By Ruth Cawley
Everyone hears about the stunning tourist attractions in the most visited cities in the world – from the Eiffel Tower in Paris to the Colosseum in Rome to the Imperial Treasury in Vienna to the Opera House in Sydney. All these attractions are rich in culture and history, and all located within the capitals of fascinating countries. The capitals tend to take centre stage when tourists plan holidays abroad and outline which attractions they want to see. However, there are immense drawbacks to visiting such in-demand metropolises. Accommodation and flights are often booked out in advance and an influx of tourists sometimes means that you miss out on some of the biggest attractions in town. For example, tickets to The Anne Frank House in Amsterdam are accessible through timed ticket sales two months prior to the visit and very few are sold on the day itself. Since July 2023, you must pay for tickets to enter The Pantheon in Rome whereas it was free to enter and explore.
‘Second cities’ usually refers to the most prominent or populous city after the country’s capital. In the context of choosing a holiday destination, it is interpreted as cities that are not the typical choice for travellers to visit but might be the preferable option based on its unique cuisine, culture, charm, and attractions. While the term is unofficial, it can be applied to multiple cities in one country – Milan or Tuscany in Italy, Birmingham or Manchester in the UK, Marseilles or Lyons in France. Second cities offer cheaper or more enriching alternatives to accommodation, dining, and leisure as well as introduce visitors to new experiences that they would not have previously considered or known about. In these locations, budgets often stretch further, and locals can more easily offer their own knowledge and recommendations about things to do. If you try to squeeze too many attractions into an itinerary, you will end up spending more time stressing than sightseeing. Second cities do not host the ‘main’ tourist attractions so to speak but they can offer more value for money and more authentic cultural and relaxing experiences for visitors. Many tourists indicate a preference for the local cuisines, historical tours, and indigenous attractions of second cities in Europe. It is a nice break from the bustling big cities with overflowing crowds and soaring prices.
Porto, Portugal
The aptly named city of Porto is situated on the Portuguese coast and shares many similarities with its capital Lisbon. While both are home to exquisite art and magnificent landmarks, Porto offers a more intimate and authentic Portuguese experience. The charming riverside city boasts stunning views of the Douro River, vibrant cultural scenes, and historic architecture, such as the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge. One can appreciate structures like the Church of San Francisco and the Bolsa Palace in their Gothic designs and appreciate the attached historical significance. By meandering through its cobblestoned streets, visitors gravitate towards must-see attractions like the Livraria Lello bookstore which is heralded as the world’s most beautiful bookshop. Later, one can enjoy wine and food tastings in the Ribeira District. Porto’s culinary delights, including its famous port wine, and the nearby Douro Valley make it a must-visit for foodies and wine lovers. The city’s slower pace, coupled with its beautiful coastal surroundings, invites visitors to relax and soak in Portugal’s rich history and culture without the hustle and bustle of the capital.
Thessaloniki, Greece
Thessaloniki is Greece’s hidden gem that rivals Athens with its rich history, youthful energy, and cultural vibrancy. With its Upper Town containing Byzantine walls, ancient Roman ruins, and Ottoman architecture, Thessaloniki is a city where history meets modernity. In contrast to the capital of Athens, Thessaloniki offers a more leisurely experience for tourists that is more distinctive in its locality. The city is praised as a location for enjoyable festivals and nightlife, but the real attraction is the cuisine on offer. Thessaloniki provides tasting trays from many cultures including Armenian and Arab dishes. Restaurants serve dishes such as bougatsa, mezedes (appetisers), gyors, and many other creative foods. The markets offer an extensive range of cuisines which are highly praised for their experimentation and tastes. The lively waterfront offers spectacular views of the Aegean Sea which visitors can take in while they relax at the neighbouring cafés and bars. The nearby beach offers a respite from the town activities in the morning and a decent place to watch the breathtaking sunset.
Seville, Spain
Many flock to the sun-soaked streets of Madrid in Spain, but many favour the city of Seville in the heart of Andalusia for its cultural ties and social scene. Known for its flamenco, stunning Moorish architecture, and the grand Plaza de España, Seville embodies the essence of southern Spain. The city’s warm climate combined with vibrant festivals and historic sites provide a rich tapestry of experiences. Febria de Abril (Spring Festival) is one of Seville’s two most iconic events of the year. It often takes place in April in the Los Remidios fairgrounds where thousands of casetas (tents) are set up by families, businesses, municipalities, and political parties. Many are open to the public to experience this celebrated week of music, drinking, food, and social events. For visitors more interested in historical sites, the Alcázar and Seville Cathedral are iconic destinations for the city. Seville’s charm lies in its blend of history, culture, and relaxed atmosphere, making it the ideal destination for those looking to dive deep into Spanish traditions and try new activities.
Akureyri, Iceland
For a crisper climate with snowy activities, look no further than the Nordic stretch of Europe! Located six hours north of Reykjavik, Akureyri has been colloquially coined as Iceland’s second city. It began as a small fishing village in the seventeenth century and developed into a productive town over time. Akureyri lies on the end of Iceland’s longest fjord, giving it gorgeous views and access to the coastline. It is a more serene location that exhibits the country’s natural beauty with its views of fjords, waterfalls, and volcanic formations. Akureyi is a gateway to exploring northern Iceland’s attractions such as Lake Mývatn, the Goðafoss waterfall, and the whale-watching paradise of Húsavík. The town itself boasts a cozy atmosphere with local cafés and botanical gardens, providing a more nature-focused alternative to Reykjavik. One of the more adventurous activities offered in Akureyri is a zipline adventure through the nearby Glerárgil River Canyon. This experience costs approximately eighty-five euros for a two-hours journey over the forests and the town itself. Visitors can appreciate the wonderful views of Akureyri from above that few get to experience.
Turku, Finland
Turku, Finland’s oldest and first capital city, offers a deep historical experience that contrasts with the modern capital of Helsinki. Situated along the Aura River and on the southwest coast, Turku is known for its medieval castle, vibrant maritime history, and beautiful archipelago. Turku Castle holds over seven centuries worth of history for visitors to peruse. The Turku Cathedral is Finland’s only medieval basilica and serves as a national symbol where many historic events have taken place. Its bells are featured on the midday broadcast radio and the church itself hosts annual Christmas fairs. Restaurants in the city adopt a ‘market hall’ style where patrons can try new dishes of Nordic origins and dine in the homes of locals. The locals literally open their doors to newcomers and love to host people interested in their culture. It is also possible to rent bikes and kayaks to explore the Aura River area. The city’s lovely arts scene, numerous museums, and summer festivals create a dynamic atmosphere that highlights Finland’s heritage. Turku’s charming riverside setting, coupled with its proximity to the picturesque archipelago, makes it an ideal destination for those seeking history, culture, and natural beauty in a more manageable environment than Helsinki.
Basel, Switzerland
Basel is located at the intersection of Switzerland, Germany, and France. As such, it is a cultural crossroads that offers a more diverse and art-focused experience than Zurich. Known for its world-class museums, Basel is a haven for art lovers. The Kunstmuseum features the world’s first publicly accessible collection of art and is the largest art museum in the country. The Museum of Contemporary Art is the first public museum of contemporary art in Europe, making Basel a champion of spreading art to the masses since the 1600s. There are around forty other art museums strewn throughout the city including the Fondation Beyeler and the Museum Tinguely. The city’s medieval old town, with its cobblestone streets and bustling market square, offers a glimpse into Switzerland’s fascinating history. Sightseeing tours can be booked by train or by bus to the Swiss Alps. Basel’s unique location also makes it a gateway for exploring the surrounding regions, offering a more varied and culturally rich experience than capital cities.
Gdansk, Poland
Gdansk is a historic port city on the Baltic coast which offers a unique blend of history and maritime culture which is unmatched by Warsaw. With its beautifully restored old town, Gdansk displays Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, particularly around the picturesque Long Market. The city’s intriguing history, from its Hanseatic League days to its role in the Solitary movement, is deeply embedded in its streets and museums. To experience a guided tour of the city’s history, visitors can embark on a cruise in a seventeenth-century style galleon from Old Town and see the wonders of the Westerplatte. Gdansk’s coastal location, cultural festivals, and proximity to the beautiful beaches of the Baltic Sea make it a captivating and diverse destination.
Cork, Ireland
Finally, we come to the home-favourite second city – Cork! Irish locals are all too familiar with Dublin and its skyrocketing prices and overpopulation levels. With charming streets, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Cork embodies the spirit of Ireland. Cork is dubbed the ‘real capital’ of Ireland by some and it is a better alternative for sightseers in many ways. The city is a gateway to the stunning landscapes of West Cork and the Wild Atlantic Way, which spreads from Cork up to Donegal along the west Irish coast. This offers easy access to interesting villages, rugged coastlines, and scenic drives with excellent photographic opportunities. Whale and dolphin watching tours can be booked from Baltimore Harbour at reasonable rates. A two-hour guided cruise takes visitors through Cork Harbour to see landmarks like Blackrock Castle and Martello Towers. Cork’s welcoming atmosphere, extensive history, and lively arts events make it a perfect destination for those seeking an Irish experience with a more personal touch.
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