Lonely Planet's annual list of The Best in Travel 2013 includes their top ten countries, top 10 regions and top 10 cities for the coming year to visit. With the input of hundreds of authors and editors their best cities list includes lesser-traveled places like Hobart, Tazmania and Hydrabad, India this year. The popular guide's website states, "Drawing on the knowledge, passion and miles travelled by Lonely Planet's staff, authors and online community, we present a year's worth of travel inspiration to take you out of the ordinary and into some unforgettable experiences."
From their research, here are Lonely Planet's top cities for 2013:
1) San Francisco, California
Picturesque rolling hills and romantic foggy mornings make San Francisco Lonely Planet's number one pick. The city is the epitome of a food city with boundless options for fresh California fare and ethnic cuisine. The night and music scene in the city has something for everyone-from hipsters perched up in Mission District watering holes to the Marina's suited frat boys and girls.
2) Amsterdam, Netherlands
With its winding canals and bike riders that take up most of the city's streets, Amsterdam is one the most enchanting cities in the world. Tourists often come to the city to while away days puffing joints in cafes and drinking tea, where the weed is legal and strong, but the city has much to offer outside the tourist draw. From the Van Gogh Musem to the Rijksmuseum and The Royal Cocnertgebouw Orchestra, the city has an adept cultural landscape. Not to mention the best pancakes you will ever eat in your life.
3) Hydrabad, India
Hydrabad's stunning palaces in its Old City speak to the city's old world beauty. Falaknuma Palace has recently been restored by the Taj Group and is now a striking hotel. With architectural gems abounding travelers can immerse themselves in an Indian city often less explored by tourists that is ripe for exploring.
4) Londonberry/Derry, UK
Londonberry/Derry is home to the Giants Causeway ancient rock formation which is a natural wonder worth exploring. Lonely Planet said the city is the UK City of Culture 2013 which means the historic city is bursting with cultural exploration.
5) Beijing, China
One of the biggest cities in the world and the cultural center of China, Beijing is Lonely Planet's number five pick. Travelers can immerse themselves deep in Chinese culture exploring Beijing's historic architecture such as Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City that is a distinct dichotomy to its hyper modern landscape.
The last Five include:
6) Christchurch, New Zealand
7) Hobart, Tasmania
8) Montreal, Canada
9)Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
10) Puerto Iguazú, Brazil
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