1. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is located in the autonomous community of Catalonia, about 3 hours by train from Madrid.
We recommend this for creatives looking for respite, because: it's a vibrant city filled with Gaudí's surrealistic architecture and numerous art galleries.
The best time to visit is spring, because the weather is mild and the city is bustling with outdoor art festivals and music events.
For creative rejuvenation, immerse yourself in the following places:
- The Picasso Museum — View over 4,000 works from Picasso's formative years.
- El Raval District — Browse through La Central, one of Barcelona's most culturally vibrant booksellers.
- Park Güell — Allow yourself to be enthralled by Gaudí's imaginative examples of Catalan Modernism.
Pro tip: Eschew the typical tourist traps and take a stroll down Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, one of the city's most creative districts.
2. Venice, Italy
Venice is located in the Veneto region of Italy, about 2 hours by train from Milan.
We recommend this for creatives reaching burnout due to its serene canal views and the wealth of artistic heritage.
The best time to visit is winter, because the crowds diminish and you can soak in the city's gothic beauty in relative solitude.
For an infusion of Italian inspiration, try these locations:
- Palazzo Ducale — View centuries of Venetian history and art.
- Peggy Guggenheim Collection — A treasure trove of modern art.
- Burano Island — The technicolor houses can inspire even the most exhausted creative spirit.
Pro tip: Make time to simply wander aimlessly – you never know what inspirations you’ll find in quieter, less frequented areas of the city.
3. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto lies in the Kansai region of Japan, about 3 hours by train from Tokyo.
We recommend this for creatives, because of its perfect blend of traditional and contemporary art and tranquil Zen gardens.
The best time to visit is during fall, when you can see colorful leaves in the temples and gardens, adding even more depth to the city's unerring beauty.
Three recommended experiences are:
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple — The wooden terrace offers a stunning view of fall foliage.
- Gion District — A stroll filled with wooden Machiya houses and an opportunity to spot Geisha.
- Yoshida-Sansō — This teahouse turned ryokan offers a peaceful environment that fosters creativity.
Pro tip: Rent a kimono for the day. Walking around Kyoto dressed traditionally could offer a fresh perspective.
4. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is located in northeastern Germany, about 2 hours by plane from Paris.
We recommend this for creatives because: it has an understated bohemian flare and a broad-ranging art scene.
The best time to visit is summer, because Berlin is best explored above ground, venturing on foot or on bike.
Here are some recommendations:
- East Side Gallery — A surviving section of the Berlin Wall, now a canvas for messages of peace.
- Tempelhofer Feld — A decommissioned airport, now a park: a symbol of Berlin’s adaptive spirit.
- RAW-Gelände — Once a train repair station, now houses a variety of cultural venues.
Pro tip: Don't restrict yourself to typical hours. Berlin's creative scene comes alive most after sundown.
5. Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City nestles in the Valley of Mexico in southeastern Mexico, about 2 hours by plane from Cancun.
We recommend this for creatives because of its vibrant streets, colorful buildings and distinctive Mexican art scene.
The best time to visit is during the Day of the Dead festival in late October, because the city is in full swing with elaborate ofrendas (offerings) and grand parades.
For unique sensory experiences, visit:
- Museo Frida Kahlo — Kahlo’s home-turned-museum is inspiring for any creative.
- Palacio de Bellas Artes — showcases murals by Diego Rivera and other famous Mexican artists.
- Mercado de la Ciudadela — A vibrant market selling local crafts.
Pro tip: Try a mole dish while in the city. Its complex flavors represent the depth and complexity of Mexican culture, which can provide a unique inspiration for creatives.
6. Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is located in western Morocco, about 3 hours by train from Casablanca.
We recommend Marrakech for creatives because of its intricate architecture and colorful bustling markets.
The best time to visit is spring, when the temperatures are comfortable and the Majorelle Garden is in full bloom.
Try soaking in the following experiences:
- Jardin Majorelle — A botanical and landscape garden designed by a French painter.
- Dar Si Said — One of the most notable museums in Marrakech featuring exquisite Moroccan craftsmanship.
- Souk Semmarine — A sprawling market for traditional Moroccan wares, a kaleidoscope for the senses.
Pro tip: Take a traditional Moroccan cooking class while in Marrakech and taste creativity in a different form.
7. Jaipur, India
Jaipur sits in the Rajasthan region of India, about 4 hours by train from Delhi.
We recommend Jaipur for creatives because of its rich history, detailed architecture, and colorful culture.
The best time to visit is winter, to avoid scorching summer temperatures and enjoy mild weather.
Don't miss these immersive experiences:
- Amer Fort — Brilliant examples of Rajput architecture with intricate design and detailing.
- Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing — Learn about traditional Rajasthani block printing.
- City Palace — With its vibrant rooms and elaborate decoration, this palace can ignite your imagination.
Pro tip: Take a hot air balloon ride over Jaipur to gain a different visual perspective of the city.
8. Portland, Oregon, USA
Portland is in the Pacific Northwest region of the USA, a 1.5 hours flight from San Francisco.
We recommend it for creatives looking for a laid-back vibe filled with indie microbreweries, unique coffeehouses, music, and art.
The best time to visit is summer, for great weather, outdoor festivals, and open-air markets.
Enjoy these unique experiences:
- Powell’s City of Books — This legendary bookstore could stimulate anyone’s imaginative side.
- Mississippi Avenue — Quirky boutiques, art galleries, and music venues lining this street await discovery.
- Lan Su Chinese Garden — Tranquil oasis right in the city center, perfect for creative contemplation.
Pro tip: Rent a bike to explore the city. Portland's bike-friendly culture and infrastructure make two wheels the best way to get around.
9. Wellington, New Zealand
Wellington is located at the southern tip of North Island, New Zealand, about a 1-hour flight from Auckland.
We recommend this for creatives due to its thriving arts and culture scene, and breathtaking natural beauty.
The best time to visit is summer, because lifting of the winter chill allows fantastic outdoor exploration opportunities.
Suggested experiences include:
- Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa — Uncover New Zealand’s culture and history.
- Zealandia Ecosanctuary — A perfect place to escape, introspect, and draw inspiration from natural surroundings.
- Cuba Street — A creative hub boasting vintage shops, street art, and quaint coffeehouses.
Pro tip: Ride the cable car up the hill to the botanical gardens. The view alone is worth the trip.
10. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is located at the southern tip of Africa, about 2 hours by plane from Johannesburg.
We recommend it for creatives because of the fusion of heritage and innovation seen throughout the city.
The best time to visit is during spring, when Cape Town is awash with wildflowers and the temperatures are mild.
Top experiences for creatives:
- Zeitz MOCAA — It houses Africa's largest collection of contemporary African art.
- Bo-Kaap — The brightly colored houses of this neighborhood are a source of visual stimulation.
- The Old Biscuit Mill — This vibrant hub is a feast for the senses with its gourmet food and unique design stores.
Pro tip: Take the cable car or hike up to Table Mountain. The panoramic views have been known to stir the soul and ignite the imagination.
