Tick off a city on your bucket list this summer

The world is full of beautiful cities, all waiting for you to discover them.

From mystical Kyoto in Japan to the classical beauty of ancient Athens, and from the colourful houses of Chefchaouen, Morocco to the incredibly picturesque Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a magical wonderland of sights, sounds and aromas.

Kyoto, Japan 

This beautiful city is considered to be the cultural capital of Japan and you’ll feel a sense of history the moment you land. It’s home to Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, palaces and gardens, some of which have been designated collectively as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Prominent landmarks include the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, Ginkaku-ji, and Kyoto Tower. Its bustling food market rivals that of any large city in the world, with talented chefs putting modern spins on classic Japanese dishes. But the true magic of Kyoto comes alive at night. Take to the streets on a Private Evening in Kyoto Tour and prepare to be enchanted.

Athens, Greece 

This beautiful city is a true blend of ancient and modern. From its archaeology and architecture to its bustling streets, vibrant nightlife, world-class shopping and markets, Athens has an energy that never fails to inspire. Famed as the “cradle of democracy”, no other ancient structure can rival the supreme serenity of the Acropolis, whose ruins sit atop a hill in the centre of the city. However, the capital isn’t stuck in the past because budding artists, designers, and thinkers continue to make the ancient city a playground for fresh ideas.  Book a Private Tour of Classical Athens through Silversurfers Travel Club and be inspired by the Acropolis, the majestic Parthenon Temple and so much more.

Chefchaouen, Morocco 

Located in the serene Rif Mountains of Morocco lies a centuries-old city that’s painted in uplifting shades of blue. The origins of Chefchaouen’s blue hue are something of a mystery, but regardless of the origin, the soothing city offers a relaxed look at the history and lifestyle of Morocco. With its much slower pace than Marrakesh and Fez, Chefchaouen is perfect if you want to explore a city at your leisure, capturing photos of the stunning architecture, discovering the delights of the local markets, or grabbing a coffee and people watching.

Chiang Mai, Thailand 

Surrounded by mountain ranges and lush forests, the northern city of Chiang Mai – a trading post in years gone by, gives adventurers a taste of excitement as well as inner peace. Hike through the forest to the sacred Wat Palad temple complex and venture down the mountain to enjoy the food and beverage scene right in the heart of this unique city. Known as the Rose of the North, Chiang Mai also boasts a growing art scene, with modern art galleries such as the Gongdee Gallery popping up in the city. Take The Venerable Landmarks of Chiang Mai tour, an essential venture in a location that’s famous for its magnificent temples nestled in natural beauty. Chiang Mai is a city like no other. One that will truly enhance your bucket list.

Cape Town, South Africa 

Sitting at the point where the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean meet, and in the shadow of the imposing Table Mountain, this city combines a lively personality with a serene yet dramatic natural landscape. Learn about the region’s native flora at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, visit Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years, and go wine tasting, among other activities. At night, enjoy cuisine from across Africa at the Neighbourgoods Market before retiring for the day at one of Cape Town’s world-class wellness retreats.

Now that you’ve got a taste of the fabulously alternative cities awaiting you for much less than you’d expect, it’s time to look at topping up your bucket list and thinking about satisfying your wanderlust.