Where to Go

The Ultimate Urban Travel Bucket List

Make an unforgettable getaway at these eight top cities around the world with Hilton Honors™ Points

The Vacationeer
Skyline view of London, England, United Kingdom, from the Thames River

If you’re ready to go big with your next vacation, you’re likely eyeing urban destinations worldwide. Whether you need inspiration or already have an itinerary, you can use your Hilton Honors™ Points to travel to these international destinations for every part of your trip, from booking free nights to accessing VIP experiences.

However you use your Points, here are some of the top cities to visit to satisfy your wanderlust and experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Skyline of Dubai, United Arab Emirates at sunset 

If you want to vacation big, Dubai is the place to go. Home to the world’s tallest tower, one of the world’s largest shopping malls and one of the world’s largest marinas, the City of Gold is where travelers can get away in style.

Check out:

  • Brunch at Café Bateel offers vegetarian, vegan, halal and gluten-free options. Take home a hand-painted wooden box of gourmet dates for a scrumptious souvenir.
  • While Dubai is known for its gold shops and luxury stores, stop by Ripe Market for an outdoor market full of local artisans and street food vendors.
  • Ride an abra boat to get around, whether to cross Dubai Creek and explore both banks or cruise the city at a relaxed pace.
  • Get your ski on at the third largest indoor slope in the world. You won’t want to miss the March of the Penguins with real Gentoo and King Penguins. 

Stay: Immerse yourself in Emirati culture at Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton, located in the heart of old Dubai. 

London, United Kingdom

A hand holds up a burger in front of Borough Market in London, England, United Kingdom 

London is a cultural capital to which few cities can compare. There’s plenty to do, see and taste from hundreds of museums, iconic landmarks and local treasures.

Check out:

  • London is known for its assortment of museums, from Tate Modern to the British Museum. Be sure to visit the often overlooked Museum of London, where you can learn about London’s history.
  • Afraid you won’t have time to hit everything on your bucket list? Double up and hop on Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus for a tour of London, plus a quintessentially English afternoon tea in an adorable double-decker bus.
  • Wander the Borough Market for boutiques, stalls and vendors that will delight foodies and shoppers alike. 
  • For an attraction off the beaten path, check out the Nomadic Community Garden for a street art experience and plenty of opportunities for selfies.
Stay: Drop off your bags at Hilton London Tower Bridge and explore nearby attractions, like the Tower Bridge and Borough Market, or hop on the London Bridge station to access the rest of the city.

Paris, France

Aerial view of Paris, France, the Eiffel Tower in the background 

The City of Lights is another European cultural icon. Fall in love with Paris’ charming architecture, incredible food and romantic atmosphere.

Check out:

Stay: Settle close to the Seine at the Hampton by Hilton Paris Clichy.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Black sand beach at Renisfjara, Iceland, near Reykjavik 

While Iceland may sound chilly, it’s one of the hottest travel destinations for outdoor activities, such as hiking the Golden Circle. In Reykjavik, you can experience the wonders of the outdoors and stay close to Nordic cultural attractions.

Check out:

  • Cruise the coast on a whale-watching tour with a trained guide to spot whales and dolphins.
  • Add the Perlan, Iceland’s largest natural history museum, to your itinerary. Enjoy interactive exhibits, such as a real indoor ice cave and the Observation Deck for city-wide views.
  • Follow the smell of freshly baked pastries to the colorful Braud & Co bakery.
  • Take a day trip to Reynisfjara, a stunning black sand beach. This one-of-a-kind beach hosts unique basalt rock formations and views unlike any other beach.
Stay: Relax at Hilton Reykjavik Nordica, which offers a spa with a sauna to help you unwind.

Vancouver, Canada

Vancounver, Canada skyline from the river 

The City of Vancouver is a gateway for tourists to explore Canada’s great outdoors and a major metropolis full of food, art galleries, museums and more. Here’s just a taste of what to try on your Vancouver vacation.

Check out:

Stay: Rest your head at Hilton Vancouver Downtown near Yaletown, known for its trendy restaurants and shopping scene. 

Sydney, Australia

Aerial view of Circular Quay in Sydney, Australia 

Head to the Land Down Under for a memorable getaway. Because Sydney is located beneath the equator, its seasons are opposite to those in the northern hemisphere, making it a perfect getaway if you’re weary of winter weather.

Check out:

  • Beginner surfers should bring a surfboard to Maroubra Beach, one of the top beaches in Sydney.
  • It’s free to visit the Powerhouse Museum, a contemporary museum focusing on art, science and innovation.
  • While visiting Syndey’s transport hub may not sound interesting, Circular Quay is a colorful port for those who enjoy boat-watching. Not to mention, the city’s top attractions — such as the Opera House, Sydney Harbor Bridge and the Museum of Contemporary Art — are located close to the Quay. Try a paddle tour of the harbor for a truly memorable experience.
  • Treat your taste buds to a smorgasbord at Gateway Sydney, a food mall with plenty of restaurants.
Stay: Greet the day from the heart of Sydney’s Central Business District, close to dining, shopping and entertainment, at the Hilton Sydney.

Seattle, Washington, United States

Fruit stand at Pike Place Market in Seattle, Washington 

Seattle, also known as the Emerald City for its lush greenery, is the urban epicenter of the Pacific Northwest. Don’t let rainy days get in the way of a fun-filled vacation.

Check out:

  • The Museum of Flight is the place to go for all things aviation. The exhibits range from early airplanes to WWI and WWII artifacts and even the Mars exploration, making this museum great for all ages. 
  • Marvel at the Chihuly Garden and Glass for a combination art gallery and a park full of beautiful glass sculptures, open rain or shine.
  • See Snoqualmie Falls for towering, 270-foot falls just 45 minutes from Seattle.
  • Stop by Pike Place Market, a farmer’s market like you’ve never seen before. There's plenty to see, buy, and taste, from fishmongers and food vendors to souvenir shops.
Stay: Sleepy in Seattle? Stay at Hilton Seattle, close to the sights and sounds of downtown Seattle.

Boston, Massachusetts, United States

Bridge at Boston Public Garden in Boston, Massachusetts, United States 

Boston, one of the oldest cities in the United States, is full of American history and culture. From Freedom Trail to Fenway Park, this historic city has a wealth of museums, eateries and attractions.

Check out:

Stay: Make your Boston home base near Fenway Park at Hilton Boston Back Bay

Read “If You Love To Travel and Try New Things, Hilton Grand Vacations Is for You” to learn how one Owner uses her membership to travel worldwide with her family.

 

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Vacationeer

The Vacationeer

The Vacationeer is a collective of Hilton Grand Vacations storytellers whose goal is to inspire travelers to go further. We're always on the lookout for new destinations to explore, useful travel tips, and unique ideas to help you plan the most memorable vacations possible.

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