With Instagram-worthy views and cliffside cave houses, Santorini has been a go-to for travel enthusiasts for a long time now.
The popular island in Greece has been an escape for many Bollywood celebrities, like Kriti Sanon at the moment. From the song Meherbaan starring Hrithik Roshan and Katrina Kaif (from Bang Bang), to Salman Khan's Dil Leke from Wanted (2009), this exotic destination has been the backdrop of many Bollywood movies too.
However, Santorini is not what it once was, thanks to everyone wanting to visit it. Don't bet on social media to show the real picture. An influx of tourism has left this gem of a destination crowded, with long queues to capture the perfect sunset.
Take a look at an expectation vs reality video from Santorini by a travel content creator:
But what if we told you that there was a solution to this? An alternative posing as the next best offbeat destination to watch out for?
A North African Gem
Give the Greek beach destination a miss and shift your focus to Sidi Bou Said, a stunning yet lesser-known destination in Tunisia, Africa. This ethereal, picturesque destination needs be on your 2025 itinerary and we tell you why.
Overlooking the Mediterranean coast, Sidi Bou Said is a hidden gem that offers a similar experience of the alluring white and blue-roofed town of Santorini.
What's different? Sidi Bou Said has no overcrowded streets like Santorini.
In addition to the picturesque setting, the city of Sidi Bou Said also highlights Tunisia's heritage with elements of local architecture.
The best part about a holiday here is that since it is not in Europe, it eases the process of painstaking appointments and availability of procuring a Schengen visa.
Moreover, Tunisia offers visa-free entry to Indian passport holders for the purpose of tourism alone.
The Costs
If you are planning a summer escapade in June 2025, a round trip fare from New Delhi to Tunis, according to MakeMyTrip, may cost you Rs 65,000 approximately.
Sidi Bou Said is a picturesque 25-minute drive from the capital city of Tunis. Public and private transportation is available from Tunis to reach the beach town.
No visa, no overcrowding. Is Tunisia on your travel list?
Also Read: From Sunkissed Selfies To Boat Rides, Inside Kim Kardashian's Summer Days In Greece
Also Read: Like Nayanthara And Vignesh Shivan In Greece, Here Are 5 Things To Do In Mykonos With Your Kids
Also Read: Greece May Be Gorgeous But Kriti And Nupur Sanon's Fabulous Greek Travel Fashion Is Even More So