Twin Cities with Twice the Fun

Trameter
Trameter Stories
Published in
4 min readJun 3, 2024
A city reflected in water
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Just like no two identical people are the same, no two destinations are 100% identical. From the language to the people to the city vibes, each place offers a unique experience. But before you run off with that notion, here’s a fun fact: some destinations come really, really, really close. For instance, sitting in the epic Café Tortoni in Buenos Aires, Argentina reminds one of Parisian cafes with its elegant decor, pastries, and coffee.

Here are 5 pairs of destinations that are practically doppelgangers, and why you should consider visiting them for twice the fun. You’re welcome!

1. Award-Winning Charmers: Graz, Austria & Ljubljana, Slovenia

Dreaming of wandering through cities that look like they popped out of a fairytale book? Graz and Ljubljana are your go-to spots! Both cities rock old towns with Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance vibes. Graz got its UNESCO City of Design badge, while Ljubljana was crowned European Green Capital in 2016. These cities are all about people-centered urban planning and sustainable living. Plus, their cultural scenes are on fire with festivals, museums, galleries, and theaters galore.

2. Two Cities, One Name: Annecy, France & Venice, Italy

Canal lovers, this one’s for you! Annecy, often called the “Venice of the Alps,” and Venice, the “Queen of the Adriatic,” are both brimming with canals that weave through historic quarters. Picture yourself boating through these charming waterways surrounded by stunning landscapes. Both cities are also outdoor activity paradises, offering hiking, picnicking, and of course, endless photo ops.

3. Hillside Havens: Porto, Portugal & Valparaíso, Chile

Imagine colorful houses cascading down steep hillsides toward the ocean. If that sounds like a dream, Porto and Valparaíso are your twin cities. Porto is home to Livraria Lello, one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores and an inspiration for Harry Potter. Valparaíso might not have magical bookshops, but its street art scene is straight-up enchanting, with vibrant murals and graffiti turning every corner into a canvas.

4. Foodie Paradise: Bangkok, Thailand & Penang, Malaysia

Calling all foodies! Bangkok and Penang are street food heavens where your taste buds will do a happy dance. Both cities offer a smorgasbord of affordable, mouthwatering dishes with flavors that blend Chinese, Indian, and local influences. And don’t even get us started on the seafood — think succulent grilled fish, fragrant curries, and spicy shrimp dishes that are to die for.

5. Party Central: Miami, USA & Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Ready to party? Miami and Rio de Janeiro are where the fun never stops. Both cities boast stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural melting pots. Miami’s Art Deco District and Wynwood Walls bring the artsy vibes, while Rio’s Carnival and samba clubs in Lapa crank up the festive spirit. Whether you’re dancing the night away or chilling on the beach, these cities know how to live it up.

There you have it — twin cities that offer double the fun. Are we saying you should pick one over the other? No, way! Take your time ticking these cities off your bucket list. We’re just here to show you what each has to offer. Let us know in the comments where you’re headed next.

Still debating? We got you, boo. Check out our Guidelet for more travel inspo to places worth exploring.

Bon Voyage!

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