Top Beaches

Alternative Destinations

Destinations

Escape the Crowds: Top 5 Serene Alternatives to Zanzibar

Discover tranquil and less-traveled destinations that rival the beauty of Zanzibar. Explore our top 5 picks for serene getaways, from Madeira's lush landscapes to Bora Bora's intimate retreats.

Click here to tailor the list to match your ideal getaway trip.

Simplify your travel planning with this list of the the 5 must-see alternative Destinations

1. Madeira
2. Bora Bora
3. Azores
4. Lofoten Islands
5. Faroe Islands

Madeira

Discover Hotels in Madeira

Madeira offers a serene escape with its lush landscapes and fewer crowds. Its natural beauty and outdoor activities provide a tranquil alternative to bustling Zanzibar.

Praia Formosa

Praia Formosa is a stunning beach located in Madeira, Portugal. With its golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a perfect spot for relaxation and sunbathing. The beach is also equipped with various amenities, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Restaurante Do Forte

Restaurante Do Forte in Madeira, Portugal is a charming eatery located in a historic fort overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. With its stunning views, delicious traditional Portuguese cuisine, and warm hospitality, it offers a memorable dining experience for visitors seeking a taste of local flavors in a picturesque setting.

Madeira Botanical Garden

Madeira Botanical Garden in Madeira, Portugal is a stunning oasis of lush greenery and vibrant flowers. Spanning over 80,000 square meters, it offers a diverse collection of exotic plants and trees from around the world. Visitors can explore its tranquil pathways and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

La Vie Funchal

La Vie Funchal is a vibrant shopping center located in Madeira, Portugal. With its modern architecture and a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, it offers a unique and enjoyable shopping experience for both locals and tourists visiting the beautiful island of Madeira.

Hole in One

Hole in One is a picturesque golf course located in Madeira, Portugal. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, it offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golf enthusiasts. With its well-maintained fairways, breathtaking views, and warm hospitality, it is a must-visit destination for golfers seeking an unforgettable golfing experience.

Bora Bora

Discover Hotels in Bora Bora

Bora Bora's secluded overwater bungalows and pristine waters offer an intimate setting, contrasting with Zanzibar's tourist-heavy beaches.

Motu Mute

Motu Mute is a small island located in Bora Bora, French Polynesia. It is known for its stunning white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. The island offers a tranquil and picturesque setting, making it a popular destination for relaxation, water sports, and snorkeling.

Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges

Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges in Bora Bora, French Polynesia is a culinary paradise nestled on the water's edge. With breathtaking views of the lagoon and Mount Otemanu, this restaurant offers a fusion of French and Polynesian flavors, creating a memorable dining experience in a stunning tropical setting.

Coral Gardens

Coral Gardens in Bora Bora, French Polynesia is a stunning underwater paradise. With crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life, it offers an unforgettable snorkeling and diving experience. Explore the colorful coral formations and encounter tropical fish, rays, and even sharks in this breathtaking natural wonder.

Tahia Exquisite Tahitian Pearls

Tahia Exquisite Tahitian Pearls is a renowned jewelry brand located in Bora Bora, French Polynesia. They specialize in crafting exquisite pearl jewelry using the finest Tahitian pearls, known for their lustrous beauty and unique colors. Each piece is meticulously designed to capture the essence of the stunning island paradise.

Bloody Mary's

Bloody Mary's in Bora Bora, French Polynesia is a renowned restaurant and bar known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine. With its sandy floors, thatched roof, and open-air setting, it offers a unique dining experience. Serving fresh seafood and tropical cocktails, it is a must-visit destination for tourists.

Açores

Discover Hotels in Açores

The Azores archipelago is a hidden gem with dramatic landscapes and a mild climate, perfect for travelers seeking a less commercialized island experience.

Praia de Santa Barbara Beach

Praia de Santa Bárbara Beach is a stunning beach located in Azores, Portugal. With its crystal clear waters, golden sands, and dramatic cliffs, it offers a picturesque setting for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Restaurante Gastronomo

Restaurante Gastronomo in Azores, Portugal is a culinary gem offering a delightful dining experience. With a focus on traditional Azorean cuisine, the restaurant serves delicious dishes made from fresh local ingredients. The cozy ambiance and friendly service make it a must-visit for food enthusiasts in the region.

Terra Nostra Gardens

Terra Nostra Gardens in Azores, Portugal is a lush paradise boasting a vast collection of exotic plants, vibrant flowers, and towering trees. Its centerpiece is a stunning thermal pool, known for its healing properties. This enchanting botanical garden offers a serene escape, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in nature's beauty.

Parque Atlantico

Parque Atlantico is a picturesque park located in the Azores, Portugal. It offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and relaxation in this tranquil setting, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Azores.

Bar da Marina

Bar da Marina is a charming seaside bar located in the Azores, Portugal. With its stunning ocean views, relaxed atmosphere, and friendly staff, it offers a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a refreshing drink or delicious meal while soaking up the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Lofoten Islands

Discover Hotels in Lofoten Islands

The Lofoten Islands provide a unique and quiet getaway with stunning fjords and fishing villages, far from the typical tropical tourist trail.

Fiskekrogen

Fiskekrogen is a renowned seafood restaurant located in the picturesque Lofoten Islands of Norway. With its stunning coastal views, the restaurant offers a delightful dining experience, specializing in fresh and locally sourced seafood dishes. Its charming ambiance and delectable cuisine make it a must-visit destination for seafood lovers.

Reinebringen

Reinebringen is a breathtaking mountain located on the Lofoten Islands in Norway. With its steep and challenging trail, it offers hikers a rewarding panoramic view of the surrounding fjords, mountains, and the picturesque fishing village of Reine. A must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Lofoten Lights

Lofoten Lights in the Lofoten Islands, Norway, is a mesmerizing natural phenomenon where the night sky comes alive with vibrant colors of the Northern Lights. This remote and picturesque location offers breathtaking views of the aurora borealis dancing across the Arctic sky, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Anker Brygge

Anker Brygge is a picturesque fishing village located on the Lofoten Islands in Norway. With its charming red and white wooden buildings, it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and fjords. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, and exploring the unique culture and natural beauty of the area.

Gallery Dagfinn Bakke

Gallery Dagfinn Bakke is a captivating art space located in the scenic Lofoten Islands of Norway. Showcasing the works of renowned artist Dagfinn Bakke, the gallery offers a diverse collection of paintings and sculptures that beautifully capture the essence of the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Faroe Islands

Discover Hotels in Faroe Islands

The Faroe Islands offer rugged, unspoiled beauty and solitude for those looking to avoid the tourist crowds found in Zanzibar.

Áarstova

Áarstova is a traditional turf-roofed farmhouse located in the Faroe Islands, Denmark. It is a historic building that showcases the island's architectural heritage. With its cozy interior and stunning views of the surrounding landscape, Áarstova offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the Faroe Islands.

Múlafossur Waterfall

Múlafossur Waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the Faroe Islands, Denmark. It cascades from a cliff into the Atlantic Ocean, creating a mesmerizing sight. The waterfall is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including lush green hills and dramatic cliffs, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

TUTL Records

TUTL Records is an independent record label based in the Faroe Islands, Denmark. It focuses on promoting and distributing music from Faroese artists, showcasing the unique cultural heritage of the region. TUTL Records aims to support local talent and provide a platform for their music to reach a wider audience.

Irish Pub

Irish Pub in the Faroe Islands, Denmark, offers a cozy and authentic Irish atmosphere. With its traditional decor, live music, and a wide selection of Irish beers and whiskeys, it provides a warm and welcoming experience for locals and tourists alike, bringing a taste of Ireland to the Faroe Islands.

Kirkjubøargarður

Kirkjubøargarður is a historic farmstead located in the Faroe Islands, Denmark. It is known for its well-preserved medieval buildings, including the 11th-century Roykstovan, one of the oldest inhabited wooden houses in the world. The site offers a glimpse into the island's rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life.

What's one thing you'd like to avoid in your next travel destination

Too Crowded Too Expensive Too Touristic Too Hot Too Cold