{"id":823,"date":"2016-11-08T08:15:00","date_gmt":"2016-11-08T08:15:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.flytographer.com\/blog\/flytographer-top-cities-to-visit-2017\/"},"modified":"2016-11-08T08:15:00","modified_gmt":"2016-11-08T08:15:00","slug":"flytographer-top-cities-to-visit-2017","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/flyphotoprod.wpenginepowered.com\/blog\/flytographer-top-cities-to-visit-2017\/","title":{"rendered":"Flytographer\u2019s Top 12 Cities to Visit in 2017"},"content":{"rendered":"

Here at Flytographer, we always have travel on our minds. We\u2019re gearing up for the new year by thinking about our must-visit destinations for 2017. Our top travel destinations are scattered all over the world and were chosen for a variety of reasons, but we hope to cross each and every one of them off our list this upcoming year.<\/p>\n

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1. Marrakesh<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

We\u2019re dreaming of the sights, sounds and smells of the vibrant markets of Marrakesh. Situated between the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert, the scenery sets the stage for this city of contrasts. Medina, Marrakesh\u2019s historic Old Town, retains the vibe of days past, but the newer, modern Gueliz district showcases modern Morocco\u2019s trendy restaurants and designer shops. Here\u2019s to getting lost in Marrakesh\u2019s ancient souks for a day.<\/p>\n

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Flytographer: Adil in Marrakesh<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

2. Porto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Lisbon\u2019s little sister is all grown up! This gorgeous coastal city\u2019s staggered seaside buildings give it a bit of an Amalfi Coast of Portugal kind of feel. We\u2019re heading to Porto so we can eat our way through it and wash everything down with the city\u2019s famous libation, Port wine. From markets to Michelin-starred restaurants, Porto\u2019s prime location means fresh, local ingredients are abundant. We\u2019ll be sitting seaside with a glass of wine in hand sampling the local specialties.<\/p>\n

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Flytographer: Ivo & Vanessa in Porto<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Flytographer: Luis & Marta in Porto<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

3. Qu\u00e9bec City<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

For a decidedly European experience this side of the pond, we\u2019ll be dusting off our French dictionary and heading to Qu\u00e9bec City to spend a relaxed weekend getting lost down its cobblestone streets. Deemed a UNESCO World Heritage site, the well-preserved, walled Old Town will whisk you away to a different era. Qu\u00e9bec City is every history buff\u2019s dream and exploring its many museums is a great way to spend a tr\u00e8s cultured vacation.<\/p>\n

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Flytographer: Francis in Qu\u00e9bec City<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

4. Melbourne<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

We\u2019re off to Melbourne for the best in world-class arts and culture. Whether you\u2019re into visual arts, theatre, cutting-edge design, literature or music, Melbourne has something extraordinary to offer. We like to get our art fix while enjoying the outdoors when possible and, unsurprisingly, Melbourne has an outstanding and ever-changing collection of public street art to explore.<\/p>\n

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Flytographer:  Michelle in Melbourne<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

5. Cartagena<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Ah, Cartagena, that beautiful Colombian city blessed with year-round sunshine which makes scheduling a trip there oh so easy. Spanish colonial buildings and a beautifully preserved Old Town are rounded out with sprawling beaches (and that perfect beach climate). Cartagena is one of our top travel destinations of 2017 because it makes the decision between beach or city vacation easy \u2013 both!<\/p>\n

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Flytographer: Juan A. in Cartagena<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

6. St. Petersburg<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

We go giddy for historic architecture, so we\u2019re headed to St. Petersburg. St. Petersburg\u2019s historic skyline has remained unique because of its lack of skyscrapers. Its well-preserved buildings showcase many architectural styles and time periods. Recent renovations have made this imperial city even grander than it once was. From the extravagant excess of Baroque architecture to the whimsically domed Russian Orthodox style, St. Petersburg is a feast for the eyes.<\/p>\n

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Flytographer:  Kate in St. Petersburg<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

7. Ljubljana<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

A still slightly under-the-radar, but quickly becoming a very much on-the-radar destination, Ljubljana is Europe\u2019s hidden hot spot. Slovenia\u2019s capital city means \u201cbeloved\u201d in Slovenian and, fittingly, it\u2019s the perfect spot for a romantic getaway. Ljubljana\u2019s romantic bridges, designated pedestrian zone and plenty of outdoor caf\u00e9s have us strolling hand in hand with our loved ones here next year.<\/p>\n

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Flytographer:  Mankica in Ljubljana<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

8. Budapest<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

We plan to take full advantage of the numerous thermal springs Budapest is built upon. There are plenty of reasons to visit Budapest, but soaking in hot water is enough of a reason for us to take the trip! Budapest\u2019s thermal baths range from old remnants of Turkish occupation to modern spas. Thermal baths aren\u2019t only a strictly daytime activity. Bath amenities include a rooftop pool open all night (perfect for stunning city views) and weekend \u201cSparties\u201d complete with DJs, drinks and dancing.<\/p>\n

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Flytographer: Roky in Budapest<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Flytographer: Dana in Budapest<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

9. Seoul<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

For a truly urban excursion, we\u2019re packing our bags and going to Seoul. Rapid development has transformed Seoul into a dazzling modern city. Seoul\u2019s subway system is the best way to get around. This is a city that rarely sleeps with vibrant shopping centers and markets open late, and buzzing restaurants and nightclubs to see and be seen. With so much to see and do, this fashion-forward, technology-driven city makes it almost impossible to call it a night. Seoul\u2019s beauty really shines, though, when you consider the contrast between its vibrant urban center and the serene temples studded throughout the city. This interesting duality gives Seoul a unique vibe we can\u2019t wait to explore.<\/p>\n

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Flytographer: Allen in Seoul <\/p>\n<\/div>\n

10. Cape Town<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

We\u2019re always after sweeping landscapes and breathtaking views and Cape Town is where we\u2019ll get our fix next year. We\u2019re heading straight to the top of Table Mountain for truly awe-inspiring views. Cape Town was practically created by nature for outdoor adrenaline junkies \u2013 surfing, hiking, cycling and paragliding are all wonderful ways to pass the time in this exquisitely beautiful place.<\/p>\n

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Flytographer: Ron\u00e9l in Cape Town<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

11. Copenhagen<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Foodies will find their haven in Copenhagen. 16 restaurants in Copenhagen were awarded a total of 20 Michelin stars in 2016. Copenhagen is home to Noma<\/a>, what many refer to as the best restaurant in the world. We\u2019ll have to start saving now to make our foodie dreams come true, but as far as we\u2019re concerned, there\u2019s absolutely nothing wrong with planning a vacation around a sought-after restaurant reservation. In fact, we encourage it!<\/p>\n<\/p>\n

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Flytographer: Karin in Copenhagen<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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Flytographer: Liz in Copenhagen<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

12. Kona<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

We\u2019re planning to kick back and relax island-style in Kona. Kona\u2019s climate is perfect for beachgoers as the city gets tons of sunshine and very little rain. We plan to maximize our beach time, so when we\u2019re not lounging, we\u2019re going to get as much surfing, boating, snorkeling and swimming in as possible.<\/p>\n

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Flytographer: Kris & Sandra in Kona<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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