Booking.com Invites you to Discover Incredible Cities beyond the Capital
There’s nothing better than a cultural city break somewhere new, whether it’s a long weekend away with friends or loved ones, or part of a bigger trip. If you love exploring on foot, soaking up city sights, learning the history of a new destination and trying local cuisine there is no shortage of incredible cities around the world to go and explore!
Capital cities around the world may be the go to for many, but why not swap the hustle and bustle of these popular capital cities for an alternative getaway? If you’re on the lookout for a new city break idea, let Booking.com, the global leader in connecting travellers with the widest choice of incredible places to stay, inspire you to explore some amazing cities, beyond the capitals.
New Orleans, USA
Washington, D.C., the capital of the USA attracts travellers for being home to the historic White House and iconic Washington Monument, but New Orleans is on the rise and famous for its food and music scene. Catch the infamous Mardi Gras and Jazz festival in the spring and indulge in the thriving food scene all year round. Booking.com travellers endorsed New Orleans for food, live music and nightlife and the top accommodation types are hotels, hostels and motels. The top nations that visited in 2016 outside of the USA were the UK, Australia and Germany.
Where to stay: Ace Hotel New Orleans is known as the hipster hotel and one of the trendiest places to stay, located in the Warehouse District of New Orleans. The rooms are incredibly designed and decorated with artwork from local artists and guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, fitness centre, delicious food at the onsite restaurant and tasty cocktails at the bar. The French Quarter is only one mile from the property and The National WWII Museum is just 650 yards away.
Marseille, France
Paris may be famous for its museums, landmarks and incredible food but if you’re looking for a new idea for a French city break why not take a visit to the oldest city in France, Marseille. This port city was founded 2,600 years ago and today you’ll find great shopping, chic restaurants and designer hotels. It’s a great destination all year round with lovely walks in the spring and autumn and beautiful beaches in the summer. Marseille has been endorsed by Booking.com travellers for its museums, culture and food, with hotels, aparthotels and apartments proving the most popular types of accommodation. The top nations that visited in 2016 outside of France were the UK, Germany and Italy.
Where to stay: Located in the centre of Marseille, Les Appartements du Vieux Port is just 150 yards away from the Old Port and offers guests a fully equipped kitchen and a modern-style décor. An array of restaurants, cafes and shops can be found in the area and the apartments are a short drive from the Opera.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
The charming capital of Croatia, Zagreb, may attract visitors with its romantic city charm but its UNESCO world heritage site Dubrovnik, with its picture perfect location by the sea that makes for a truly incredible trip. This magnificent walled city is full of Baroque style churches, delicious restaurants, stunning beaches and of course the unique medieval old town. Booking.com travellers endorsed this city for its old town, the history and sightseeing, with apartments, hotels and guesthouses being the most booked types of accommodation. The top nations visiting in 2016 were the UK, Spain and France.
Where to stay: Prijeko Palace guest house is just five minutes from the beach and located in the heart of the beautiful UNESCO-protected Dubrovnik Old Town. Set in a palace, recreating the 16th century architecture, the rooms at Prijeko Palace are all individually designed, brightly lit and alternate between modern and Baroque styles. The guesthouse has a restaurant and a bar or guests can wander out to explore the nearby shops, restaurants and cafes serving Dalmatian delights.
Hoi An, Vietnam
Vietnam’s capital Hanoi is famous for its busy street life, French feel and colonial buildings and serves as a gateway to the rest of this beautiful country, but it’s the bustling and beautiful Hoi An that’s the real draw. The UNESCO world heritage site was once a trading port and travellers can explore the old town on bicycle, venture out to nearby beaches and spend hours visiting the city’s famous tailors. Booking.com travellers endorsed Hoi An for its food, shopping and old town while the top accommodations include homestays, resorts and villas. The top nations that booked a stay in 2016 outside of Vietnam were the UK, Germany and Australia.
Where to stay: Loc Phat Hoi An Homestay-Villa offers lovely rooms with a balcony and terrace, set in a relaxing garden. Hoi An is best explored by bike and guests can rent these from the property – the UNESCO World Heritage Ancient Town is just five minutes away and Cua Dai beach is just ten minutes away.
Girona, Spain
If you loved Spain’s capital Madrid for its museums, culture and incredible tapas than why not try Girona. Soak up the Catalan culture by exploring the architecture, cathedrals and museums as well as sampling the fine cuisine at the city’s Michelin starred restaurant El Celler de Can Roca. It’s also just an hour’s drive from the beautiful coast of Costa Brava if you want to combine with some beach time. Booking.com travellers endorsed Girona for its history, architecture and food and the top types of accommodation booked are hotels, apartments and guest houses. The top nations that visited in 2016 outside of Spain were France, the UK and Italy.
Where to stay: Montjuic Bed & Breakfast is a neoclassical villa in Girona’s exquisite Montjuic area, 550 yards from the Cathedral and Jewish quarter. The pool and terrace boasts amazing views over Girona, and will be welcomed after a day out in the city’s heat. Guests can enjoy a daily homemade breakfast made with organic produce and for lunch and dinner, the city’s popular cafes and restaurants are just 15 minutes’ walk away.
Bologna, Italy
Rome may be renowned for its historical sights, culture and out of this world cuisine but Bologna, which has stayed off the tourist track, is a strong contender especially if you’re a food fan. You could spend forever perusing the restaurants – from high end to cheap local haunts, as well as exploring the city’s religious architecture and cultural events. Booking.com travellers endorsed Bologna for its food, culture and architecture while the top types of accommodation are hotels, bed and breakfasts and apartments. The top nations that booked a stay in 2016 outside of Italy were the UK, Spain and Germany.
Where to stay: Apartments Centre Bologna offers self-catering accommodation right in the centre of town, close to the Piazza Maggiore and Via Zamboni. These stylish and modern apartments can sleep up to four people and serve as a great base for exploring the city.