With its rattling yellow trams and colourful, cobbled streets, it’s not hard to see why Lisbon has become one of Europe’s prime tourism destinations. Perhaps it’s the sea air, the laidback vibe or the beautiful scenery, but there’s something about the Portuguese capital that simply gets under your skin.
OK, I’ll admit. I may be using a little bit of artistic hyperbole in calling Vilnius –the capital of Lithuania – a secret. But compared to its fellow Baltic capitals, Riga and Tallinn, the city seems to be floating well under the radar.
Tallinn is a pretty city at all levels, but it takes on an almost fairytale quality the higher up you travel. With its red roofs and pretty spires, viewed from above, the Estonian capital looks completely untouched by time. And, luckily for visitors, there are plenty of viewing platforms dotted around, meaning you can admire the city from every angle.