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The best secret city escapes you have to experience this year

By Lauren Kirton   |  

When you hear mention of a ‘city break’, you probably think of Paris, Rome or Barcelona. To help you broaden your horizons, ‘Youtube for travel’ platform Travideo has curated five stunning yet little known city break destinations that are well worth a visit this year; and with flights for as little as £20, there’s no reason not to hop on that plane.

Use Travideo to research all the amazing places you never considered travelling to.

Aveiro, Portugal

Nicknamed ‘the Venice of Portugal’, the small city of Aveiro is located in Portugal’s Centro Region on the west coast. It’s a favourite among locals, known for its traditional sweets ‘Ovos Moles’. With a beautiful Cathedral, and a fascinating religious art museum, Aveiro is a city full of culture to explore.

Costa Nova is only one of the beautiful beaches in this region.

Its winding canals and brightly coloured boats give it a super romantic feel, and the nearby beaches are great spots for dining and sunbathing. A welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of nearby Porto.

Aveiro’s canals are full of colourful Moliceiros boats.

Graz, Austria

Graz is Austria’s second largest city, and has tons to offer thanks to its vibrant art scene, buzzing nightlife and the mixture of old and new architecture. It’s a student city meaning it’s always teeming with life, and as well as its cultural centre and beautiful Old Town, the city is surrounded by lush vineyards which make an excellent day trip.

The city of Graz, with its palace of Eggenberg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Be sure to visit the Murinsel in the middle of the river, and the famous Schlossberg – the city’s central landmark. Another recommended visit is to the stunning Franciscan Monastery, one of the most popular locations in Graz.

Silkeborg, Denmark

Silkeborg is found in Denmark’s equivalent of the Lake District, and is the country’s outdoor capital. Cycle, hike, canoe, fish, swim or horse ride; whatever your preferred activity, Silkeborg will be able to facilitate it.

Visit Himmelbjerget while you’re here, an amazing hill with a summit tower.

There’s plenty to see for the history and art lovers too, and lots of great places to eat and drink al fresco in the city centre. The perfect spot for an active weekend away, and a great one for the family.

Gothenburg, Sweden

Gothenburg is Sweden’s second largest city but is often forgotten, despite being an absolute mecca for culture, cafes and nightlife. Fresh seafood is in abundance and it takes its art, interiors and fashion very seriously.

In January of each year, Gothenburg hosts Scandinavia’s leading film festival.

The city also plays host to Scandinavia’s biggest amusement park. Gothenburg gives Stockholm a serious run for its money. Check out Travideo’s page on Gothenburg by clicking here.

Fontainbleau, France

Less than two hours drive from Paris, this small French town is well worth a visit. The famous and beautiful Chateau de Fontainebleau is at its heart, and the 25,000 hectares of woodland that surround it are great spots for hiking, bouldering and horse riding.

Experience the culture of France in Fontainbleau, without the business of a city like Paris.

The food in the town is delightful, and the open-air food market is well worth a visit. There are also many beautiful churches with amazing architecture to explore. Discover Fontainbleau’s charm by clicking here.