Five Cities To Visit in 2024

When it comes to natural beauty, there is no city which can rival Queenstown in New Zealand. Situated on the scenic South Island, Queenstown is worthy of its reputation as the adventure capital, providing awe-inspiring tours by land, air and sea. Explore the rugged splendour of the Dart and Shotover rivers in style on a jet boat, or take a hike through the region’s peaceful pine and beech forest following the Tiki Trail.

Queenstown also has the added benefit of being close to the eighth wonder of the world, Milford Sound, so don’t miss the opportunity to cruise the full length of this awe-inspiring, pristine fiord.

For a deep dive into Queenstown’s action-packed outdoors, join our Nine-day Southern Tourer for a closer look at New Zealand's spectacular South Island. 

Savour the moment and embrace the easy-going Portuguese way of life when you visit the capital. Meander through the historic streets, or better yet make the most of the city’s tramcars for maximum sightseeing with minimal effort. For a truly authentic Portuguese experience, spend an evening in a traditional fado house in Old Town, where you can sample local cuisine and an authentic music performance.

For the perfect sun-soaked daytrip, drive along Portugal’s breathtaking coastline to the fairytale town of Sintra. Nestled among rolling mountains and lush forest, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed  site is the ultimate escape, with exotic gardens and sparkling palaces, you will never want to leave this Mediterranean haven.

Uncover the magical destinations of Spain and Portugal on our 11-day Enticing Douro river cruise.

When it comes to natural beauty British Columbia never fails. Summer or winter, Vancouver and its surrounds never cease to stop travellers in their tracks. The city itself has a buzzing creative scene, with the bonus of being surrounded by pristine lakes and world-class ski slopes, with locals and tourists alike spending their weekends hiking the magnificent nature trails or canoeing to the neighbouring islands. Founded by native Vancouverite Nancy Stibbard, Capilano Suspension Bridge offers a unique opportunity to walk among the treetops of one of Canada’s finest coastal rainforests.

If you have the time, Vancouver is also the starting point of the famous Rocky Mountaineer Continental Divide railway route. Travelling from Vancouver to Banff over two days, the Rocky Mountaineer features glass-domed carriages and GoldLeaf service with APT, so lucky passengers can enjoy 360-degree views of one of the world’s most beautiful landscapes in style. 

Experience the natural wonders of the Canada & Alaska with our 18-day Rockies Explorer and Alaska by air, land and sea.

When it comes to culture, Amsterdam has something for everyone. Travel like a local and tour the city by bike, making the most of the city’s exceptional cycle routes and flat terrain. There are a multitude of beautiful districts to explore, but we recommend a wander through the narrow lanes of Jordaan, once the home of working people, now a hub of art galleries, quaint cafes and antique shops. The Museum Quarter is also a must for history and art enthusiasts alike, and includes significant attractions such as the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House.

After a hard day of marvelling at Amsterdam’s charming architecture, stop in at one of the numerous traditional Dutch bars for a cool glass of Jenver (Dutch gin) and a feast of bitterballen (meatballs in breadcrumbs).

Start your European adventure in Amsterdam on our 15-day Magnificent Europe tour.

Tasmania’s unique climate creates perfect conditions for the finest of produce and seafood, and the tiny Australasian island is in a league of its own when it comes to fine dining.  MONA, The Museum of Old and New Art, while made famous by its risqué art exhibitions, also enjoys a reputation for creative cooking, including a decadent high-tea designed to celebrate local ingredients. Hobart also boasts a proximity to a host of exceptional wineries, so it would be unforgivable to miss an opportunity to sample a classy pinot noir while enjoying a sunset over the bay. 

If you are lucky enough to be in Hobart on a Sunday morning, join the throng of chefs and foodies at Farm Gate Market and try local delicacies including freshly shucked Bruny Island oysters, wallaby breakfast burritos and Lady Hester’s much-loved sourdough doughnuts.

Experience (and taste) the very best of Tasmania with our 10-day Heart of Tasmania tour.

These five destinations are well worth a visit in 2024. Secure your place on a journey with APT today. 

Image courtesy of All Canada Photos / Alamy Stock Photo