Are you planning a getaway for the summer but you aren’t sure where to head? It can be daunting trying to narrow down destinations when you have only a short period of time to spend jetsetting and getting away from it all. Holidays are a precious time and you want the best bits of your getaway, with none of the fluff, but just where should you go? If you’ve been looking into city breaks, check out this amazing list of the most interesting cities in the world that you won’t want to miss either on your upcoming or future holidays.
Shanghai
Shanghai is one of the most unique Chinese cities you could visit. With its beautiful and futuristic skyline, typically seen from popular waterfront park area, The Bund, it often conjures up imagery of a space city somewhere in the distant future. With sunny skies by day and bright neon lights by night, Shanghai draws tourists from around the world, year round. Aside from the futuristic side of the city, there’s ancient temples and teahouses to be explored – the perfect combination of east meets west and past meets present. You won’t be disappointed.
Beijing
For the history lover, Beijing is your best bet. Whether you’re interested in ancient or more present history- Beijing has a bit of it all. Explore its ancient past through a tour around the Forbidden City – the former palace and residence of the emperor and his court throughout the Ming and Qing dynasties before heading over to the Great Wall of China to experience this marvel of engineering that can be seen from space. Check out Tiananmen Square, made famous for its protests, along with the National Museum, memorial of Chairman Mao amongst other sights of interest. Don’t miss the Temple of Heaven – a beautiful example of Chinese architecture and perfect for a leisurely stroll to watch locals doing Tai Chi, calligraphy or playing MahJong.
Rome
When in Rome, check it out! This beautiful Italian city is home to some of the country’s most loved and treasured artefacts such as the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and of course, the world famous Colosseum. Other points you shouldn’t miss include the Roman forum – an impressive set of ruins that once was the heart of the empire. Stroll the side streets and sample delicious Italian wines and cuisines before heading to St Peter’s Basilica to experience the wonders of the Sistine Chapel and its impressive paintings. Be sure to head out to Napoli before heading home so you can take in the sights and history of Pompeii and nearby Herculaneum, both of which were oddly preserved yet destroyed around 300AD with the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
London
London was one of the original Roman settlements in Britain and it shows. Countless ruins and artefacts have been unearthed showcasing London’s past as a Roman stronghold. The city itself has a deep and rich history filled with not just Romans, but a whole host of unique characters that came and went. The Victorian era left its mark on the history with strange happenings like Sweeney Todd, the murderous barber as well as the infamous Jack the Ripper – both of which you can experience for yourself on tours of their respective stomping grounds. But that’s not all – London is awash with museums, all of which are free, and it boasts some of the most unique attractions such as the London Eye, the Tower of London – both prison and palace – as well as countless parks, shopping centres and unique opportunities for dining and drinking. If you haven’t been to London yet, you don’t want to miss it.
So whatever your choice this year, you’re sure to have an amazing time when you choose one of the most interesting cities in the world to visit.