Top 10 Most Fascinating Cities to Visit in 2021

UNESCO-listed archaeological sites offer a captivating glimpse into the ancient world, and Mérida proudly boasts some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Spain. Founded in 25 BCE by Emperor Augustus during Rome's expansion into the Iberian Peninsula, the city—Emérita Augusta—thrived with a population of 50,000 and became the largest Roman outpost in Iberia and the capital of the Lusitania province. The rich heritage of this past is evident in Mérida's wealth of ancient ruins, including the Roman Theatre, the Amphitheater, the Temple of Diana, and Casa del Mitreo. Most of these Roman archaeological sites are located in the eastern part of the city, with a single ticket granting access to multiple locations.

Among the most impressive is the Teatro Romano, a stunning ancient monument and the best-preserved Roman theatre in Europe. Built by the Roman consul Agrippa in 16 BCE and rebuilt after a fire in the 1st century under Emperor Hadrian, the theatre features a semi-circular seating arrangement that could hold 6,000 spectators. The backdrop of the stage is adorned with beautiful sculptures, and the garden once served as a foyer. Due to its exceptional preservation and meticulous restoration, visitors can easily imagine attending a performance over two millennia ago. The theatre is still in use today, hosting plays, ballets, concerts, and during July and August, it becomes the venue for the prestigious Classical Theatre Festival, celebrating Greco-Roman traditions along with other impressive performances and film screenings.

Ohrid, a city in North Macedonia, is a popular summer destination, attracting visitors with its historical sites and stunning landscapes. According to local tourism statistics, the city welcomed around 300,000 tourists in 2018, both local and international, making up about a quarter of all visitors to North Macedonia. This makes Ohrid one of the country's top tourist spots. In 1979, Lake Ohrid was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. The lake's crystal-clear waters are considered a 'treasure' of the city. To protect the lake's ecological environment, local authorities restrict fishing, which is why a nearby salmon restaurant serves only around 2,000 salmon annually to its guests.

Nightlife here is lively, with various performances held at the Ohrid Theatre, which has a history spanning over 2,000 years. These events offer visitors insight into the local culture and traditions. In the old town, there are many landmarks to explore, such as Samuel's Fortress and buildings with distinct local architectural styles. Ohrid is the oldest settlement in Macedonia, located at the foot of mountain ranges between Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa. It's a favorite spot for travelers seeking to experience both cultural heritage and nature. Known as the 'pearl of the Balkans,' Ohrid is also a city rich in religious heritage, with numerous churches and monasteries scattered throughout. Today, Ohrid is the tourism capital of Macedonia, with most of the country's luxury hotels and fine dining concentrated here.

Pistoia is often referred to as a 'little Florence' due to its remarkable concentration of art and architecture, all within a much smaller city. The stunning Piazza del Duomo, the heart of Pistoia, is surrounded by some of the finest examples of medieval architecture, including the San Zeno Cathedral with its bell tower and the 14th-century Gothic San Giovanni in Corte Baptistery. Adjacent to the square is the medieval market, still in operation today. The market stalls retain their medieval style, complete with heavy shutters and stone benches. Pistoia is also renowned for its fine cuisine. Pistoia Centrale, located south of the city, is just a 10-15 minute walk to the city center near Piazza del Duomo. Trains to cities like Lucca or Florence take approximately 50 minutes from Pistoia.

Tourist information is available in a small building opposite the Baptistery at Piazza del Duomo. They can assist with maps, event details, accommodation options, and are passionate about recommending the best local restaurants. An online map of Pistoia is available, highlighting the major attractions. A great place to stay in Pistoia is the Bed and Breakfast Locanda San Marco, while Hotel Patria also garners excellent reviews. The top-rated hotel near key attractions is Residenza d'Epoca Puccini. Pistoia is a wonderful city to explore on foot, especially around Piazza del Duomo and the adjacent old market. The San Zeno Cathedral, originally built in 923, was destroyed by fire in 1108 and rebuilt and expanded in the 12th century, with further additions in subsequent centuries.

South Korea is a captivating destination that attracts visitors from all over the world, eager to experience the stunning natural beauty of its famous sites, especially in Seoul. If you find yourself in the land of the morning calm, don't miss the opportunity to explore its popular landmarks and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and everyday life of the Korean people. Known for its annual cherry blossom festival, Seokchon Lake, surrounded by hundreds of blooming cherry trees, is a must-see. It's conveniently located near Lotte World Park, making it an ideal spot for a weekend visit with family and friends. The best time to visit is in the fall, when the leaves turn golden and red, providing a romantic stroll along the stone-walled path around Deoksu Palace.

Yeouido Park is another iconic location, with streets lined by cherry blossoms and hosting one of the largest cherry blossom festivals in Seoul every spring. Locals flock to the park for picnics and to enjoy the vibrant flowers. Gyeongbokgung Palace, also known as the 'Palace of Great Happiness,' was built in 1395 and has withstood numerous historical events while preserving its unique architecture. The palace also features a beautiful secret garden, a popular spot for visitors. Nearby, Myeongdong is a bustling shopping district in central Seoul, where tourists can shop for international brands and sample delicious Korean street food.

Lisbon, like other Mediterranean coastal cities such as Barcelona, Athens, or Santorini, is a warm, sunny paradise that attracts visitors from Northern Europe during the cold winter months. Particularly between December and March, when the weather in Paris is gloomy and overcast, Lisbon offers a breath of fresh air with its stunning weather. The city is a blend of rolling hills, the ocean, pastel-colored buildings, cozy cafes, and the soul-stirring music of Fado. The city’s charm is undeniable from the moment you arrive. Lisbon is also home to beautiful beaches, just a short train ride away, and its public transport system is both efficient and affordable. You can easily find meals under 10 Euros, and the food is varied and delicious. However, be mindful of street vendors trying to sell drugs; it’s best to ignore them. Many restaurants close in the afternoon from 2-3 PM and reopen at 8 PM.

The best time to visit Lisbon is from March to early June or in September and October when the weather is mild, and the city isn’t overcrowded like in July and August. The winter months are rarely too cold compared to other parts of Europe, but be prepared for some rain. The city is designed for walking, so it’s best to explore on foot, though public transportation is easy, convenient, and cool! Lisbon's public transport system, known as Carris, includes buses, trams, funiculars, and the metro. The most cost-effective option is to buy a Via Viagem card, which works for multiple services, making travel simpler and cheaper than buying individual tickets.

Moscow experiences a humid continental climate, with relatively warm weather for most of the year. The best time to visit is between June and August, when the weather is mild. However, many visitors enjoy Moscow during the winter months to experience its romantic, wintry atmosphere. The city's most famous landmark is the Kremlin, which has been central to Russian government since the Soviet era, much like the White House is to the United States. The Kremlin walls were originally built to protect Moscow's residents. Over time, it became home to many churches and palaces. Today, it serves as the office of the Russian president and the government.

St. Basil's Cathedral, located on Red Square, is an iconic symbol of Moscow. You must visit both the interior and exterior of the cathedral to admire its unique architectural style. In 1990, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside the Kremlin. Many confuse the cathedral with the Kremlin due to their close proximity, but they are separate landmarks. Just south of Moscow, Kolomenskoye Park offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Once a summer residence for Russian aristocracy in the 16th and 17th centuries, Kolomenskoye is also one of Moscow's earliest settlements.

The largest city in Oregon, Portland is known for its modern architecture along the Willamette River, with its graceful bridges connecting both sides. Oregon is famous for its diverse landscapes, from the windswept Pacific coast and towering Cascade volcanoes to lush forests and rugged deserts. Portland charms visitors with the quiet, sophisticated beauty of an intellectual city. Located in a fertile valley, it has been a major port of the Pacific Northwest since the 19th century. Today, Portland ranks as the 30th largest city in the United States. The city's climate is ideal for growing flowers, especially roses. In fact, you'll find rose bushes or climbing roses in almost every corner of the city. At the start of the 20th century, Portland became known affectionately as the 'City of Roses' when it built the spectacular International Rose Test Garden. During World War I, the garden became a sanctuary for European rose species.

Today, the garden is home to over 8,000 varieties of roses, drawing visitors from around the world. After a century, it remains as enchanting as ever, with stunning blooms and a panoramic view of the city's skyscrapers set against the snow-capped Mount Hood. Not far from the Rose Garden is the vibrant Pearl District, known for its lively arts scene, bustling restaurants, cafés, shopping, and bookstores. Everett Street in the district showcases modern art, while nearby streets near the Pacific Northwest College of Art display landscapes, sculptures, and handmade crafts. Portland offers a modern yet laid-back pace of life. On sunny days, many locals commute by bike, and the city’s electric blue and red streetcars are a colorful source of pride for the community.

There’s no shortage of things to experience in Bordeaux, France, from fireworks and gourmet food to a graffiti haven and vibrant art galleries. Bordeaux might just be one of the most captivating cities in France. Known as La Belle Endormie, or 'The Sleeping Beauty,' the city in the south of France is far from sleepy. In fact, Bordeaux is rapidly transforming into one of France’s most dynamic cities, and with high-speed trains from Paris taking just two hours, discovering the must-sees in Bordeaux has never been easier!

No place embodies wine culture better than Bordeaux, which shares its name with one of the world’s most renowned wine regions. It’s no surprise, then, that the city boasts a museum entirely dedicated to the display and promotion of wine. Visiting the museum is a must-do in Bordeaux. The architecture itself is stunning, resembling something from the future. Inside, you’ll find a sensory feast where you can taste, smell, and admire a collection of 14,000 bottles of wine housed in an impressive cellar. Beyond its permanent exhibits, the Cité du Vin hosts rotating exhibitions, offering something new with every visit.

Cape Town is the second most populous city in South Africa and a major government hub. Known for its stunning beauty, Cape Town attracts visitors with its unique culture, beautiful beaches, majestic mountains, and fine wines. If you plan to visit South Africa, make sure to explore Cape Town, as it offers a variety of exciting experiences. With a Mediterranean climate, the city has two main seasons: winter from June to August, with cool temperatures, high humidity, and frequent cold winds from the Atlantic Ocean; and summer from September to March, which is dry and hot with average temperatures around 25°C. When visiting Cape Town, be sure to bring a scarf, warm clothes, and a woolen hat, as the weather can be unpredictable.

Muizenberg, a suburb of Cape Town located about 30 minutes from the city center, is a popular spot for surfing. You can take surfing lessons and rent equipment for around $80. If surfing isn’t your thing, there are yoga classes and cultural events to enjoy. Another must-see experience in Cape Town is the penguins at Boulders Beach. Entrance to the park costs about $6 per person. Here, you can watch penguins swimming on the beach, though be cautious not to approach the birds too closely, as they may bite. The Bay Harbor Market is another highlight, offering jewelry, souvenirs, and delicious food. It’s open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, from 9:30 AM to 4 PM. Be sure to visit the eastern side of Hout Bay to enjoy live music and a lively atmosphere at the market.

Los Angeles is one of the most glamorous cities in the United States, often referred to as the ‘magnet’ attracting visitors from all over the world. Located on the West Coast, it’s a city that everyone dreams of visiting at least once during their travels to the U.S. Santa Monica Pier, opened in 1909, was originally a sewage processing site. By 1916, it transformed into a bustling amusement park, and by 1920, the sewage treatment plant was long gone. Los Angeles is synonymous with luxury and glamour. When visiting Los Angeles, be sure to check out Beverly Hills, a neighborhood where many celebrities live and frequently shop or stroll along its streets. It's not uncommon to spot a star walking around. For shopping enthusiasts, Rodeo Drive is a must-visit for an indulgent shopping spree.

Beyond its iconic film landmarks, Los Angeles is home to world-class art museums, including the renowned Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). Here, you can admire both classical masterpieces and contemporary visual art. A trip to Los Angeles wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Walt Disney’s creation, Disneyland, especially for families with young children. For a stunning view of the sparkling city at night, head to the Griffith Observatory, where you can also explore the wonders of the solar system through telescopes.