Best Places for Culture in the World
Travellers’ Choice Awards
Best of the Best Destinations
Culture Destinations - World
From museums and historic sites to local flavours and traditions, the experiences in these spots are truly one-of-a-kind.
The Travellers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best title celebrates the highest level of excellence in travel. It’s awarded to those who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period. Out of our 8 million listings, fewer than 1% achieve this milestone.
01.
U.S. citizens still need to jump through a few hoops to visit Cuba, but as visitors from around the world know, this island offers some amazing opportunities for cultural exchange. Havana is a mix of old-world architecture and of-the-moment culture. Head out of the capital city to the small town of Trinidad to see more Spanish colonial architecture. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fantastic home base for a visit to the Valley of the Sugar Mills, a pocket of land that formerly served as the centre of Cuba’s sugar industry.
Great for
After dark
Art & history
The great outdoors
Bars
- We visited Cuba around 40 times since first visit in 2002. In recent years we more and more often visit other Caribbean countries. We travel 3-4 times per year, usually for two weeks and accumulated some valuable, in our opinion, experience, which may help other people to understand what to expect during their vacation. We visited Paradisus Varadero (PV) 20 times (last time February 2024). We also several times visited Paradises Rio De Oro, Holguin, Cuba (PRO) and in April 2024 Paradisus Los Cayos (PLC) Cayo Santa Maria, Cuba. We would like to discuss a few topics: what is difference between different Paradisus resorts; Royal Service (royal section) or just regular section of the resort and why Cuba/what to except in Cuba? You could scroll down and choose topic/question of your interest. 1.Why Cuba/what to except in Cuba? If you are visiting Cuba first time you have to remember that Cuban vacation different from other Caribbean resorts. You have to be ready, even in the Best resorts that most likely are going to be small (at least) issues related to everything, from your accommodation to whoever knows what. Service may be different and not as efficient as you would expect. BUT there are many advantages. Cuba is the safest Caribbean country. If you are beach lovers - they have one of the best beaches. Cuban live music, cigars and Cuban rum, nice climate (often more dry and less hot (especially Varadero area) that in other Caribbean countries) and one of the best beaches create very specific Cuban aura, which urge us to come again and again to Cuba. Yes, service is different. Cuba is socialist country and Cuban people can’t be essentially fired. They are also very proud people and it is common to experience very slow and let say not the best quality service, but you have to learn manana (Spanish) means tomorrow, relax, wait and not push too much. However, if they like you and if you tip them, you will receive incomparable, very personal and warm service, essentially preferential treatment. Just tipping may not produce the same result (try to develop personal connection). However, it is important to remember, if you choose resort run only by Cuban Government and especially cheaper resorts, service may be disaster. So choose very carefully. Selection of the better resort means also less number of Cuban people at the property and among the quests. PV is actually a very good choice and it is run by Melia corporation, Spanish corporation specializing in Cuban business and they know how to handle Cuban specifics. From our experience, service in Melia chain in Cuba overall is very good (especially in the Royal Service). 2. Accommodation: Royal service - accommodation is significantly better with many small details (outdoor shower, Jacuzzi etc), which make your stay much more enjoyable. PV and PRO – villas, 2- storey, very similar. PLC is relatively new resort, 4- storey buildings, more modern. Want less insect in the room do not stay on the first floor. Many rooms in PV (general section and less degree Royal service) have beautiful real ocean view. PLC – no real ocean view. 3. Beach: PV - the beach (located along regular section) is a “jewel”, it is long, very deep and wide, have many palm trees. You will find whatever you want - natural shadow or a lot of open space for sunbath. Ocean is shallow and clean, sandy bottom, usually calmer than in adjacent resort (due to the cove shape) and it could fit anybody: from kids to swimming lovers. SUNSET!!! Excellent snorkeling. There is no essentially beach at the Royal Site at PV and PRO (there is a pool). It takes less than 5 minutes to walk to the beach (regular section) or you can take cart, which sometimes take time. PV – if you walk along ocean beach to see adjacent properties (some very popular) - you will see that beach of adjacent properties – only narrow piece of sand along ocean without palms. PRO – many stones at the bottom of the ocean (rocky bottom), but good snorkeling. You might need swimming shoes. PLC- excellent sandy beach, sandy bottom, ecologically pristine area, but there is no palms (could be very hot even under umbrella) and beach is narrow. No good snorkeling. 3. Food: Be positive. There is always basic variety with Spanish flavors (sausages etc). Excellent coffee. Try papaya (always available and very good for digestion). If you come at the opening of restaurant it always would be better selection and much cleaner. If food is very important to you do not go to Cuba. Royal service quality and variety is much better. 4. Air conditioned bar/restaurants: PV and PRO -Only in Royal service and Family/reserve. No at regular site (unless you go to La Carte restaurant). If you are visiting from May to November remember about it (mosquitos). 5. Drinks: At the Royal Service bar is very formal and essentially is almost empty during evening hours, but they have excellent selection of drinks. However if you want to feel life, celebration, listen music and to be in the middle of event you have to go to the regular site. In PV view from the bar/lobby is magnificent (cigar, Cuban rum and ocean view plus sunset!!!). It is often overcrowded and full of life, but service is decent and you will enjoy it. Of course, selection of the drinks is different, but still very decent. PRO and PLC - ocean not seen from lobby bar. 6.Health issues and bugs: We have never ever had any problems and our rule is simple- if we experience any problems (for example diarrhea etc.) we never visit resort again. Mosquitos –May to October, evening hours, proximity of bushes. Availability of air conditioned restaurants and bar is very important (see number 4 above). 7. Entertainment: It is a very good quality, especially if you like classic music and live Cuban music. They have also very good shows for kids. 8. Driving distance from airport. PV and PRO – around 40 minutes. PLC – one and half hours. 8. Choose Royal service? It is more expensive but everything is better than general/regular site. There are many repeat guest, who is coming back again and again. 8.Which Paradisus resort I would prefer? After visiting Paradisus Los Cayos in the April 2024 we are coming back to Paradisus Varadero in the November. Overall: It is very important to know what you want from your vacation: beach versus pool, food, service, accommodation? If you know ideal place let me know, please. If you want slightly different experience from other Caribbean countries – Paradisus Varadero is excellent choice. Choose wisely what is better for you Royal Service or Regular Site. Be open mind, relax, remember manana and you will like it. Have a question, ask me and support my work by like.
@val100Reviewed October 2024 - Best vacation ever! If you’re looking to have an amazing time with great and friendly staff, gorgeous beach, good food, awesome entertainment, this is the hotel for you. Special shoutout to the entertainment team who are always working hard to ensure you’re having the best time - Yorki, Yordanis, Keski, Juancarlo as well as the staff at the beach bar. Can’t wait to go back. THANK YOU FOR AN AMAZING TIME!!!!
@taniad500Reviewed October 2024 - What a beautiful resort… amazing staff… taking care of every need you may have… would come back again oh and the pools… just fantastic…thank you so very much Carlos👍. I really like the job of entertaining team and the professionalism of the butler team and guest services office.
@katsM9209KLReviewed October 2024 - We have been here since Sept 14 -Oct 4. It has been nothing but amazing. We have connected with so many workers here ,they are very attentive to us.The animation team works so hard for everyone to have great time from the beach to pool to night time dancing. Anna, yonaton, Abril, Yami, Nyeli, Christopher, Christian, and the rest of the team amazing job. We love you all and we will be back alway Rooms: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Location: 5/5 Hotel highlights Romantic, Great value
@ginabO1203EKReviewed October 2024 - So its a very nice hotel. First time 914 . Its clen when i arrive and fresh. Buffet for breakfast ive just been once but every thing is cool. I love the position too cause is short old habana and Miramar distance . I think i will return with my familiy in april. Thank Aston and all the staff. Spot to GS Yary and the team, and Daniel Spa.
@306yamileteReviewed October 2024
02.
Incan majesty and Andean baroque exist side-by-side in Cusco's stone streets, epitomized by the Qoriacancha palace and the church of Santo Domingo flanking the Plaza de Armas. In this high-altitude melting pot of Amerindian and mestizo culture, you'll find extraordinary textiles, lively summer festivals and archaeological wonders.
Great for
After dark
Hiking Tours
Historical Tours
Art & history
03.
Where better to go for a romantic holiday than to the great testament of love, the Taj Mahal? Built by the grieving Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his late wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal’s unrivaled beauty explains why it’s regarded as one of the eight wonders of the world. A visit to India wouldn’t be complete without it. Other must-experience destinations in Agra are two other UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the sandstone Red Fort and Fatehpur Sikri.
Great for
Historical Tours
Art & history
Archaeology Tours
Cultural Tours
04.
The oldest university in the world isn’t Oxford or the Sorbonne—it’s the University of Al-Karaouine, and you’ll find it in Fes el Bali. This walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will transport you back to mediaeval times. Visit the ancient maze-like quarters of the Medina to Fes el-Bali and the four imposing Gates of Fes, with their distinctive Moroccan tile work. You can walk, or, if you're brave, take a taxi—the daredevil drivers will have you hanging on for dear life.
Great for
Art & history
Safaris
4WD Tours
Cultural Tours
05.
Once known for smog, traffic and tacky architecture, Athens is a city reformed thanks to fortunes brought by the 2004 Summer Olympics. Spotless parks and streets, an ultra-modern metro, new motorways, an accessible airport and all signs in perfect English make the city easily negotiable. Meriting more than a stopover en route to the islands, sophisticated Athens sites include many pillars of Western history, from the Acropolis to the Temple of Olympian Zeus, as well as treasures in the National Archaeological Museum.
Great for
Historical Tours
Bars
Archaeology Tours
Cultural Tours
06.
You've probably heard that Guinness tastes better in Dublin (fresh from the factory), but what you may not know is that Dublin is a perfect destination for the whole family. No, we're not suggesting you let the kiddies drink a pint. Instead, take them to the Dublin Zoo, to feed the ducks in Stephen's Green or on a picnic in Phoenix Park. Scholars enjoy walking in the literary footsteps of such writers as Yeats and Joyce, while discerning shoppers have their pick of designer boutiques.
Great for
Historical Tours
The great outdoors
Bars
Cultural Tours
07.
Colombo is the gateway to Sri Lanka for most travelers—but don’t be tempted to simply pass through this diverse and interesting city. Take a train ride along the coast to Mount Lavinia, a popular beach, or explore the Talangama Wetland, which several TripAdvisor travelers say is the perfect place to take a break from the bustling streets of the city.
Great for
Multi-day Tours
Art & history
Safaris
Cultural Tours
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08.
Hue is clustered around the Perfume River, which splits the capital of the Nguyễn Dynasty in two. There are endless must-see historic sites, especially those that are UNESCO World Heritage designated. Sightseeing can include the ornate Imperial Citadel, colorful Thanh Toan Bridge, royal tombs and the Forbidden Purple City. Spend a moment in quiet contemplation if you visit Hue Jungle Crevice, where thousands of citizens were pushed to their deaths.
Great for
Historical Tours
Art & history
Cultural Tours
Eco Tours
09.
Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city, renowned for its heritage, culture and festivals.
Take a long walk around the centre to explore the World Heritage Sites of the Old Town and New Town, as well as all the area’s museums and galleries. Then stop for a delicious meal made from fresh Scottish produce before heading out to take in one of Edinburgh’s many events — including the famous summer festivals of culture, or the Winter Festivals of music, light and ceilidhs.
Great for
Historical Tours
The great outdoors
Bars
Cultural Tours
10.
Tradition collides with pop culture in Tokyo, where you can reverently wander ancient temples before rocking out at a karaoke bar. Wake up before the sun to catch the lively fish auction at the Toyosu Market, then refresh with a walk beneath the cherry blossom trees that line the Sumida River. Spend some time in the beautiful East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, then brush up on your Japanese history at the Edo-Tokyo Museum. Don’t forget to eat as much sushi, udon noodles, and wagashi (Japanese sweets) as your belly can handle.
Great for
Historical Tours
Bars
Cultural Tours
Rail Tours
11.
We hear the question, "What’s the next Prague?" a lot. But while we’re all for discovering great new destinations, we hardly think Prague is over. Sure, everyone’s heard of it, but it’s still a grand city with extraordinary historic and cultural sights, and it’s definitely worth a visit. The often-rebuilt Prague Castle has overlooked the city since the 9th century, and the synagogues and cemetery of the Jewish Quarter are must-sees. Nightlife here is diverse and plentiful, from trendy clubs to sophisticated wine bars to late-night cellar bars.
Great for
City Tours
Historical Tours
Theme parks
Bars
12.
Santiago is one of those metropolitan joys where the more you look, the more you find. Funky cafes and dance clubs dot Bellavista, Forest Park art collections range from pre-Columbian to contemporary, and architecture runs the gamut from the 16th-century San Francisco Church to mirrored office towers. Shop with the locals at Mall Panora¡mico and give your palate meals to remember with hearty Chilean fare.
Great for
Wine Tastings
Full-day Tours
Hiking & camping
Bars
13.
The town that gave the country (and port wine) its very name, Porto is Portugal’s second-largest metropolis after Lisbon. Sometimes called Oporto, it's an age-old city that has one foot firmly in the industrial present. The old town, centered at Ribeira, was built on the hills overlooking the Douro River, and today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 14th-century São Francisco church is a main attraction, as are the local port wine cellars, mostly located across the river at Vila Nova de Gaia.
Great for
Wine Tastings
Full-day Tours
Historical Tours
Cultural Tours
14.
Sometimes referred to as the capital of Africa, Addis Ababa is a buzzing hub of economic, social and political activity and home to such notable offices as the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. The diversity of its people is reflected in the many churches, mosques and museums, including the Ethiopian National Museum which houses the fossilized skeleton of Dinkinesh, or Lucy, the Australopithecine discovered in the area in the 1970s.
Great for
Historical Tours
Art & history
4WD Tours
Cultural Tours
15.
Originally founded as a Roman city and now home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Seville is bursting with antique charm. The Alcazar palace complex is a stunning collage of architectural styles, and the Cathedral will impress you with its beauty and its status as the burial site of Christopher Columbus. The Metropol Parasol is the world’s largest wooden structure, a massive mix of grids and swirls that contains a market and a terrace observatory.
Great for
Wine Tastings
Concerts & shows
Private and Luxury
Historical Tours
16.
If you currently think your neighbourhood coffee shop is nice, you might want to stay out of Vienna’s coffeehouses. After you’ve gotten used to these palatial, yet welcoming cafes—and their delicious coffee and Sacher torte—your local café will pale in comparison. Between coffee breaks, visitors can explore Vienna’s Schonbrunn Palace and Imperial Palace. And if you have a chance, catch a performance at the State Opera House—it’s not to be missed.
Great for
Art Tours
Historical Tours
Theme parks
Bars
17.
Singapore is known as a bustling metropolis that also happens to be one of the cleanest and safest cities of its size in the world. (Just make sure you heed the local laws—something like spitting in the street might merely be considered rude in your hometown, but here, it carries a severe penalty.) You'll find historic sites like the Thian Hock Keng temple, superlative shopping (including gargantuan malls) and numerous beaches.
Great for
Historical Tours
Bars
Cultural Tours
Unwind
18.
In progressive Berlin, the old buildings of Mitte gracefully coexist with the modern Reichstag. Don't miss top historic sights like the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, the Brandenburg Gate and Potsdamer Platz. The city's great zoo makes for a fun break from touring the staider attractions.
Great for
Historical Tours
Running Tours
Bars
Cultural Tours
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19.
Amman's layered history is reflected in its diverse people and its varied architecture. The city is home to a multidenominational and multicultural population. Even within the midst of the ultra-modern commercial centre, there is evidence of its ancient roots, with colorful souks, Roman ruins, cultural museums and monuments painting a picture of the history of the region.
Great for
Historical Tours
Hiking & camping
Archaeology Tours
Cultural Tours
20.
The birthplace of the tango is, like the dance itself, captivating, seductive and bustling with excited energy. Atmospheric old neighbourhoods are rife with romantic restaurants and thumping nightlife, and Buenos Aires' European heritage is evident in its architecture, boulevards and parks. Cafe Tortoni, the city's oldest bar, will transport you back to 1858, and the spectacular Teatro Colon impresses just as it did in 1908. Latin America's shopping capital offers the promise of premium retail therapy along its grand, wide boulevards.
Great for
Art Tours
The great outdoors
Bars
Cultural Tours
21.
With a rich pre-Colombian history, Ecuador's capital was founded on the ruins of an Incan city but offers everything a modern traveller might need. It remains the least-altered historic centre in Latin America and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Quito’s important sites include baroque gems like San Francisco and Santo Domingo monasteries, as well as La Compañía church and college. This huge city sprawls across a breathtaking Andean valley surrounded by volcanic peaks.
Great for
Hiking Tours
Bars
4WD Tours
Cultural Tours
22.
Hong Kong's a great city for an adventurous eater. Stop at a street vendor for fish balls on a stick or stinky tofu. Bakeries offer wife cake, pineapple buns and egg tarts. Or opt for as much dim sum as you can eat. If you're tired of local and regional Chinese specialties, check out upscale offerings from some of the world's top chefs, like Joel Robouchon and Alain Ducasse.
Great for
After dark
City Tours
Half-day Tours
Bars
23.
Ten million people call vibrant, passionate, sprawling Bogota home. The energy of this metropolitan heart of Colombia is in part fueled by its hundreds of eclectic and authentic dining hot spots, fantastic wines, and frequent foodie festivals. Ask the locals where they like to eat, then walk off your empanadas and aji with a stroll through the historic district of La Candelaria or during an indulgent shopping adventure on the North Side.
Great for
Historical Tours
Hiking & camping
Bars
Coffee & Tea Tours
24.
Long fought over by warring empires, the city of Yerevan survived centuries of foreign occupation, finally becoming independent with the fall of the Soviet Union. This capital city, a center of Armenian culture, has celebrated its freedom with a flurry of construction and a growing population. Despite this push forward, history survives in Yerevan - The Institute of Ancient Manuscripts houses books dating back to the 9th century, and the ruins of the Erebuni Fortress, built in 782 BC, still stand.
Great for
After dark
Historical Tours
The great outdoors
Archaeology Tours
25.
The historical centre of Baku reveals its tumultuous past, from its roots as a Silk Road port city, through its oil boom to its Soviet period. The old city is a maze of alleys, mosques, historic buildings and remnants of fortification, including the Palace of the Shirvanshahs and the Maiden Tower, now listed among UNESCO's World Heritage Sites. Much more than a historic site, the city hosts vibrant arts and cultural activities, as well as a bustling modern business sector.
Great for
After dark
Bars
Archaeology Tours
4WD Tours
