Eight cities you should put on your 2023 travel list

Planning your big 2023 trip? We’ll show you which destinations to discover – and how best to explore them
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Photograph: davidionut
Written by Time Out. Paid for by P&O Cruises
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There’s a reason why we Brits tend to book holidays at this time of year; just look outside and you’ll have your answer. But the big question is: where in the world should you visit in 2023? And how are you going to get there? 

We reckon it’s time you switched things up a bit. Whether you’re dreaming of sun-kissed ancient sites by the glittering Mediterranean, the dancing Northern Lights or simply sipping cocktails by a pool, you might want to try something new next year: cruises. 

We’ve teamed up with P&O Cruises to bring you a series on exploring the world on the water – starting with this hit list of must-visit destinations. Why are we suggesting you consider a cruise? In this year’s Time Out Index, you told us that you were more stressed out than ever, so clearly, you’re in need of a break! Ironically, planning that trip can be a bit of a headache, especially when you’re in search of authentic experiences off the beaten path. With P&O Cruises, you’ll be able to explore multiple unforgettable destinations without all that planning. The travel happens when you’re asleep then once you step off the ship, you can really make your visit your own – no tourist traps here! 

You can travel around the world from locations across the UK. But if you want our advice? Here are the cities to put at the top of your list. 

1. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Popular for its affordability, rich history and gorgeous coastlines, Dubrovnik is up there with the best places to visit in 2023. Travel here and you’ll be amazed by the architecture, including the baroque St. Blaise Church, Gothic Rector’s Palace and Renaissance Sponza Palace. The magnificent Clock Tower is particularly impressive as its bells get stuck by warriors every half hour. And when you aren’t soaking up history? You’ve got idyllic coastal paths to follow along the cliffs' edges.

View P&O Cruises to Dubrovnik

2. Valletta, Malta

Having been named the sunniest city in Europe, Valletta doesn’t really need to do much to convince you it's a great place to stay (if you want more, it’s number two on our guide to the best things to do in Malta!). The walled city was built in the 1500s  by the Knights of St. John, boasting Baroque buildings that are just darn gorgeous to stare at. If you’re a foodie, you can explore local markets showcasing the unique Maltese cuisine, which blends Italian influences with other Mediterranean flavours. Perfect for eating alfresco.

View P&O Cruises to Valletta

3. Piraeus, Greece

We all know Greece is a dream destination. The Acropolis? It’s legendary. And you won't be too far from it here. Piraeus is a charming port city found on the outskirts of Athens, not too far from all the historical sites you simply have to hit up while you’re visiting. The town was founded in the early fifth century BC, so it's steeped in maritime history. Nowadays, it’s Greece’s largest harbour which makes it a fascinating place to visit if you’re into your boats.

View P&O Cruises to Piraeu

4. Cádiz, Spain

Cádiz is a port town found on the Andalucian coastline. Perched on a peninsula, it’s almost entirely surrounded by crystal-clear water. Which sounds pretty dreamy if you ask us. It’s small enough to explore on foot, meaning you can drop into plenty of local restaurants for almadraba tuna (it’s number three on our top things to do in Spain) as you travel. Culture vultures won’t want to miss out on seeing La Santa Cueva, which is home to several paintings by Goya or travelling into Seville for little education into flamenco; it is the home of it after all.

View P&O Cruises to Cádiz

5. Bridgetown, Barbados

There’s a reason why Rihanna is always trying to get us to visit her home country. Barbados is just downright beautiful, what with its humid climate, pristine beaches and vibrant locals. Book a trip to Bridgetown and you’ll discover all sorts of architectural and cultural treasures (it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011), such as Georgian St Mary’s Church or Barbados Parliament. Spend your days exploring, watching the waves of the Atlantic, and dancing to gospel music. Dreamy, right?

View P&O Cruises to Bridgetown

6. Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland is one of those bucket-list destinations (hello, the Northern Lights are there). Its capital, Reykjavik is a thriving city with plenty to offer its tourists. Not only is it a cosmopolitan city filled with restaurants and nightlife, but it's also a haven for relaxation thanks to its many open-air pools. So, when you start to feel the chill you know you can always take a dip in volcanic-heated water. While you’re there, make sure to explore some of the stunning glaciers surrounding the city, they’re spectacular. 

View P&O Cruises to Reykjavik

7. Tromsø, Norway

Speaking of amazing scenery, have you seen what Tromsø has to offer? The largest urban area in northern Norway, Tromsø is surrounded by jaw-dropping mountain ranges. And yes, it gets very cold in the winter but that’s even more reason to visit – you’re guaranteed snow, after all. And, you’ll hopefully spot the Northern Lights (Norway is, after all, our number one country in the world to see them). In the summer, things thaw out and you can enjoy long sunny days including the very enigmatic-sounding midnight sun. One particularly notable place to visit is the Polaria Science Museum which has iceberg-shaped walls. 

View P&O Cruises to Tromsø

8. Funchal, Portugal

Known as the Garden Island, this gorgeous Portuguese city is filled with sub-tropical plants and flowers. When you aren’t gazing in awe at all of the pretty flora, you can become familiar with the ubiquitous Madeira wine. Created with a very particular type of grape and meticulously produced, it’s the perfect accompaniment to the beautiful landscapes. As for the dining scene? You’ve got a whole bunch of different things to try, from hearty stews to fresh seafood. 

View P&O Cruises to Funchal

Find more travel inspiration with P&O Cruises.

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