The top hidden-gem destinations to visit alone, according to a full-time solo traveler who’s been to 43 countries [Video]

With 43 countries under her belt, Claire Sturzaker has backpacked through a range of destinations, from the Americas to Europe and Australia.

The full-time solo traveler documents her adventures on her blog, Tales of a Backpacker.

When exploring new cities and countries by herself, Sturzaker looks for places with rich histories, delicious foods, walkable neighborhoods, awe-inspiring architecture, and nice people to talk to.

Business Insider asked Sturzaker to share the most underrated cities she’s visited, as overtourism harms tourist hot spots that weren’t built to serve millions, like Venice and Barcelona.

In these hidden-gem destinations, Sturzaker had unique experiences with fewer crowds.

In Spain, trade Barcelona for a trip to Zaragoza or Bilbao.

As Barcelona locals protest mass tourism, Sturzaker recommended some lesser-known Spanish cities to add to your future trip list.

Zaragoza, for example, is a great destination …