For me, travel isn’t just about ticking off landmarks; in fact, I often skip them. In my years of wandering, I’ve found that the most memorable experiences often come from unexpected places. Here are five cities that have left a lasting impression.
1. Marseilles, France
Marseilles feels like a city that hasn’t been polished for tourists. Its gritty charm is evident in the bustling markets of Noailles and the vibrant murals that adorn its walls. The food is next level, from the takeaway pizza I enjoyed on my airbnb’s terrace, to the sharing plates I devoured with a friend at Livingston.
Kick off each morning with a swim, I preferred to opt for the bathing spots that involve a short rocky clamber to picturesque coves popular with locals. Spend afternoons wandering through Le Panier, the oldest district, where narrow alleys open up to reveal hidden cafés and artisan shops, or exploring the various museums and art galleries.
2. Athens, Greece
Athens is a city of contrasts. While the Acropolis stands as a testament to ancient history, it’s the modern influences that grabbed me. Cafés and wine bars spill out onto the pavement, and art and design shops are everywhere. Two favourites were ETOA and Hyper Hypo, a bookshop-gallery hybrid and a treasure trove of contemporary Greek design, indie magazines, and beautifully curated art books in both Greek and English. I think I’m late to the party, but I picked up 300,000 Kisses – Tales of Queer Love from the Ancient World.
We stayed just a short walk away at Ergon Bakehouse—part boutique hotel, part artisanal food haven—which blends sharp design with laid-back hospitality. There’s no smell quite like freshly baked pastries in the morning.
Evenings are best spent grazing your way through Athens’ small plates and punchy drinks scene. Birdman was my favourite—a Japanese grill-meets-Athenian izakaya. Sit at the bar, order the chef’s selection, and try one of their cocktails (or two). The atmosphere is effortlessly cool, and the food lives up to the hype.
Naples, Italy
Naples is a city that demands to be experienced with all your senses. The city buzzes with energy, from the chaotic scooters to the smell of pizza dough baking in wood-fired ovens. Waiting in line at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, the scent alone built anticipation—and the pizza delivered. We shared a table with a local family whilst we wolfed down some of the best pizza we’d ever had.
Most evenings can be spent strolling around, finding yourself at various buzzing bars with people spilling out onto the streets, music blaring. Head to Cammarota Spritz for 1 euro aperols tucked away in a narrow alley in the Quartieri Spagnoli and when you’ve had enough of the party, take an hour-long ferry to the picturesque island of Ischia.
4. Manchester, UK
Having studied for my undergraduate degree in Manchester, it will always be one of my favourite cities. There’s something for everyone here. Whether it’s the faded red-brick warehouses that now house cutting-edge art galleries, the thriving food scene, live music or shopping, the city has a knack for keeping you entertained.
During the day visit the Science and Industry Museum or the Whitworth Gallery in a park setting, just a little distance from the centre of town. Head back into town for a pre- dinner wine at Salut, a small independent wine bar with a great selection of European natural wines. Once you’ve worked up an appetite meander towards the trendy Northern Quarter and Ancoats for dinner, there’s a huge range of good food and restaurants here, but I’d recommend Erst for seasonal share plates and more wine. If you’ve still got energy, you won’t struggle to find somewhere to dance.
5. Palma, Mallorca
Step beyond the cruise crowds and chain stores, and you’ll find a Mediterranean hub steeped in art, layered history, and slow design. At the edge of the city, perched above the sea breeze in Cala Major, the Fundació Miró Mallorca is a quiet marvel. Far from the pomp of bigger museums, Miró’s studios remain just as he left them—brushes still stained with pigment, unfinished canvases leaning lazily against the walls. It’s intimate and raw, a rare chance to sit inside the mind of a master.
When hunger strikes, head to Fervor, near Plaça del Banc de l’Oli. The interiors lean into warm minimalism—clay tones, soft wood, handmade textures—and the food is quietly confident. Market vegetables, fresh local fish, and great cocktails. Don’t skip out on Cremola round the corner for ice cream, I’m still thinking about it.
un-hurried 