Our favourite places to visit in 2020

From American superstars to European gems, make 2020 your year for travel and tick off our favourite places to visit in 2020.

1. Minneapolis-St. Paul
The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are bisected by the Mississippi River and both have lots to offer. Most famously, Minneapolis is home to the Mall of America. The largest shopping and entertainment centre in the United States, the mall spans 4.2 million square ft and houses more than 520 stores, 50 restaurants, multiple nightclubs, an aquarium and even its own theme park which makes it one of our favourite places to visit! If it’s the outdoors you’re after, you’re in luck, outdoor activities and water sports are plentiful with 13 lakes across the region and over 500 golf courses in the state.

2. Montpellier
With its Mediterranean disposition and long hours of sunshine, it’s no wonder that Montpellier is growing in status. But it’s now growing physically, too, sprawling eastwards towards the coast with new districts of modernist architecture. And the recent opening of contemporary art museum, Montpellier Contemporary (MOCO), adds an extra cultural dimension. With its stately boulevards and shady backstreets, gorgeous white-sand beaches on its doorstep, Montpellier is a must-see.

3. Seattle
Nestled between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, and bordered by the Olympic and Cascade Mountains, Seattle is a stunner. It’s home to must-visit sights like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. There’s something for just about everyone within this vibrant Emerald City making Seattle one of the best places to visit in 2020.

4. Alghero (new route)
One of Sardinia’s most beautiful medieval cities, seafront Alghero is the main resort in the northwest. Its animated historic centre is a terrific place to relax and, with so many excellent restaurants and bars, it makes an ideal base for exploring the beaches and beauty spots of the nearby Riviera del Corallo.

5. Orlando
Orlando is a prime holiday destination and a regular on our best places to visit lists. There are a huge selection of attractions, no matter your age, and it ticks all the boxes for outdoor adventures, theme parks, nightlife, golf, water parks and shopping. The sunshine state basks in a warm climate all year round too, the temperature rarely dips below 20°C. Florida has over 1,350 miles of coastline so get ready for sandy beaches and lots of adventures.

6. Prague
Prague has been a fierce competitor with Paris for most romantic European city for years. At the heart of this stunning city are Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and some of the best beer in Europe. The historic centre and colourful baroque buildings are balanced out with trendy shops and sophisticated wine bars. One of the best times to visit Prague is at Christmas when you will have a selection of Christmas markets to choose from.

7. Brindisi (new route)
Situated in Puglia the southern region that forms the heel of Italy’s “boot,” it’s known for its whitewashed hill towns, centuries-old farmland and hundreds of kilometres of Mediterranean coastline. Brindisi is slow paced and balmy, particularly along the palm-lined Corso Garibaldi. Come here for the sun, sea and seriously good food. You can also use Brindisi as a base to explore the greater Puglia region, from the olive groves in Salento to the traditional Trulli houses in Alberobello.

8. Washington D.C.
Washington, DC has much more to offer than powerhouse politicos and suited and booted lobbyists. Visit Washington’s huge array of memorials to political giants like Abraham Lincoln, inspirational heroes like Martin Luther King Jr. The cherry blossom trees are without a doubt the stars of springtime in Washington, one of the best times to enjoy a trip to the US capital. Visit during this time and you’ll find the nation’s capital is accented in pink for the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which takes place from March 20 – April 12, 2020.

9. Marseille
Marseille is a city of two sides — traditional and gritty. Charming neighbourhoods like Panier in Marseille co-exist alongside historic attractions like Château d’If near the city’s coast. The history-steeped port city is home to a feast of world cuisines and cultural celebrations. Marseille will seduce you with her ancient roots, stunning coastal views and 300 days of sunshine a year.

That’s our list of favourite places to visit in 2020. Where will the year take you? Book your adventure now at aerlingus.com.

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