From the archive: Three cities to explore with nature experiences around the corner

Are you longing for both unique cities and beautiful natural experiences? Here we have listed three options to enjoy both in the same trip. From culture such as music, food, architecture, and museums, to magnificent views and untouched nature. Below we offer something for all tastes.

Milan, Italy

For a mix of ancient culture, style, and fashion, Europe’s best restaurants, or sports like football and Formula 1 at the absolute highest level, Milan is a must-visit destination. To the north, from high points in the city, you can see the snow-capped peaks of the Alps, where hiking, skiing, mountain biking, and kayaking can easily fill your days just an hour's drive away. Peaks like Mount Bolettone and Mount San Primo offer breathtaking natural experiences both in summer and winter. Central Milan offers the best of Italian design along Via Della Spiga, as well as small obscure world-class tailor shops for those who have done their research and find the style that suits them. Michelin-starred restaurants are interspersed with small family-owned trattorias behind unmarked doors. End the day and rest your shopping-weary feet with a cool drink and a dip in the pool at Ceresio 7's rooftop terrace, a design experience in line with Dean and Dan Caten's exquisite sense for aesthetics. Stay at the legendary Hotel Indigo, just a stone's throw from Milan's stunningly beautiful cathedral. To experience the city's true soul, an early morning run before breakfast is encouraged, where you wake up hand in hand with the city's residents.

Shimla, India

As an unexpected underdog on this list of bustling metropolises, Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh in northern India and the gateway to the Himalayas, shines bright. If you want to combine a honeymoon with breathtaking hiking in an ancient cultural landscape, we recommend a pit stop here during your tour of northern India, four hours and approximately 25 EUR from New Delhi by plane and bus. Traditional Indian architecture is interspersed with colonial European influences on steep mountain slopes. Experience a ride along the Kalka-Shimla railway, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. For natural experiences in the region, we recommend Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Spiti Valley, Beas Kund, and Rupin Pass. The best time for snow-related experiences is from November to February. Otherwise, March to June is recommended for climate reasons.

Portland, USA

Whether you're seeking vibrant, eclectic city life with a flourishing array of lifestyle, music, and culture, or want to hike among stunning mountains and nature, Portland, Oregon, will give you the feeling of coming home. Snow-capped Mount Hood is a majestic constant reminder of the proximity to nature on the eastern horizon. The city is an intellectual cradle when it comes to awareness and sustainable living, and is one of the richest cities in the world in terms of vegetarian and vegan food culture. The music scene is constant, broad, and primarily of very high quality. Everything from local, obscure bands in genres you thought only provided soundtracks to your best dreams at night, to big names like The Dandy Warhols, The Decemberists, or The Shins. Additionally, it is a must-stop for all international touring bands.