The surprising destinations among the world's most cultural cities
A new study has revealed the world's best places for culture vultures, but there are a few surprises...
When you think of cultural cities, the likes of Rome, Paris and New York probably spring to mind first. And it's true - these are among the world's top cultural destinations according to a new ranking.
MyVoucherCodes has counted up the number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, museums, galleries, theatres and more to establish which cities have the most culture on offer. And while the usual suspects are indeed there, there are a few curveballs too.
London, Paris and New York are within the top three, but in fourth place, Seoul - the capital of South Korea - has pipped the likes of Rome and Tokyo to the post. With three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the impressive Changdeokgung Palace Complex, and more than 200 museums, it's one of Asia's most culturally dynamic cities.
Here are a few more of the world's most surprising cultural hubs.
5 surprisingly cultural cities
1. Moscow, Russia
Russia doesn't immediately come to mind when you're looking for a cultural city break, but Moscow does have some spectacular sights and it came in sixth place in the world's most cultural cities ranking. Both the Kremlin and Red Square are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and there are countless stunning churches well worth exploring. The Multimedia Art Museum is a thrilling way to spend a morning, exploring modern art by way of various technologies, and The State Tretyakov Gallery has a stunning collection of Russian fine art.
Sign up for the woman&home newsletter
Sign up to our free daily email for the latest royal and entertainment news, interesting opinion, expert advice on styling and beauty trends, and no-nonsense guides to the health and wellness questions you want answered.
2. Brussels, Belgium
Brussels has a bit of a reputation for being boring. But cutlure vultures need not take notice - this city placed 11th on the cultural cities ranking. With three UNESCO sites, almost 250 art galleries and four excellent concert halls, there's plenty to love in this European capital. Don't miss the beautiful historic buildings in Grote Markt (Gand Place), and be sure to stop by the Mannekin Pis sculpture and Saint-Michel Cathedral.
3. Chengdu, China
Most people associate Chengu with pandas - and quite rightly. This city is the gateway to seeing these bubbly bears in the wild at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. But there's more to it than fluffy animals. The city's history dates back to the fourth century BC - you can see artifacts from the period in the Jinsha Site Museum - and its 150 museums make for a fascinating glimpse into Chinese history, art and modern life.
4. Bogota, Colombia
Colombia's capital isn't high on many people's bucket lists, but it's well worth considering if you want a distinctly Latin American city break. In 22nd place as one of the world's most cultural cities, it's blessed with over 7,000 cutlural and historical sites, from pretty old churches to neo-classical concert halls. Explore La Candelaria, a cobblestoned warren of pretty streets lined with colonial buildings and 17th-century churches.
5. Austin, USA
Forget New York City, San Francisco and Washington DC. There's a new cultural kid in town and it's in Texas. Austin is the state capital and a wonderful weekend break, and with direct flights by Norwegian selling for as little as £170 each way, it's more accessible than ever for Brits. With well over 100 art galleries, there's plenty to inspire, and with pleasant temperatures for most of the year (it can get scorching in high summer) it's an ideal place for a sunny city break. Come hungry, too, as this is the capital of barbecue.
Lottie is an NCTJ-trained journalist, an experienced travel writer and an expert in creating compelling digital content.
Lottie has been in the travel writing business for nearly a decade and has writing and photography bylines at The Telegraph, The Times, The Independent, the i and National Geographic Traveller. She's done broadcast work for BBC Radio 4 and have contributed to a number of guidebooks and coffee table titles during her career.
-
Jennifer Aniston’s sultry waistcoat top and layered gold jewellery is the understated party look we're recreating this New Year
With a low cut neckline and figure-hugging fit, Jennifer Aniston's waistcoat top is the perfect sultry party wear for New Year celebrations
By Charlie Elizabeth Culverhouse Published
-
Can you make mulled wine in a slow cooker? Yes, I did, and it made my house smell like Christmas
Here's the perfect recipe for brewing this festive favourite in your slow cooker
By Jessica Dady Published