For the past 17 years, I've called Asia my home, exploring its bustling metropolises and hidden corners with both a traveler's curiosity and an expat's deep understanding.

Whether you're planning a short vacation or considering a move abroad, let me guide you through Asia's most captivating urban destinations. But first, let's back up a bit... In 2008 I said goodbye to my job and bought myself a one-way ticket to Hong Kong. For the past 17 years, I've called Asia my home, exploring its bustling metropolises and hidden corners with both a traveler's curiosity and an expat's deep understanding.

From weekend getaways to long-term living, I've experienced these cities through multiple lenses - as a wide-eyed tourist, a digital nomad, and a resident. This unique perspective allows me to share not just the must-see attractions, but also the authentic experiences that make each city truly special.

Planning your travel to Asia? Let me guide you through the most captivating cities in this diverse continent, based on my 17+ years of living and exploring across Asia. Whether you're crafting your Asia travel itinerary or considering an expat adventure, these destinations offer unforgettable experiences that blend ancient traditions with modern innovation.

1. Hong Kong - Where East Meets West

Hong Kong captivates visitors with its dramatic skyline and dynamic culture, making it one of the best places to visit in Asia. This vibrant metropolis perfectly balances Eastern traditions with Western influences.

Hong Kong was also my very first destination in Asia and I was lucky to get a great view of the city by staying in a local's luxury condo on the 70th floor with the most amazing view! Can you believe this was a homestay?

Hong Hong is the place where you can experience the best of Asia, where Asians and Westerners alike thrive in a whirlwind atmosphere of technology, culture, and excitement. Hong Kong is a city of tomorrow and yesterday, night and day, yin and yang.

In Hong Kong, you can immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of the mountains or jump into the urban stream of humanity. You can learn about the undying ancient traditions, or view some of the world’s most modern advancements. You can spend your money in a day or make a career for a lifetime.

Top Attractions in Hong Kong:

Victoria Peak - Offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, harbor, and surrounding islands
Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade - An iconic waterfront walkway featuring the Avenue of Stars and nightly Symphony of Lights
Wong Tai Sin Temple - A stunning spiritual complex where visitors can experience traditional Chinese religious customs

Where to Stay in Hong Kong:

Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong - Occupying the top floors of ICC, offering spectacular harbor views and Michelin-starred dining
Mid-range: Hotel ICON - A stylish boutique hotel featuring innovative design and excellent value in Tsim Sha Tsui
Budget: Mini Hotel Central - A clean, compact option perfectly located in the heart of Hong Kong Island

2. Tokyo, Japan - A Glimpse into the Future

Tokyo consistently ranks among the top destinations in Asia. How to describe Tokyo? A trip to Japan's capital is like a trip to the future - imagine blending ultramodern technology with deep-rooted traditions. I summarized my Japan travels in my blog posts 9 facts about Tokyo and How to Stay in Tokyo on a Budget - My Homestay Experience With a Japanese Family

Tokyo is characterized by the newest technology, distinctively recognizable fashion, art, and food. Although the cherry blossom remains a long-standing icon of the city, today’s tourists are looking for more than a relaxing stroll beneath the trees.

For decades, the metropolitan area has been rapidly exploding and people flock into Tokyo for work and pleasure. New state-of-the-art buildings constantly rise above the crowded streets, drawing visitors into ultra-modern homes, hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls.

Despite the indescribable humanity in Tokyo, the city is well-kept and clean, making it one of the safest, most popular destinations, and also one of the most welcoming. It's incredibly easy to explore Japan by train. If you have to decide between any of these eight cities, pick Tokyo.

Top Attractions in Tokyo:

Senso-ji Temple - Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple, surrounded by traditional shops and street food
Shibuya Crossing - The world's busiest pedestrian crossing, epitomizing Tokyo's energy
Tokyo Skytree - Japan's tallest structure offering unparalleled city views and shopping

Where to Stay in Tokyo:

Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo - Occupying the top floors of Tokyo's tallest building in vibrant Roppongi, offering breathtaking Mount Fuji views, Michelin-starred dining, and an award-winning spa
Mid-range: Mimaru Tokyo Ueno North - Spacious apartment-style rooms perfect for families or longer stays
Budget: Unplan Kagurazaka - A modern hostel offering both private and shared rooms in a historic neighborhood

3. Seoul, South Korea - The K-Culture Capital

Seoul perfectly exemplifies where to go in Asia for a blend of pop culture, technology, and tradition. I fell in love with Seoul because of all the pet cafés. Cat cafés, dog cafés, sheep cafés... you name it! If you love animals as much as I do, you will completely lose yourself in Seoul!

Seoul is known for its world-famous K Pop and Gangnam Style, but there is so much more to the city than just its music. Seoul has one foot in the ancient world and the other in tomorrow, and travelers have a chance to get to know the best of both worlds in one day.

On the historic side, Seoul is dotted with UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Jongmyo Shrine, among other temples and palaces. On the modern side, it is filled with attractions like lush parks, trendy bars, sleek shopping malls, and tempting spas. I believe there is something for everyone in Seoul, below are some of the highlights.

Top Attractions in Seoul:

Gyeongbokgung Palace - The largest of Seoul's Five Grand Palaces, featuring daily guard-changing ceremonies
Namsan Seoul Tower - A iconic landmark offering panoramic city views and love locks tradition
Hongdae Area - A vibrant district famous for street performances, shopping, and youth culture

Where to Stay in Seoul:

Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Seoul - Offering unparalleled luxury with traditional Korean touches
Mid-range: L7 Hongdae - A trendy hotel in Seoul's most dynamic neighborhood
Budget: SP@Itaewon Guesthouse - A friendly guesthouse in the international district

4. Bangkok, Thailand - The City of Angels

A must-include in any Asia travel itinerary, Bangkok offers an intoxicating mix of chaos, beauty and world-class cuisine. It's also incredibly budget friendly, I always say: quality of life in Thailand is unmatched.

Bangkok is a city that feels like home to me, as I have passed through so many times. The hustle and bustle of the city is not for everyone, but after all I realized, Bangkok has so much to offer, with so many unusual sights - it's impossible to get bored here!

As Thailand reluctantly ventures into the modern world, it is Bangkok that leads the way. New towers and the age of digital technology have begun to stake their claim on Bangkok, yet the old-style traditions are not eager to release their hold on this busy city. The collision of old and new is what defines Bangkok and gives it its unique vibe.

The traveler will find malls and towers, yes, but the old temples and boats still hold a place of prominence. The result is truly unique, and makes Bangkok an incredible place to experience every era all at once.

Top Attractions in Bangkok:

Grand Palace Complex - Home to the revered Emerald Buddha and stunning Thai architecture
Wat Arun - The iconic Temple of Dawn along the Chao Phraya River
Chatuchak Weekend Market - One of the world's largest outdoor markets with over 15,000 stalls

Where to Stay in Bangkok:

Luxury: Mandarin Oriental Bangkok - A legendary riverside hotel with impeccable service
Mid-range: Marriott Sukhumvit Park Bangkok - Spacious serviced apartments in the heart of the city
Budget: Barn & Bed Hostel - A modern hostel right in the heart of Bangkok, next to Emporium Mall

5. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - A Cultural Melting Pot

Malaysia's capital has evolved into one of the best places to visit in Asia, offering a perfect blend of modern attractions and cultural heritage.

Kuala Lumpur is also the city in Asia that I probably visited the most. It's a main hub for AirAsia flights, and often I turn layovers into several days because I love returning to KL. There is so much to see and do in Malaysia's capital.

Not long ago, Kuala Lumpur was a small town filled with tin prospectors hoping for a change in fortune. Today, it is Malaysia’s greatest attraction, bustling with activity and life. The big draw for most tourists is the shopping and dining that fills the city’s skyscrapers. There are never-ending options for the enthusiastic consumer.

The best of Asian fashion can be found here, although many prefer to sample the endless gastronomical offerings of the city. The chrome and glass, mosques, temples, and colonial buildings remind the traveler of the city’s not-so-neon roots.

Top Attractions in Kuala Lumpur:

Petronas Twin Towers - The iconic 88-story twin skyscrapers with a skybridge offering spectacular city views
Batu Caves - A stunning Hindu temple complex set within limestone caves, accessed by 272 colorful steps
Islamic Arts Museum - Southeast Asia's largest museum of Islamic decorative arts and architecture

Where to Stay in Kuala Lumpur:

Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur - A sophisticated hotel adjacent to KLCC with stunning twin tower views
Mid-range: Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral - A trendy hotel with direct access to KL's main transport hub
Budget: The Bed KLCC - Modern clean hostel with pods and private rooms in the heart of the city

6. Singapore - The Garden City

Out of all of the vibrant cities, Singapore is definitely one of my most comfortable cities, it's clean, safe and a place worth visiting. If you haven't seen it, and have a chance to visit, go for it! Singapore stands out among the top destinations in Asia for its green garden spaces, efficiency, and incredible fusion of cultures.

A trip to the island-coast city of Singapore is a thrill on all accounts. The city’s many neighborhoods and districts allow travelers to visit all of Asia in a single location. Sample local and foreign food in Singapore, and you might become as big a foodie as the city’s residents!

If it’s exploration you’re after, look no further than the rain forests or urban jungles of Singapore’s city center and surroundings. From eco-friendly skyscraper shopping to walks in the gardens, Singapore has it all.

Top Attractions in Singapore:

Gardens by the Bay - Futuristic park featuring Supertree Grove and climate-controlled conservatories
Marina Bay Sands - The iconic integrated resort with its infinity pool and observation deck
Singapore Botanic Gardens - A UNESCO World Heritage site with the world's largest orchid display

Where to Stay in Singapore:

Luxury: Raffles Singapore - The historic colonial-style hotel famous for inventing the Singapore Sling
Mid-range: lyf Bugis Singapore - A boutique hotel combining style and comfort in a central location
Budget: CUBE Boutique Capsule Hotel - Modern pod-style accommodation in the heritage Chinatown district

7. Taipei, Taiwan - Hidden Gem of Asia

A must-add to your travel itinerary Asia, Taipei offers an enchanting mix of old-world charm and modern innovation. I recently visited Taipei for the very first time, and I have to say, it was love at first sight! Taipei perfectly embodies Taiwan's spirit of innovation while preserving its rich cultural heritage and world-famous food scene.

The city's night markets, buzzing with local life and enticing aromas, showcase why Taiwan is considered one of Asia's top culinary destinations. Beyond the urban excitement, Taipei serves as an excellent base for exploring Taiwan's stunning natural attractions, from the dramatic Taroko Gorge to the peaceful hot springs of Beitou.

The city's efficient public transportation, friendly locals, and impressive blend of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous influences make it an increasingly popular destination for both tourists and digital nomads. Like its famous bubble tea, Taipei offers a perfect mix of traditional flavors with modern twists.

Top Attractions in Taipei:

Taipei 101 - Once the world's tallest building, offering observatory decks and high-end shopping
National Palace Museum - Home to the world's largest collection of Chinese imperial artifacts
Shilin Night Market - Taiwan's largest night market famous for street food and entertainment

Where to Stay in Taipei:

Luxury: Grand Hyatt Taipei - An elegant hotel next to Taipei 101 with world-class amenities
Mid-range: CitizenM Taipei North Gate - A stylish modern hotel with great views of the historic city gate
Budget: Star Hostel Taipei Main Station - A design-focused hostel convenient for transportation

8. Hanoi, Vietnam - A Thousand Years of Heritage

Vietnam's capital captivates visitors with its enchanting blend of French colonial architecture, ancient temples, and vibrant street life. Hanoi's Old Quarter, with its maze of narrow streets and traditional shophouses, tells stories spanning over a millennium.

The city perfectly balances its historical charm with a dynamic contemporary culture, where the sounds of motorbikes mingle with the aroma of pho and the gentle clinking of coffee cups in hidden cafes.

Top Attractions in Hanoi:

Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple - The spiritual heart of Hanoi, featuring a picturesque lake with a legendary turtle tower
Temple of Literature - Vietnam's first national university, an ancient complex showcasing traditional Vietnamese architecture
Old Quarter - A bustling maze of 36 ancient streets, each historically dedicated to specific crafts and trades

Where to Stay in Hanoi:

Luxury: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi - An iconic colonial-era hotel blending French grandeur with Vietnamese hospitality
Mid-range: La Siesta Premium Hang Be - A boutique hotel offering elegant rooms and exceptional service in the Old Quarter
Budget: Nexy Hostel - A stylish, modern hostel with both private and dorm rooms in a central location

Travel Tips for Asia

Are you ready to travel to and across Asia? Here are some quick booking links and resources that I use myself for travel planning. These websites will help you to get started with your Asia itinerary!

Cheap Flights to Asia

Many of these cities are major aviation hubs, making it very easy to combine multiple destinations within one trip! Skyscanner is my favorite search engine for finding cheap flights to all the major hubs in Asia, from anywhere in the world. I always start my flight search here!

Transport within Asia

Bus, boat, and trains: 12Go is one of the most reliable websites in Asia when it comes to booking buses, ferries and railway. Get an instant seat confirmation and start your overland travel worry-free.

Taxis: Indrive is my go-to app to call a cab. No more hassles with taxi drivers who don't like to use the meter!

Find a Place to stay in Asia

Hostels, hotels and resorts: Agoda is excellent if you're looking for hotels from budget to luxury! It's one of the largest hotel booking websites in the world. Plenty of options to book now and pay later, or even pay at the hotel. Risk-free booking, many with free cancellation. My other go to is Booking.com.

Homestays and Housesits: For a more authentic and local experience I recommend Homestay.com, a website where you can find places to stay with locals for such a great price. Personally, I'm obsessed with Trusted Housesitters, where you get to stay completely for free in exchange for pet care. Find out more in my article on How to Become a House Sitter and Never Pay for Accommodation.

Fun Tours and Activities in Asia

Get your Guide has plenty of fun activities in Asia, such as island hopping, hiking tours and city sightseeing trips. There is plenty of choices to keep yourself entertained!

Klook is similar than the one above, but offers additional options such as airport transfers, SIM cards, and food & dining experiences. It' a great way to meet other travelers while exploring a new place!

eSIM - Stay connected with Internet

Get an eSIM before you go and have Internet available from the second you arrive! I highly recommend Roamless or JetPac - they're both highly ranked, inexpensive and reliable.

Travel Insurance

Never go adventuring without travel insurance! I recommend Genki or SafetyWing - they're both very affordable and will cover you in an emergency.

Do I need a Visa for all these Asian countries?

You can check on iVisa whether you need a visa and how long you are permitted to stay.

Happy travels through Asia's most dynamic cities!

Best Places to Visit in Asia: 8 Vibrant Cities You Can't Miss in 2025!