Explore the Scenic Underrated Destinations

Yes, this is the island where Prince Harry fell into a pool. So no, Hvar isn't exactly remote. But it's much less crowded than Dubrovnik, where there isn't room to swing a cat when the cruise ships dock. Despite its glitzy reputation, Hvar Town has a fair choice of mid-range hotels for bargain hunters, as well as hostels and a campsite just to the north.

However, if you want to escape from it all during your holidays to Croatia, you might want to abandon the island's capital for Stari Grad (see below). The island's at its very best in spring when it's aromatic with lavender and thyme, and it's also suitable for an autumn holiday as the sun still shines well into October. 

Lugano is smaller than some of the more famous Swiss lakeside towns, but that only adds to its charm. You have everything you want from a Swiss holiday, all within easy reach, which makes it a good option for families. If you're into flowers, spring is the best time to visit. Camelias and magnolias thrive in the subtropical climate – and so do Swiss bankers, who have added some striking modern buildings to the town skyline.

The best place to experience this mix of lush greenery and civilised attractions is the Parco Civio-Ciano, a lakeside park where you can wander flower beds and copses, with museums to check out and play areas for kids. The town is overlooked by Monte Bre, officially the sunniest mountain in Switzerland. And what makes it even more friendly is the fact that there's a funicular to take you to the top, so you can enjoy the views without breaking a sweat. 

Tavira provides all the glamour of the Algarve without the hectic tourist activity of more famous resorts like Albufeira or Vilamoura. This is especially true if you go there early in late February or early March. Sun worshippers will want to take a five-minute ferry boat from town to Tavira Island, a little sliver of an islet that offers some of the region's most tranquil, unspoilt beaches. It's popular with nudists – but if you glimpse something pink in the corner of your eye, don't panic because it might just be a flock of flamingos.

The town's good for a bit of culture too. One of the main historic sites is its Roman Bridge. Funny thing, it's not actually Roman, but it's still great for a photo op. For the perfect panoramic selfie backdrop, though, try Tavira castle. It mostly fell to bits in an earthquake in 1755, but you can explore what is left for free and go scrambling up the stone turrets. Probably just as well that you can't visit the ruins after dark as they're said to be haunted by the ghost of a kidnapped Moorish princess – spooky! 

Utrecht has everything Amsterdam has – museums, canals, art – minus the seedy side. Among other things, it's home to the Dom bell tower. Even if you don't relish the views from the top, it's 465 steps offer one helluva buns of steel workout. The town is divided into six central districts, each more laid back than the next. The quietest of all is the Stadhuis District, a handy place to browse for uniquely Dutch gifts and keepsakes.

If you're travelling with kids who badly need to burn off some energy, the tourism department has come up with a bunch of recommended cycle routes, ranging from 40-minute excursions for younger children to deep forays around the local waterways and nature parks that last several hours. Whichever itinerary you choose, it will probably include regular stops for cupcakes and other things to eat and drink.