What to know before visiting these popular travel destinations
Planning a trip can be a daunting task. Curating the perfect itinerary for a short getaway while avoiding the ever-present fear of tourist traps and gaffes can ruin a trip before it even begins. Being aware of activities and sites to skip is just as important as making time for the secret can’t-miss spots. Below are 31 destinations, with insider tips to match, to take the pain out of planning.
Venice, Italy
Take in the remarkable architecture of the aquatic city via gondola for a truly authentic Venetian experience.
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Tokyo, Japan
Amid the numerous must-see sites in Tokyo, like the iconic Tokyo imperial Palace and Sensoji Temple, be sure to make time for the variety of crazy dining experiences. Everything from vending machines serving up ramen noodles to robot restaurants will leave you with an experience you won’t soon forget.
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Sydney, Australia
Admire all that Sydney has to offer, from its stunning beaches to the iconic Sydney Opera House, at the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Though the climb is a bit arduous (and scary!), the view is well worth it.
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Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
After you’re done ogling the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, hop into a small cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. This quintessential piece of the Rio skyline is the perfect setting for taking in a quiet sunset over the bustling city.
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Paris, France
Even a meticulously planned holiday to Paris will leave any tourist skipping a few iconic destinations. For a quick taste of the city’s most prized architectural jewels, take a cruise down the Seine River, where you can get an unobstructed view of these masterpieces without having to zigzag all over the city.
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Santorini, Greece
As Santorini becomes an increasingly popular destination, in the high seasons the tiny blue-roofed streets can become unbearably crowded with cruise-ship-goers during the day. Take a tour of Santorini’s little-known wine region and enjoy a glass of vinsanto without the chaos.
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Buenos Aires, Argentina
Take in a unique history of Buenos Aires by wandering Recoleta Cemetery. The ornate mausoleums are home to the final resting places of several preeminent occupants such as the country’s beloved Eva (Evita) Perón and Argentinian President Domingo Faustino Sarmiento.
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Havana, Cuba
Walk around Old Havana to get a sense of the soul of Cuba. While the district is full of beautiful plazas and squares, Plaza Vieja is arguably the most historically significant, dating back to the mid 1500s.
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Brussels, Belguim
Relax in high luxury as King Leopold II would have done. The historic Parc Du Cinquantenaire is one of the most beautiful sites in Brussels, housing more than 35,000 artifacts within its grounds.
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Prague, Czech Republic
Old Town Square should be at the top of your list while visiting Prague. Not only has the historic square been relatively untouched since the 1400s, it’s also home to one of the most well-preserved working astronomical clocks, dating back to medieval times.
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Nashville, Tennessee
As the epicentre of country music, Music City is filled with talented artists at every turn. Taking in the sweet sounds of the city is unforgettable in the iconic Ryman or Grand Ole Opry venues, but don’t neglect to have a listen at any of the establishments dotting the main strip, like the ever popular Tootsies or even in the lobby of your hotel.
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London, England
While London continues to push boundaries with a world-class culinary and cocktail scene, there is no better place to experience the city’s essence than a real pub. Look for a well-worn establishment in East London led by a bartender with a strong accent, take a seat, and enjoy a pint or two like a local.
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Amsterdam, Netherlands
Explore Amsterdam’s bustling Jordaan neighborhood. Wander the the narrow streets and take in the variety of independent art galleries and antique shops, or simply admire the historical Dutch architecture.
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Marrakech, Morocco
For tourists, Marrakech may seem like an unsolvable maze at first glance. The cluster of souks and spice markets could leave anyone wandering aimlessly. While on your way to the Jemaa el-Fna, keep in mind that locals often turn street signs around to confuse visitors, giving them the opportunity to offer the correct directions for a small fee.
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Albuquerque, New Mexico
If planning to visit Albuquerque, definitely try to go during the majestic Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in October. The week-long event includes a variety of activities and a sky full of colourful balloons.
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Hong Kong
For Hong Kong’s best architectural experience, climb—or take a train—to the top of Victoria Peak just before sundown and to admire the colourfully lit city below.
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Singapore
Take a jaunt down the colorful Haji Lane. The narrow street is packed with unique locally owned shops stocking quirky items that can’t be found anywhere else.
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Istanbul, Turkey
After seeing Istanbul’s Byzantine treasure Hagia Sophia, get lost in the maze of the Grand Bazaar, which comprises more than 5,000 shops.
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Vancouver, Canada
The Grouse Grind Hike is a must for any outdoors lover visiting Vancouver. For the amateur hiker, the 2,800-foot ascension to the top of Grouse Mountain will take roughly two hours and give you spectacular views of the city.
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Los Angeles, California
Get a bird’s eye view of the City of Stars from the Griffith Observatory. This shining example of Art Deco architecture is perched atop L.A., allowing for spectacular views of the Hollywood sign and offering incomparable stargazing at night.
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Bangkok, Thailand
Though you may be tempted to leave Bangkok for the idyllic surrounding islands immediately after landing in Thailand, make time for native treasures like the Grand Palace. Comprised of numerous buildings, the Grand Palace encompasses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, residences of former kings, and perfectly manicured gardens.
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Nairobi, Kenya
Why take a safari when you can experience one while sitting down to breakfast? Giraffe Manor in Nairobi plays host to a herd of Rothschild’s giraffes, roaming freely throughout the property to interact with guests all day.
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Budapest, Hungary
Immerse yourself in the true City of Spas and take a dip into one of Budapest’s famous baths like the Gellert Baths or Széchenyi Thermal Baths.
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Israel
In the span of five hours, you can travel Israel from end to end and see every terrain imaginable. Float at Earth’s lowest point in the Dead Sea at breakfast, and party in the metropolitan city of Tel Aviv by dinner.
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Virginia Beach, Virginia
Experience the historical side of Virginia Beach in the newly renovated Cavalier. Playing host to 10 presidents, as well as celebrities including Elizabeth Taylor, Judy Garland, and more, this waterfront icon was built in 1927 by architect Clarence Neff and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Treat yourself to a tour of the hotel’s private onsite distillery or a game of billiards in its historic Raleigh Room and be transported to a glamorous Art Deco fantasy.
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Barcelona, Spain
Though Sagrada Familia should be your number-one destination in Barcelona (and, yes, it is worth the line), be sure to take a detour to the less popular Montjuïc district to see the Catalan Museum of Art. Pay a mere five euro to take an elevator to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the entire city.
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Cape Town, South Africa
Don’t neglect the famous Cape Town Winelands on your next trip to South Africa. Just an hour outside the city’s center are picturesque rolling hills with a mountainous backdrop—not to mention the delicious wine.
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Moscow, Russia
The heart of Moscow lies in its most vibrant attraction, Red Square. From there, you can see the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral, Kremlin and other historical sites. And while you may be seduced by Moscow’s fast-moving streets and bustling cafés, take a moment to dip into Russia’s Cold War history with a visit to Bunker 42. Located 65 metres underground, this unique piece of history is the only declassified military space in Russia.
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New York City
Yes, the Big Apple is an awe-inspiring sight to see, but if you think New York is limited to the island of Manhattan, you are sadly mistaken. The surrounding boroughs have just as much to offer any visitor. Brooklyn, for example, has long been home to many locals, boasting an exquisite view of the Manhattan skyline and an unbeatable pizza scene.
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Iceland
The natural landscape of Iceland is breathtaking—and also restorative. Settle into the warm, relaxing waters of the Blue Lagoon and slather yourself in the healing silica mud for the ultimate Icelandic experience.
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Abu Dhabi, UAE
Saadiyat is an island entirely dedicated to arts and culture that cannot be missed on your visit to Abu Dhabi. Visit the recently opened Abu Dhabi Louvre, designed by architect Jean Nouvel.
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This story was first published by ArchitecturalDigest.com