating picture-perfect scenes that need no filter. Lucerne balances Swiss efficiency with unexpected warmth.
The compact old town allows easy exploration on foot, while boat trips provide mountain perspectives without strenuous hiking. Despite Switzerland’s famous prices, the accessible natural beauty and cultural experiences deliver genuine value.
22. Seoul, South Korea
Ancient palaces stand in the shadows of futuristic skyscrapers, creating fascinating architectural contrasts. The 24-hour energy means there’s always something happening, whether you’re seeking traditional tea houses or cutting-edge shopping experiences.
Seoul’s incredible public transportation makes exploration effortless. The food scene ranges from traditional market stalls to innovative fusion restaurants. Despite its massive size, distinct neighborhood personalities and green spaces provide balance to the urban intensity.