Alternative to Amsterdam: Rotterdam, Netherlands
Razed to the ground during World War 2, Rotterdam had to start quite literally from square 1. The end result is a culturally vibrant and modern city, with a sizeable nightlife scene and unique architecture such as the Markthal. Just a 40-minute train from its’ larger cousin Amsterdam, Rotterdam is cheaper, far less crowded, and still has all the attractions that draw the tourists, including a healthy selection of “Dutch” coffee shops. Rotterdam also lies just an hour away by public transport from the oldest theme park in the world and the largest. The Efteling welcomed more visitors than Disneyland Paris in 2020, and the adrenalin pumping rides set in the Dutch fairy-tale theme is a must visit.
Alternative to Florence, Milan, Rome: Bologna, Italy
Home to the oldest university in the world (and by extension the oldest student nightlife in the world), classic dishes such as lasagna, tortellini and of course Bolognese also trace their origins to Bologna, which is a foodie’s haven. The red Spanish-style rooves, and more recently the cosmopolitan and left-leaning politics have given it the nickname of the “Red City”. The beautifully preserved medieval centre rivals that of Florence, and the more student-oriented atmosphere, with the associated lower costs means it is easy on the eyes and easier on the bank balance than the other classic Italian cities such as Milan or Rome.
Alternative to Greek Islands: Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
Whilst cities such as Dubrovnik and Split are notorious destinations on the Adriatic, with cruiseloads of tourists queuing up to go on “Game of Thrones” tours, there are some lesser-known gems up and down the Dalmatian Coast. Over 79 islands and 500 islets are dotted around the Dalmatia, with beaches to rival those of the Greek Islands. The largest and most picturesque are Hvar, Brač and Pag that along with towns such as Zadar and Šibenik don’t get the flowers the aforementioned cities do but are just as worth your attention. With Croatia being the most recent member of the Schengen free movement zone, the Dalmatian Coast could be the perfect beach retreat for this summer’s interrail adventure.
Alternative to Athens, Capri: Syracuse, Italy
Complete with intact Ancient Greek temples, theatres and city ruins, Syracuse has all the culture and history you’d expect from a city that in its heyday, was the largest city in the ancient world, dwarfing Athens, Corinth, and Rome. A melting pot of Mediterranean culture, renaissance plazas lead off onto medieval streets, filled with traditional restaurants serving up classic Italian cuisine with fresh seafood, and bar tables that spill onto the picturesque seafront, plying customers with gin and tonics served with fresh Sicilian lemons. The old centre sits on the Island of Ortigia, with the more modern district set on the mainland, with a plethora of shopping outlets and warm beaches that make Syracuse such an attractive option.
Alternative to Madrid, Barcelona: San Sebastian, Spain
The jewel of the Basque country, and a once-favourite destination of the Spanish monarchy, San Sebastian has lost none of its regal attraction and beauty, with grand centrepieces such as the Hotel Maria Cristina and quant pintxos (Basque tapas) restaurants lining the cobbled streets. San Sebastian overlooks the less crowded Northern Spanish coastline, with most tourists focusing their trips and money on Mediterranean destinations such as Barcelona and the Costa Brava, however powerful swells that roll in off the Atlantic make San Sebastian ideal for surfers, whilst the more sheltered and expansive Playa de la Concha makes for more of a relaxing beach experience. You can swim out to the charming island of Santa Clara and once you’ve worked up a hunger, buy a cheap bocadillo (baguette sandwich) from one of the many shops on the seafront and relax on the sand.