Photo: Olena Tur/Shutterstock
7 European 'Second Cities' That Are Even Better Than Their Bigger Counterparts
In Europe, the spotlight tends to land on the same few cities: Paris, Rome, London. But if you've already visited those, the continent's second cities offer just as much to see and do, usually with fewer crowds and lower prices, and often a more authentic feel for the country.
Here are seven worth visiting instead of the usual heavy hitters.
N E W S
Travel Rewards Are Getting Worse. Here’s the Airline Miles Strategy I Use Instead.
Photo: Cavan-Images/Shutterstock
Every airline, from full-service to ultra-low-cost, is redesigning itself around the idea that comfort is something you buy back, rather than something you’re rewarded with.
For all the blogs and sites that break down travel rewards points and programs, the bottom line is that year over year, your points are worth less — and that business class upgrade gets further away.
T O - D O
September Edition
Where to travel: Honeymoon Beach
Where to stay: 7 of the world’s best stays for stargazing
What to do: Five questions, one minute, a shot at $500.
What you need to know: Non-flyers can walk to airport gates again after 25 years
T R A V E L
See the Real Valparaíso by Riding Its Historic Funiculars
Photo: Hannah D. Cooper
Funicular railways have climbed the steep cerros of Chile's Valparaíso since 1883. The city's historic quarter earned UNESCO recognition in 2003, and its boxy little cabins are as iconic as its painted streets, so beloved they've become muses for local porteño artists.
You'll spot them in the city's art long before you ride one.
S P O N S O R E D
Toronto Neighborhoods: A Guide to Canada’s Biggest City
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH DESTINATION TORONTO
Toronto is a patchwork of over 150 neighborhoods stitched along Lake Ontario, each with its own vibe, experiences, and local flavor. This guide walks you through five areas of the city to start, from polished Yorkville and its luxury Mink Mile to the cobblestoned, film-set streets of the Distillery District.
S T A Y S
Going to the Super Bowl in Los Angeles? Book One of These Airbnbs Near SoFi Stadium
Photos: Airbnb
NFL fans are counting down the days until the 2027 Super Bowl, which returns to SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on February 14.
If you plan to visit the city during the event, here’s where to stay so you’re in walking distance of SoFi Stadium and near other popular California attractions like The Forum, Disneyland, or Venice Beach.
P O D C A S T
These People Make Travel Their Entire Living. Here's How They Did It.
Kristina Makeeva photographs real places that look so otherworldly she needs to convince people they aren't AI.
Speaking with Matador founder Ross Borden, Kristina explains how travel has taken her to some of the most magical places on the planet.
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The Matador Editorial Team
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