Table Mountain, the iconic flat-topped mountain overlooking Cape Town, South Africa, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Dominating the skyline, this majestic peak is part of the Table Mountain National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse flora and fauna. The mountain is renowned for its panoramic views of Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding landscapes.
Aït Benhaddou, located in southern Morocco along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakesh, is one of the country’s most iconic historic sites. This fortified village, or ksar, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is admired for its striking earthen clay architecture that rises dramatically from the desert landscape.
Nestled along the banks of the majestic River Shannon in western Ireland, Limerick is a city where history and modern life blend seamlessly, offering a unique and authentic Irish experience that captures the charm and spirit of the Emerald Isle. With origins stretching back to the Viking era, Limerick offers an intriguing glimpse into the past with plenty to explore.
Brasília may be a World Heritage Site, but it is only of interest to town planning and architecture students, and those keen to witness the folly of man on a metropolitan scale. It must have looked good on paper, and still looks good in photos, but in the flesh, forget it. Designed by architect Oscar Niemeyer, urban planner Lucio Costa, and landscape architect Burle Marx, the city was built in an incredible three years between 1957 and 1960.
Its legacy as the former imperial capital of Vietnam is just one of many reasons to visit Hue. For more than a century, the emperors of the Nguyen dynasty (1802-1945) ruled from the Forbidden Purple City, the innermost enclosure of the citadel. Today, this complex is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site and draws millions of visitors each year.
The turnoff for Locarno is located near Bellinzona, the capital of Ticino. By train, Locarno is well served from Zurich and Milan, as it is by road. Lovers of beautiful landscapes starting out from Geneva and Lausanne owe it to themselves to pass through Simplon and the Centovalli by taking the picturesque little train that links Domodossola to Locarno.
By plane, Locarno is accessible from most major European cities. Several medium-haul airlines (in particular Crossair) serve the Lugano-Agno airport (45 minutes from Locarno by car and Festival shuttle). Air travellers can also fly into Milan-Linate (two hours by car to Locarno) and Zurich (three hours).
Other Popular Destinations in Switzerland
Lucerne
Behold beautiful Lucerne! This German-speaking area of central Switzerland on Lake Lucerne is a truly spectacular locale. Surrounded by mountains and notable for its famous Chapel Bridge, this idyllic and musical Swiss locale is wonderful any time of year.
Zurich
Eminently livable and a pleasure to visit, Zurich is Switzerland's largest and most affluent city. This Central European metropolis is an engine of finance and banking, and has much to offer to visitors. There are numerous art museums, fine chocolate stores, and boundless luxury shopping opportunities.