A-Z of city guides: From Aalborg to Zurich

Published on Tuesday 9 March 2010 13:01

Every week Scotland on Sunday publishes a quick guide to one of the world's coolest destinations. We've been everywhere from Beijing to Blackpool, so we thought it was time we created a directory of some of the best.

• The annual Christmas market at Gendarmenmarkt square, Berlin

Aalborg, Denmark

"Sitting on the narrows of the Limfjord, Aalborg has a seafaring heritage that goes all the way back to the Vikings."

Aberdeen, Scotland

"The Granite City is a lot less foreboding than its name suggests, with a wealth of green spaces and nightlife."

Amsterdam, Netherlands

"Its mix of 16th-century architecture, vibrant nightlife, world-class museums and canals (more even than Venice) make it one of the best loved cities in the world."

Antananarivo, Madagascar

"You don't go to the wildlife paradise of Madagascar for cities, but the island's capital is well worth dropping in to."

Auckland, New Zealand

"Auckland is a confident and vibrant place with no shortage of things to do for people of all ages and persuasions."

Bangkok, Thailand

"Modern Bangkok is a bustling, vibrant city, steeped in ancient Buddhist culture yet jam-packed with trend-setting bars and restaurants."

Barcelona, Spain

"Fine weather, great architecture and stunning food… heck, there's even a beach. The Catalan capital has it all."

Beijing, China

"No city in the world crams as much culture into its borders as the Chinese capital, and its borders are pretty big."

Belfast, Northern Ireland

"Once scarred by sectarian violence, the Northern Irish city is now a harmonious blend of old and new, with a thriving cultural scene and great music venues, restaurants and hotels."

Berlin, Germany

"Berlin may not be as conventionally beautiful as its European neighbours, but it's all the more fascinating because of it.

Bilbao, Spain

"Before 1997, Bilbao's shipbuilding industry was in decline and visitors would have had nothing much to write home about. Then came the Guggenheim museum, rising like a silvery phoenix from the ashes of a city down on its luck."

Birmingham, England

"The city has something to satisfy everyone, as you might expect from the home of such diverse talents as chocolate entrepreneur John Cadbury, wild man of rock Ozzy Osbourne and Barbara Cartland."

Boston, USA

"Boston, said Charles Dickens, "is what I would like the whole United States to be." And it's easy to see why."

Bournemouth, England

"These days it's a mecca for extreme sports fans, and you're just as likely to see surfers, free-runners and BMXers racing along the prom as senior citizens out for a stroll."

Bratislava, Slovakia

"Stunning architecture and a historical old town give Bratislava a real sense of culture, while the locals are friendly and welcoming."

Brighton, England

"You can't beat 'London by the sea' for great nightlife, eclectic shopping and festivals –and even a paddle in the old briny."

• City guides by region: UK and Ireland

Brussels, Belgium

"The home of European bureaucracy is also home to an enviable lifestyle - vintage cafs, art-nouveau architecture and picturesque Christmas markets."

Budapest, Hungary

"Visit Budapest. You'll develop a deep admiration for a city that is visually gorgeous and one of the most lively in Europe."

Buenos Aires, Argentina

"South America's most European of cities, Buenos Aires is a cosmopolitan capital of 13 million people with a spirit of hospitality and fun."

Calgary, Canada

"By day, you could be riding your trusty steed across the untamed wilderness of the rugged Rocky Mountains, and by night, enjoying award-winning dining in a cosmopolitan city that is home to a million residents."

Canacona, India

"In the 1960s, the Indian region of Goa was a hippie's nirvana thanks to secluded beaches that offered all manner of illicit pleasures. Fast forward to today and, in common with most of its former patrons, the region has grown more tranquil and mature."

Cape Town, South Africa

"With two oceans, miles of beaches, dramatic mountains, lush winelands, abundant flora, vast spaces and magnificent mansions, Cape Town feels more like a sybarite's delight than a grown-up, functioning city."

Capri, Italy

"For sea, sunshine and celeb-spotting, the Italian island of Capri is the place to see and be seen."

Cardiff, Wales

"Midway through an ambitious regeneration programme, Cardiff is almost unrecognisable from ten years ago."

Chicago, USA

"The Windy City has something for everyone – and getting around the sights is a breeze."

Colombo, Sri Lanka

"The bustle of the streets and the heritage of ancient and colonial times provide plenty of romance."

Copenhagen, Denmark

"This city offers the tourist a wealth of experiences that deserves more than one visit."

• City guides by region: Europe

Dublin, Ireland

"The economic boom of the last decade has helped transform it into one of the top European tourist destinations. Its people, however, remain as strikingly friendly and down-to-earth as ever."

Dubrovnik, Croatia

"The undisputed pearl of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik was the fortified capital of a great Renaissance city state and has been a Unesco world heritage site since 1979."

Florence, Italy

"For art-lovers, foodies and shoppers alike, the Tuscan capital has it all."

Gdansk, Poland

"Lose yourself in colourful medieval streets, dine in esoteric Polish taverns or relax on the sandy beaches of Sopot."

Gibraltar

"With its tax-free shopping, stunning coastline and beautiful beaches, Gibraltar offers a city break with a difference."

Girona, Spain

"Wander around the bi-weekly market on the riverbank (mercat de les Ribes del Ter) to whet your appetite for breakfast."

Glasgow, Scotland

"Top shopping, great galleries and host for the 2014 Commonwealth Games – the dear green place is good to go."

Gothenburg, Sweden

"Sweden's second city is less buttoned-up than its austere capital, Stockholm, and boasts some of Scandinavia's principal tourist attractions - all within easy reach of the city centre."

Halifax, Canada

"Scots will find Canada's original British town offers a mix of the familiar and the exotic."

Havana, Cuba

"With its dilapidated colonial architecture, 1950s cars and lack of Coca-Cola and McDonald's, Havana inhabits something of a timewarp."

Helsinki, Finland

"Something strange comes over Scandinavians in midsummer, partly pagan spirit and partly the novelty of constant daylight."

Honolulu, USA

"Hula, aloha and hoodlums are back with the return of Hawaii Five-0, the iconic 1970s cop series set on the island."

Hong Kong, China

"From night cruises along the harbour to tours of the new territories, there is more to this buzzing metropolis than meets the eye."

Inverness, Scotland

"As the gateway to the Highlands, Inverness gives access to some of Scotland's most beautiful landscapes, but the city itself is also a destination to be reckoned with."

Istanbul, Turkey

"With trendy cafs and bars sitting alongside ancient mosques and monuments, there's something for everyone where east meets west."

Kansas City, USA

"It may seem unlikely, but 1,200 miles from Cape Canaveral, in the heart of the American midwest, youngsters are preparing for a job that could take them further than they ever dared dream."

Krakow, Poland

"It boasts world-class monuments, a delightful atmosphere and restaurants aplenty, plus the biggest market square in Europe."

• City guides by region: North America

Larnaka, Cyprus

"Brits the colour of flamingos are a common sight in Larnaka, but at this time of year the feathered variety is just as likely to be spotted lining the water at the edges of its Salt Lake."

Las Vegas, USA

"When you step into the arrivals lounge at Las Vegas airport, you are in no doubt that you have landed in the gambling capital of the world - the walls are lined with slot machines."

Leeds, England

"It was recently voted the most female-friendly city in Britain, and, with its top shopping, funky bars and hip hotels, it is now a great place to visit."

Lisbon, Portugal

"Steeped in history, full of great shops, culturally invigorating and blessed with a wonderful warm climate, Lisbon has the added advantage of being one of the least expensive cities in Europe."

Liverpool, England

"After our shopping fix it was time to pack up and jump back on the train home, after a whistle-stop tour of an exciting city."

Ljubljana, Slovenia

"Ljubljana is best known for its stunning architecture which, unsurprisingly, has earned it comparisons with Prague."

Los Angeles, USA

"The common whinge from this side of the pond is that the city has no centre, no focus, no heart from which all else revolves. Yet, with a little exploring and familiarity, you'll find no end to its diversity and opportunity."

Madrid, Spain

"Some of the world's greatest art is housed in Madrid's galleries, but for a true picture of the city, try exploring some of its lesser-known suburbs."

Marmaris, Turkey

"Visit the Turkish town for plenty of ancient culture and spectacular scenery – plus lots of holiday fun in the sun."

Marrakech, Morocco

"These days the so-called 'Red City', which once welcomed bohemians by the boatload, is more boutique than Beat: the medina is home to hundreds of riads – cool guest houses organised around a central courtyard – while shopping is a national art form."

Melbourne, Australia

"Melbourne is often regarded as Sydney's trendier, more cosmopolitan little brother and it is clear that there is something of a sibling rivalry between these two cities."

• City guides by region: Central and South America

Mexico City, Mexico

"Over the past decade, DF (or Distrito Federal), as it's called locally, has tackled its two major problems, pollution and security, transforming itself into a chic and sexy destination."

Miami, USA

"Whether you're a beach bum, city slicker or die-hard party animal, Miami has something to offer."

Montreal, Canada

"Montreal fizzes with excitement and joie de vivre, proudly wearing its heart on its sleeve."

Moscow, Russia

"Moscow has thrown off the last of its communist chill and embraced glamour, glitz and a bright new future."

Mumbai, India

"Rickshaws rattle past Porsches in India's business powerhouse, where everyone is trying to get somewhere fast."

New Orleans, USA

"Despite the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, there is no other place in the US that knows how to party like they do here."

New York, USA

"With direct flights from Edinburgh or Glasgow, a trip to the Big Apple is now a mere six-hour dart across the pond. Hell, it's just a tad longer than a train journey to King's Cross."

Newcastle, England

"If you haven't visited Newcastle in the past ten years, you would be forgiven for thinking that the north-eastern English city is all football, unemployment and rowdy nightlife."

Nice, France

"There are about 25 Michelin-starred restaurants in Nice and its environs – that's compared to nine in the whole of Scotland. Even in a country with more than 600 stars, that's some feat, placing it second to Paris for sheer weight of culinary baubles."

Noosa, Australia

"Idyllic Noosa sparkles on the Australian east coast like the Pacific Ocean catching the early morning sunlight. With its perfect beaches, Cooloola National Park and easy access to Fraser Island, it has long been a holiday favourite among Australians."

Oslo, Norway

"The oldest of the Scandinavian capital cities, Oslo is less hectic than many other European metropolises, and its parks, pavement cafs and street entertainers make it a great summer destination."

Pamplona, Spain

"From 6 to 14 July it changes completely and, in honour of San Fermin, the French bishop who was later canonised, Pamplonans dress completely in red and white, while the more adventurous run with the bulls.

• City guides by region: Asia

Paris, France

"As Henry Miller once said, "To know Paris is to know a great deal." Even if you arrive knowing nothing about the city, its wealth of romantic retreats, chic shopping streets and cultural highlights mean you'll have a great time adding to your knowledge."

Perth, Australia

"Perth might be the world's most remote city of its size but don't let that put you off - it's all part of the appeal."

Philadelphia, USA

"The city of brotherly love will have you head over heels with its history, art, shopping – and cheesesteaks."

Pisa, Italy

"Pisa is often overlooked as one of the smaller, less-exciting cities Italy has to offer. But this charming place has plenty to satisfy a weekend visitor in search of fine food and a hearty injection of culture.

Prague, Czech Republic

"A thriving metropolis and tourist magnet, this city of 1.3 million people is a living museum and the epitome of Mittel Europa."

Reykjavik, Iceland

"The first thing you notice when you arrive in Iceland is the distinct lack of ice. This small, windswept island lying just below the Arctic Circle, which boasts volcanoes, glaciers, lava fields, jagged mountains and bubbling geysers, is surprisingly green."

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

"Wedged between white sandy beaches and lush mountains, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil's capital for 200 years, is blessed with an abundance of natural features and charm – and like its population, it knows how to have fun with them."

Rome, Italy

"Another must-see is the one Gothic church in Rome – Baroque dominates this city – Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, which is built on the temple of Minerva and has its own Michaelangelo."

Rotterdam, Netherlands

"Despite what the Beautiful South may have you believe, Rotterdam could not just be "anywhere, Liverpool or Rome"."

Salamanca, Spain

"Since its foundation in the fourth century, Salamanca has been a commercial and cultural meeting point."

Salzburg, Austria

"If football, opera, marzipan and beer are a few of your favourite things, you'll never feel sad or bad in Salzburg."

San Antonio, USA

"Where it loses out to Houston in terms of population, it makes up by being the state's most popular town for visitors, both from the USA and abroad. Why? Remember the Alamo!"

So Paulo, Brazil

"Is Sao Paulo the next Manhattan? With a supercharged economy, cool bars and stellar restaurants, not to mention soaring skyscrapers and a shop-until-you-drop philosophy, the answer may well be yes."

Sarajevo, Bosnia

"Look down now from the mountains onto the city after dark and one can imagine that the gunfire of the 1992-95 war has been replaced by something invisible and harmless, but just as omnipresent: blizzards of mobile phone text messages, fuelling the city's vibrant nightlife.

Seville, Spain

"Orange blossom, blood-red wine and a kaleidoscope of sunshine glinting off stained-glass windows: Seville offers a heady mix of aroma, taste and spectacle."

Shanghai, China

"China's most thrilling city mixes ancient gardens and timeless tea ceremonies with skyscrapers and futuristic bars."

• City guides by region: Australasia

Siena, Italy

"Time does not so much stand still here as transport you back several centuries. None of this rustic simplicity comes cheap – there's a lot of Russian and German money out here."

Singapore

"With its exotic history and vibrant mix of cultures, the tiny city-state of Singapore makes a huge impression..."

Southampton, England

"For many, Southampton is not so much a destination in itself as a place to stay before embarking on a transatlantic or Caribbean cruise. But look more closely and you'll find something to satisfy culture vultures as well as boating buffs."

Split, Croatia

"We can thank the sunshine-loving Emperor Diocletian for the coastal resort of Split, in Croatia. In the third century AD, he fell in love with a tiny peninsula on the eastern shores of the Adriatic."

St Helier, Jersey, UK

"Closer to France than Britain, there's a thoroughly continental feel to Jersey, the southernmost of the Channel Islands. And just a short hop from home, it means the capital, St Helier, is the perfect place for a short break."

Stirling, Scotland

"Aside from epic battle scenes and stunning views, the city is also a vibrant centre for culture and activity, and is home to one of Scotland's newest bridges."

Stockholm, Sweden

"From hot-air balloon rides to island hopping, medieval marvels to trendy nightclubs, the Swedish capital has it all."

Sydney, Australia

"From the centre of Sydney, it's just 15 minutes to the nearest beach. Which means you can shop all morning and swim all afternoon."

Tallinn, Estonia

"Estonia's capital is a breath of fresh air and free from the stag and hen hell found in other cities in Eastern Europe."

Tel Aviv, Israel

"We may be in the Holy Land as the sun begins to rise on the Sabbath, or Shabbat, but these days this most liberal of Israeli cities has more in common with New York than Nazareth."

Tokyo, Japan

"The capital of Japan is the city of celluloid to most westerners, as the frenetic backdrop to recent Hollywood blockbusters, such as Lost in Translation and Babel."

Toronto, Canada

"Fireworks dancing along to fine music might not impress anyone who has witnessed Edinburgh's August shenanigans but Toronto's Canada Day pyrotechnics last three whole days."

Tripoli, Libya

"Libya has been off the beaten track for decades and was until recently ostracised by the West. But now the north African country has opened its doors to tourists."

Valetta, Malta

"Head to Malta's genteel harbour capital for a cultural fix at any time of year and a taste of its rich and colourful history."

Vancouver, Canada

"Canada's dramatic far west offers jagged peaks, glittering seas – and one of the finest cities in North America."

Venice, Italy

"Of course, you simply must visit St Mark's, the Rialto bridge and the Gallerie dell' Accademia, one of the world's greatest artistic treasure troves. But more than anything, just walk the streets and the bridges, gazing upwards in wonder."

Vienna, Austria

"'Vienna waits for you,' sang Billy Joel. The impeccably maintained Austrian capital certainly will, and in pristine condition, too."

Vilnius, Lithuania

"Despite a war-torn history, Lithuania's capital is not only friendly, relaxed and stunning but romantic too."

Warsaw, Poland

"To be sure, the capital of Poland does not figure high on lists of must-see destinations, but its history and cultural attractions make it a compelling place to visit."

York, England

"Ancient cobble-stoned streets, creaking Tudor and medieval architecture and an infinite number of cute teashops and antiquarian bookshops are all crammed into its beautifully preserved centre."

Zurich, Switzerland

"Named as the wealthiest city in Europe and believed to have the best quality of life in the world, Zurich has much more to offer its visitors than Swiss clocks, watches and chocolate."

City guides by region:

• UK and Ireland

• Europe

• North America

• Central and South America

• Asia

• Australasia