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Fancy a break from the usual tourist traps?
It’s that time of the year when everyone starts planning their next holiday, Googling flights at work and checking how many days off they have left to take. Finding the right place to go can be a lot of work so we decided to do all the searching so you don’t have to.
Looking to avoid places that are full of tourists and long queues? Well, check out these alternative destinations that you can enjoy on your next city break.
1. Pula, Croatia
Why: Everyone knows about Dubrovnik thanks to A Game of Thrones but Pula has less tourists and offers more bang for your buck. The seaside city offers an intriguing mix of Croatian and Roman culture. The city’s ancient Roman structures are absolutely stunning and the local cuisine is a delicious blend of Croatian and Italian influences.
What to do: The first century Roman amphitheatre is every bit as impressive as it looks in photos and it’s remarkably well-preserved. They even host concerts there so check out the local gig guide before you book.
Go here instead of: Dubrovnik
2. Annecy, France
Why: This historic town near the Swiss border is a colourful destination that will win you over with its cobbled streets and winding canals. This “Alpine Venice” lies on the edge of a lake and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It’s a perfect escape if you fancy some stunning scenery, fresh mountain air and relaxed Alpine vibes.
What to see: If you’re there with your other half, go to the Pont des Amours for a kiss. It’s said that any couple that kisses in the centre of the bridge will stay together forever… So there’s that.
Go here instead of: Paris
3. Marrakech, Morocco
Why: Marrakech is an assault on the senses, all colour and noise and smells and movement. There’s so much to enjoy – from terrific Moroccan food to the bustling markets and from snake charmers in Djemaa El Fna to incredible Islamic architecture. Get lost in the old town section of Medina, haggle with the street sellers and savour just how far your Euro will go.
What to do: Do a desert tour and camp out overnight in the Sahara. It’s an experience that you’ll never forget.
Go here instead of: Barcelona
4. Verona, Italy
Why: This Shakespearean setting boasts winding streets, classical buildings and old world charm but it also offers boutique attractions for discerning tourists. An alternative to the popular Venice, it’s a culinary capital that’s a great place to wine, dine or just sit back and soak up the Italian summer.
What to do: If you’re staying for a long weekend, take a day trip to the nearby Lake Garda. It’s surprising cheap (and easy) to rent a speedboat and explore the lake.
Go here instead of: Venice
5. Hamburg, Germany
Why: This port city exudes an effortless cool so it’s perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway. Charming red brick buildings, striking modern architecture and a dense network of picturesque waterways combine to make it a beautiful place to visit. Plus, it’s no surprise the city that nurtured the Beatles still has a thriving music scene and plenty of trendy hotspots to enjoy at night.
What to do: The Elbphilharmonie (try saying that after a few drinks) concert hall is a stunning glass and brick structure that’s well worth a gander. The outside is spectacular but the inside is just as impressive.
Go here instead of: Berlin
6. Valetta, Malta
Why: The 2018 joint European City of Culture is less than a square kilometre in size but they’re packed plenty to see and do into that space. It’s unique architecture and design makes it a fantastic place to explore and an explosion of boutique guesthouses means there are some unique places to stay. There’s no better time to visit, with a hectic schedule of cultural events planned for 2018.
What to see: The redesigned City Gate is a modern development that fits seamlessly into the existing city. It’s suitably dramatic and a good starting point from which to explore the walls.
Go here instead of: Monaco
7. Brasov, Romania
Why: This medieval town in Transylvania will win you over with its cobbled streets, Gothic buildings, soaring spires and relaxing cafes. Set at the foot of Mount Tampa, it’s a great base from which to go hiking or exploring the region’s many beauty spots. It’s a real hidden gem that will make you feel as though you’ve escaped the rat race and wandered into a fairytale.
What to see: Take the cable car up the 940m Mount Tampa and check out the glorious view of the city from above. Vlad the Impaler famously killed 40 noblemen on this mountain but don’t let that put you off!
Go here instead of: Bucharest
8. Thessaloniki, Greece
Why: This sprawling coastal destination is Greece’s second city but it has a livelier, looser vibe than Athens. An impressive culinary scene, a buzzing nightlife and mix of architectural charms make it a great place to visit. Modern structures sit alongside ancient ruins in a city that’s full of places to go out or enjoy some great food.
What to see: Thessaloniki was recently named top ten cities in the world for nightlife by National Geographic. So hit the town and go mad in Mylos or enjoy a more chilled evening in the restaurants and bars in Ladadika.
Go here instead of: Athens
9. Gothenburg, Sweden
Why: Scandinavia has more to offer than just Noirish TV shows, flat pack furniture and chart-topping pop stars but it’s still not an obvious holiday destination for many. Sweden’s second city is full of fantastic dining options, quirky cafes, lively beer halls and trendy Scandi shops. Gothenburg was also voted the most sociable city in the world last year so that’s a pretty good endorsement.
What to see: Go island hopping on one of the nine islands just off Gothenburg. You can do a day trip or stay overnight on one of these tranquil, car-free spots.
Go here instead of: Copenhagen
Before you jet off, make sure you have travel insurance and enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
Use promo code deal10 for 10% off any single or multi-trip policy to destinations worldwide with Chill Insurance.
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