Every country has one city that gets all the attention: the one on the postcards, the one everyone's been to, the one that comes up first in every search. But spend enough time travelling and you start to notice a pattern: the second city is often where the real character lives. Less polished for visitors, sometimes, but rarely less interesting.
This month's category in The 100 is dedicated to those cities living just outside the spotlight. Not runners-up, not consolation prizes, simply places that happen to share a country with someone more famous. One destination claims the top spot this year, but these four make a compelling case for taking the scenic detour.
Akureyri, Iceland
Reykjavik is most travellers' first stop in Iceland, but Akureyri in the north has everything the capital offers, and arguably more. The odds of spotting the Northern Lights and whales are better here, set against an otherworldly, lunar-like landscape. Dormant volcanoes, frozen lakes and Europe's most powerful waterfall await, while the hot spring spas, Forest Lagoon especially, offer a quieter, more relaxing alternative to the Blue Lagoon's crowds.
Essaouira, Morocco
Morocco has no shortage of extraordinary cities, but Essaouira offers something the others don't: a coastal rhythm that sets it apart. The history, architecture and bustling markets are all present, but the mood is looser here, and deliberately so. This is where Moroccans themselves come to slow down. Windy Atlantic waves draw surfers to the beach, while horse-riding and camel treks offer a more classic way to take it all in. Come evening, fresh seafood and the sound of the ocean do the rest.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
While Bangkok and the islands dominate Thailand's image, Chiang Mai is its authentic heart, nestled among misty mountains with a calmer, more welcoming pace. Crumbling temples like Wat Phra Singh sit near energetic night markets selling khao soi and local crafts. Beyond the city, lush jungles, ethical elephant sanctuaries and hill tribe villages reveal another side to northern Thailand – a soulful counterpoint to Thailand's backpacker-party reputation.
Jaipur, India
For centuries, Jaipur has been one of India's most mesmerising cities – its pink-hued buildings, looming city walls and enchanting Rajasthani cuisine combining into something wholly its own. As the capital of Rajasthan, it's royal India at its finest, with the Amber Fort, City Palace and Hawa Mahal showcasing exquisite craftsmanship. Thriving bazaars add traditional textiles and dishes like dal baati churma, leaving a lasting impression on every sense.
These are just a sample from a category built on the idea that the spotlight doesn't always land where it should. The full list, including the city that claimed top spot this year, is below.
One more thing before you go...
As promised, we're hitting the road. Our Route 66 journey begins in Illinois, where neon diners, historic streets and the spirit of America's Mother Road set the tone for everything that follows.
Join us as the adventure unfolds, one state at a time.
