Do you think you can keep a secret? Great, because we’ve got the inside scoop on some of Europe and beyond’s hush-hush spots. From pin-drop peaceful islands to the untouched corners of bustling cities, these are the places to put on your 2024 bucket list before everyone else does!

Alonissos

Done Santorini and Rhodes? If you’ve been there and got the t-shirt, then how about Alonissos for an under-the-radar retreat? It’s serene to the ninth degree, with tranquil towns and blissful beaches to uncover. Relish the isle’s traditional charm in family-run tavernas, savouring saganaki in the sun with the locals.

Nature-lovers will be in their element here, as its National Marine Park (one of the largest in Europe) is home to an incredible array of wildlife. Don your snorkel and discover an underwater kingdom, where corals in every colour blanket ancient shipwrecks. Above the surface, keen walkers can trek across herb-scented hills. Take the route from Patitiri to Chora – the old capital, and on a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with eye-popping views towards Mount Athos.

Rome

Rome has plenty of must-see sights, but off the tourist-beaten path, there are lots of equally fascinating, lesser-known highlights. While other travellers’ queue to see the recognisable landmarks, you can escape to a tranquil oasis in the city’s gardens. Villa Medici’s sculpture-filled grounds are wonderful for a wander, and there are guided tours if you fancy learning more about its history. The Roseto Comunale (Rose Garden) is another place that’s perfect for a breather. Here, on the slopes of the Aventine Hill, more than 1,000 of the rarest roses flourish. But if views are the clincher for the city’s most tempting treasure, then Parco Savello trumps them all.

Culture vultures are in for a treat in Rome, a city where even the smallest church can contain an artistic masterpiece. And that’s exactly what you’ll find in Contarelli Chapel, home to a trio of Caravaggio paintings. Afterwards, head for trendy Trastevere, where cobbled lanes lead to sunshine-yellow squares and fashionable restaurants dot every corner. Food tours are a great way to get a taste of this gourmet neighbourhood.

Athens

It’s likely Athens is already on your wish list for a jam-packed Jet2CityBreak, but even in Greece’s bustling capital, there are secret spots to discover. Leave behind the hustle and bustle and travel to the western suburb of Chaidari and the Diomedes Botanical Gardens. Meander around the orange-scented pathways or watch as flurries of fish dart around water-lily-flecked lakes. An afternoon exploring Anafiotika should be on your Athens agenda too. This charming district, perched on the slopes of Acropolis Hill, is as photogenic as they come. Think whitewashed houses with blue trim and balconies overflowing with bougainvillea.

Searching for the best views? While many guidebooks will direct you to the city’s endless selection of rooftop bars, in-the-know visitors make a beeline for the Areopagus. This marble hill provides the ideal vantage point for those holiday snaps.

Lesvos

Lovely Lesvos hums to its own tune, offering a dazzlingly different experience to some of its Greek neighbours. For a truly unique adventure take a trip to the Petrified Forest of Lesvos. The story starts a whopping 20 million years ago, when a volcano eruption coated the north of the island in lava. Nowadays, you can spy tree trunks which have been frozen in time, gradually changing from wood to stone.

Foodies are not forgotten about either, especially if you’re an olive oil fan. In the resort of Agia Paraskevi, there’s a fascinating museum dedicated to its heritage and production. But the best way to learn about this much-loved product? Buying a bottle, drizzling it all over your feta-studded salad and giving it a taste test.

Athens Coast

Fancy holidaying on the Greek mainland? The Athens Coast has a lot to shout about, with a cosmopolitan nightlife and chic coastal offering. Whether a day spent on the beach, strolling through yacht-filled marinas or wandering along palm-lined promenades sounds like your thing, this beauty has something for everyone. One thing’s for sure, history enthusiasts should make a beeline for this destination!

Luxury hotels and sleek bars grace the pretty peninsula of Lagonissi, while Sounio packs in the towering Temple of Poseidon and incredible seafood. Whichever resort you choose, this holiday honeypot is a firm favourite for families, couples and friends alike.

Symi

Welcome to the natural beauty of Symi. This Dodecanese gem shouldn’t be overlooked, as its Italian-flair, hidden beaches and pastel-hued port make for an incredible holiday. Chic boutiques and cute restaurants come hand in hand with Symi, and when you’re ready to let the hours pass by on the sand, St Nicholas’ Beach ticks all the boxes.

Hop onto a boat to see nearby secluded shores or explore quaint footpaths through forests and pass by tiny monasteries. Fried shrimp and a glass of ouzo are local legends, so a trip to a taverna is a must! Symi is certainly a treat for all the senses…

Kalkan and Kas

You’ll find these two remarkable resorts on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, boasting seaside serenity, lovely restaurants and superb scenery. If you’re into delightful dining scenes, then Kalkan is a real winner. Many of its eateries centre around the boat-filled bay, which means evenings spent sipping cocktails in the yacht club or tucking into fresh meze platters are firmly on the cards. Kalkan also shows off one of the best beaches in the area, Kaputas Beach. Here, the waters are crystal clear and the sand is primed for sunbathing.

Over in Kas, white-washed buildings are adorned with colourful flowers, giving it a traditional feel. Tradition goes back even further here too, as it’s home to Antiphellos Theatre, an ancient theatre dating all the way back to the Hellenistic times. Aside from educating you on the area’s ancient history, it also provides some pretty impressive panoramic views.

Porto

If you’re after a city break adventure this year, Porto might be just the ticket. Nestled on Portugal’s west coast, this picture-perfect plot enjoys sunshine nearly all year round. And if that hasn’t sold it to you, then its colourful waterfront buildings, whimsical wine region and stellar sights will. Porto Cathedral, Bom Sucesso market and Igreja do Carmo should all be topping your sightseeing itinerary. Plus, it’s well worth setting some time aside to sample port wine at one of the local cellars. Not your tipple of choice? Not to worry, the nearby Alto Douro Wine Region has the wine-lovers covered.

Morocco

Beachside lazing or city adventure? The choice is yours when you head to Morocco with Jet2holidays from October 2024! Agadir’s the most popular plot for a beach getaway thanks to its long stretch of golden sand. Try out the surf, bunk down with a good book or simply soak up the sunshine. If you can peel yourself away from the beach, you’ll find that there are plenty of bargains to be had in the local souks. Get ready to try your hand at haggling!

Then you’ve got Marrakech, where the bustling streets are a world away from the serene shores of Agadir. Stay in regal Riads down tucked-away streets, browse trinkets and treasures in the souks and tuck into piping hot tagines as you watch the sun set behind the Koutoubia Mosque – it’s time to experience a city break like no other.