Planning for your travels next year? Instead of visiting one of the world’s most frequented capital cities, such as London, Bangkok, Paris or even Istanbul, why not escape the tourist trail and head to Zagreb in Croatia, or Brazil’s less frequented capital, Brasilia? For travellers ready to embark on new adventures, we’ve put together a list of six uncommon, yet spectacular capital cities along with the best month to visit them next year.
*The best month to visit and average flight price in the best month to visit were derived from the month with the lowest average airfare found on KAYAK.sg from Singapore to the given destination in 2015.
To truly entice you to these uncommon capital cities, where laid-back locals are down to mingle, medieval architecture awaits and where the ocean invites you for a swim, we’ve pulled together our top suggestions per destination:
Zagreb, Croatia
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Zagreb has a rich and storied history dating back to the Roman Empire. Pay a visit to the unforgettable Medvedgrad Fortress, which sits high above the city at the peak of Medvednica Mountain. From this vantage point, take in views over the picturesque city and surrounding countryside. History and art lovers will feel right at home at the Muzej Mimara, a feast for the eyes that houses an extensive and impressive collection of masterpieces dating from the prehistoric to the present.
Where to stay: Prices for a double room at the Esplanade Zagreb Hotel start at $144** per night in January 2016.
Vientiane, Laos
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With its mixture of colonial French architecture and Buddhist temples, Vientiane is a historically and culturally rich city with an abundance of sights. Built in the 1950s, Patuxai, a war monument in the heart of Vientiane, is dedicated to those who fought for independence against the French. Those looking for their spiritual centre should pay a visit to Wat Si Muang, which is considered the home of the guardian spirit of Vientiane. At nightfall, mingle with friendly locals at the Mekong River bank where travellers can find a night market filled with local delicacies.
Where to stay: Prices for a double room at the Inter City Boutique Hotel start at $52** per night in March 2016.
Ottawa, Canada
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From whitewater rafting to bungee jumping, Ottawa is the perfect destination for adventure-seekers, but the city also has a sophisticated, artistic side. The National Arts Centre, a prestigious performing arts venue, boasts an impressive lineup of music, dance and theatre performances. Foodies should explore Ottawa’s historic ByWard Market Square – one of the oldest and largest farmers’ markets in Canada – where local retailers sell everything from fresh food to designer items.
Where to stay: Prices for a double room at the Cartier Place Suite Hotel start at $154** per night in April 2016.
Canberra, Australia
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Australia’s lesser known capital city is home to Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra’s most prominent man-made lake, the shores of which host many of the city’s top tourist attractions, including the National Gallery of Australia, Questacon, and the National Library. While there, travellers should scope out stately buildings or simply enjoy the beautiful views from the 195-metre tall Black Mountain Tower. Wildlife enthusiasts can catch a glimpse of exotic animals and peruse all manner of exquisite flora at the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.
Where to stay: Prices for a double room at the Clifton Suites on Northbourne start at $140** per night in September 2016.
Brasilia, Brazil
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Nature lovers will feel right at home in Parque Nacional de Brasilia. The park is home to rare species of birds including the Toco Toucan, Giant Armadillos and Anacondas, just to name a few. Architecture buffs should visit the majestic Catedral Metropolitana. Built in the 16th century, the cathedral is the oldest and largest in Latin America. City Park, which is slightly bigger than New York City’s Central Park, is humming with life.
Where to stay: Prices for a double room at the Melia Brasil 21 start at $117** per night in October 2016.
Tbilisi, Georgia
Set on a hillside, this ancient Eurasian crossroads features old balconied homes, charming churches and a vibrant street cafe culture. Dominating the Old Town skyline is the Nariqala Fortress, a military stronghold that dates back to the 4th century. At the foot of the fort, is the social heart of the city, Abanotubani, Tbilisi’s famed public sulphur baths. Distinctive brick domes and elaborately tiled entrances lead to subterranean bathhouses dating back centuries. The sulphur smell can be off-putting but the experience is not to be missed.
Where to stay: Prices for a double room at the Betsy’s Hotel start at $125** per night June 2016.
Main image: Tbilisi @vvvita/Shutterstock.com
*Flight prices to all destinations are based on travel searches on KAYAK.sg in 2015 for travel in 2016. All searches are based on return economy class flights and prices quoted are per person in Singapore dollars. Offers are limited and seats may not be available on all dates or flights. Flights may no longer be available.
**Prices for hotels found during 12-19 October on KAYAK.sg and are based on a double room per night for the respective best month to travel to the destination. Availability may be limited and offers may no longer be available.
