There is something special about travelling with more purpose—not just to see, but also to feel. For the creatively curious, some trips inspire and breathe passion back into what they enjoy most: creating.

Whether you’re a wordsmith facing a major writer’s block or a painter who can’t find it in themselves to finish a piece, an inspiring retreat might just be the cure. Even a bedroom singer-songwriter looking to complete an inspired SoundCloud track can benefit from being away from the buzz to get in touch with their inner creative soul.

Here are some underrated spots that might just be the next artistic adventure you need.

Kathmandu Valley, Nepal

This bowl-shaped valley nestled among the Himalayan mountains of Nepal holds not one or two, but SEVEN World Heritage Sites! Centuries of craft perfected by generations of Newar artisans are evident in the valley’s landscape. You can see this mastery in its trademark multi-roofed pagodas, museum-preserved Thangka paintings, and golden stupas glinting in the sun.

Yet, alongside its deep tradition, young creativity thrives in modern spots like Bikalpa Art Center and numerous other spaces across the valley. Safe to say, any artistic soul would feel at home in Kathmandu Valley.

Kuching, Malaysia

This laid-back city of Sarawak is one of Malaysia’s underrated creative gems. Here, local artisans are always breathing new life into traditional crafts; think handwoven textiles, home decor like mengkuang mats and upholstery, and intricate beadwork. What makes it all the more special is the collective pride Malaysians share in preserving the artistry. Personally, I still remember learning the theoretical and practical art of weaving as a part of the art syllabus in primary school. Talk about cultural preservation!

In true Malaysian hospitality, any creative soul wandering the Kuching streets with curiosity for new crafts will find themselves welcomed and even encouraged to dip their toes (or hands) into the timeless crafts of Sarawak.

Tallinn, Estonia

Estonia may not be on every traveller’s radar, which makes Tallinn the perfect place for a low-key creative retreat. Like Kathmandu Valley, this European city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Well preserved with its medieval structures, Tallinn is embellished with cobblestone streets and Gothic architecture.

Despite this historic facade, Tallinn is also a major ground for modern experimentation. Fun fact: it is the birthplace of Skype! But it goes beyond technology. The city embraces art well past its beautiful scenery. One major spot here is the Telliskivi Creative City. Once a former industrial complex, the place is now the beating heart of Tallinn’s artistic energy—packed with galleries, open-air art installations, and colourful murals, among many others.

Marfa, Texas, US

Dubbed as an unlikely art oasis in a desert town, you will find more than just cowboy hats and blazing heat in this Texan town. What began in the 1970s, when renowned New York minimalist Donald Judd moved to this town, drawn by the blank canvas the original landscape provides, has since turned Marfa into a major hub for art enthusiasts and an interesting destination even for casual admirers. Housing countless galleries and installations, including the minimalist Prada Marfa installation, any art geek will find it hard not to extend a stay here to soak it all in.

Arles, France

It is nearly impossible to compile any art-related travel list without including France, home to countless renowned artists like Van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso. That makes Paris or Nice the usual suspects for an art pilgrimage. Enter Arles, an art-saturated location that offers just as much intrigue and inspiration to get a passionate creative soul going.

Elevating the experience, Arles offers a unique opportunity to stay in a functional artwork, L’Arlatan. This boutique hotel dates as far back as the fifth century and found its flamboyant yet immersive current image upon complete transformation by Cuban American artist, Jorge Pardo.

Essaouira, Morocco

A change in scenery from the rest of the locations, an artsy getaway in Essaouira promises more than you might expect. In addition to enjoying the local art scene, this coastal port city is definitely a sight for sore eyes. The chill rhythm of Essaouira draws both artists and musicians alike, who flock here for a creative calm soundtracked by the symphonic crash of waves.

Whether to get inspired for a painting or to find the right tune among Gnawa beats that drift through the city, art is more than just a display here. Naturally, there is plenty for the visual enjoyers looking to breathe in Morocco’s contemporary art scene while in Essaouira—Gallery Kasbah and Le Real Mogador, among others.