Trip Advisor names its hot list based on the destinations which have seen remarkable increases in traveller reviews and tourist business over the last year.
Tallin, Estonia A 2011
European Capital of Culture, Tallinn has recently come into its own. It’s scenically located on the banks of the Gulf of Finland, while Tallinn Old Town is a Unesco World Heritage site. The city’s beautiful architecture makes it a great place to explore on foot.
Riga, Latvia
Riga is Latvia’s largest and capital city and is home to an extensive collection of Jugendstil (German Art Nouveau) architecture. The Old Town is particularly lovely with its cobbled streets and the city is well-known for its lively nightlife scene.
Moscow, Russia
Russia’s capital will not fail to impress. It boasts beautiful architecture, world-famous theatres and an endless supply of must-visit museums and historical sites, including the Red Square, St Basil’s Cathedral and the Kremlin.
Zurich, Switzerland
Located in north Switzerland on Lake Zurich and against a mountainous backdrop, Zurich is arguably one of Europe’s most enviably located cities. It is known for its excellent restaurants and for a truly local experience, try the city’s quintessential dish, Zürigschnätzlets – veal in a cream and wine sauce
Fethiye, Turkey
Fethiye offers history alongside natural beauty. This as an ideal choice for a holiday that combines beach and culture – travellers can visit the ruins of the ancient city of Telmessos, while also enjoying the beautiful sandy coastline.
Seminyak, Bali (Indonesia)
Away from the hustle and bustle of Bali’s main drag, Kuta beach, this picturesque town is one of the island’s more upscale areas. Enjoy fresh seafood while watching gorgeous sunsets and be sure indulge in the famous Balinese spa treatments.
Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius, a European Capital of Culture in 2009, is Lithuania’s largest city. It boasts an impressive array of baroque and gothic architecture, while the large Old Town is a Unesco World Heritage site.
Austin, Texas (US)
The capital of America’s second-largest state, Austin is well-known for its music scene, as well as its great restaurants. With its rolling hills, clear lakes and granite ravines, it also offers a variety of adventure and outdoor activities.
Chania Town, Crete (Greece)
Located on the western side of Crete, the highlight of Chania Town is the Old Town which features centuries-old Venetian architecture. The sandy, turquoise-water beaches are beautiful, while the beachside bars and restaurants won’t fail to impress.
Chaweng, Koh Samui (Thailand)
Chaweng is the beach on the east coast of Koh Samui. The pristine white sand and turquoise water beach is several kilometres long, with accommodations, restaurants and attractions to appeal to travellers of all budgets and interest.
Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux is renowned not only for producing some of the best wines in the world, but also for its unique architecture which has earned a Unesco World Heritage site listing. When not visiting vineyards, be sure to check out the area’s picturesque beaches.
San Sebastian, Spain
The ways to keep entertained in San Sebastian are seemingly endless, with its stunning scenery, great restaurants, beautiful beaches, lively nightlife and major film and music festivals, as well as ski resorts within driving distance.
Lyon, France
Located in the Rhône-Alpes region, Lyon is France’s third-largest city. Like many of its neighbours, Lyon is well-known for its gastronomy and impressive selection of Michelin-starred restaurants, while the Saint-Jean and the Croix-Rousse areas – Unesco World Heritage sites – are well worth visiting.