The 15 Most Overlooked Cities That Are Better Than Paris
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1. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon will charm you with its old-world streets and sun-drenched cafes. In this coastal haven, you’re in for a treat with scenic viewpoints around every corner. Raise your phones high and snap the perfect shot atop one of Lisbon’s famed seven hills, silhouetted against a sunset that rivals any painter’s palette.
Don’t miss the chance to admire the Lisbon Cathedral, the city’s history book in stone, with tales etched into each arch and altar. Still standing strong since 1147, it’s a patchwork quilt of styles and stories.
2. Wroclaw, Poland
Wroclaw, often overshadowed by its siblings Krakow and Warsaw, is a charming Polish city that demands your attention. Nestled on the Oder River, its vibrant history and architecture will sweep you off your feet.
Have fun hunting for the cheeky bronze dwarfs scattered throughout the city — a true urban safari! Meanwhile, Cathedral Island is the serene soul of the city, where cobbled streets lead to awe-inspiring churches. Wroclaw doesn’t skimp on the arts with its numerous galleries and theatres.
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3. Valencia, Spain
Let’s turn up the charm with Valencia, Spain. Imagine sipping on the sweetest orxata and munching on a fluffy fartón under a Spanish sun. Valencia, known for its vibrant old town and futuristic architecture, clearly knows how to blend the old with the new.
One day, you’re admiring gothic gargoyles and the next, you’re gawking at the sleek, white curves of the City of Arts and Sciences. Between bites of paella by the Mediterranean Sea at Malvarrosa Beach, you’ll feel pretty smart for picking a spot that keeps the excitement bubbling without the bustle of Paris.
4. Portland, Oregon
Portland, Oregon, will surprise you with its cozy nooks and vibrant culture. Sip on a hot coffee from one of Portland’s quaint cafes as you take in the views of Mount Hood.
Council Crest Park, perched at the highest point in the city, offers you a panorama that’ll make your friends back home green with envy.
While Paris blossoms with historic art, Portland has a creative current all its own. The Portland Japanese Garden serves up serenity with a side of stunning views. With a heartbeat that’s laid back yet unmistakably lively, Portland might just be the twist in your travel tale you didn’t know you were looking for.
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5. Bologna, Italy
Have you ever wandered through a city where the aroma of fresh pasta lures you around every corner? That’s Bologna for you, with its miles of shaded porticoes calling for a leisurely walk.
While Paris twinkles with its Eiffel Tower, Bologna answers with the Two Towers, leaning with an attitude that says, “Who needs perfect posture anyway?” And if you’ve got a passion for gelato, Bologna boasts some of the best scoops in the land.
Be sure to sneak a peek at the gorgeous Archiginnasio, a place where books and stunning ceilings compete for your attention.
6. Luang Prabang, Laos
Tucked away in the heart of Southeast Asia, Luang Prabang is a little slice of paradise that gives Paris a run for its money. With streets lined with French colonial architecture and a deep respect for tradition, it’s like stepping back in time.
The charming town is best explored on foot, with surprises at every turn. Wake up early for the soul-stirring sight of saffron-robed monks collecting alms, a ritual that paints the town in rich cultural hues.
Adventure, culture, and tranquility all wrapped up in one, Luang Prabang is your go-to for a change of pace and a breath of fresh air.
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7. Guadalajara, Mexico
It’s time to pack your bags for Guadalajara, Mexico’s spirited heart. This city is brimming with lush green spaces, like the one where you can wander among trees from all around the globe.
Check out the city’s Japanese Garden, a nod to the special bond with Kyoto—you’ll find it’s a real slice of serenity. For animal lovers, there’s the Guadalajara Zoo, your chance to see big cats up close without buying a safari hat.
And let’s not skip the arts—they’re everywhere! From street murals that turn sidewalks into galleries to the hum of mariachi music that fills the air like a catchy tune you can’t help but tap your feet to.
8. Ljubljana, Slovenia
This Slovenian capital is brimming with charm, and it’s about time it stepped out of Paris’s shadow. With a river that winds through the city like a ribbon, Ljubljana invites you to a lovely riverside café where the coffee is just as warm as the locals’ smiles.
Here, bridges are not just a way to get from one side to the other; they’re landmarks steeped in stories. The famed Dragon Bridge awaits your arrival, guarding the city with its mythical creatures.
And don’t get me started on the castle! Perched on a hill, Ljubljana Castle is your chance to play royalty for a day, with views that will make your friends back home green with envy.
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9. Zagreb, Croatia
As you wander through the vibrant streets of Zagreb, you’ll be spellbound by the blend of classic and modern architecture that gives you a sense of being in a living museum. Sip coffee in one of the many buzzing cafes of Tkalciceva Street, where locals love to lounge for hours.
It’s no secret garden, but the Botanical Gardens are a haven where plants from all around the world play nice. Zagreb’s bustling markets are the place to be. And if you adore a good show, the Croatian National Theatre puts on performances so captivating they could give Broadway a run for its money.
10. Kyoto, Japan
If Paris is the city of love, then Kyoto is the city of Zen. Surrounded by peaceful temples, like the breathtaking Kiyomizu-dera, you can soak up serene vibes and enjoy breathtaking views.
And hey, if serene isn’t your scene, Kyoto’s got you covered with a bustling Nishiki Market that’s a blast for your senses, filled with the tastiest treats and trinkets galore.
Ever felt like you’ve stepped into a postcard? Well, a visit to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is exactly that. It’s a real-life wallpaper, with towering bamboo stalks that rustle in the breeze like they’re sharing secrets.
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11. Tbilisi, Georgia
Tucked away in the heart of the Caucasus, Tbilisi, Georgia, is a city that’ll charm your socks off with its unique blend of history and hip vibes. As you wander the cobblestone streets, you’ll notice a wonderful mishmash of Eastern and Western architecture!
Feel a rush of excitement as you explore the medieval Narikala Fortress, standing watch over the city like a guardian of time. What’s a visit without a ride on the historic funicular to Mtatsminda Park, eyeing Tbilisi from above with a breathtaking view.
12. Hanoi, Vietnam
When you think of a city buzzing with culture and charm, Hanoi will sneak into your heart without even trying.
In this vibrant capital, your days can be spent wandering through the Old Quarter, where each twist and turn reveals another cozy café or a market stall brimming with local crafts. Not as crowded as Paris, Hanoi lets you feel the city’s pulse at a leisurely pace.
Just a stone’s throw away, the history buffs among you will be drawn to the Temple of Literature, which stood long before universities became mainstream.
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13. Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn sweeps you off your feet with its charming blend of old and new. In this city, medieval meets modern. As you wander through the Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and historic architecture, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Don’t miss the well-preserved medieval fortifications; they’re a marvel, showing off just how grand this place is. You’ll adore the Telliskivi Creative City, a buzzing district known for innovative art and cuisine that could give any hip spot in Paris a run for its money.
14. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville is a city that sparkles brighter than a rhinestone cowboy’s suit! Now, don’t let its country music fame fool you into thinking it’s a one-note town. Music flows through the streets, but there’s a whole symphony of fun beyond the tunes.
The Tennessee State Museum isn’t just a stroll through history, it’s free, making it a smart pick for your wallet. You’ll unravel the state’s past in a splash—not with a boring history book. With lively exhibits, you’ll feel like you’ve hitched a ride in a time machine.
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15. Riga, Latvia
If Paris has had you charmed, wait till you meet Riga. Tucked away in the Baltics, Riga is a colorful splash on the canvas of Europe with a knack for making visitors feel right at home. Your wallet will thank you, too, because this city is a friend to budget-savvy travelers, offering plenty without the painful price tag.
As you wander through Riga’s streets, you’ll discover the city’s love affair with delightful architecture—it’s like the buildings are competing for your affection!
