Discover the Hottest Trending Cities for Your Weekend Escape!

Florence, Italy

Florence, Italy

Into art? There’s nowhere better to take a break than Tuscany’s culture-packed capital. Florence can boast masterpieces galore — from Michelangelo’s David to important works by Botticelli, da Vinci and innumerable others.

With so much to see, you’ll struggle to fit it all into a single visit. It’s no surprise then that, having spent time in Florence, most tourists return time and time again. It’s not just about the art, either. Florence’s architecture astounds, this a place both medieval and marvellous, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a destination that draws millions of international visitors on an annual basis. It can be crowded, but this is a small price to pay.

Romantic and remarkable, Florence’s top sights include the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio and the always-popular Duomo. Prefer to hit the shops? This Tuscan treasure is also a world-renowned fashion capital — with high-end stores and boutiques beckoning those with expensive tastes.

Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech, Morocco

Like to get to know Marrakech? Take our advice and ditch the map. To dive headfirst into the city’s medieval medina is to discover the real Morocco. Twisting streets and alleyways, ancient architecture and bustling souks, you’ll find them all here in an abundance.

It can seem a little intense at first, but find your feet and the experience is exhilarating. For a break with a difference, there are few places more exotic. Located in western Morocco, this is a densely-populated place that always teems with life.

Visit ancient mosques, charming palaces and beautiful gardens, and be sure to look out for the famous Moorish minaret of Koutoubia, a local landmark that towers over all. Seen the city’s sights? Head back to the souks, where traditional crafts abound and all is aromatic. Like to bag a bargain? Do be sure to barter — it’s all part of the authentic experience.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, Czech Republic

Historic Prague, named The City of 100 Spires, attracts visitors with its stunning Gothic architecture and Baroque buildings. The Czech capital’s ancient skyline takes the breath away. For those keen to delve into Europe’s past, there can be no better place.

Sitting astride the beautiful Vlatva River, Prague’s treasures are rich indeed. Be sure to visit the great castle on the hill, before heading down to the Old Town Square, with its plentiful cafes, bars and restaurants, and the ever-popular Astronomical Clock.

You’ll need to cross the Vlatva, taking the stunning Charles Bridge, a river crossing dating back to 1402 that is a significant landmark in its own right. There’s no bad time to take a trip to Prague, but winter is especially wonderful, with the Christmas Markets in full flow, and illuminations everywhere. Planning a visit to Prague? Trust us on this, you won’t regret your choice.

Paris, France

Paris, France

Craving a romantic getaway? Paris is the perfect place. The City of Lights remains one of the most popular destinations on the planet — with millions of international visitors flooding into France each year. With so much to see and do on the banks of the River Seine, it’s no great surprise that tourism continues to boom here.

It can be busy, but with tourists spoilt for choice in this iconic city, it is still possible to beat the crowds and take things at your own pace. The most popular spots include The Louvre — the most visited art museum on Earth — as well Notre Dame, the Champs-Elysees and, of course, the Eiffel Tower.

But Paris is perhaps best experienced from a quiet cafe on the Left Bank. Head here for coffee and croissants, before strolling the city’s grand boulevards en route to Montmartre, where the artists await and the bistros beckon. Before hopping on the Eurostar, check our list of the best things to do in Paris.

Havana, Cuba

Havana, Cuba

Spanish conquistadors founded Havana in the 16th century. Nowadays, almost 500 years later, their influence can still be seen everywhere in Cuba’s capital, with colonial architecture that catches the eye and grand avenues that demand to be explored. Thinking about taking a trip? Given the climate here, there’s no bad time to visit.

Visiting Havana can feel a little like going back in time, with classic American cars cruising the streets and a laid-back vibe that allows tourists to leave the modern world and its stresses and strains behind. Be sure to spend some time in historic Old Havana — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — before checking out the iconic National Capitol Building, a 1920s landmark that must not be missed.

Take a trip to Castillo de la Real Fuerza, a fascinating fort and maritime museum, before kicking back with a Cuba Libre, the classic Rum and Coke cocktail that is considered the island’s national drink.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul, Turkey

Straddling Europe and Asia, Istanbul is where East meets West and continents collide — a true melting pot set across the bustling Bosphorus Strait, and the perfect place to take a break.

Turkey’s charismatic capital is a fascinating spot to spend a little time, with tourism proving more popular than ever here, and more and more visitors unable to resist Istanbul’s unique allure. There’s a great deal to see — with the Old City’s ancient architecture reflecting the cultural influences of the many empires that once ruled here.

Yet there’s little that can beat sailing across the Bosphorus on a ferry, a short crossing that, in just 20 minutes, showcases many of Istanbul’s greatest treasures. Exploring on foot? Be sure to visit Aya Sofya, Topkapi Palace and the iconic Blue Mosque, before heading to one of the city’s many bazaars. You can acquire just about anything here — just don’t forget to haggle.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Malaysia’s multi-cultural capital boasts attractions for all, with gleaming modern skyscrapers, quaint colonial architecture, and parks and green places galore beckoning those fortunate enough to visit.

Kuala Lumpur’s spectacular skyline is a sight to behold, especially after dark, when bright lights illuminate the skies and the city comes to life. The Petronas Towers — at 451 metres tall — dominate, and are a must on most tourist agendas. Head to the Sky Bridge and Observation Deck for a fresh perspective on Kuala Lumpur, before returning to street level to get up close and personal with all the major sights.

There’s a great deal to see in the city, but it’s worth taking a short excursion north of Kuala Lumpur, where the Batu Caves await. Set in a 400 million year old limestone cliff, the site includes an ancient temple, which is the focal point for the annual Hindu festival of Thaipusam. Thousands flock here to take part in the festivities each year. Like to join them? We can’t recommend a visit enough.

Venice, Italy

Venice, Italy

There’s nowhere on Earth quite like Venice. Located in a shimmering lagoon in the attractive Adriatic, and built upon 118 small islands, there’s no question that this Italian gem is a unique place. It’s also popular — the streets teeming with tourists and the major spots often crowded. Planning a visit?

It is possible to beat the hustle and the bustle and the cruise ship hordes. Like to see the sights? Take our advice and head out early. St Mark’s Square — home to the famous Basilica and Campanile — demands a visit, as does the Grand Canal, that serves as the city’s main thoroughfare.

Look out for the Rialto Bridge, before retreating to the backwaters as the crowds begin to build. Lined with Renaissance and Gothic palaces and abodes, there are some hidden treasures to be discovered just off the beaten track. Interesting, attractive and forever unique, this is a destination that must not be missed.

Las Vegas, United States

Las Vegas, United States

Dubbed the Entertainment Capital of the World, Las Vegas is the place to visit for those seeking 24/7 fun. This is a place that never sleeps — with nightlife like nowhere else on Earth, and always something to see and do.

Planning a visit? You’re guaranteed a trip to remember. The lights shine bright in Las Vegas, with luxury on tap and good times always on the agenda. Located in the Mojave Desert in sun-kissed Nevada, Las Vegas’ climate makes it a year-round destination, the summers hot and long, and the winters mild and fleeting.

Set aside some time to visit the city’s famous casinos — or reserve a room or suite at a resort hotel in order to do it in style. Gambling is big here, but there’s much more to do than spend time on the slots, with fine dining restaurants and top-end boutiques beckoning those keen to leave the roulette wheels behind.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, Japan

Japan’s capital until 1868, Kyoto is a place rich in historic significance. Like to get a taste of the country’s ancient past? There’s nowhere better, with Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines and imperial palaces beckoning those keen to see the sights.

Located on Honshu, Kyoto is home to 1.5 million people and has grown into a modern city. Yet those nods to the past are all around, making this a fascinating place to take a break. With the main attractions here including Nijo Castle, Sento Palace and the world-renowned Railway Museum, there truly is something for everyone in colourful Kyoto.

Spend time browsing the food stalls at Nishiki Market, explore the city’s parks and green spaces or take a stroll amongst the traditional wooden houses, the choice is yours. With so much to see and do here, it’s no surprise that appreciative visitors return to Kyoto time and time again.

Rome, Italy

Rome, Italy

Planning a romantic getaway? Rome ticks all the boxes, with fine food and drink always on the menu, historic sights everywhere, and art, architecture and cultural treats that demand to be discovered.

The biggest drawback about Italy’s charismatic capital? There’s too much to see and do in a single visit. Couldn’t squeeze it all in? You’ll just have to make a return trip. The top tourist spots include the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps, whilst the Forum and Colosseum point to the pomp and power of the former Roman Empire.

Don’t miss a trip to Vatican City, where St Peter’s Basilica is breathtaking, and Michelangelo’s famed Sistine Chapel fresco must not be missed. Rome is busy, bustling and often intense, but there’s always a quiet spot to be found at a pavement cafe or restaurant. Feeling romantic? Rome’s treasures await.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin, Germany

Planning a trip to Berlin? There’s nowhere more fascinating to take a break. This is a place steeped in history, where wartime reminders are all around. Yet it’s also a modern city, breaking free from a troubled past, where tolerance abounds and anything goes.

Great barriers have been broken down here — quite literally, with the remaining sections of the Berlin Wall, that once split this place in two, rich in symbolism. Find Checkpoint Charlie and cross over to the East, where the iconic TV Tower awaits, before heading back to Kurfurstendamm, with its designer boutiques and stores.

Factor in a little time at the beautiful Tiergarten and be sure to visit the great Brandenburg Gate, stunning Charlottenburg Palace and historic Reichstag. You’ll find that, with so much to see and do here, one visit is not enough. Planning a trip to Berlin? There’s nowhere more fascinating.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam, Netherlands

It might have a reputation for excess, but there’s more to Amsterdam than the red light district, coffee shops, and stag and hen parties. Yes, these things are abundant in the Netherlands’ liberal and fun-loving capital.

But step off the beaten track a little and this is the perfect place to take a relaxing break, with culture and art aplenty, and parks galore in which to while away a sunny afternoon. Head to the Museum District, where the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum tend to top the bill, before taking a stroll through the Vondelpark, a vast green oasis, where the city’s streets and all the hustle and bustle can be left behind.

For those so inclined, Amsterdam is set up for cyclists, with countless bike lanes and trails that demand to be explored on two wheels. Like to take things a little easier? Cruise the city’s famous canals, seeing the sights as you bob along.

Singapore, Malaysia

Singapore, Malaysia

Green spaces abound in Singapore. Like to get back to nature without leaving the city? Be sure to spend a little time at the Tropical Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before heading across town to see the sights at the beautiful Gardens by the Bay.

So plentiful are the parks here, you can sometimes forget that this is a large and modern metropolis. Therein lies Singapore’s allure — with the towering skyscrapers underlining the fact that there are attractions here to appeal to all.

Singapore is paradise for foodies, whilst those seeking culture and the arts are also well catered for. This is a multi-cultural spot indeed, with 5.6 million people at home here — 39% of them foreign nationals.

The ultimate melting pot, Singapore’s colonial past can be explored at Padang — the playing field and cricket ground overlooked by important buildings and significant landmarks. It’s just another green space that is always beckoning those keen to take a break from Singapore’s bustling streets.

Sydney, Australia

Sydney, Australia

From the Opera House to the Harbour Bridge, Sydney is packed with iconic sights. Heading Down Under? New South Wales’s cosmopolitan capital demands a visit. Spend a little time here and you’ll never want to leave. Trust us on this one — spectacular Sydney is not to be missed.

Most visitors base themselves around Circular Quay, a waterfront paradise that boasts cafes and bars galore, with the city’s best restaurants all within striking distance. Grab an Opera House selfie, before embarking on a Harbour Bridge climb, with views to savour from the best spot in town.

Like to see it from another angle? The Skywalk at Sydney Tower offers a fresh perspective, whilst those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground should schedule a little time at the city’s beautiful Botanic Gardens. Spending time in Sydney? With so much to see and do, you’ll wish you were staying longer.

Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Like to kick back and relax in the sun? Rio de Janeiro is the perfect place, with beautiful beaches, spectacular sights and enough tourist spots to keep all entertained. Planning a trip? Factor in some time on Ipanema and Copacabana, where the sands are golden and the ocean always inviting.

It can get hot here, with temperatures sometimes reaching 40 degrees and above. Like to keep cool? Visit in May, June and July, when the weather is pleasant and the beaches a little quieter. Rio isn’t all about the beach, and a visit to see Christ the Redeemer, standing tall atop Mount Corcovado, is an absolute must.

Like to party? Time a trip to coincide with Rio’s famous carnival — considered the biggest on Earth. More than two million people take to the streets to celebrate and, although finding a room can be difficult at such times, those fortunate enough to experience the occasion tend to agree that the hard work was all worthwhile.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai beckons those with a taste for the finer things in life — with luxury boutiques, fine-dining restaurants and world-class nightlife always on offer to those who are fortunate enough to visit.

The most popular of the United Arab Emirates, this is a place where anything is possible, and nothing is beyond reach. Like life’s luxuries? This is the perfect place for you. The city’s modern architecture ensuring a spectacular skyline, the Burj Khalifa dominates Dubai, at 830 metres tall, towering over all.

Head here to see the famous fountain, with its co-ordinated jets, lights and music, before hitting the shops or taking in a theme park or two. The best place to stay? The rich and famous love the iconic Burj Al Arab, whilst the artificial islands of the Palm offer an alternative that is hard to beat.

London, United Kingdom

London, United Kingdom

The best breaks? It doesn’t get much better than London. Exciting and iconic, this is a place that demands to be explored. Whether a seasoned visitor or a wide-eyed first timer, there’s always something new to experience in Great Britain’s cultured capital.

Stroll alongside the River Thames, take in a world-class museum or gallery, or see the sights from the London Eye, the choice is yours. London is big, but getting around is easy — with public transport serving all the top tourist spots. Take the Tube, hail a black cab or hop on a bus, it’s all part of the fun.

Days here are busy, with so much to see and do, so be sure to kick back after hours, with top restaurants galore and all the leading shows playing in London’s famous theatreland. There’s just one catch — with so much on offer in London, one visit is never enough. Don’t forget to tick London’s hidden gems off your list.

Also Read: 10 Hidden Gems of London that Most Tourists Never See

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, Japan

The world’s most populous metropolis, visiting Tokyo can be an exhilarating experience. Home to quaint traditional temples and immense modern skyscrapers, this is a place where old meets new, where the lights are bright and the busy streets teem with life.

Planning a visit? With shopping, entertainment, culture and dining all on the agenda, there’s always something to see and do here. Putting together an itinerary? Do be sure to include the Imperial Palace and its pristine public grounds, whilst the beautiful landscaped gardens of Koishikawa Korakuen are always worth a visit.

Japan’s famous blossoms are best experienced in March and April, with parks and green spaces galore in which to take a relaxing stroll. Seeking something a little more lively? Take a trip to bustling Tsukiji Market, before heading to Akihabara, where electronic and otaku goods are on offer and the atmosphere is always vibrant.

Also Read: Japan: 25 Astounding Places You Must Visit

New York, United States

New York, United States

Sum up New York in 150 words? This is an impossible mission. The Big Apple is like nowhere else on Earth — busy, bustling, exhilarating and exciting. There’s so much to see and do here that several trips are required just to scratch the surface.

The highlights? Some of the most popular tourist spots on the planet are found here. Take our advice and cram in as much as possible. Central Park, the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, Broadway, Times Square — must we go on? Take an iconic yellow cab, scoff a hot dog, ride the Staten Island Ferry, the list goes on and on.

New York City comprises five boroughs, but the chances are you’ll spend most of your time in Manhattan. Savour your time here and be sure to schedule in a return visit without delay. Trust us on this one — no matter how many times you come back to the city that never sleeps, there’s always something new to experience.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona, Spain

Most visitors head to La Rambla, Barcelona’s iconic boulevard, upon arriving in Catalonia’s cosmopolitan capital. Do take a stroll or spend a little time people watching from a charming cafe. But with so much more to do in this bustling city, don’t linger too long or you might miss something important.

Something like the Sagrada Familia — Gaudi’s great unfinished cathedral — or, for those keen to explore the architect’s work in more detail, Casa Mila, Casa Batllo and the ever-impressive Parc Guell. Barcelona is renowned for its art and architecture and there are styles here to suit all tastes. Not a culture vulture? Never fear — there’s a great deal more to see here.

Explore marvellous Montjuic — be sure to catch a cable car — or mooch around the old harbour and port, where the Mediterranean breezes offer respite during the hot summer months. No matter your plans, the chances are you’ll be drawn back to La Rambla as the sun starts to set, with tapas and sangria always on the menu.

Moscow, Russia

Moscow, Russia

There’s always something to see and do in majestic Moscow, with Russia’s cosmopolitan capital beckoning travellers with attractions to suit all tastes. Most start in Red Square, with St Basil’s Cathedral’s colourful onion-shaped domes and the imposing Kremlin high on just about all agendas here.

Such sights are highlights in this most historic hub. Yet this is just scratching the surface, and there’s a great deal more to Moscow.
This is a place rich in the arts, and culture vultures will be drawn to take in a ballet at the Bolshoi. There are also green spaces aplenty, with Gorky Park popular with those keen to take a break from the city’s hectic streets.

There’s no bad time to visit Moscow, although to see the city under snowfall is a truly magical experience. Russia doesn’t always have the best reputation when it comes to welcoming visitors, but take no notice. Visiting Moscow is a must.

Poznan, Poland

Poznan, Poland

Poznan is increasing in popularity and it’s no surprise. Located in western Poland, this city is a treasure, with its cobbled streets, Renaissance-style buildings and beautiful Old Town architecture.

Colourful, captivating and always energetic, this is a place that throngs with life. Fascinating and historic, there’s always something to see and do in picturesque Poznan. Don’t miss the Town Hall Clock, dating back to 1551, with its mechanical goats that butt heads at noon, or the former Imperial Castle, which once housed Hitler’s official quarters in the city. Interested in art? Head to the National Museum to see Poland’s only Monet — returned in 2010 having been stolen 10 years earlier.

With a huge student population — and with more and more tourists flocking here — Poznan comes alive after hours, with countless bars and restaurants and a nightlife that never stops. With attractions to suit all tastes, we can’t recommend Poznan enough.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, Iceland

Clean, green and accessible to all, Reykjavik demands to be explored. Iceland’s capital is also its largest city, but with fewer than 200,000 people living here, it’s a compact spot that couldn’t be easier to negotiate.

Getting around is simple here. Like to see the sights? Reykjavik is best explored on foot, with nothing here ever far away. Boasting a scenic location, Reykjavik is best seen from Hallgrimskirkja — an imposing church, visible from all over the city, that boasts the best views in town. Got your bearings? It’s time to get stuck into Iceland’s top attractions, with art and culture always on the agenda and a nightlife that is legendary after hours.

Like to learn more about the country’s heritage? The National and Saga Museums are both worth a visit for those interested in Viking history. Small? Perhaps, but always fascinating, Reykjavik proves that size isn’t everything.

Shanghai, China

Shanghai, China

Home to 24 million people (and counting), Shanghai is enormous — a sprawling Chinese metropolis that teems with life, and a destination that can prove daunting for the uninitiated. Feeling nervous about paying a visit? Take our advice and take the plunge. Shanghai might appear intimidating at first, but there’s nowhere else quite like it on Earth.

In urban terms, this is a global powerhouse, but tackled as a tourist destination, Shanghai can be broken down into manageable chunks, all simple enough to negotiate and packed with attractions and activities. Start in The Bund — aka Waitan — a waterfront promenade that is lined with colonial-style architecture and offers breathtaking views of Pudong’s futuristic skyline just across the mighty Huangpu River.

Keen to escape the city’s bustling streets? Head to the famed Yuyuan Garden and take a breather amongst the calming pools and pavilions. Sit and watch the fish for a while, before savouring the beautiful blossoms that are so abundant in spring and summer.

Brussels, Belgium

Brussels, Belgium

Brussels might be best known for its bureaucrats, but put the EU to one side for a moment and it’s clear that Belgium’s charming capital is an underrated spot on the European tourist trail.

It might not boast the same allure as Paris, Madrid and Rome, but those who stumble upon the city’s hidden treasures return time and time again. Belgium is renowned for its crisp and sparkling beers and there’s no place better to sample the local brews than the Grand Place, a huge and historic square that boasts countless bars and restaurants, with elegant architecture all around.

Feeling peckish? Don’t miss the moules mariniere — a local favourite that features on most menus — and be sure to check out the abundant chocolatiers, whose shops and stalls dot the city’s picturesque streets. Like to see the sights? The iconic Atomium is always worth an excursion, whilst the Manneken Pis, Brussels’ famous fountain, demands a visit.

Tangier, Morocco

Tangier, Morocco

Whitewashed and wonderful, Tangier gleams in the sun — its sands golden and its palm trees rustling in the warm winds that blow in from the Strait of Gibraltar.

This is a fascinating place to visit, the so-called Gateway between Africa and Europe, where continents meet and cultures clash, ensuring a rich and exotic melting pot that offers attractions for all.

Tangier is trying to reinvent itself, but despite striving for modernity, it’s the ancient and the traditional that hold the greatest appeal, with eye-catching architecture and mouthwatering cuisine topping the bill for most fortunate enough to dock here. Like to escape the bustling city?

Take a trip to the Caves of Hercules — a place rich in myth and legend — before returning to the Ville Nouvelle, a classical Riviera-style promenade that is perfect for people watching, whilst sipping delicious Moroccan mint tea as the sun starts to set.

Naples, Italy

Naples, Italy

Crowded, chaotic and always intense, Naples is a southern Italian gem that demands a visit. Perched atop Italy’s fabled boot, and just across the Gulf from sparkling Sorrento, this is a place that never sleeps — an ancient outpost that cries out to be explored, and a destination that draws tourists back time and time again.

See the old and the new, with ancient crumbling ruins everywhere and world-class modern art to be found at the highly-regarded Museo d’Arte Contemporanea, or take a trip to Pompeii, destroyed almost 2,000 years ago by Mount Vesuvius, an active volcano that still smoulders today, less than six miles to the east of the city.

The streets here bustle, with football a religion and pizza always on the menu. But those keen to kick back can find a quiet spot to soak up the sun, with beautiful beaches and idyllic islands never far from the hectic urban sprawl.

Krakow, Poland

Krakow, Poland

Home to the largest medieval town square in Europe, beautiful Krakow is renowned for its ancient architecture and bygone vibes. The Cloth Hall and Town Hall Tower beckon visitors to the city’s traditional centre, where bars and cafes await, the drinks are always flowing and the views are spectacular.

With so much to see and do here, your main challenge will be trying to fit it all in. Located in southern Poland, not far from the border with the Czech Republic, Krakow’s attractions are plentiful, with Wawel Hill, St Mary’s Basilica and Kazimierz — the city’s famous Jewish Quarter — all on the agenda for those keen to see the sights.

For anyone interested in such things, Schindler’s Factory, a popular museum in Podgorze, is well worth the short tram ride. Feeling peckish? Be sure to look out for Krakow’s famous pretzels — just the thing for long days spent on the tourist trail.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen draws visitors to Denmark with its brightly-coloured cafes and bars — with Nyhavn’s waterfront attractions always on the agenda for those fortunate enough to spend time here.

The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, the food exquisite and the welcome warm. Yet for those keen to see the sights, Copenhagen has a great deal more to offer. There’s the Little Mermaid, for one thing, the famous bronze statue that demands to be photographed. Grab a snap before heading to Indre By, Copenhagen’s historic centre, where there’s always something to see, and attractions that appeal to all.

Set aside some time to explore Frederiksstaden, the 18th-century Rococo district that is home to, amongst other things, the Amalienborg Palace, the Danish Royal Family’s official residence here. There’s so much to see in Copenhagen — but more often than not you’ll be drawn back to Nyhavn, where the waterfront awaits and the drinks are always flowing.

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb is often overlooked — with those keen to spend time in Croatia tending to prefer the country’s spectacular coastline and beautiful beaches.

Yet for visitors fortunate enough to find themselves in Croatia’s quaint capital, the rewards are plentiful, this a place that demands to be explored, with a great deal to be discovered and lots to see and do.

Brimming with church spires, domes and attractive architecture, Zagreb is best explored on foot, its cobbled streets and red roofs catching the eye, the climate perfect and the people always welcoming.

Start in the Upper Town, where the Gothic twin-spired cathedral and ancient St Mark’s Church can be found, before heading to the Lower Town, where Ban Jelacic Square’s bars, cafes and restaurants await. This is a vibrant place and the perfect spot to kick back and relax. Better than the beach? There’s no doubt about it.

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin, Ireland

There’s nothing quite like a trip to Dublin. For a small city, an awful lot has been packed in. Feeling thirsty? There are opportunities galore to quench that desire! Take a tour at the famous Guinness Stonehouse, an experience that is all but obligatory, before exploring Dublin’s traditional Irish pubs.

This tends to take a while — but please take our advice and don’t rush. This is a rich part of an ancient city’s fabric and is not to be missed.

Like to party? March is the best time to visit, when Dublin grinds to a standstill for the annual St Patrick’s Day celebrations. More than 100,000 visitors flock to the city, with the Festival Parade the highlight and the Guinness free flowing.

Don’t like to drink? There’s much more to Dublin than its famous stout. Visit the 13th century castle and St Patrick’s Cathedral, before exploring the city’s quaint cobbled streets and taking a stroll alongside the lovely River Liffey.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, Portugal

Europe’s second-oldest capital city — only Athens has been around longer — Lisbon has long beckoned visitors with its fabulous climate and breathtaking views. Planning a trip? The chances are the sun will be shining.

Summers can be hot here, but late spring is ideal for those keen to top up their tans. With spectacular coastline and beautiful beaches within striking distance, escaping the city’s hectic streets is easy, and we suggest booking in some time to kick back and relax. But so welcoming and wonderful is Lisbon, you’ll soon be drawn back to the heart of the action.

Blending tradition and modernism like nowhere else on Earth, Portugal’s progressive capital appeals to all. Stroll the grand avenues of the Baixa district, before heading up the hill to Sao Jorge Castle for views that cannot be bettered. Lisbon is vibrant all the time — but such is its legendary nightlife, when darkness falls, the city really comes to life.

Seoul, South Korea

Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is a fascinating place — a unique blend of the old and the new, where modern skyscrapers tower over ancient temples, and where visitors flock to experience South Korea’s beating heart. Seeking a city break with a difference? Spectacular Seoul ticks all the boxes.

It can be hot and humid, with summer temperatures often approaching 40 degrees, so picking the perfect time to travel is important. Time it right and you’ll enjoy an autumn or spring to savour. With so much to see and do here, filling your days will never be a problem.

Take a trip to Gyeongbokgung Palace — dating back to 1395 — or head to the impressive Namsan Seoul Tower for amazing views over the city, the choice is yours. Like to do some shopping or experience modern South Korean culture at close quarters? Head to the bustling streets of Myeong-Dong and lose yourself in the crowds.

Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava, Slovakia

Seeking a break without all the hustle and bustle? Bratislava might just be the perfect place. Home to just 430,000 people, Slovakia’s quaint capital is more than manageable in size.

Surrounded by spectacular mountains and welcoming vineyards — and boasting a traffic-free 18th-century Old Town — a visit to beautiful Bratislava is sure to leave you feeling rested and relaxed. Set on the winding Danube, close to Slovakia’s borders with both Austria and Hungary, this is a little bit of a backwater, but with bars and cafes galore in the centre, and countless hiking and cycling trails to be discovered just outside it, there are attractions and activities to suit all tastes here.

Head up the hill to the reconstructed castle, providing unbeatable views out over the city, before visiting St Martin’s Cathedral and Michael’s Gate, you’ll never become tired of life in laidback Bratislava.

Also Read: Top 20 Most Luxurious Hotels in the World