Mapping out the holidays for the rest of the year? You’ve got great timing.
If you combine your annual leave with the UAE public holidays for 2024 and the odd weekend, you’ve got some rather lovely long breaks to make the most of.
For maximum enjoyment, it’s time to start web surfing, looking for the places you’d like to explore.
Unless you are a particular fan of airports, direct flights from Dubai are likely to be among your top criteria.
For the greatest choice of direct flights from Dubai, Emirates will be your first port of call, especially considering all the new Emirates routes and upgrades planned for 2024.
So, here’s a look at all the places to which you can book direct flights from Dubai with Emirates.
Split by length of flight, to help narrow down those all-important travel decisions, these are the destinations you can reach without a stopover.
JUMP TO:
- Direct flights from Dubai: Less than 3 hours
- Direct flights from Dubai: Less than 5 hours
- Direct flights from Dubai: less than 7 hours
- Direct flights from Dubai: Less than 9 hours
- Direct flights from Dubai: Less than 11 hours
- Direct flights from Dubai: 11 hours plus
These are all the direct flights from Dubai via Emirates Airline for 2024:
Direct flights from Dubai: Less than 3 hours
Amman, Jordan
Satisfy your hunger for all things cool and cultural in Amman with trips to see the Amman Citadel, Cave of the Seven Sleepers, Roman Temple of Hercules and the Roman Theatre. If you like tanks, you’ll enjoy stepping into the Royal Tank Museum, which has more than 150 of the war vehicles on display.
From 2 hours 55 minutes
Ahmedabad, India
Follow in the footsteps of the Father of the Nation when you visit Gandhi Ashram. If you like cars, ride along to the Vintage Car Museum where you’ll find over a hundred rides, from cars to carriages, to check out. Jama Masjid is another spot you may want to see; the mosque dates all the way back to the 15th century.
From 2 hours 35 minutes
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
The capital of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat is known for its beautiful mosques: the Ruhy Mosque, for instance, has a gold dome and the Artogrul Gazi Mosque has been inspired by Istanbul’s Blue Mosque.
From 2 hours 30 minutes
Baghdad, Iraq
Located on the Tigris River, Baghdad stands in the heart of ancient Mesopotamia. If you find yourself in the city, visit the Iraqi National Museum, which will take you on a journey of early civilisation, and walk you through the rise and fall of mighty empires.
From 2 hours 35 minutes
Baku, Azerbaijan
When in old city, one of the things to do is climb atop Maiden Tower and watch the sun cast orange embers as it sets. But the thing you really want to pay attention to in Baku is architecture and the eras the buildings can span. There’s the old (restored) Bibi Heybat Mosque and the ultra-modern Flame Towers that define the city skyline.
From 3 hours
Dammam, Saudi Arabia
Spice, incense and perfume will vie for attention at Share Al Hob (also known as The Love Market) in Dammam. In the evenings, the complex, which has many gold stores, comes alive with performers, live-sketch artists and musicians. This is the fifth-largest city in Saudi Arabia and home to the first oil well that gave results, so it’s only right that one pays homage to the years gone by when in town. Head to Heritage Village, which has restaurants (sample the seafood) and artefacts, antiques, and manuscripts.
From 1 hour 20 minutes
Erbil, Iraq
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Erbil displays influences of the Persians, Greeks and even the Mongols. Stop by the UNESCO World Heritage Centre Citadel of Erbil. And then at Kurdish Textile Museum, where you’ll find out about traditional weaving methods.
From 2 hours 55 minutes
Faisalabad, Pakistan
You know you’ve reached the centre of Faisalabad (previously known as Lyallpur) when you see the clock tower. There are eight bazaars around this tower. Today, it’s the third-largest metropolis in Pakistan. Did you know the city was renamed Faisalabad in honour of King Faisal of Saudi Arabia?
From 2 hours 50 minutes
Islamabad, Pakistan
If you gather cultural treats like a magpie gathers shiny things, you may want to check out Islamabad. Once here, cab it to the Pakistan Monument for a lesson in symmetry. Close to this space is The Lok Virsa Museum, where you’ll find art and history meet. If you’d like a good view of the city, try Daman-e-Koh.
From 2 hours 50 minutes
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
This seaside city has lots going on, it’s the venue of the annual Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and music festivals such as Balad Beast and a delicious food scene. This year, a number of resorts are planned to give you the best views of the Red Sea. If you like adventure, the water sports here are definitely worth a try. And if you don’t, you’ll still want to hang out by the beach and see the sea dive into the horizon.
From 2 hours 50 minutes
Karachi, Pakistan
Karachi is the largest city in Pakistan and has bustling bazaars, ancient sites – and Lollywood (Pakistan’s film industry). Walk around and keep your eyes peeled, you may just be brushing shoulders with celebrities. This is also the place where you want to explore great street food, with nalli biryani, nihari, bun kebab and so much more to sample.
From 1 hour 55 minutes
Kuwait
The Kuwait Towers are a defining landmark in Kuwait – but they aren’t there just for show. Not only is there an observatory in one of them but there are also restaurants you can eat in as you take in the view when you head up to the upper sphere of the Main Tower. Another must-visit is Kuwait’s oldest market, Souk Al Mubarakiya, where you’ll find Arabic handicrafts, traditional clothing and even perfumes.
From 1 hour 40 minutes
Kolkata, India
If you like gorgeous sunset views, head to the areas near the Howrah Bridge, which connects Kolkata to Howrah over the Hoogly river. Here, as boats float idly by and cars rush over the bridge you can see the sun colour the sky in a myriad of colours. There’s art and museums to visit here and a lovely spread of cuisines to try. Feeling adventurous? Head to the nearby Sundarbans mangrove where you might spot a tiger in its natural habitat.
From 2 hours 35 minutes
Lahore, Pakistan
Begin your sightseeing here with a trip to the Lahore Museum, which is the country’s oldest. It began welcoming visitors in 1894 and has a permanent collection of about 60,000 artefacts. There are plenty of ancient sites in the city, but we recommend seeing the beautiful tomb of Emperor Jahangir – which dates back to 1637 and has traditional Mughal architecture and an ornamental garden, and is located on the banks of the River Ravi.
From 2 hours 50 minutes
Manama, Bahrain
If you really want to understand Bahrain, go to Bahrain National Museum for an in-depth, up to date lesson in history. There’s also a rich opera scene in Manama – it’s home to Bahrain National Theatre, the third-largest theatre in the Middle East. If you feel up to taking a short ride outside the city, you’ll come across Qala’at al-Bahrain, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From 1 hour 1 minutes
Mumbai, India
If you are a fan of Bollywood, a Mumbai tour is a must do. There are tour groups that will take you around the city pointing out the famous people’s homes and at the end of the day, you can head to Juhu Beach where you’ll probably find some famous people hanging out too.
From 2 hours 55 minutes
Madinah, Saudi Arabia
Rooted in history, Madinah is a must visit for those who like all things culture. Madinah, for instance, is home to the The Masjid al-Qiblatain (Qiblatain Mosque), where it is believed Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) received the command to change the direction of prayer to Mecca.
From 2 hours 30 minutes
Muscat, Oman
Hang out at Al Qurum Beach if you’ve got the time – it’s draped in golden sand and offers stunning views of clear turquoise waters. If you are on the lookout for traditional architecture, we suggest a trip to Al Alam Palace, which was built by Imam Sultan Bin Ahmad. Another must-visit is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, with its tall arches, lanterns, domes and chandeliers.
From 1 hour 15 minutes
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
From stargazing after dune bashing in the desert to enjoying live performances, there’s a lot to do in the capital of Saudi Arabia. Start things off by visiting the 65-metre viewing platform called the Sky Bridge. At 300 metres tall, it offers a stunning view of the city and beyond. The city also has a fabulous dining scene, with everyone from ROKA to Meraki making an appearance.
From 1 hour 55 minutes
Salalah, Oman
If you are in the mood for a nature-filled getaway, zip away to Salalah, which has lush green landscapes, lovely weather and stunning waterfalls. Carry your binoculars with you to Salalah for there’s plenty of bird watching you can do. Species you’ll find here include the Blue-cheeked Bee-Eater, European Roller, Gray-headed Kingfisher and the Pied Kingfisher.
From 1 hour 50 minutes
Sialkot, Pakistan
You’ll find yourself rushing to get the most out of your trip in Sialkot, there’s so much to see. Highlights of your visit should include Sialkot Fort, Iqbal Manzil, Clock Tower, Imam Ali-ul-Haq Mosque, and Allama Iqbal Library.
From 3 hours
Quetta, Pakistan
Indulge your fruit tooth when you head to Quetta. It’s got fresh and fabulous plums, peaches, pomegranates, apricots, apples, melons and cherries. And a steady supply of saffron. And if you like tulips, you are in for a treat too – the red and yellow varieties bloom near the city.
From 2 hours 10 minutes
Direct flights from Dubai: Less than 5 hours
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
The Ethiopian capital is nestled in the highlands of the East African country. Spice lovers need to check out some authentic Ethiopian cuisine and check out the city’s markets. While in the country, check out the UNESCO city of Axum in the north and snap some pictures of its impressive obelisks.
From 4 hours and 25 minutes
Almaty, Kazakhstan
Take a scenic car ride to the top of Kok Tobe Hill where you’ll be rewarded by a stunning view of the city. Plus, there is an amusement park, so you can also have a ride on a Ferris wheel. Between visits to the many cool cafes and coffee stops around the city, stop in at Zenkov Cathedral, an orthodox church made using wood, but curiously no nails.
From 4 hours 10 minutes
Beirut, Lebanon
Some rocks are worth looking at. In Beirut, the giant stone formation worth observing is known as Al Raouche and it can be seen from Corniche el Manara. There are plenty of museums around the historic city too including Nicolas Sursock Museum and the National Museum of Beirut. But if you truly want to experience the city, do it through your taste buds, try the chicken shawarma, which promises juicy, well spiced chicken with every bite.
From 4 hours 15 minutes
Bengaluru, India
If you like to explore the nightlife in the cities you visit, Bengaluru – India’s IT hub – is the place you want to visit. Not that there isn’t anything else to do here – there are parks and a 19th century palace to see. But let’s face it, we do like a good party.
From 3 hours 30 minutes
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Learn all about Kyrgyzstan with a trip to The State History Museum, where you’ll see odes to the past including a fully decorated yurt and excavated Buddha images. In front of the museum stands a public square called Ala Too Square, which is perfect for people watching.
From 3 hours 5 minutes
Cairo, Egypt
Empty bags at the ready and haggling hat on, we are headed to Cairo, the land of frankincense, Egyptian mummies and antiquities. From oud to perfumes and oils, you’ll find many things to buy here – just remember to haggle for the price a bit. Since you are in the city, don’t forget to head over to the nearby Giza for a look at the ancient pyramids and the Sphinx.
From 3 hours 50 minutes
Chennai, India
Get your culture fix with a trip to the vibrant Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Chennai. The main building has a 37-metre high tower, the façade of which is has carved mythological figures on it. While in the city, watching a Bharatanatyam dance show is a must-do. As is sampling the Chettinad cuisine that Tamil Nadu is so famous for.
From 3 hours 45 mins
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Looking for trip with romance and adventure? Hop aboard a Colombo flight. Take a boat ride around Beira Lake, where you’ll also see the Buddhist temple (Seema Malaka) on the water. The National Museum of Colombo and the Gangaramaya Temple are also places you should stop over at.
4 hours 30 minutes
Hyderabad, India
Do your taste buds a favour and try the biryani in Hyderabad. The city, home to Charminar monument, is the nexus of food with flavour. Try the nihari and bheja fry with fluffy naan for a treat you won’t forget in a hurry.
From 3 hours 25 minutes
Istanbul, Turkey
Hagia Sophia Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Beylerbeyi Palace – the list of places to see is long in this culture-rich city. But there also some places you should go for pure unadulterated fun. Such as the Grand Bazaar, where you can haggle over everything from antiques to pillowcases to your heart’s content. Try the hammam while you are in Istanbul – this is a bath ritual with a difference.
From 4 hours 35 minutes
Kabul, Afghanistan
Looking for a way to upgrade your home or your outfit? Kabul is the place to go for value for money. Things to buy here include carpets and jewellery and handicrafts. Give the retail therapy a break with a trip to see the Gardens of Babur, which is also the site of the ancient emperor’s tomb.
From 3 hours 25 minutes
Kathmandu, Nepal
It can get real cold in Kathmandu, so get yourself a yak wool sweater in the main bazaar as you explore it. It’s home to Durbar Square (with temples dating back to the 12th century) and Boudhanath Stupa (a world heritage site). Wear comfortable shoes – there’s a lot of walking involved here – the streets can get quite narrow and there are many steps to take before you come across the truly beautiful vantage points. Tired? Order a plate of momos (dim sums) and a hot, steaming bowl of thukpa (broth-based noodle soup), which should revitalise you.
From 4 hours
Kozhikode, India
Experience the backwaters of Kozhikode with a trip on a house boat. Here’s the really wonderful thing about this experience: You’ll get freshly caught and cooked fish aboard the boat every day that you stay. The coastal city is also home to a number of beaches, in case you prefer to experience the waves with the ground beneath your feet.
From 3 hours 50 minutes
Kochi, India
Sip on speciality coffee as you decide what you are going to do with your day when you are in Kochi, home to backwaters, beautiful architecture and drool-worthy delicacies. Keep an eye on the architecture when you are in the city – it’s a mix of Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences.
From 3 hours 50 minutes
Larnaca, Cyprus
The Zenobia Wreck Diving Site is a cool water experience you’ll want to dive into. The boat sank in 1980 and rests on her port side between 19 and 42 metres. It regularly makes it into the diver’s best dive sites list. If you prefer a sandy, on-the-beach day instead, head to Finikoudes Beach, which is close to the city centre. For a dash of history, ride over to Kamares Aqueduct, which dates back to 177.
From 4 hours 10 minutes
Lucknow, India
When in Lucknow, get a guide and head to the Lucknow Residency, which is where the first war of independence in India happened in 1857. It’s a complex with ruins and stories of war, brutality and resilience around every corner. If you are a foodie, there’s a wonderful opportunity for you too, right down the road from the Residency, you’ll find a place called Naimat Khana where you can eat food supplied from Lucknow homes. Age old recipes are replicated in the kitchen all for a guest’s pleasure.
From 3 hours 30 minutes
Malé, Maldives
Sun, sand, and cool blue waters await those who travel to Malé, Maldives (where you can stay or use as a short-stop on the way to other small islands). Go off-land to experience the Maldives at its best – the waters are home to a diverse array of flora and fauna – and you may catch a glimpse of some truly exotic species.
From 4 hours 10 minutes
New Delhi, India
You can get some of the best of what India has to offer in its capital, New Delhi. Head to Dilli Haat for a feast for the eyes – it’s where artisans from across the country gather to sell their wares. The city is known as a foodie destination and a trip to old Delhi’s Chandini Chowk won’t disappoint. The paratha walle galli has over a hundred versions of the stuffed bread. For a hipster hub that’s built into an ancient ruin, head to Hauz Khas Village. The photos won’t disappoint.
From 3 hours 10 minutes
Nairobi, Kenya
Google Nairobi and it’ll throw up a whole bunch of animal encounters. From giraffe meetings and feedings to watching baby elephants and a whole host of different animals in the Nairobi National Park you’ll be spoilt for choice. But there are other things you may want to check out too such as the Kenya Railway Museum, which has exhibits from the defunct East African Railways.
From 5 hours
Peshawar, Pakistan
Buy yourself a comfortable pair of shoes in this city – it’s famous for them. Peshawar dates back all the way to 39BCE and it’s the oldest city in Pakistan. Walk around the Masjid Mahabat Khan Mosque, which was built in 1630, and head indoors for a look at a lovely tiled interior. The city is also great if you like to shop. Things to buy include semi-precious stones, carpets and honey.
From 3 hours 10 minutes
Tbilisi, Georgia
The capital of Georgia is a photogenic city. Take the cable car ride, located next to the river, for stunning views of the city. The thing that will dominate these photographs will be the bow-shaped Bridge of Peace over the River Kura. (You can walk across it later – and take more pictures.) At the end of your gondola ride, you’ll find yourself well on the way to the Fortress Narikala but not before you are stopped by hawkers with exotic birds trying to get you to take a photo with them for a small sum.
From 3 hours 25 minutes
Thiruvananthapuram, India
The capital of the south Indian state Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram is known for colonial architecture and art galleries. If you want a view of traditional Kerala-style architecture though, head to Kuthira Malika where you’ll find sloping roofs, pillared terraces and intricate carvings on wooden ceilings.
From 4 hours
Yerevan, Armenia
Yerevan Cascade links the upper and lower parts of the city. And one of the best ways to see the city proper is to summit the Cascade; at the top you’ll also see the (often snowcapped) peaks of Mount Ararat. The Matenadaran Museum Of Ancient Manuscripts is the world’s largest collection of Armenian manuscripts. While walking around the city, keep an eye out for murals and paintings across the city walls.
From 3 hours 15 minutes
Direct flights from Dubai: Less than 7 hours
Athens, Greece
You’ll find yourself feeling healthier and stronger once you start eating the local (Mediterranean) cuisine Greece is famous for. And that’s perfect, because you’ll need your strength for all the sightseeing you need to do; from the Acropolis to the Parthenon, the hot spots await.
From 5 hours 10 minutes
Bangkok, Thailand
Keep yourself hydrated in Bangkok with coconut water, which you’ll find sold in little stalls across the city. And then get started – there are temples to visit, things to buy (everything from tiny Buddha statues for good luck to candles set in bamboo plasters), and so much to see like the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and Jim Thompson House Museum.
From 6 hours 5 minutes
Belgrade, Serbia
March through the Upper and Lower Town of the Belgrade fortress; the views are of the Sava and Danube river confluence. While in the fortress, visit the Military Museum for ancient weapons from armour to axes, and Kalemegdan park for a languid stroll.
From 5 hours 55 minutes
Bucharest, Romania
One of the landmarks of Bucharest is the Romanian Athenaeum, where you can take in a concert on your trip. Another monument you may want to take a picture of is The Triumphal Arch, located on Kiseleff Road.
5 hours 25 minutes
Budapest, Hungary
When the skies dim and the city lights up, it’s a beautiful sight. See Budapest, the capital of Hungary by moon and lamp light as you take a cruise down the river Danube. A tour of the city will take you over the chain bridge, which connects hilly Buda with flat Pest. Budapest is called the city of baths and a dip into its thermal waters will reveal why this is so. Among places to visit in the city are Vajdahunyad Castle and Heroes’ Square.
From 5 hours 55 minutes
Brussels, Belgium
Bozar, the multi-purpose Centre of Fine Arts building is home to galleries, concert halls and cinemas. It’s also worth a visit if you are a fan of cool architecture – and let’s face it, who isn’t? Learn more about the city at Brussels City Museum. And pepper your trip generously with hops – we hear the stuff they make over there is excellent.
From 7 hours
Copenhagen, Denmark
Zip your way across the city on a Nordic seaplane. It’ll give you memories – and dibs on best story – for a lifetime. It’s also the right place to stop and smell the flowers; Copenhagen is known for its beautiful parks and gardens. Check out Kongens Have (The King’s Garden), Denmark’s oldest royal garden to understand what we are talking about.
6 hours 55 minutes
Dhaka, Bangladesh
As one of the world’s most populated cities, it’ll be no surprise to read that there’s lots going on in the Bangladeshi capital. Expect out-of-this-world street food, artsy fare and rickshaws, rickshaws and more rickshaws.
From 5 hours and 10 minutes
Entebbe, Uganda
Introduce the kiddos to wildlife at the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre, where they can not only learn about animals native to the land but also how they live and play. Or you can take a safari and see the animals at play. If you want to relax after a long day’s fun learning about animals, head to the banks of Lake Victoria where the azure waters of the large lake (it’s one of the African Great Lakes) is sure to soothe.
From 5 hours 30 minutes
Frankfurt, Germany
If your eyes are drawn to art, you may want to stop in at Städel Museum, which has more than 700 years of art under a single roof. Stop by the Frankfurt Cathedral for a look at Gothic architecture and if you are feeling particularly adventurous, take a day trip to the Neuschwanstein Castle.
From 6 hours 45 minutes
Hanoi, Vietnam
Ride a cyclos down the 2,000-year-old Old Quarter and you’ll find silver and street food competing for your attention. There are loads of museums here too – from the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to the Vietnamese Women’s Museum. If you want a glimpse into what life was like in prison, check out the Hoa Lo Prison.
From 6 hours 45 minutes
Krabi, Thailand
There are just some places that when you visit feel like you’ve walked into a postcard. And Krabi is one of them. With glass-clear waters and thick forests you could be forgiven for thinking you’ve ended up on the ‘Lost’ island. Some of the most popular destinations here are the Phi Phi Islands and the Railay Beach, which is accessible only by boat.
6 hours 20 minutes
Krakow, Poland
Take a trip down the memories of royals when you visit Wawel Royal Castle. You can also visit the Wieliczka salt mine, which has been a tourist hot spot since 1722. The labyrinth of tunnels is about 300km long and spread over nine levels. Schindler’s Factory makes for an interesting stopover for travellers with an interest in history and the German occupation of Krakow from 1939 to 1945.
From 6 hours 15 minutes
Lyon, France
There’s no way you can travel to Lyon and think of it as anything but steeped in history. From medieval and Renaissance architecture to Teatro Galo-Romano (Roman theatre), you’ll find traces of a rich past wherever you go.
6 hours 55 minutes
Port Louis, Mauritius
Despite being a tiny island in the Indian Ocean, there’s plenty going on in Mauritius. The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanic Garden is one of the best botanical gardens in the world and you can explore rugged caves at Le Morne Brabant Mountain.
From 6 hours and 35 minutes
Milan, Italy
The fashion capital of the world calls for shopping, of leather goods and well-designed clothes. If you want to complement your retail therapy trip with some cultural sightseeing the Arco della Pace (Arch of Peace) and Cathedral Square may be the perfect contenders.
From 6 hours 45 minutes
Munich, Germany
Stop by open-air food market Viktualienmarkt for everything food, from pickles to cheese. And if you want to do something unusual, watch (or join) people surfing on the Eisbach (ice brook). Another cool thing to consider is the Glockenspiel (clock stories) on Marienplatz; there’s a clock on the central square that depicts events from the city’s history with the help of bells and life-sized figures.
6 hours 20 minutes
Nice, France
Inky blue waters hug a sandy shore in the view that you get from the Castle Hill of Nice, which has the ruins of an old fort, cathedral and other buildings at the top of stone hill.
From 6 hours 55 minutes
Prague, Czechia
Catch the sunrise from Charles Bridge and you’ve secured at least one good pic for the ‘gram. The bridge once connected Old town to the Castle and so was pretty important. Speaking of the castle, now that you are here, check out the ninth century construct and the cool façade of St George’s Basilica.
6 hours 25 minutes
Rome, Italy
Where do we even begin with this one? There’s the Colosseum of course, where you can see where the gladiators once fought; the Pantheon and the Roman Forum. You can also visit the Vatican and see St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square.
From 6 hours 20 minutes
Sofia, Bulgaria
Beautiful Sofia is the capital of Bulgaria and its landmarks bear influences of Greek, Roman, Ottoman and Soviet occupation. It’s got huge parks and boulevards but also a few museums, and churches to visit. The Archaeological Museum, for instance, is located in a former mosque that dates back to 1496. And the 13th-century Boyana Church is on Unesco’s World Heritage list.
From 5 hours 30 minutes
Tunis, Tunisia
Keep a date with history at Carthage, which was an ancient Phoenician city that was later colonised by Rome. Today the remains of its roots remain and the old sites are a draw; there’s an old amphitheatre and ruins of the Baths if Antoninus and even cisterns.
From 6 hours 10 minutes
Venice, Italy
Step into a gondola and float along the city, stopping for things like food and beverage as you go. Stop by Piazza San Marco and ride the elevator to the top of the bell tower for lovely views of the city.
From 6 hours 20 minutes
Vienna, Austria
Ex-residents of Vienna include Mozart, Beethoven and Sigmund Freud. So you are strolling the streets that were once walked by the greats when you go to Vienna. Take in a show while in the city – the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra is one of the best orchestras in the world. And in the middle of all the cultural treats, enjoy a culinary one; a schnitzel breaded and fried just so.
6 hours
Warsaw, Poland
The Royal Castle in Warsaw, which is a state museum, and POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews are must visits when in Warsow. As is a food tour where you’ll likely find favourites such as pierogi (dumplings) and Obwarzanek Krakowski (ring-shaped bread).
6 hours 5 minutes
Zagreb, Croatia
Take in the beauty of Zagreb, which is known for its 18th- and 19th-century Austro-Hungarian architecture, by sitting in one of the cafes that line Tkalčićeva Street and watching people go by. In the Upper Town, places to visit include the Gothic Zagreb Cathedral and in Lower Town the main square, Ban Jelačić. Looking for something of the beaten track? Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships, which features relics of relationships gone by.
From 6 hours 10 minutes
Zanzibar, Tanzania
Enjoy the sun, sand and vivid blue ocean lapping at your feet when you go to Zanzibar. And don’t forget to stop over at The Rock Restaurant – to get to which you’ll need a boat. Here you can enjoy sundowners and a lovely snapshot of the horizon. Take a trip to Prison Island where you can see the old jail that was never used and take photos with giant tortoises.
From 5 hours 30 minutes
Direct flights from Dubai: Less than 9 hours
Accra, Ghana
The Ghanian capital sits on the coast and boasts plenty of beaches, interesting monuments and a bustling night life. The architecture has colonial influences as 17th century castles stand side-by-side with modern skyscrapers.
From 8 hours and 30 minutes
Algiers, Algeria
The capital of Algeria is home to winding streets, Ottoman palaces and a citadel. It’s also home to the Great Mosque which is known for its marble columns and arches.
7 hours 10 minutes
Amsterdam, Netherlands
To truly enjoy the Amsterdam experience, begin reading the Dairy of Anne Frank before you go. You can see the Anne Frank House that’s now been converted into a museum to complete the experience. Speaking of museums, there are plenty around the city including the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.
From 7 hours 5 minutes
Barcelona, Spain
Wear comfortable shoes when you go to Barcelona for there’s much walking to be done. See the brilliance of the architect Antoni Gaudí in his masterpieces – Sagrada Família, which is the largest unfinished Catholic Church in the world, and Casa Milà, which has an undulating façade. At the end of the day, settle down for some tapas and grape and get ready for another day of discovery.
From 7 hours 10 minutes
Beijing, China
Before you take off for one of China’s most well-known constructs, the Great Wall of China, take your time to explore the city. It’s home to the Summer Palace, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven and National Museum of China.
7 hours 30 minutes
Birmingham, UK
How could you visit Birmingham without checking out the music scene? The home of UB40, Duran Duran and Black Sabbath is still thriving. Head to The Mill, The Sunflower Lounge or The Jam House for some tunes you’d like to take home.
From 7 hours 5 minutes
Casablanca, Morocco
All aboard the Casa tramway, one of the best (and most affordable) ways to travel in the city. Swim and sunbathe at La Corniche, and even sample some of the local fare here. Before you wrap up your trip, step into a busy bazaar and take home a few memorable things such as jewellery or perfume.
From 8 hours 25 minutes
Dublin, Ireland
Dedicated-to-drink museums, a library with floor to ceiling books and the 13 century Dublin Castle all await the traveller looking to explore Dublin.
7 hours 55 minutes
Durban, South Africa
Make a splash at uShaka Marine World, where you’ll find Africa’s largest Aquarium, fine dining experiences, and the highest slide in an African waterpark.
From 8 hours 20 minutes
Glasgow, UK
Keep those bags packed and get ready to hop aboard the Hogwarts Express. Okay, so it’s been around for a while but The Jacobite only got famous because of the HP movies. And we want a ticket to the cool ride. Still, once you are back, do see the pretty city, including the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and People’s Palace.
From 7 hours 55 minutes
Geneva, Switzerland
Naturally picturesque thanks to its backdrop of cool White Mountains, the city makes for a pleasant break. Try a treatment at one of the spas here for complete rejuvenation. In the evening, dig into some fondue and grape. What’s not to love?
From 7 hours 45 minutes
Guangzhou, China
The birth place of Cantonese cuisine was the capital of China once upon a time, but we simply do not have the time to get into that right now. Modern Guangzhou is a bustling metropolis with more restaurants than any other city in China. Check out Canton Tower to get a nice snap for the gram.
From 7 hours and 25 minutes
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
If you are a war buff, the War Remnants Museum is sure to entice you. But there are a number of museums to suit any taste. There are also day trips you can take from the city, such as to the Cu Chi Tunnels, which is part of a huge underground complex once used for warfare.
From 7 hours 15 minutes
Hong Kong
Get the best views of the Hong Kong skyline from the Star Ferry, which will shuttle you between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. Try the street food – from stinky tofu to dim sum, you’ll find quite a spread.
7 hours 15 minutes
Jakarta, Indonesia
Once you’ve seen the national monument MONAS and National Museum, take a day trip to Bogor Highland Waterfall, which is a couple of hours from the city. It’s a relaxing getaway and makes for cool pics.
From 8 hours 25 minutes
Johannesburg, South Africa
Find your way to the Nelson Mandela National Museum, commonly referred to as Mandela House, where you’ll find memorabilia, paintings and photographs of the Mandela family. Other places to see include the Apartheid Museum and Johannesburg Zoo.
From 8 hours 10 minutes
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
It takes a little perseverance to get to the Batu Caves and the temple – there are 272 rainbow-hued steps to take – but the photos are well worth the ‘gram and the exercise is well worth the view. Take a half-day tour and visit Thean Hou temple, the King’s Palace and Merdeka Square.
From 7 hours 15 minutes
Luanda, Angola
This is where you’ll get a fantastic shot of an impossible looking scene. The The Miradouro da Lua (Viewpoint of the Moon) is a set of cliffs 40 km south of Luanda – and worth a drive to just for the dramatic photos. But if you are not so inclined, there’s still much for you to do including visiting the National Museum of Anthropology and Museum of the Armed Forces.
From 7 hours 45 minutes
Lusaka, Zambia
Hearing the call of the wild? You’ll enjoy a ride to the Lusaka National Park, which is 15km from the city centre and where you can see giraffes, wildebeest and zebra. If you prefer an elephant encounter, check out Lilayi Elephant Nursery, where baby elephants roam.
From 7 hours 10 minutes
London, UK
From Lion King to Wicked to Phantom of the Opera, West End has delighted people for years. And now it’s your turn to discover the productions in play. So after a day spent shopping on Oxford Street, spend the evening soaking up a cool musical.
7 hours 25 minutes
Manila, Philippines
It’s not every day you get to ride a bamboo bike, but in Manila, you can ride it while exploring the oldest district of the city, Intramuros. Here you’ll see one of the country’s oldest Hispanic stone castles, Fort Santiago, churches and even a Spanish colonial house. If food is on your mind, the Binondo district is great for explorers.
From 8 hours 30 minutes
Manchester, UK
The Manchester Craft and Design Center is well worth a visit for The Maker’s Market, where you’ll get one-of-a-kind products to take home. There are also a number of workshops happening on the side-lines, so you can pick up a new skill. And of course a goal has to be seeing the National Football Museum.
From 7 hours and 35 minutes
Madrid, Spain
So here’s the thing, you are going to want to head straight to the churro stand in Madrid and get yourself a churro that’s chocolate covered. Once you’ve dusted off the crumbs, the exploration can begin. Head to Prado Museum to see some of the best artwork on display – it’s got everyone from El Greco to Goya.
From 7 hours 4 minutes
Paris, France
The wind rushes through the grates atop the Eifel Tower so take something warm and cosy when you head up. Once you are up there, get a good view of the well-planned city. Spend your evenings with grape and cheese and perhaps a show or two. We suggest the popular Mulan Rouge for an evening of fun.
From 7 hours 20 minutes
Seoul, South Korea
The first thing to do if you are considering going to Seoul is to line-up the trip with a K-pop concert. The pretty-as-a-picture location is not only home to pop bands and the starting point of K dramas though. So if you want to go sightseeing jot down this list of must-sees: Gyeongbokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower and National Museum of Korea.
8 hours 20 minutes
Shanghai, China
There are some lovely rock gardens in Shanghai, with construction details that will blow your mind. For example, did you know, the height of the threshold of your house indicated your status; the higher the doorstep, the higher you were on the food chain. The Bund, a waterfront area, is a must-visit. As, surprisingly, is the Starbucks Reserve Roastery, which at 30,000 sqft is the largest Starbucks in the world.
From 8 hours 15 minutes
Singapore
Beautiful gardens and glass-and-metal titans live side by side in Singapore. Of course there’s the 101-hectare park Gardens by the Bay to explore. But there’s also Mandai Wildlife Reserve and Marina Bay Sands to check out. Hungry? Try the Hainanese chicken rice, a famous street food here.
From 7 hours 30 minutes
Taipei, Taiwan
We love a bird’s-eye view of a city and Taipei is prepared to serve. Head to Taipei 101 Observatory, which is on floor 89 for sweeping 360-degree city views. Then take a trip to the spot that’s glittering the most from up top – probably the Raohe Street Night Market, which will have food stalls, shops and plenty of entertainment.
From 8 hours 15 minutes
Zurich, Switzerland
Start your trip to Zurich with a visit to the Swiss National Museum, which will give you a good overview of the history of the place. The city is a hub of finance and banking, but there are interesting discoveries just waiting to be made such as Rhine Falls and the Fraumünster Church, which was built on the ruins of an abbey.
From 7 hours 40 minutes
Direct flights from Dubai: Less than 11 hours
Cebu, Philippines
The Filipino city is known for the stunning beaches of Sumilon, Malapascua and Bantayan Island. With more than 150 smaller surrounding islands off the coast, it’s a must-visit for anyone who feels at home at sea.
From 9 hours and 25 minutes
Conakry, Guinea
This capital city in West Africa sits on the coast and has great beaches to show for it. You can visit a huge grand mosque, the nearby botanical garden or take a boat to the Loos Islands for some more isolated fun.
From 10 hours 10 minutes
Denpasar, Indonesia
The Pura Tirta Empul is a Balinese water temple that’s worth a deep dive into. The museum of art and history, Bali Museum, is another one to visit. As is the Badung Market for everything from memorabilia to sharp outfits.
From 9 hours 10 minutes
Cape Town, South Africa
It may be a modern city but it’s surrounded by nature. Cape Towners therefore can be quite outdoorsy. So get those boots on and take a hiking trip up Table Mountain for fresh air and wonderful views. Carry your camera to Boulders Beach – you aren’t going for the sun and sand, you are going for the penguins who are sure to show up.
From 9 hours 40 minutes
Osaka, Japan
The food capital of Japan, Osaka is a lesson in gluttony. Dotonbori district is famous for neon lights, cool entertainment and –of course – a wide range of food. Things to sample here include takoyaki, Okonomiyaki, Ramen and sushi.
9 hours 15 minutes
Tokyo, Japan
Walk past the skyscrapers in the Ginza area at 5am in the morning and head to the Tsukiji fish market to see bidding wars on huge slabs of fish. After watching it all go down, head to one of the nearby smalls which will give you fresh sushi like you’ve never tried it before. There’s a lot to do in the city but we also recommend heading to Akiabara, where you can get all your anime merch.
9 hours 55 minutes
Perth, Australia
Sandy beaches hug the coast of Perth. And Kings Park and Botanic Garden on Mount Eliza offer grand views of the city. There is a good opera and ballet scene in the city too – so pencil in your dates and don’t wait to buy tickets to a show – they may sell out.
10 hours 50 minutes
Direct flights from Dubai: 11 hours plus
Brisbane, Australia
The future Olympic host city sits on the Gold Coast of Australia so expect surf to be well and truly up dudes. At QAGOMA, you’ll find one of the best-designed art galleries anywhere in the world and plenty of great art to go with it.
From 13 hours and 50 minutes
Los Angeles, USA
Now this is where you go to brush shoulders with the celebrities, has-beens and wannabes. Check out Hollywood boulevard and don’t forget a trip to Universal Studios. Take a picture of the Hollywood sign and see the impressions of the hands and feet of stars at TCL Chinese Theatre.
From 16 hours 20 minutes
Melbourne, Australia
Glass windows everywhere and not a moment to blink. That’s what you’ll find at the nearly 300-metre high Melbourne Skydeck. Looking for another view? Check out the sunrise from a hot air balloon. Don’t forget to take your little souvinear from Queen Victoria Market.
From 13 hours 10 minutes
Miami, USA
Welcome to Miami where you’ll find an 83-acre garden named Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, complete with a museum of plant exploration. If you are in the mood to party, move your way to Zey Zey, a music venue in Little River that dishes out sounds like Afro-Caribbean funk, Brazilian disco, salsa, boogaloo or electro cumbia.
From 15 hours 50 minutes
New York, USA
Don’t forget your hot dog from one of the vendors on the side streets when you enter Central Park, where you can take a carriage ride or wend through kilometres of greenery. Once you’ve had your fill you’d better get ready for the bustle of the city for what’s a visit to New York without a visit to Times Square and a show on Broadway?
From 13 hours 55 minutes
Sao Paulo, Brazil
Haven’t taken a cool picture in a bit? Well if you are in Sao Paulo, you are in luck. All you need to do is head to Beco Do Batman or Batman Alley which is lined with colourful graffiti that will light up your feed. Besides the alley, you’ll also find photo-worthy moments in the many monuments, parks and museums around the city.
From 15 hours 30 minutes
Seattle, USA
Sunsets take on a different hue when you are high in the sky – just settle into a seat on the Seattle Great Wheel and you’ll see the difference. And while it’ll give you a good view of the city, maybe you want another, grander view, for which we propose the Sky View Observatory in Colombia Centre, which is on floor 73.
From 14 hours 30 minutes
Sydney, Australia
Catch a show at the multi-venue performing arts centre the Sydney Opera House when you are in the city. And spend a d
