PSA: There’s a whole lesser-explored side of Asia just waiting for your next passport stamp, and heading there for a girls’ trip is actually a much simpler and stress-free process than you’d think! Especially now that AirAsia has launched new routes, all it takes is a quick booking, a comfy seat, and a couple of hours in the air. No messy layovers, no complicated itinerary, with baggage check-through all the way to your destination — just grab your girls, get onboard and relax.

If you and your crew are all about finding hidden spots before they blow up on TikTok, these underrated destinations are about to become your latest obsession. From jaw-dropping photo spots to mouthwatering eats and shopping havens to spa spots that’ll leave you glowing, here are five chic cities in Asia that are packed with hidden gems.

1. Istanbul, Turkey

Photo from AirAsia

Old-world romance meets modern-day buzz? That’s Istanbul. You’ll see gorgeous palaces, stunning architecture, rooftop cafés, street art, and so many corners that look like they’re straight out of a travel magazine.

Photo from AirAsia

Yes, the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are on everyone’s list (and rightly so), but the real story is in getting lost in Balat’s colourful alleys, riding ferries at golden hour, and relaxing in a hammam. It’s picturesque and energetic all at once, perfect for a city girls’ trip that wants both chill time and loads of ‘wow’ moments.

Must-Visit & Hidden Gems

Photo from Golden Horn in Istanbul and view of Suleymaniye Mosque

• Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise: From S$16 via Booking.com
• Whirling Dervish Ceremony: From S$30 via Booking.com
• Hagia Sophia entry: S$42 via Klook
• Basilica Cistern entry: S$48 via Klook
• Topkapi Palace entry: From S$80 via Viator
• Chora Mosque entry: S$35 via GetYourGuide
• Turkish Hammam Experience: From S$38 via Viator

 

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Where to Stay

2. Karachi, Pakistan

Photo from World Bank Blogs

Karachi is chaotic in the best way possible — think neon lights, sizzling street food, and non-stop energy. It’s not particularly polished, but that’s exactly what gives it character! 

From legendary biryani on Burns Road to sunset walks along Clifton Beach, Karachi is where foodie daydreams and cultural adventures collide. Go in with an open mind and you’ll leave with stories (and spice) for days.

Must-Do & Hidden Gems

Photo from Pixabay

• Port Grand Entertainment Complex: S$5 per adult
• Mohatta Palace Museum: S$0.05 per adult
• Pakistan Maritime Museum: S$0.30 per adult
• Burns Road Food Street: Free entry. Indulge in local street food delights.
• Clifton Beach: Free entry. Enjoy the sea breeze and scenic views.
• Zainab Market: Free entry. Shop for local crafts and textiles.
• Frere Hall Book Bazaar: Free entry. Browse through a variety of books and enjoy the architecture.

Photo from Sindh Tourism

Where to Stay

3. Almaty, Kazakhstan

Photo from Adobe Stock

Almaty is that girl: effortlessly stylish, scenic AF, and still flying under the radar. One moment you’re sipping lavender lattes in a minimalist café, the next you’re riding a cable car to snow-dusted mountains. It’s artsy, outdoorsy, and best of all — it’s surprisingly affordable! A triple win for any girls’ trip.

Must-Do & Hidden Gems

Photo from Adobe Stock

• Medeu Ice Rink: From S$5 via Wanderon
• First President Park: Free entry. Explore the breathtaking grounds filled with larger-than-life landscaping, flower beds, manicured pathways and monuments.
• Ascension Cathedral: Free entry. Admire the unique wooden structure, built completely without nails!
• Charyn Canyon: S$2 per person. A 3-4 hour drive from Almaty city, this stunning red-tinted natural landmark is nicknamed the ‘mini Grand Canyon’.
• Kolsai Lakes: Free entry. A 5-hour drive from Almaty city, but the view is worth every minute spent on the road.
• Central State Museum of Kazakhstan: From S$12 per adult.
• Shymbulak Ski Resort: From S$36 per night via shymbulak.com.

Photo from Adobe Stock

Where to Stay

4. Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Photo from Adobe Stock

Tashkent is all about contrasts, and that’s what makes it magical. Think turquoise-domed bazaars, space-age Soviet metro stations, leafy green parks, and steaming plates of hearty plov. 

Photo from AirAsia

It’s not overrun with tourists, which means more space for you and your girls to wander, snap pics, and soak in the vibes at your own pace. Pro tip: pack extra outfits; every corner is a photo backdrop waiting to happen. 

Must-Do & Hidden Gems

Photo from Adobe Stock

• State Museum of History: From S$1.20 via history-museum.uz.
• Khast Imam Complex: Free entry. Visit the spiritual heart of Tashkent, located in walking distance of monuments like the tomb of Hazrati Imam, a library, and the famous Quran of Caliph Uthman.
• Amir Timur Square: Free entry. Admire the fountains, esplanades, and statue of the 1300s ruler Timur.
• Chorsu Bazaar: Free entry. Shop for spices, textiles, and souvenirs.
• The Romanov Palace (also known as The Palace of Prince Romanov): Free for viewing.
• Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre: From ~S$7.42 per seat via gabt.uz/
• Chorsu Bazaar: Free entry. Try hot pilaf, lagman, and other Uzbek street foods at this historic market.

Photo from Tashkent, Uzbekistan - April 11, 2021: Alisher Navoiy is a station of the Tashkent Metro in Uzbekistan

Where to Stay

5. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Photo from Agoda

If you think Riyadh is just skyscrapers and sand, think again! Between the jaw-dropping Noor Riyadh light festival (held annually at the end of the year), luxe rooftop dining, and treasure-filled souqs, this city is full of surprises. It’s the kind of place where you can channel your inner culture queen to desert explorer in a single day.

Must-Do & Hidden Gems

Photo from Klook

• National Museum of Saudi Arabia: Free entry. Over 4,000 artifacts and heritage items set in eight modern, Insta-worthy exhibition halls.
• Masmak Fortress: Free entry. This historic mud-brick fort is now a museum showcasing Saudi Arabia's cultural heritage.
• Kingdom Tower: From S$48 via skybridge.sa.
• Al Masmak Palace Museum: Free entry. Clay and mudbrick palace with visual presentations and ancient historical remains displayed on its walls.
• King Abdullah Park: From S$4 per person.
• Edge of the World: Free entry, day tours start from S$60 via TripAdvisor
• At-Turaif World Heritage Site: From S$18 per person.

 

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Where to Stay

Verdict: Which one fits your girls’ trip best?

Can’t wait to explore these stunning destinations? AirAsia's latest flights from Singapore to Istanbul, Karachi, Almaty, Tashkent, and Riyadh make it affordable to plan that unforgettable girls’ trip! 

Book your flights here and get ready to dive straight into adventure! 

This post is brought to you by AirAsia.