Some cities have a certain hype about them, attracting tourists by their thousands ā everyone knows someone who has been and everyone has seen endless photos.
I am the first to admit I am very sceptical about these āclassicā tourist hotspots. Having been interested in Central and Eastern Europe for years, Iāve grown used to visiting places that are firmly āoff the beaten trackā and take pride in seeking out hidden gems.
But which of these popular cities are worth battling the crowds for?Ā Here are 5 cities which definitely live up to their hype.
Edinburgh
View of Edinburgh Castle from The Outsider
I have genuinely never heard a bad word about Edinburgh (āItās coldā doesnāt count). The architecture is beautiful and completely unique, it has a fascinating history and you have your pick of great little pubs ā most of which have live music. Best of all, thanks to the way the historic centre is built up, you constantly get different views over beautiful Georgian rooftops.Ā Despite the grey weather and not making it to Arthurās Seat, I fell in love with the city. Scotlandās capital definitely gets all the tourists it deserves.
Read more: Beautiful Edinburgh in Photos
Venice
With the amount of photos of Venice in existence online, on instagram or on Facebook feeds, the city really shouldnāt come as a surprise ā but for me, it did. Knowing little about the place or the culture, I was blown away: the canals, the food, the wine ā no wonder everyone goes. And despite the clichĆ©s, getting lost in narrow alleyways and seeing the Acqua Alta (high tide) really were amazing experiences. Despite all the photos, Venice really does have to be seen to be believed.
Read more: A Wet Weekend in Venice
Berlin
Berlin’s East Side Gallery
Berlin is one of my all-time favourite cities. Slowly regaining its title as the capital of cool, the city is creating quite a buzz among hipsters and artists for its diverse art scene, unique bars and bohemian feel. While Germanyās capital has all this and more, my favourite thing about the city is its history. Badly damaged in two world wars and divided for almost fifty years, Berlin has some amazing museums and monuments.
London
St. Paul’s
Despite my grumbling about the British capital (and my unwavering loyalty to Manchester), I canāt deny how much I love being a tourist in London. The city really does deliver on all fronts: classic sights, world-class museums, amazing shows and interesting history, in addition to some excellent tourist tat ā think Royal family novelty mugs. Some of the best museums Iāve been to are in London and each time I go, I find a new neighbourhood to explore.Ā London is definitely worth a visit, but donāt forget to see some more of the country, too!
St. Petersburg
St. Nicholas Naval Cathedral
I was lucky enough to live in St. Petersburg for five months a few years ago and whilst I wouldnāt necessarily recommend doing the same, when it comes to visiting: just do it. For anyone even remotely interested in Russian history or culture, St. Petersburg is a must. The Hermitage, the Russian Museum, the churches, the Palaces, the fortresses, the canals, the ballet… there are a LOT of reasons to visit this āVenice of the Northā and very little (except a visa and handful of Russian bureaucracy) stopping you.Ā Just make sure to go in early June, when the sun doesnāt set.
Read more: Hipster St. Petersburg: a beginners’ guide
What other tourist hotspots would you add to the list?
Comment below!
London is indeed amazing! I’ve always wanted to see Edinburgh, as well as the rest of Scotland, but for now, high on my travel wishlist are trips to Italy (I want to see Rome, Venice and Verona) š
I really haven’t seen enough of Scotland either – seriously want to do the West Highland Railway (google image it!). Definitely get to Italy when you can – lots of good budget flight connections!
Not made it to Berlin or St Petersburg yet but I agree with you on all the others. Paris would be my one, I’ve been a ton of times but still love going back.
I’m surprised to hear you say that to ne honest – it seems to be quite fashionable to hate Paris at the moment… I’ve only spent 8 hours there myself so can’t comment!
For me, Florence wins over Venice hands down. The latter is far too touristy and Hollywood scene set for me. But Florence is pure magic – charming, historical and magical enough while still being modern and just… Real.