10 Charming old cities from Around the world

I love traveling to cities with a lot of history, where rich pasts pair with cute, charming old towns. During my travels, I love old buildings, cobblestone streets, and cafés with character. I like the modern cities too, but not much can beat strolling the colorful streets of Lisbon or eating pierogi at the main square in Kraków with the sounds of trumpet call from the clock tower. Therefore, I’ve prepared a list of my favorite charming old cities around the world.

1. Cartagena

With sunshine, fruit stands, music, and history, Cartagena de Indias is a Caribbean gem that you shouldn’t miss. The intact colonial architecture, sweet smell in the air, and white sand beaches are only a few reasons why Cartagena de Indias is one of the most charming cities.

2. Cusco

Cusco is a former capital of the Inca empire, and the Spaniards left behind some incredible buildings. Cusco is often underrated, as it’s treated as a stopover on the way to Machu Picchu. However, this lively, colorful city deserves a longer visit. The excellent food, history, and surrounding landscapes make Cusco one of the most beautiful travel destinations.

3. Colonia de Sacramento

A little town in Uruguay, just across Rio de la Plata, is usually a one-day stop for those visiting Buenos Aires. Cobblestone streets, old cars, and the riverbank create a beautiful atmosphere in this special Uruguayan town. There isn’t much to do in Colonia de Sacramento. The town simply invites everyone simply to be, and that’s where the beauty lies.

See also: 10 top places in South America that should be on your bucket list.

4. Lisbon

I went to Lisbon a few years ago, and I’ve dreamed of returning since that day. I remember thinking, “after Lisbon, other cities will have to try hard to impress me”. Wall and floor tiles with many shades of blue and meticulously painted designs are the symbols of Lisbon, together with century-old wooden trams. Those details create a unique charm that you can’t miss.

5. Kraków

A beautiful castle and a big square with a tower and a dragon legend attract many people to visit Kraków, a former capital of Poland. This city also boasts lovely architecture and many hidden, old-fashioned restaurants where you can eat the best pierogi and bigos in town. Every hour, the trumpet sounds announce the time, and you can hear the horse-drawn carriages in the distance. Kraków just would not be the same without them.

     6. Sacramento

Being in Sacramento is like traveling buy cheap doxycycline online back in time to cowboy days. This is a place that you have to visit at least once for the saloons, candy shops, and old buildings. Staying in Sacramento is one of those experiences that make you feel like being in a classic Western film.

    7. Prague

Prague is a real gem among European cities. It’s a place where Bohemian meets modern, where elegant fashion shops and Baroque architecture both line the streets. The two worlds fit together perfectly. A green river divides the city, and many bridges join it. Prague has a feeling of separation that strengthens the sense togetherness and brings a wave of fresh air.

See also: How to spend 4 days in Prague.

    8. Marrakech

Walking into medina of Marrakesh is like a feast for senses. The fragrant air penetrates your nostrils, the fast-moving merchants invite you to enter their shops, the music and snake charmers give a strong sense of uniqueness of Marrakech. I visited this beautiful city two times, and I think it’s one of the most romantic cities in the world. 

See also: Top tips to make your Marrakech experience better

     9. Madrid

Madrid’s old city isn’t only regal architecture, famous painters, or poets and their stories. You can’t experience Madrid without its restaurants. Food, coffee, and charming old restaurants are what makes Madrid special.

See also: 5 best places to eat chocolate con churros in Madrid

     10. Granada

This town in Andalusia is known for the beautiful Alhambra. During my two extensive visits to Granada, I used to climb the chaotic cobblestone streets of El Albayzín, the neighborhood from the Moorish era. From there, the sunsets were even more beautiful and the buildings of Alhambra even more magnificent. I usually spent the evenings in one of the town squares, where I soaked up the street artists’ music while enjoying tinto de verano and tasty tapas. This is a one-of-a-kind town that I’ll never forget.

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Traveling is a beautiful experience, especially if we can discover so many incredible corners of the world. I love nature and landscapes, but I also like spending time in cities, sipping coffee in an old café, observing the locals, and learning the history. These are only a few charming cities that I love. I can’t decide which is my favorite, as each one is special in its own way. Which city from the list have you been to? Or maybe one of them is your dream destination?

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