From Volgograd to Melbourne. 9 hospitable cities in the world, where you should go on a trip

1. Matera, Italy

A small city in southern Italy last year ranked first in ranking Booking.com users. Settlements on the site of modern Matera appeared even during the Paleolithic. And the city that was built in their place is probably of Greek origin. The old part of Matera is carved into the rocks and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The most remarkable building is the church of Santa Maria di Idris, founded in the 12th century. It is located on a cliff and consists of several cave rooms and outbuildings outside. The cave house of Vico Solitario is worth a look: until the 1950s, peasants lived in it, and authentic furniture and household items have been preserved in the interior. After the walk you can have a snack. Locals will gladly treat you to sweet crispy peppers and piñata, a dish of lamb, potatoes and vegetables cooked in a clay pot.

2. Taitung, Taiwan

The city on the Pacific coast is suitable for recreation at any time of the year. The peak tourist season is from May to October, but if you do not like the heat, you can safely go in winter. The average temperature in January is plus 25°C.

Taitung attracts tourists with the proximity of the two islands. In just an hour you can get to the volcanic Luidao, which is interesting for its picturesque rocks and hot springs. A little further is Lanyu, on the slopes of which live orchids and other tropical plants. In Taitung itself, you can visit Buddhist and Taoist temples. And also look at the noisy night market, where they sell food and local products.

3. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is mentioned in several hospitality ratings. In this small town, you can walk for hours on foot, seeing the many sights. For example, the Gothic Church of Our Lady, built in the XIII century. It contains a marble Madonna and Child - this is the only statue of Michelangelo, which taken out from Italy during the lifetime of the sculptor. It is worth taking a walk along the market square and taking a look at the medieval Belfort tower - it is considered one of the symbols of the city.

There are dozens of chocolate shops in Bruges and there is a museum where visitors can see the process of making sweets and try fresh candies. The interesting places for gourmets do not end there. For example, you can go to the brewing museum or the french fries museum - the Belgians consider it their national dish.

4. Volgograd, Russia

To feel the atmosphere of hospitality, it is not necessary to go to the other side of the world. Travel to Volgograd. According to the SuperJob study, this city is the most hospitable in Russia. 60% of the residents surveyed act to attract more tourists.

Among the main sights of the city are Mamaev Kurgan and the monument "Motherland Calls", which included in the top ten tallest statues in the world. Nearby is the Battle of Stalingrad panorama museum and the Gerhardt steam mill built in the early 20th century. This building was destroyed during the battles and was not restored in memory of the war. It is also worth visiting the Old Sarepta Museum-Reserve. Here visitors are introduced to the history of the Volga Germans. It was created on the basis of the complex of the colony of the religious brotherhood of the Hernguters, who came to the Russian Empire in the 18th century at the invitation of Catherine II.

5. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

City in the highlands of Guanajuato recognized the friendliest readers of Conde Nast Traveler magazine. It combines monuments of Spanish colonial architecture and Mexican flavor. The main attraction is the Church of St. Michael the Archangel, built of pink stone.

San Miguel de Allende is also called the city of artists. You can visit the building of the former textile factory "La Aurora" - now it houses creative workshops. And if you want a souvenir to remember, you should look at the craft market, where they sell ceramics, glass and wood products, gemstone jewelry and antiques.

6. Tampa, USA

If you are looking for unusual places in the USA, head to Tampa. Airbnb website calls its one of the most hospitable cities in the US. It is located on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, and therefore is great for a beach holiday. Children will love Tampa: the city has attractions, zoos, and various museums. For example, the Museum of Science and Industry features interactive exhibits that a child can touch. The Florida State Aquarium is located on the central promenade. Here you can see jellyfish, sea turtles, sharks, penguins and otters. You can also visit the zoo in Lowry Park - the animals live in it in conditions close to natural.

In addition, in Tampa it is worth strolling through the lively Ybor City area, where you can find vintage shops, Mexican and Cuban restaurants. Art lovers will certainly appreciate the Tampa Theater. Its interior resembles a Mediterranean courtyard with sculptures and flowers, and the ceiling is made in the form of the night sky.

7. Nafplio, Greece

Nafplio is an ancient city located 2 hours from Athens. Located on the coast of the Argolic Gulf, it was an important port in the Middle Ages and has retained many sights. The Venetians built the fortress of Palamidi here. To climb it, you need to overcome almost 900 steps. But the effort will be rewarded - it offers a view of the city and the bay. Another fortress is located on the uninhabited island of Bourdzion - it occupies almost its entire area.

By the way, there is a lot of delicious ice cream in Nafplion. And if, in addition to dessert, you want something more substantial, choose seafood, meat and vegetable dishes. In Greek taverns there is always a hospitable atmosphere, and they will be happy to suggest dishes to your taste.

8. Bled, Slovenia

The city is located on the shores of a glacial lake and is surrounded by the Alps — fans of beautiful landscapes will definitely not be disappointed. Lovers of outdoor activities will also like it: you can go mountain climbing, rock climbing, scuba diving or just cycling.

The main attraction of Bled is the castle on top of a 130-meter cliff near the lake. The first mention of it was made a thousand years ago, and the building acquired its modern look in the 16th century. The castle grounds are open to the public. It houses a historical museum, exhibitions and festivals.

By the way, the local community is actively developing sustainable tourism: it monitors the quality of water in the lake and the cleanliness of coastal areas, planting new trees.

9. Melbourne, Australia

This city has become the friendliest in versions British insurance company William Russell. The evaluation took into account various parameters, for example, the level of happiness of residents and the presence of interesting sights. Many tourists have warm impressions of the Queen Victoria Market. On an area of ​​seven hectares, you can buy Australian cuisine, clothes and shoes, jewelry, handmade cosmetics and much more.

Among the attractions of Melbourne is Federation Square, which is surrounded by numerous restaurants, galleries and boutiques. In addition, it is worth taking a walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens, where rich collections of plants from different parts of the world are collected. Various birds live on the territory, such as black swans and cockatoos.