Few Greek islands boast an immaculacy comparable to that of Astypalaia — a butterfly-shaped cloistral haven rising from the stunning blue of the Aegean Sea. Captured at certain angles, Astypalaia bears a striking semblance to its not-so-distant yet far more glamorised cousin of Santorini. With its pristine beaches, whitewashed houses, and uncharted walking paths, the island is an explorer's heaven, and a find for those looking to escape the madding crowds of summer vacationers.

The coastline of the Atlantic Sea cradles the elegance of the historical city of Split. Chosen by the Roman emperor Diocletian as his residence, Split accommodates his giant palace, an intricate complex of quaint alleys and squares with over 1,700 years of history, a real city within a city. While the charm of the historic sites captivates many holidaymakers who flock to Split throughout the hot Croatian summer, the unspoiled nature and crystalline waters just make them fall in love.

Often referred to as the "Manchester of Finland", Tampere is a captivating blend of industrial heritage, charming wooden houses, delectable homemade cuisine, and cultural landmarks that echo its not-so-distant past. Immerse yourself in the local culture and unwind in the city's abundant saunas — the largest number in all of Finland.

Yanbu has long been known as little more than an industrial centre with a busy port, but with some of the country's best diving spots and ever more luxury resorts in the area, it is quickly transforming into a coveted vacation destination. The desert beaches are beautiful, captivating, and solitary enough to make your visit a unique experience. There has never been a better time to visit, as the crowds have not yet caught on to this emerging city, and travellers can still have huge expanses of pristine beaches all to themselves.

A gateway between the two nations of the Iberian peninsula, Badajoz lies as close to Lisbon as it does to Madrid or Seville, and the city draws on influences from both sides of the border, as well as from centuries of tumultuous history, to form its distinctive character. Winding medieval alleys and a skyline dotted with palace towers make the historic town a sight to behold, while the remnants of the majestic Alcazaba watch over the city as they have for centuries, once an impenetrable fortress that protected the area from countless invasions.