5 Fabulous Second Cities Worth Visiting

Many travellers head straight for the better known capital cities when planning a trip to new countries. Honestly, we feel many of these are becoming so crowded – even our own Scottish capital Edinburgh, gets so busy in summer.

Prices rise, quality of service dips, and at times, it’s even stressful trying to make a dinner table reservation because the good places are so booked up. These are some of the reasons why we’ve become big fans of the second cities worth visiting around the world.

These are some of the best second cities worth visiting if you’re looking to avoid crowded capitals: Bruges in Belgium, Cuzco in Peru, Glasgow in Scotland, Krakow in Poland and Porto in Portugal. All are packed with just as much culture, history, great food and atmosphere as their capitals, usually with less crowds and lower prices.

They’re especially ideal for mid-life travellers or multi-generational trips where a slower pace makes travel far more enjoyable.

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Map of Cities

Our map pins highlights the geography of each featured city which are in the UK, Europe’s mainland and South America.

 Bruges – A Relaxed Option to Brussels

Bruges is an ancient city in northwest Belgium surrounded by canals and distinctive Gothic brick buildings, all connected by cobbled streets and countless bridges.

With a population of around 100,000, it’s the perfect size for exploring without getting overwhelmed.

Compared with busy Brussels, Bruges feels far more compact and relaxed, making it ideal for travellers who want to enjoy Belgium’s culture and history at a slower pace.

How to Get to Bruges

Bruges is easy to reach by train, car or plane. Oostende-Brugge (OST) airport is around 30 minutes from the city, but we like to travel by Eurostar from London.

If you are coming by Eurostar or other main European train operator, you will likely transfer trains in Brussels. You can buy one ticket for your full trip usually on Omio, so the journey is straightforward.

Bruges railway station is about a 20-minute walk from the historic centre, or a short taxi transfer. Flix Bus is another great option if you’re already in Europe for cheap, efficient travel.

Top Experiences in Bruges

Explore the Historic City Centre

In 2000, the historic centre of Bruges was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Market Square and climb the famous Belfry, which stands 83 metres tall and offers amazing bird’s-eye views of the city. It’s a largely flat walk through the compact heart of the city.

Cycle Along the City Ramparts

Hire bikes and cycle along the city ramparts on a relaxing 7 km route that takes you beyond the main centre. Along the way you’ll pass medieval city gates, Lovers Bridge, the Gunpowder Tower and more while enjoying some lovely views of the city.

One of the things we loved most about Bruges was seeing the windmills as we cycled on the canals banks. Some are decades old, yet still quietly turning in the gentle breeze helping farmers mill crops or power local grids.

Take a Belgian Chocolate-Making Class

Well, we’re in Belgium and we love chocolate — so why not? There are many different chocolatier classes on offer. Of course, if you prefer, there are also plenty of places simply to sample and buy chocolate. We did both!

Wander Across the Bridges of Bruges

There are beautiful bridges scattered throughout Bruges that are perfect for leisurely exploring. The stone Meebrug Bridge, built in 1390, is especially romantic at sunset. You’ll likely also cross the Augustijnenbrug with its three arches, originally built to give the friars access to the city.

Sip A Local Belgian Beer

Belgium is world-famous for its brewing tradition, so it would be a shame to leave without sampling a local beer or two. There are many historic breweries and beer cafés around the city where we enjoyed tasting different varieties. If you are a fan, why not take a brewery tour. 

Where to Stay in Bruges

We stayed at the historic 17th century Navarra Hotel in the centre of Bruges only a few minutes from the market square.  The hotel has a relaxing feel to it, from their pool and spa facilities to the laid back Jazz bar. It’s around 1 mile from the railway station.

🔍 Click Here for More Bruges Accommodation Options

One of the things we loved most about Bruges was how local people have preserved their centuries old crafts from lace-making to chocolate, beer to windmills.

Although there are many modern comforts, they complement vs replace the historical ways of life in Bruges.

From the canals of Europe, our next second city takes you to the heights of the Andes…

Cuzco – A Historic Alternative to Lima 

While most travellers linger in Lima, we say head to Cuzco, which offers curious visitors a completely unique and perhaps more immersive introduction to mountain living in Peru. Compact compared to Lima, the pace is slower and feel relaxing.

At an elevation of  3,399 m (11,152 ft) above sea level, it’s important to prepare in case of altitude sickness when planning your visit.

Cuzco is unlikely to be a sole destination for most of us but we say extend your time here en route to or returning from Machu Picchu.

How to Get To Cuzco

Flying here is a bit of an adventure as the airport is nestled in a steep valley. Pilots who fly in/out of here need a special certificate because they have to do it manually.  The flight has to be experienced as words just don’t do it justice.

Alternatively, getting to Cuzco involves a long bus trip from the capital Lima where most international flights land.

Top Experiences In Cuzco

Stroll around Plaza de Armas

Originally established by the Incas, everyday life buzzes around you on all sides of the square.

Spanish colonialists constructed the Cathedral of Cusco and Inglesia de la Compania de Jesus, both protected as world heritage sites.

There are many coffee shops around the square so take a break as you adjust to the altitude.  You can enjoy a familiar coffee at Starbucks, or find a local cafe and try a local blend – we did both!

Don’t forget to try an empanada! Cheap, delicious and sold everywhere around the city – to be honest they are a great breakfast option vs paying for it at a hotel.

Views and Artwork in Quaint San Blas Neighborhood

Another area we loved exploring was San Blas neighborhood, near to our hotel and only 15-20 mins walk from the main square.

San Blas holds a special place in the hearts of locals with its outstanding views that have inspired painters and artists for centuries.  A great spot for sunset too!

Browse Colourful San Pedro Market

For a local shopping experience, it’s hard to beat Cuzco’s San Pedro Market which is open daily from 6am to around 6pm!

A short walk from Plaza de Armas, this is when your Duolingo efforts to learn ‘un poco espanol’ will be rewarded 🙂

We found this market best to explore in the morning as stalls are full of fresh produce up to around 10am. You’ll find food and handicrafts from Cuzco and other regions of Peru.

Stop and enjoy watching people do their craft at their stall – I loved watching the ladies sewing dolls, and bought one for each of my sisters.

Soft Alpaca scarfs, hand sewn pachamama dolls, fresh local avocados and so many types of empanadas tempted us at every turn.

Look out for brightly painted bulls (ceramic ones), found in most homes here, as they are said to help protect the family. My friend bought a couple and they made it back to Texas without any issues!

Do bargain, it’s the custom!

Short Trips From Cuzco

If you have time, there are several unmissable experiences just outside Cuzco which we recommend:

Ancient Sacsayhuaman

Just 2 kilometers away from central Cuzco sits an incredible Incan era Ceremonial Fortress. Built with stones so large, historians believe each would have required 1000s of men to move them into place.

Despite centuries of neglect and earthquakes, the quality of  stonework remains evident. Some walls are 5 meters wide and 4 meters thick and we thought Aberdeen’s granite walls were robust!

Star Gaze at the Planetarium

Tucked in the hills that surround Cuzco this small facility, offers a brilliantly unique place to learn about Incan astronomy as well as stargazing.

We didn’t know about this until too late to fit it in, but we mention it because people we met who visited at night saw star filled skies and raved about the experience.

The planetarium is a personalized experience as it’s small with limited capacity, so book in advance.

You can take a shuttle for the 2 mile ride from the Plaza de Armas there and of course they will drop you back in town afterwards.

Where to Stay In Cuzco, Peru

We had a fabulous stay at Casa San Blas, a small boutique hotel, tucked in a side street, with rooms that have fantastic views to the mountains, with balconies.

With a homely feel, easy walks to the main Plaza and markets, it’s a great base for exploring the city at your own pace.

One thing we learned being here is that the locals take the risk of high altitude sickness seriously.

In fact, many hotels (ours included) offer a coca tea (completely legal), which goes back generations and is said to help. After drinking it each morning with breakfast, we have to agree!

Krakow – A Historic Alternative to Warsaw

Although Warsaw is a fascinating capital, Krakow offers a more intimate introduction to Poland if this is your first visit, and has unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else.

Like several of the cities on this list, Krakow was once Poland’s capital and the seat of royal power, and the city still sparkles with that historic pride.

How to Get to Krakow

We flew from London with BA, but there are often cheaper options from regional European airports. Krakow Airport is about 17 km from the city centre and an airport train runs directly into town. If you arrive after midnight when trains stop running, a fixed-rate taxi is the best option

We’ve also taken the train from elsewhere in Poland to Krakow. Book tickets on-line via Polish Trains Site. You’ll arrive right in the centre.

Top Experiences in Krakow

Rynek Główny (Main Square)

I love the large city squares that I’ve discovered all around Poland from time in Poznan and Wroclaw.

Krakow’s medieval square (Rynek Główny) is one of the biggest, occupying 40,000 square metres. I always enjoy a morning coffee here, watching the city come to life – and it’s where many city walking tours start.

🔍 Click Here to Book Popular Krakow Walking Tour

Later in the day, it’s likely you will be entertained by traditional polka melodies, and other street entertainment as you debate which of the many restaurants, or bars you’ll head to later!

The square has plenty of market stalls selling wood carvings, amber jewellery and traditional ceramics. But, they are pricer here, so shop outside the square for more affordable prices.

Personally, I prefer browsing in the nearby Kazimierz district, where trendy boutiques and cool cafés line the streets around the 16th-century Old Synagogue.

Royal Route & Wawel Castle

Work off a hearty breakfast as you make your way up from the river Vistula to the elevated site of the stunning 14th-century castle.  The views over the city are fantastic.  

Visit independently, or as part of an alternative Krakow Walking Tour which combines tickets to tour Wawel Castle and Cathedral. Both are pivotal parts of Polish history – religious and royal!

Schindler Factory & Kazimierz

Schindler’s Factory is now a museum that helps visitors learn about how the owner worked to save 1200 Jewish citizens during Nazi occupation here in World War 2. You may have seen the film based on this true story : Schindler’s List.

You can tour on your own (we did) or book tickets for a guided tour if you prefer. Use the Official Schindler’s Factory Museum site to buy your tickets directly.

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Going Underground in an authentic miners life cage to enter the world’s longest active salt mine is fun. There’s so much more than just seeing dark caves – it really is a whole city and the scale blew my mind. I’ve been twice and would go again as it’s so unique.

Hundreds of incredible sculptures from salt reflect Poland’s culture – past to present – you can even get married in a grand hall underground! Yes! everything we saw was carved out of salt. 

We did this as a multi-generation trip and it is suitable for all ages although it does require some walking.

Auschwitz-Birkenau

We took a day trip a little out of town to do an Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour. I wasn’t sure what to expect, and I imagine everyone arrives with their own expectations and assumptions.

Even as we parked up, the barbed wire fencing and wooden buildings set the tone. As we entered hut after hut, I will never forget the images I encountered but at the same time, it was something I’m glad that we had this experience first hand.

Where to Stay in Krakow

We happily recommend both these hotels which we’ve personally stayed at:

Hotel Francuski – only 600m from the train station and right on the main old city this is a stunning hotel with an old feel decor.  

Art Garden Residence  – a 10-15 minute walk from the main square, this is a quieter area but still close to the action. Clean and comfortable rooms.

🔍 Click Here for More Krakow Accommodation Options

A highlight of our visits to Krakow is venturing outside of the main tourist areas to suburbs like Kazimierz District. Strolling around we always find a local restaurant, serving top quality pierogis and other daily Polish dishes.

So, from Poland to another classic European destination – Scotland. Although we grew up in North East Scotland, we love visiting Glasgow – here’s why….

Glasgow – A Cultural Alternative to Edinburgh

Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, is often overlooked as visitors rush to Edinburgh. Being Scottish we fully understand this pull – Edinburgh is fantastic but honestly it is suffering from over-tourism.

Glasgow is a fantastic second city, blending rich history with a vibrant modern culture — there’s a reason it’s known as “the people’s city.” Sitting on the banks of the industrial River Clyde, Glasgow has character in spades often in plain sight.

How to Get to Glasgow

Glasgow Airport has strong international connections across Europe, the Middle East, and increasingly North America. Flights are often more affordable than flying into Edinburgh.

From the airport, the Glasgow Airport Express (Service 500) takes around 15–20 minutes into the city centre.

Top Experiences in Glasgow

Visit the Burrell Collection

This is first on our list because this FREE museum remains a unique experience – I vividly remember a first visit 30 years ago, and still love coming here.

It reopened in 2022 after extensive updates and is award winning and a jewel of Glasgow’s culture with 9,000 items on display.

As well as the collection of art from around the world, you can learn about Glasgow born William Burrell, who created this fascinating collection. Open Monday-Thursday and Saturday: 10am-5pm and from 11am on Friday and Saturday, come when it opens for fewer crowds.

Tour Glasgow’s Tennants WellPark Brewery

In Scotland the Tennants brand is part of the fabric of life. Lager has been produced at this site for over 450 years. Take a tour and see first hand look at how it’s been done since the 1500s.

Their tours last approximately 1.5 hrs and cost from £17 per person. Age 18+ only. If you are short on time, you can sample Tennants in pretty much every pub in Glasgow!

Relax At Loch Lomond

For an easy escape from the city, head to nearby Loch Lomond, part of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. With around 30 small islands within it, this is a favourite spot for both locals and visitors.

It’s easiest to visit on a guided tour unless you have a rental car, allowing you to stop at picturesque villages like Luss or Balloch. You can hike, take a boat trip, or simply enjoy the scenery — a perfect taste of Scotland without committing to a full road trip.

Guided Murals Tour

When we were younger, Glasgow wasn’t always seen as an easy place to visit. Areas like the Gorbals had a tough reputation and it was a little daunting even driving through here.

Today, those same areas have transformed, and the city is filled with vibrant street art. A guided mural tour by a local is a fantastic way to discover these works while listening to stories about the artists behind them.

Listen to Live Music in Glasgow

Spend an evening listening to live music and you’ll quickly understand why Glasgow is the UK’s only UNESCO City of Music.

Whether it’s a superstar playing in Hampden Stadium (where we’ve seen Ed Sheeran), or a local finding fame at the world famous King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, where Oasis was ‘discovered’, the choices are endless.

It doesn’t have to be fancy to have a good time – in fact if you ask at your hotel, they’ll give you recommendations for all genres from pubs to the famous Barrowlands.

Where to Stay in Glasgow

Having spent a lot of time in Glasgow for work and leisure, there’s no shortage of fantastic places to stay. I’ve always loved the luxury hotel that is One Devonshire Gardens close to the Botanical Gardens, but it is a short drive into town.

An alternative hotel in central Glasgow that we’ve stayed at and love the location is the Radisson Blue. Just across from the Central Train Station its perfect for Argyll Street shopping and restaurants in the West End and welcoming to return to and relax in after a busy day.

One of the things we love most about Glasgow is its raw energy. It doesn’t try too hard to impress, but somehow always does.

Whether it’s the music, the people, sports, or the constantly evolving cultural scene, Glasgow is a second city we keep coming back to.

And our Glasgow vs Edinburgh article gives you more insights into things to do both cities and how to get between them if you are interested.

Porto – A Charming Alternative to Lisbon

While Lisbon, Portugal attracts more visitors, Porto offers a different experience – more relaxed, with a riverside setting, full of history and charm.

Established by the Celts, ruled by the Romans, Porto was provisionally the capital before establishing it’s own identity.

With a rich mix of old and new, its setting on the river Douro is hard to beat for a weekend jaunt (from within Europe), or as part of a longer trip to Portugal.

How to Get To Porto

Porto is well connected with direct flights from across Europe via airlines like TAP Air Portugal, Ryanair, and easyJet. There are also seasonal direct flights from the USA, including services from New York and Newark

On arrival, take the Line E (Purple) which runs from the airport into town every 20 or 30 minutes.

Porto is around a 3 hour drive from Lisbon if you prefer to fly in to the capital. Alternatively, take direct trains between the cities – it’s a lovely journey which we’ve taken and much prefer to driving.

Top Experiences In Porto

Panoramic Views Of Porto

Porto is a joy to explore on foot. It is compact, characterful, with endless outdoor cafes to take a break as you feel like it.

If you can, add in a climb up 200 steps of the 18th century Torre dos Clérigos to your itinerary. With 360 panoramic views of the city, river and its many bridges, it’s quite breathtaking – and I took so many photos in all directions.

At 75 metres (almost 250 feet) tall, we suggest you visit early in the morning or wait and go at night – it’s a whole other experience when the lights go down.

Open 9am to 11pm, it’s €10 for daytime visits (tower and museum) and €5 for evening tower only entry.

Ride the Gaia Cable Car Across the Douro River

It’s a short ride – 5 minutes! But don’t let that stop you. The experience of gliding over the river, spotting iconic sights like the bright red tiled roofs where port is stored, was a highlight.

The gondola cars are fairly small with a maximum of 8 people and it was efficient with little waiting time when we crossed over. It will cost you 6€ for a one way trip and 9€ for a return ticket.

It’s easy to see the cable cars stations as you walk around town but if you are taking the metro, or want a destination to put into your Google Maps App, you’re looking for Jardim do Morro station.

You arrive at the Gaia side of town which means you’re ideally located to do some Portuguese wine and port tasting.

Go Port and Wine Tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia

If you enjoy wine, a tasting experience (or two) in Porto is a must. Vila Nova de Gaia is home to historic cellars, where you taste a range of Portuguese wines and Port.

Although not a fan of port, it’s worth trying here as the quality is excellent and I was pleasantly surprised how smooth it tastes. Totally more drinkable than Aunt Charlotte’s Christmas sherries which was an annual ‘treat’ growing up.

Combining this with a local food tour is even better as the food here is delicious. There are many to choose from, but this popular one is worth checking to see if it fits for you.

Get lost in Bolhão Market

Open Monday to Friday from 8am – 7pm, and 8am to 6pm on Saturdays, this is a historic city market, which runs for a full block/street in Porto.

Yes, it may feel a bit rundown (we like to call it authentic), but crammed with local farm produce, flower stalls, and the fresh fish of the day! You can also find handicrafts and cafes.

Over 100 years in operation, it’s worth making time to enjoy the sights and smells of fresh baked goods. Come here early and enjoy a morning coffee and pastry when you need a break.

An Evening in Ribeira

In my view this is the most beautiful part of Porto. Sitting outdoors on a warm summer’s evening enjoying dinner, we had views of Dom Luis I Bridge and the Vila Nova da Gaia cellars.

Lit up at night, it’s easy to see why this has UNESCO World Heritage status. Our ideal after dinner activity was strolling along the Cais da Ribeira, a curved street full of places to enjoy a drink or shop.

Where to Stay in Porto

We highly recommend choosing a place to stay on or near the waterfront in Porto. Our choice was the Pestana Hotel, situated in a world heritage site and right on the river bank.

Our accommodation was superb and location hard to beat right on Ribeira Square. It’s a breeze to enjoy a river cruise – they leave from the hotel deck. With only a 10 minute walk to Porto Cathedral and Torre dos Clérigos.

One of our favourite memories from our time in Porto was how easy it was to slow down and relax.

From lingering over a glass of wine by the river, to simply wandering around with no particular plan, we left feeling recharged, and a favourite Portuguese wine list.

Why Second Cities Make Better Travel Experiences

We hope these second city destinations have inspired your next trip. If your idea of travel is a relaxed mix of culture, food, and local experiences — rather than a fast-paced checklist — these cities are a perfect fit.

For multi-generational trips, Scotland and Portugal are fantastic options. For couples, Bruges and Krakow offer ideal historic getaways. And if Peru is on your list, we highly recommend spending at least a few days in Cuzco rather than rushing through on the way to Machu Picchu.