A guide on how to find unique travel destinations on TikTok

Scrolling through TikTok can turn a casual travel daydream into a full-blown itinerary. The platform is packed with hidden gems, from underrated islands to secret city spots, making it a goldmine for discovering unique travel destinations. But with millions of videos flooding your feed daily, how do you separate truly special places from overhyped tourist traps?

Whether you’re planning your next trip or just want to save some bucket-list-worthy locations, here’s how to use TikTok to find off-the-beaten-path travel spots that aren’t just recycled Instagram clichés.

Use the right keywords and hashtags

TikTok’s algorithm thrives on keywords and hashtags, so searching smartly can lead you straight to hidden travel gems. Instead of generic searches like #travel or #vacation, try more specific and less common hashtags, such as:

• #HiddenGems: For under-the-radar locations.
• #SecretSpots: Perfect for discovering places locals love.
• #UnderratedDestinations: For finding travel spots that aren’t overrun by tourists.
• #SmallTownTravel: Great for uncovering charming villages and scenic countryside escapes.
• #SoloTravelFinds: A goldmine for unique, safe, and solo-friendly destinations.

Play around with combinations like #HiddenGemsItaly or #UnderratedBeachesAsia to get more tailored results.

Follow travel creators who specialize in hidden gems

Not all travel influencers post the same content. While some focus on major tourist spots, others are experts at seeking out unique experiences. Follow TikTok creators who specialize in offbeat travel, adventure tourism, or eco-friendly destinations.

Look for travelers who:

• Explore rural towns and lesser-known cities.
• Focus on local culture and immersive experiences rather than just “Instagrammable” spots.
• Provide detailed location info, including how to get there and when to visit.

Some creators also share travel hacks, like how to visit famous destinations at off-peak hours or avoid crowds entirely.

Engage with niche travel communities

TikTok’s comment sections are full of gold. If a video about a unique destination catches your eye, scroll through the comments—you’ll often find recommendations from locals and other travelers who have been there.

You can also engage with niche travel communities by:

• Asking questions in the comments (e.g., “Is there a less touristy time to visit?”).
• Checking “duet” or “stitch” videos—other users often add insights or suggest similar places.
• Following travel hashtags and engaging with content to train your algorithm to show more unique spots.

The more you interact with this type of content, the more TikTok will curate personalized travel suggestions for you.

Use TikTok’s location tagging feature

Many TikTokers tag locations in their videos, making it easy to see exactly where they went. When you find a cool spot:

1. Click on the location tag to see more videos from that place.
2. Compare multiple videos to check if it’s truly a hidden gem or just a well-marketed tourist attraction.
3. Look for guides from locals—they often share insights on less crowded routes, alternative stays, or local events.

If there’s no location tag, check the comments—someone will usually ask where it is!

Cross-check with other platforms

TikTok is great for discovery, but always double-check details before planning a trip. Once you find a location that piques your interest:

• Search for it on Google Maps or Reddit travel forums for additional reviews.
• Look up UNESCO World Heritage Sites or the UN Tourism Villages Database, which often include culturally rich yet less-visited places.
• Check blogs or official government sites for historical context and practical travel tips.

This extra step ensures you’re not just chasing viral hype, but actually heading to a worthwhile destination.

Look beyond big cities and mainstream attractions

If your For You Page (FYP) keeps showing famous cities like Paris, Tokyo, or Rome, try shifting your focus to surrounding regions. Instead of Paris, search for small villages in Normandy or Alsace. Instead of Tokyo, look up remote towns in Hokkaido or Kyushu.

Many incredible places sit just outside major tourist hubs and offer:

• Fewer crowds
• Cheaper accommodations
• More authentic experiences

TikTok can lead you to incredible small towns, ancient ruins, secluded beaches, and remote natural wonders if you’re willing to look past the obvious choices.

Be open to spontaneous finds

One of the best things about TikTok is accidental discovery. A video you weren’t even looking for might introduce you to a breathtaking island, an abandoned castle, or a surreal landscape.

Save videos using TikTok’s Collections feature and create folders like:

• Bucket List Spots
• Road Trip Ideas
• Hidden Beaches
• Cultural Experiences

Later, when you’re planning a trip, you’ll have a ready-made list of unique places to explore.

Final thoughts

Finding unique travel destinations on TikTok is easier than ever—you just need to know where to look. By using smart hashtags, following the right creators, engaging with travel communities, and cross-checking information, you can uncover hidden gems that most tourists miss.

So next time you open TikTok, go beyond the usual travel trends. The world is full of unexplored wonders—and now, you know exactly how to find them.