1 / 10Imagine wandering down streets that resemble a painter’s palette, with brilliant colours and unique architecture combining to create a visual feast. From Morocco’s blue-washed lanes to Italy’s candy-colored buildings, these cities are a visual treat. (Image: AP)
2 / 10Whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, or an adventure-seeker, these destinations are sure to leave you in awe. Let’s embark on a journey to explore the world’s seven most colourful and unique cities that you should visit at least once in your life.
3 / 10Chefchaouen, Morocco: Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is a breathtaking town where nearly every structure is painted in shades of blue. It is renowned for its distinctive blue-washed buildings, creating a dreamlike atmosphere as you wander through its winding alleys. Known as “the Blue Pearl of Morocco”, the town has breathtaking landscapes, hiking opportunities, and local markets filled with handmade products, colourful textiles, and delectable Moroccan cuisine. It was originally founded in 1471, right before the Spanish conquest of Granada. (Image: Shutterstock)
4 / 10Bo-Kaap, South Africa: One of Cape Town’s most distinct neighbourhoods, Bo-Kaap is renowned for its brightly colored houses and rich cultural heritage. Originally settled by freed Cape Malay slaves, the area boasts a unique architectural style with houses painted in a spectrum of vivid hues. Visitors can explore the Bo-Kaap Museum to delve into the history and traditions of this distinctive community. The houses in the region are a combination of Cape Dutch and Georgian style, with brilliant colours. Be sure to take a local cooking tour specialising in traditional Cape Malay delights and visit one of the cafes owned and maintained by families with a long history in the area. (Image: Reuters)
5 / 10A key opportunity though, according to Goldman Sachs, lies in Varun Beverages’ international operations, particularly in South Africa, where the brokerage expects EBITDA margins to improve from 10% to 17% over calendar year 2024-2027, driven by better operational efficiency and rising volumes.QV
6 / 10Procida, Italy: Procida, a charming island located in the Bay of Naples, is a true gem for travellers seeking a unique and colourful Italian experience. Visitors can enjoy stunning beaches, clear waters, and beautiful views, as well as a vibrant foodie scene. The island’s buildings are painted in pastel shades of pink, blue, yellow, and orange. The island is home to various historical sites. These include the majestic 16th-century Palazzo d’Avalos, which stands over the settlement of Terra Murata, and the well-known Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo. (Image: Reuters)
7 / 10Guanajuato, Mexico: Guanajuato City, nestled in the mountains of Central Mexico, is a stunning colonial city renowned for its vibrant buildings, twisting alleyways, and lively plazas. The city’s unique charm is further enhanced by its rich history and cultural attractions. The best time to visit here is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. El Callejón del Beso, or “The Alley of the Kiss”, is a popular and narrow alley in the city of Guanajuato. The city’s explosion of colours is best viewed from the famous El Pipila Viewpoint.( Image: Reuters)
8 / 10Valparaiso, Chile: This hillside city on Chile’s Pacific Coast is renowned for its vibrant street art and colourful houses, creating a visually stunning city. Located just a short drive from Santiago, it is a popular stop for visitors looking for a taste of Chilean art, culture, and some fresh sea air. The city’s bohemian environment entices artists, musicians, and tourists from all over the world. From hilltop viewpoints, tourists may see an infinite sea of colour pouring down to the waterfront. (Image: Shutterstock)
9 / 10Willemstad, Curacao: Located on the Caribbean island of Curacao, Willemstad is famous for its colourful waterfront. The capital city of Curaçao is known for its vibrant Dutch colonial architecture and historic charm. It is renowned for its vibrant, colourful waterfront district, characterised by Dutch colonial buildings painted in a multitude of hues. Willemstad, with its colourful architecture, clean beaches, and fascinating underwater environment, is a paradise waiting to be discovered. (Image: Reuters)
10 / 10Burano, Italy: A small island near Venice, Italy, Burano is known for its vibrant, multi-colored houses lining the canals. The houses are painted in a variety of bright colours, creating a picturesque and cheerful atmosphere. According to local stories, the island is covered in thick fog during the colder months. Fishermen returning home at dawn would often struggle to see their homes through the mist. So they painted them in bright colours, each one unique, so they could recognise their homes even in low light. Whether you’re here to shoot the technicolour houses, peruse handcrafted lace in a family-run atelier, or simply relax by the river with fresh seafood, Burano offers something for everyone. (Image: Reuters)
