As the founder of Untravelled Paths, travel isn’t just my job—it’s my way of life. I’m a full-time traveller and have been lucky enough to live all over the globe, across six of the seven continents. I’ve spent extended time in many of the cities we feature, and I’ve even called places like Sarajevo, Kotor and Cape Town home, to name a few! While I absolutely appreciate the pull of the world’s most famous cities, my curiosity has always drawn me towards destinations that feel a little less obvious—places with layers of history, strong local identity and a real sense of soul. These are my favourite cities you can visit on Untravelled Paths experiences, and every one of them has left a lasting mark on me.
Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Sarajevo will always feel like home to me. Few cities in Europe carry such a powerful sense of history and resilience. Here, East meets West in the most tangible way, Ottoman bazaars sit beside Austro-Hungarian architecture, and church bells, synagogue chants and the call to prayer all echo through the same streets. What makes Sarajevo special is its warmth. The people, the coffee culture and the stories shared over a plate of ćevapi give the city a depth that’s hard to describe. Add in its stunning mountain backdrop and poignant historical sites, and it becomes one of Europe’s most compelling capitals.
Sibiu, Romania
Sibiu is one of those cities that quietly wins you over. Located in the heart of Transylvania, it’s beautifully preserved, with pastel-coloured buildings, charming squares and its famous ‘watchful eyes’ peering down from the rooftops. It’s a city that feels lived-in rather than staged, and that’s exactly why I love it. Surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains, Sibiu is a perfect base for exploring rural Romania while offering fantastic food, culture and one of the best Christmas markets in Eastern Europe.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana proves that capital cities don’t have to feel overwhelming. Compact, green and effortlessly stylish, it’s one of Europe’s most liveable cities. I love wandering along the riverbanks, climbing up to the castle for views across the rooftops, and soaking up the café culture that spills out onto the streets. With its focus on sustainability, local food and outdoor living, Ljubljana feels refreshingly forward-thinking while still deeply rooted in history.
Kotor, Montenegro
I’ve spent a lot of time in Kotor, and it’s a city that never loses its magic. Tucked deep inside a dramatic bay, its medieval old town is a maze of stone alleyways, hidden squares and ancient churches. Climbing the fortress walls above the city is a must, the views across Kotor Bay are some of the most spectacular in Europe. Despite its growing popularity, Kotor still has a strong local feel, especially in the evenings once the day-trippers have left.
Marrakesh, Morocco
Marrakesh is a city that awakens every sense. From the moment you enter the medina, you’re immersed in colour, sound and movement. What keeps drawing me back is the contrast: the intensity of Jemaa el-Fnaa balanced by the calm of riads and hidden gardens. The craftsmanship, food and deep-rooted traditions make Marrakesh endlessly fascinating and a perfect introduction to Morocco’s rich culture.
Seville, Spain
Seville has a rhythm all of its own. It’s a city built on passion – seen in its flamenco, its architecture and its love of life. From the grandeur of the Alcázar to the narrow lanes of Santa Cruz, Seville rewards slow exploration. Add tapas bars, orange-scented streets and warm evenings spent outdoors, and it’s easy to see why this Andalusian city captures so many hearts.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is truly one of the world’s great cities. Straddling two continents, it feels like several cities rolled into one. The scale of its history is breathtaking, from the Hagia Sophia to the Grand Bazaar, yet daily life unfolds in wonderfully ordinary ways along the Bosphorus. Istanbul’s energy, food scene and cultural depth make it endlessly rewarding to explore.
Cape Town, South Africa
Having lived in Cape Town, I can confidently say it’s one of the most visually striking cities on the planet. Where else can you go from mountain trails to beaches and vineyards all in the same day? Table Mountain dominates the skyline, while neighbourhoods like Bo-Kaap and Kalk Bay add colour and character. Cape Town’s creative energy, natural beauty and cultural diversity make it unforgettable.
Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi feels wonderfully undiscovered. Its eclectic architecture—wooden balconies, Soviet relics and modern design, reflects the city’s complex past. The sulphur baths, lively wine bars and dramatic hillside setting give Tbilisi a raw, authentic charm. It’s a city that invites curiosity and rewards those willing to explore beyond the obvious.
Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena is all about atmosphere. Its walled old town is a vibrant mix of colonial architecture, music-filled streets and Caribbean colour. I love the way history and modern life blend here, horse-drawn carriages share the streets with street food vendors and contemporary art spaces. With its coastal setting and infectious energy, Cartagena is impossible not to fall for.
Matera, Italy
Matera is unlike anywhere else in Italy. Famous for its ancient cave dwellings, or Sassi, it feels as though you’re walking through history itself. At sunrise and sunset, the city glows in soft stone hues, and wandering its narrow pathways is a deeply atmospheric experience. Matera’s story of regeneration makes it one of Europe’s most inspiring destinations.
Why These Cities?
Each of these cities offers something distinctive – whether it’s history, culture, setting or spirit. They’re places I return to time and again, not just because they’re beautiful, but because they feel real.
If you’re curious about cities that go beyond the obvious and want to experience destinations with depth and character, I’d love for you to explore these incredible places with Untravelled Paths. They’re truly some of the world’s most unique cities and they deserve to be experienced properly.
Written by James Chisnall
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