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Written by Dana Freeman on

Dana Freeman is an entrepreneur, freelance journalist, and the editor behind Dana Freeman Travels. She is a travel enthusiast from Vermont who is always up for an adventure in a new location. Follow her travels on Instagram and Facebook.

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Instead of following the crowd take the road less traveled this year. See why these three cities should be on every traveler's radar as the best places to go.

The world is full of fabulous places to explore. This year, why not consider visiting a lesser-known destination. Why visit the most Instagrammable spots, which will be crowded with tourists, when you can visit under-appreciated places that will have far fewer crowds.

It is time to pack your bag and put these three overlooked destinations on your travel radar.

Sardinia, Italy

The large island of Sardinia is located off the coast of Italy on the western side of the Mediterranean Sea. While the 1,200 miles of coastline with sandy beaches and remarkably clear water certainly attracts sunbathers, there is more to do on the island than just swim in the ocean.

Alghero is one of Sardinia's most beautiful medieval cities. Grab a gelato and walk along the seafront walls that surround the town. The Bastioni, as they are known, were built in the16th century. Head into the historic center of town where lunch awaits at one of the many trattorias.

Go wine tasting. Sardinia is famous for its wine production. You will find several excellent vineyards in the surrounding area around Alghero. The most famous of which is Tenute Sella e Mosca.

Brisbane, Australia

Brisbane is Australia's third-largest city and Queensland's capital. Despite that tourists usually flock to more well-known cities like Sydney and Melbourne.

Undoubtedly the cheapest and most convenient way to see Brisbane via public transportation is to purchase a Go SeeQ Card. You can use it to explore the city, or beach lovers can make their way to the Gold and Sunshine Coasts. Take along beverages, snacks, and towels in a packable tote.

Highlights of any trip to Brisbane should include cuddling a koala bear, or a visit to the Southbank for swimming, biking, and a trip to one of the many museums like the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art. Paddle along the Brisbane River and under the Story Bridge for a unique perspective of the city.

Québec City, Canada

Québec City is the Capital of the province of Québec. Old Québec City is divided into two distinct areas—the upper town and the lower town. Stroll along the cobblestone streets of this fortified city admiring the charming cafes and bistros. It’s one of the world’s best food cities and also boasts parks, wildlife reserves, and scenic attractions just minutes away.

Not to be missed during a summer visit to Québec City, the Festival d’ete de Quebec (or FEQ) is one of the largest and longest running music festivals in North America. It’s older than Woodstock (1968), takes place over 11 days every July, features more than 250 performances in 10 different venues in the heart of Quebec City, and has the largest freestanding stage in North America. A full festival pass, which is transferable, costs only $100 Canadian.

Throw your duffel into a rental car and explore the sites on the outskirts of town. Île d'Orléans is an ideal place to spend the day enjoying scenic stops at artisan outlets, farm stands, and having lunch at a local bistro. Just 15 minutes from Old Quebec, plan a half day trip visit the breathtaking Montmorency Falls. Take the cable car up to the top, grab a bite to eat at the restaurant, and walk across the falls via a suspension bridge.

Have you been to any of these cities? Share your tips and photos with us on Instagram !

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