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The Cities You Need To See In Your Lifetime

Urban centers offer their own form of adventure -- and some even satisfy the most active outdoor enthusiasts -- so we decided to honor and highlight the 15 cities you should absolutely see in your lifetime.
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The Active Times

The Active Times
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Here at The Active Times, we're big proponents of off-the-beaten-path adventures and exploring wilderness around the globe, but that mentality occasionally means that cities are overlooked.

Click Here to see the Complete List of Cities You Need to See in Your Lifetime

Urban centers offer their own form of adventure -- and some even satisfy the most active outdoor enthusiasts -- so we decided to honor and highlight the 15 cities you should absolutely see in your lifetime.

1
Siem Reap, Cambodia
A city in the midst of change, Siem Reap is working to strike a balance between ancient traditions and modern amenities. The city is a well-known gateway for tourists and backpackers looking to explore ancient temples in Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, but it’s more than a simple jumping off point. Tour the city on bike or horseback, sample traditional Cambodian dishes and visit one of the many luxury spas for a relaxing afternoon.Photo Credit: ShutterstockClick Here to See Cities You Need to See in Your Lifetime
2
Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
Surrounded by towering peaks, lush rain forest and beautiful beaches, Rio is not your typical city. Instead, it’s an adventurer’s paradise where spontaneity rules. Whatever your preference in adventure, be it outdoor exploration, samba celebrations, football matches or something you have yet to discover, you’re sure to fall in love with Rio in one way or another. Join in on a celebration in the neighborhood of Lapa, see wildlife like monkeys and lounge on the beaches that have been recognized as some of the best in the world.Photo Credit: Shutterstock
3
Charleston, S.C.
The city where the Civil War began undoubtedly tops the list of must-see places for American history buffs, but the historic charms of Charleston don’t stop there. Regularly ranking as a top travel destination, this city has a reputation for culinary excellence, religious expression and friendly locals. Wander the cobblestone streets, lined with buildings that date back to the 1700s, and stop into one of the many incredible restaurants that serve southern fare with a modern flare. Round out your visit with a trip to Fort Sumter, a bike ride over the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and a round of golf at one of the 20-plus courses in the area.Photo Credit: ShutterstockClick Here to See Cities You Need to See in Your Lifetime
4
Florence, Italy
Best known as the “Cradle of the Renaissance,” Florence is a city steeped in romance, overflowing with fashion, art and fine wine. The city may be on the smaller side but there is no shortage of cultural and culinary gems to discover, as such travelers find themselves revisiting the city. On your visit make time to stop into a local theatre, visit the infamous Duomo and relax with a glass of wine in one of the many iconic wine bars.Photo Credit: Shutterstock
5
Seoul, South Korea
Set between four guardian mountains, Seoul is a soulful city with a pulse that’s almost palpable. The city is a round-the-clock wonder, a haven for food-lovers and site full of history and stunning architecture. Should you care to venture out and explore more of South Korea, the public transit system is efficient and visiting the North Korea/ South Korea border, the international port Incheon or World Heritage sites at Suwon is well worth the effort.Click Here to See Cities You Need to See in Your LifetimePhoto Credit: Shutterstock

Among the many criteria, cities on the list were judged on access to outdoor adventure, greenspace (or preserved land), general aesthetic, culinary chops, nightlife, art scene and friendliness of locals (which played a small part in the rankings). The chosen cities were picked from around the globe and, hopefully, offer a small sampling of the diversity that's out there.

From South Carolina to South Africa, these are the 15 cities you need to see in your lifetime.

Click Here to see the Original Story on The Active Times

- Diana Gerstacker, The Active Times

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