Skip to content
Hidden Gems

Travel collection

Hidden Gems

Brilliant cities that often get overlooked for bigger names.

3 destinations3 countries
Destinations
3
Shortest flight
2h 15m
From UK airports
Countries
3
Published
Oct 2026
Reviewed regularly

Less hype, more discovery: these cities reward travellers who look beyond the obvious.

The shortlist

3 destinations to explore.

City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia reflected in blue pools
Spain2h 20m from the UK

Valencia

The home of paella, futuristic architecture and long sandy city beaches.

Porto’s Ribeira district and the Dom Luís I bridge over the Douro
2h 15m

Portugal

Porto

Riverside port cellars, azulejo-tiled churches and a beautifully compact old town.

May–October
Kraków Main Market Square with St Mary’s Basilica
2h 30m

Poland

Kraków

A beautifully preserved medieval old town, cosy cellar bars and outstanding value.

May–SeptemberDecember
01

Practical travel tips

  • 01Shoulder season offers the best balance of weather and crowds.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

  • Valencia, Porto and Kraków offer big-city experiences with fewer crowds and lower prices.

Weekly newsletter

Your inbox deserves a holiday.

One email a week. Real budgets, honest guides and ideas you can actually book.

  • Five escape ideas from your nearest airport
  • One honest mini-guide to a featured destination
  • A practical tip to help you spend less