10. Athens, Greece
9. Panama City, Panama
Panama has one of the quickest-growing economies in Latin America, and Panama City now stands as one of the region's most cosmopolitan capitals. Glistening towers fill its skyline, while those looking for a more historical trip can explore the colonial neighborhood of Casa Viejo and its boutique hotels and underground bars. Take a day trip to one of the many sandy beaches nearby, or catch breathtaking views of the canal.
The city's 5-star hotel prices are 43% lower than the median rate for 5-star hotels around the world.
Median hotel rates (for all hotels): From $90 to $182
Median airfare from the US and Canada (round trip): From $470 to $822
8. Beijing, China
Beijing is home to various UNESCO World Heritage Sites, royal palaces, incredible temples, and ancient alleyways that have stood for hundreds of years. Travelers can also explore portions of the Great Wall.
Besides its fascinating historic sites, the city is home to innovative modern buildings that include the NCPA concert hall and the Olympic Stadium.
The city's 5-star hotel prices are 44% lower than the median rate for 5-star hotels around the world.
Median hotel rates (for all hotels): From $89 to $155
Median airfare from the US and Canada (round trip): From $824 to $1,436
7. Phuket, Thailand
While Phuket is often known for its beaches, its lively city center is teeming with activities for travelers. It's an exciting mix of old and new, with plenty of fresh markets, restaurants, bars, and Chinese Taoist shrines to explore. Today, those visiting the area will find artsy coffee shops and inexpensive boutique guesthouses throughout its alleyways.
The city's 5-star hotel prices are 44% lower than the median rate for 5-star hotels around the world.
Median hotel rates: From $100 to $220
Median airfare from the US and Canada: From $1,077 to $1,518
6. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is home to shimmering mosques and one of the world's largest and oldest covered markets, the Grand Bazaar. Besides its stunning vistas and historic sites, the city also hosts some of the country's best restaurants, chic hotels, and bars that are both intimate and glamorous.
Culinary travelers will delight in edgy fusion dishes that range from Asian and Italian to mouthwatering kebabs and fresh fish.
The city's 5-star hotel prices are 45% lower than the median rate for 5-star hotels around the world.
Median hotel rates (for all hotels): From $103 to $188
Median airfare from the US and Canada (round trip): From $699 to $1,075
5. Bangkok, Thailand
Perhaps one of the best examples of new and old can be seen in Bangkok, where mega-malls sit side-by-side with 200-year-old homes and ancient Buddhist temples.
Foodies will be in heaven here, as the city is home to both endless food carts that serve scrumptious dishes and top-notch restaurants, some of which are perched atop skyscrapers. Plus, more than 400 functioning temples remain throughout the city today.
The city's 5-star hotel prices are 50% lower than the median rate for 5-star hotels around the world.
Median hotel rates (for all hotels): From $90 to $129
Median airfare from the US and Canada (round trip): From $839 to $1,431
4. New Delhi, India
In New Delhi, tree-lined boulevards lead to monuments like the Jantar Mantar, which features large sundials and astronomical instruments, and the iconic Red Fort Complex, which is surrounded by massive walls of red sandstone.
New Delhi is also home to luxurious hotels that include The Oberoi, where guests are treated to sweeping views of the Delhi Golf Course on one side and of Humayun's Tomb — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — on the other. Hotel amenities at top-notch resorts here often include private butlers and personal massage beds.
The city's 5-star hotel prices are 52% lower than the median rate for 5-star hotels around the world.
Median hotel rates (for all hotels): From $76 to $167
Median airfare from the US and Canada (round trip): From $949 to $1,474
3. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's largest city, and it bustles with energy from its markets to its street stalls. Those looking for a more opulent experience can enjoy its posh sports clubs, slick skyscrapers, and expansive shopping malls, while those in search of cultural immersion can explore its ornate pagodas and Buddhist temples.
The city's 5-star hotel prices are 55% lower than the median rate for 5-star hotels around the world.
Median hotel rates (for all hotels): From $76 to $167
Median airfare from the US and Canada (round trip): From $949 to $1,474
2. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur has transformed into a vibrant metropolis booming with skyscrapers, mega-sized shops, street markets, and chic bars. Travelers will still get a sense of its rich culture and history through the many colorful mosques and temple that line its streets.
Explore a natural paradise at the Lake Gardens, which covers roughly 227 acres, or enjoy incredible food at an authentic hawker stall or rooftop eatery.
The city's 5-star hotel prices are 57% lower than the median rate for 5-star hotels around the world.
Median hotel rates (for all hotels): From $83 to $146
Median airfare from the US and Canada (round trip): From $879 to $1,655
1. Medellín, Colombia
Medellín has also undergone major changes over the years, making it one of the country's most lively cities today. It sits situated in a narrow valley, where high-rise apartments can be seen among soaring peaks.
Thanks to its lovely climate, the city has earned the nickname "the City of Eternal Spring". Its cable-car transportation system allows travelers to travel more quickly while catching incredible views of the city from below.
The city's 5-star hotel prices are 60% lower than the median rate for 5-star hotels around the world.
Median hotel rates (for all hotels): From $74 to $161
Median airfare from the US and Canada (round trip): From $470 to $849
