Up and coming cities you need to visit
Some destinations are still well-kept secrets when it comes to tourism. So if you’re seeking a value for money escape to somewhere you might not have considered before, we’ve compiled a list of 17 up-and-coming cities you need to visit.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or just looking to spread your wings further afield to enjoy something a bit different, it pays to think outside the usual holiday box. City breaks can offer great flexibility, depending on your tastes and budget. For example, some people might want to jet off somewhere new to explore ancient temples and local markets, while for others, world-class shopping and trying new types of food may be a priority.
One of the best things about travelling is experiencing new things and being surprised by what you discover during your trip. Expanding your horizons can have many benefits and lead to meeting new lifelong friends around the globe. With so much information online about the main sights and things to do in different places, it can feel liberating to fly off to somewhere new. In order not to spoil things for you, we’ve just written a brief introduction to each city in this fascinating and eclectic selection.
So if you’re searching for an adventure on the road less travelled, it’s time to check out our pick of up-and-coming cities before you plan your next break. We’ve listed these in alphabetic order below because it would be impossible to rank them in order of preference.
Almaty, Kazakhstan
If taking a trip to the highest skating rink in the world isn’t already on your travel to-do list, consider adding it immediately. The Medeu ice rink is situated 1691 metres above sea level in a magnificent mountain valley above the up-and-coming Kazakh city of Almaty - a city of spectacular parks and monuments, and where the famous wooden Zenkov Cathedral can be found.
Almaty is the largest city in Kazakhstan and the former capital of the country. While there’s lots to do in the city, such as visiting museums, parks and cathedrals, Almaty is also a gateway to nature, with Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, and Altyn-Emel National Park all nearby.
In the wintertime, skiing is the main sporting activity in the area. The resort of Shymbulak is located near Almaty and is around 2,200 metres above sea level. So if you’re a big fan of hitting the slopes, visiting Kazakhstan will give you a different skiing adventure from the well-known resorts elsewhere in Europe.
Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)
After only opening up to tourism in recent years, Myanmar is an almost untouched paradise, set to become a popular holiday destination. The city of Bagan is home to thousands of temples and pagodas and is a place that truly must be seen to be believed. The best way to travel around this stunning landscape is to rent an e-bike so you can explore the not-to-be-missed attractions such as the Schwezigon Pagoda and Ananda Temple.
One of the most memorable ways to see this part of Myanmar is by taking a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. These don’t come cheap, but the magical views make it worth every penny. You’re assured of a warm welcome in Bagan, and it’s got a breath taking beauty about it that will occupy a special place in your heart for years after you’ve returned home.
Batumi, Georgia
When searching for the perfect seaside getaway, Georgia is not necessarily the first thought that springs to mind, but the coastal city of Batumi will not disappoint. Georgia’s second-largest city boasts beautiful black sand beaches, a 7km boulevard of stylish bars and restaurants and a bustling central square that shows off the city’s unique and diverse architecture.
If you want to venture out of the city and put your head in the clouds, the Argo Cable Car will transport you 250 metres above sea level, where you can enjoy a glass or two of the local wine or relax in a restaurant and admire the vistas out to sea.
Dundee, Scotland
Known as the ‘city of discovery’, Dundee doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves because of other superb Scottish destinations such as Edinburgh, Glasgow and the Highlands. It’s got a lot going for it, though, including the V&A design museum, two nautical museums, art galleries, the Mills Observatory, Dundee Science Centre and Camperdown Country Park.
It’s ideal for a city break with your family as there’s a lot to inspire young and older minds alike. Another of Dundee’s claims to fame is that it has two football teams that play a stone’s throw away from each other - Dundee at Dens Park and Dundee United at Tannadice. If you’ve never been to a football match in Scotland before, it’s definitely worth spending an afternoon listening to the passionate supporters of either side - you can’t help but get caught up in the atmosphere.
Gyumri, Armenia
Not many UK holidaymakers consider going to Armenia. However, as the country’s second-largest city, Gyumri has plenty to offer. The iconic Mother Armenia statue and the Black Fortress are just two of the sights we’d recommend visiting, not just for their historical significance but also for the views they provide over the city.
There are also two interesting museums to visit - namely the Cobweb Art Gallery & Museum and the Museum of Illusions Armenia. The central market is another enjoyable way to experience Armenian life and see how the locals live. If you’re interested in history, booking a bus or walking tour around the city will give you lots of factual information about Gyumri. It’s thought that a settlement was originally founded here during the 5th century BC.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Vietnam keeps growing in popularity as a tourist destination, and now that the secret of its unique charm is out, more and more tourists are heading to Hanoi. The old quarter is the heart of the city, where you can shop for handcrafted keepsakes and enjoy the delicious local cuisine. Hoan Kiem Lake is a tranquil retreat from the busy city streets, where you can relax, take a leisurely walk or even join in on some early morning Tai Chi.
You can also grab a taste of authentic Vietnamese street food, visit the majestic opera house or even enjoy a round or two on the local golf courses. If you shoot a bad score, you’ll still be in a great mood due to the lovely weather and pristine natural surroundings.
Our holiday team has put together several great value multi-centre deals to Vietnam that also take in Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An and Halong Bay. With so much to see and do in and around Hanoi and first-rate hospitality, we can only see it increasing in popularity as the years go by.
Isfahan, Iran
Isfahan is known as the most beautiful city in Iran, with many even claiming it to be the most beautiful city in the world. Naqsh-e Jahan Square is a wonder of Persian architecture, which becomes even more remarkable after the sun goes down due to a dazzling water fountain light show.
Mosques, palaces, markets and museums are among Isfahan’s other attractions. This is about as far away from a traditional city break as you’ll get. The sights, sounds, tastes and aromas will enliven your senses and, unlike many mainstream destinations, leave you feeling like you’ve discovered somewhere different on your travels.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
This European capital somehow still manages to go under the radar when it comes to city breaks. Compared to many of its counterparts, it’s a small place with a population of under 300,000. Nevertheless, walking around Ljubljana’s Old Town will leave you captivated because of its stunning architecture and shopping/dining options on offer.
Ljubljana Castle was originally built as a medieval fortress around 900 years ago. Today it’s a thriving tourist attraction that overlooks the city. It’s possible to walk to the castle or for a fun experience; you can take the funicular and preserve your energy for exploring the castle grounds at the top of the hill.
Ljubljana has many green spaces, so it’s perfect for grabbing a picnic in relaxing surroundings. Another thing that might take your fancy is enjoying a drink beside the Ljubljanica river that runs through the city. There are also tourist boat trips that give you a fresh outlook on Ljubljana from the water. All in all, it’s a lovely place to spend time, and it’s surely not long before more people discover its many charms.
Luang Prabang, Laos
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a mix of traditional Lao culture and French influence, Luang Prabang is one of the most luxurious locations in South East Asia. A place to relax and unwind, enjoying high-quality bars and restaurants, set against a breathtaking backdrop of calming nature and Buddhist temples.
Food-wise, Laos has an array of tempting treats, including sticky rice, kaipen (fried river weed from the Mekong) and Khao soi Luang Prabang - a lovely blend of rice noodles, pork mince, soya beans, spices and more.
The Kuang Si Falls, MandaLao Elephant Sanctuary and the Luang Prabang night market are three other activities we’d highly recommend, each providing a completely unique way to appreciate what makes Luang Prabang such a lively and lovely place to live
Parma, Italy
While Parma is renowned for its ham and cheese all over the world, it doesn’t quite enjoy the same popularity as a city break destination. The great thing about this is you’ll enjoy a much quieter vibe when you want to do a bit of sightseeing or just live the life of a local.
Parma’s Cathedral dominates the skyline, and the Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi is a great place to enjoy a meal or coffee and daydream as people go about their business all around you. After a delicious lunch, you might want to take a leisurely stroll through Parco Ducale - a huge space with a fantastic fountain and lots of greenery.
And while you’re staying in the city, it would be rude not to try the local delicacies, which will delight your taste buds and deliver a far superior flavour to the versions of Italian hams and cheese you get in UK supermarkets.
Poznan, Poland
With the Warta River meandering through it, Poznan is a picturesque Polish gem. While tourism across the country has boomed in recent years, a lot of that still hasn’t filtered through to Poznan. Its striking Renaissance-style colourful architecture is pleasing on the eye, and there’s a wealth of history in places such as the Old Market Square, Brama Poznania Heritage Centre and Poznan Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul.
As far as food and drink are concerned, there’s a whole new world of treats awaiting your arrival. You might want to take part in a vodka-tasting tour, for example, sample some local beer and/or indulge in golonka (pork hock), a cheese and potato dish known as pyry z gzikiem and pierogi - stuffed dumplings that come with a wide range of fillings including meat, cheese and berries (although not all at the same time).
Pristina, Kosovo
Pristina is the capital city of Kosovo and a brilliant Balkan destination for a short break. Cathedrals, monuments, mosques and statues can be found dotted around the city. Between sightseeing, you’ll find loads of cafes and restaurants to choose from serving up a variety of local and international favourites.
There’s a thriving nightlife scene in Pristina that caters for all tastes as well as a variety of music festivals (the Sunny Hill Festival held in August is probably the most well-known due to its organiser Dua Lipa) and those celebrating beer and wine. The locals know how to enjoy themselves, and you’re bound to have a lot of fun, too.
If nature’s more your thing, taking a day trip to the nearby Rugova Gorge, where there are remarkable views of the Lumbardhi River as well as a waterfall with the ‘wow’ factor, will be a great way to see more of Kosovo’s countryside.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
An affordable and exciting city to explore, Siem Reap attracts tourists away from Cambodia's capital of Phnom Penh due to the incredible Angkor Wat temples dating back to the Khmer dynasty. There are many other religious attractions to explore, and Angkor Thom is another must-see. This ancient walled city offers an intriguing glimpse into the country’s past and is a fascinating place to walk around.
Siem Reap is also well known for being a top destination for those who enjoy eating local produce, with streets lined with stalls offering countless delicacies to tempt your taste buds. And when you’ve developed a bit of a thirst, you should head to the aptly named Pub Street - a colourful collection of bars where you can mix with the locals, try the Cambodian refreshments and let your hair down after a busy day’s sightseeing.
Skopje, North Macedonia
Around a 90-minute drive from Pristina lies the North Macedonia capital of Skopje. With a population of just over 600,000, it’s a small city but has a huge amount to offer. It’s often referred to as ‘the city of statues’, so there are plenty to discover along the way (around 1,000) as you tour the sights by bike or on foot. If you like history, Skopje’s four bridges each have their own sculptures, stories and a pirate ship next to them.
Only beaten in size by the bazaar in Istanbul, Skopje’s Old Town (also known as the Old Bazaar) is a shopper’s paradise. Each street has its own theme, so it’s easy to find what you’re looking for. Not many people know that Mother Teresa was from North Macedonia. If you’d like to learn more about her life, there’s a memorial house bearing her name that you can visit.
There are other popular attractions, such as Skopje Castle, which boasts brilliant views out over the city. And when you want to take things easy, there are many idyllic spots to eat and drink by the side of the Vardar River. And when you’ve ticked off everything you wanted to see and do in Skopje, a trip to nearby Matka Canyon makes for a memorable day out. You can take a boat trip, go kayaking, hiking or enjoy a romantic picnic by Lake Matka in the sunshine.
Thessaloniki, Greece
Commonly referred to as the ‘cultural capital of Greece’. Thessaloniki is home to over one million people. While it may not be as popular a tourist destination as Athens or many of the country’s islands, if you’ve never been to Thessaloniki before, it’s got a great deal to offer travellers of all ages.
There’s more than enough to see and do to spend a week or more here. Historical buildings such as The White Tower, the Roman Forum excavations and the lovingly reconstructed Agios Dimitrios Basilica.
Located alongside the Aegean Sea, Thessaloniki has a wealth of wonderful restaurants, cafes and bars where you can sit outside and admire the views. Walking or cycling along the Promenade is another popular activity with tourists because you can enjoy the tranquillity without having to worry about traffic. The cobbled streets of the Old Town aren’t pedestrianised but are packed full of character, history and many tempting shops.
You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to cuisine, from traditional street food such as Koulouri Thessalonikis (a circular bread with sesame seeds) to pastries, desserts and almost everything in between. Another local delicacy you need to try is bougatsa - a sweet treat comprising pastry, semolina custard and cinnamon.
Valletta, Malta
Despite its many attractions, history and fantastic climate, Malta’s capital city is still underrated when it comes to Mediterranean holiday destinations. There are many museums to explore with artefacts from the World Wars and amazing archaeological discoveries that date back to thousands of years BC.
Barrakka Gardens and its ocean views are a serene experience and perfect for a pre-or post-lunch walk in nature. The Tritons Fountain is another of Valletta’s highlights and a great place to take snaps for your social media accounts.
If you’re looking for beautiful beaches, you’ll have to escape the city to places like Faros Beach and Blue Lagoon. However, there are several spots where the locals like to swim in Valletta, so you won’t need to go far for a dip in the Med. Some city breaks can be hectic and leave you feeling like you need a rest when you return home, but that’s not the case with Valletta.
Zaragoza, Spain
Zaragoza has stiff competition from many other Spanish cities when it comes to attracting tourists. The big positive to come out of that is when you visit, you’ll enjoy exploring a peaceful and unspoilt city. The wine and tapas on offer are worth the trip alone, so we’d highly recommend taking one of the many tours to experience all the local favourites.
Palaces, museums and imposing cathedrals are among the architectural delights in the city, with heritage left by the Moors and Romans. Mercado Central is over 100 years old and the place to go for fresh local produce and an absolute treat for all your senses. Shopaholics will love visiting Paseo de Independencia, as it has over 100 stores to browse.
For a city break packed full of character, charm and quality cuisine, Zaragoza may not be at the top of your list currently, but there are so many reasons why it should be.
So there you have it - a long and illustrious list of up-and-coming cities that will add a new dimension to your time away from home. Hopefully, this article has put you in the mood to explore more of our amazing planet and venture away from the crowds.
As more and more destinations open up with the launch of budget flights, there’s never been a better time to jet off to the unknown. Which of the places above has captured your imagination?
While we don’t yet offer multi-centre holidays to everywhere on the list above, if Cambodia or Vietnam in particular sound appealing, please contact us to book or find out more.
