Verona, Italy.
Fewer crowds, lower prices, unexpected experiences. Traveling to the “second city” is a solution for many travelers. Here’s how to avoid holiday chaos.
As the travel season approaches, popular destinations like Rome, Paris, Tokyo and New York are preparing to welcome throngs of tourists. Although these iconic locations offer many attractions, the crowds and exorbitant prices bother many travelers.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, trips to the “second city” are an attractive alternative.
What is traveling to a “second city”?
Traveling to a second city is the expression used for visiting lesser-known destinations rather than the most famous or populated places in a country.
While the term initially described a country’s second-largest city, it actually encompasses smaller, little-known destinations within a nation. These destinations may not have the global recognition of their more famous counterparts, but they often offer plenty of culture and local flavor.
“It is often the smallest and least known city in a region,” said Laura Lindsay, travel trends and destinations expert on the Skyscanner platform.
The advantages of traveling to the “second city”
Travel experts highlight several advantages of opting for secondary cities.
1. Fewer Crowds and Lower Prices: second cities typically offer a more economical and relaxed experience.
2. Authenticity: trips to a second city promote more interactions with locals and deeper cultural immersion.
3. Unique and unexpected experiences: From exploring Crete in Greece to Mallorca in Spain, there are destinations rich in local charm, authentic cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere that many don’t know about.
Travel in secondary cities also promotes sustainabilityby reducing environmental pressure in overcrowded destinations.
“I recently traveled to Italy and Venice, and took a one-hour train ride to Verona, which offers amazing food, landmarks, and hidden gems. The best part is that it wasn’t very populated,” says Ravi Roth, travel expert and host of “The Gaycation Travel Show,” to .
“These trips can provide opportunities to connect with locals and immerse yourself in culture, which leads to a deeper understanding of the city,” argues Gordon Gurnik, director of operations at Hilton Grand Vacations.
The challenges
To make the most of a trip to a second city, it is essential to have a planning thorough.
While second cities offer numerous benefits, they can also have some extra challengesas these destinations may not have iconic landmarks or well-developed infrastructure. Travelers may have to navigate local transportation systems, rent cars, or brush up on the local language in regions where English is less common.
Furthermore, it is essential to research safety and accessibility, especially in less developed areas.
Despite the drawbacks, traveling to a second city offers a rewarding alternative to traditional tourist hotspots.
