Top 5 Must-Visit Cities: A Seasoned Traveler's Picks Over Lonely Planet's 2015 List
Last year, Lonely Planet released their Top 10 Cities to Visit in 2015. Here's their selection:
- Washington, DC (USA)
- El Chalten (Argentina)
- Milan (Italy)
- Zermatt (Switzerland)
- Valletta (Malta)
- Plovdiv (Bulgaria)
- Salisbury (England)
- Vienna (Austria)
- Chennai (India)
- Toronto (Canada)
While some picks, like the underrated Valletta (detailed on Globetrottergirls.com here), resonate, others feel arbitrary. Latin America and Asia are underrepresented, Australia overlooked, and Europe dominates. As a seasoned traveler, I've curated my own top 5 must-visit cities for 2015. Share your thoughts or favorites in the comments!
1. Cusco, Peru
Cusco enchanted me like few cities have. Nestled amid the green Andean mountains around the grand Plaza de Armas, this Spanish-colonial gem blends Inca, Killke, and colonial influences—a UNESCO World Heritage site. The hilly San Blas neighborhood, with its narrow alleys, quaint squares, churches, and cozy eateries, demands endless photos. The spotless San Pedro market offers quinoa, grains, Andean scarves, and llama wool gloves—perfect souvenirs. Don't miss Machu Picchu, but linger in Cusco to soak in its magic.
2. Innsbruck, Austria
Skip Vienna for Innsbruck, cradled in an Alpine valley with snow-capped peaks on all sides. Flights here offer jaw-dropping landings, and a short drive reveals pristine meadows and peaks. Blending Tyrolean architecture with a vibrant student scene—bars, pubs, and cafés spilling outdoors year-round—Innsbruck suits adventurers. Hike in summer, ski in winter.
3. Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City's 20-million-strong vibrancy belies its ease of exploration via efficient subways and walkable historic center. World-class museums, murals by legendary artists, diverse neighborhoods, and food markets dazzle. Escape to vast Chapultepec Park or charming outskirts like San Ángel, Coyoacán, and Xochimilco with their village-like squares and cobblestone streets.
4. Valletta, Malta
Europe's tiniest capital (pop. 6,000+), Valletta defies norms with 16th-century walls by the Knights of St. John. Ocher homes with colorful balconies climb hills overlooking the Mediterranean on three sides. Stunning harbor views await at every turn in this UNESCO gem—a compact masterpiece.
5. Vientiane, Laos
Southeast Asia's prettiest, most laid-back capital outshines Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur with elegant temples, riverside sunsets, and low-key charm—less touristy than Luang Prabang, yet equally captivating.
What are your top cities for 2015? Agree with mine or Lonely Planet's?
