With an estimated 48,000 cities scattered across our planet, each one possesses a distinct character shaped by its layout, history, and population. While iconic destinations like Florence or Cartagena often steal the spotlight with their obvious grandeur, some urban centres captivate in more subtle, profound ways. Having personally visited over 120 cities, ranging from remote rural outposts to glittering global capitals, I have compiled a list of the five that have left an indelible mark on me. Each represents a unique fusion of delectable cuisine, rich culture, and breathtaking architecture.
Tbilisi, Georgia: A Beautifully Unruly Capital
Georgia's capital, Tbilisi, is a deeply soulful and intriguing place where history and creativity collide in the most intoxicating manner. After spending more than a month exploring its cobblestone streets lined with crumbling mansions, graffiti-splashed walls, and unmarked doors hiding incredible restaurants, I must admit it ranks among my all-time favourite cities. The local scene is vibrant, with well-dressed residents drifting between hip coffee shops like Pulp, trendy wine bars, and well-curated galleries such as MoMA Tbilisi.
The hearty dining scene, fuelled by exceptional Georgian wine, never fails to surprise and delight. For the best experience, explore on foot. Start at Mtatsminda Park, accessible via hiking trail or funicular, for panoramic views of the city limits and surrounding mountains. Then, wander through the Old Town, taking in the colourful murals, winding streets, and fascinating architecture that define Tbilisi's charm.
Stay at: The most creative hotel in town, Stamba
Don’t miss: A plate of steaming khinkali (filled dough dumplings) at Klike’s Khinkali
Colombo, Sri Lanka: An Addictive Rhythm
Beyond the daily traffic crescendos, when thousands of children in brilliant white uniforms head home after lunch, the Sri Lankan capital settles into a rhythm that is utterly addictive. Comprising 15 divisions, each area has its own appeal. Leafy Colombo 7 boasts wide boulevards, grand old villas, cricket grounds, and hidden art spaces like the Sapumal Foundation. Meanwhile, Kompagngna Veediya hums with history, street art murals, and one of the best cocktail bars in town, Kampong.
Stroll beneath ancient banyan and ficus trees, whose colossal roots crack pavements as if reminding the city of its ancient guardians. A visit to Pettah Market is essential—a fever dream of fresh fruits, vegetables, photogenic temples, and bright pink faloodas. Combine this with rice and curry eaten by hand, syrupy milk tea on street corners, and chocolate doughnuts from a bakery tuk-tuk, and Colombo feels like heaven.
Stay at: Intimate boutique hotel, ISHQ
Don’t miss: A perfect garden dinner of modern Sri Lankan fare at Gini
Łódź, Poland: Quietly Magnetic Charm
Pronounced 'woodge', this Polish city captured my heart from the moment I arrived. Once a textile powerhouse and beloved by the late David Lynch, Łódź now beckons with reinvention and raw beauty. With more than 30 vast street art murals, I spent days hunting them out, swimming in the local pool, and enjoying pączki—the best doughnuts of my life.
Reclaimed factories along the main street have been transformed into galleries like the fascinating MS2, which champions bold contemporary voices such as Natalia LL. Cosy cafes offer hearty dishes, good coffee, and shelter from the bracing winter wind, making it a year-round destination.
Stay at: The art-filled Vienna House
Don’t miss: A stroll to Rosa’s Passage, a spellbinding, mirrored mosaic-covered passageway
Havana, Cuba: Layered with Rhythm and Romance
Havana feels alive at every turn, layered with rhythm and romance, which is why it remains one of my favourite cities globally. Whether exploring solo or with friends, the backdrop of colourful mansions and vintage cars is endlessly captivating. A standout experience was visiting Finca Vigía, Ernest Hemingway's former home just outside the city. Seeing the rooms exactly as he left them, with books lining the walls and his Corona typewriter on a standing desk, is unforgettable for literary enthusiasts.
While Cuba's dining scene has room for improvement, there are gems like San Cristóbal for Cuban dishes, late-night tacos at LaGuarida, and cocktails at the famed Sloppy Joe's. For evening entertainment, the unmissable Fábrica de Arte Cubano offers rum-soaked nights and uptempo beats in a defunct factory turned hip art space.
Stay at: The historic Hotel Sevilla
Don’t miss: Pairing a city stay with beachside bliss in the gorgeous town of Trinidad
Istanbul, Turkey: A Feast for the Senses
Istanbul is a city that stimulates all the senses. Strong-bodied cats leave dainty paw prints in wet cement while their meows echo beneath minarets calling the faithful to prayer. The air is filled with the scent of jasmine, tangled with fried fish sandwiches and motorbike fumes. After spending weeks discovering its delights, I fell in love with neighbourhoods like Çukurcuma and Cihangir, known for cobbled streets, antique shops overflowing with whirling dervish ceramics and Persian rugs, and political street art.
Tucked away is the Museum of Innocence, where Orhan Pamuk’s novel comes to life as an intoxicating museum—a must-visit. The food scene is equally compelling, from Tatbak’s lahmacun blistered with spice and citrus to syrupy baklava, or Sehzade Cag Kepap’s lavash bread and grilled lamb, all offering delightful, affordable experiences.
