Cities of Stories: Agoda's Guide to Asia's Architectural and Cultural Marvels

SINGAPORE, Dec. 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital travel platform Agoda has curated a list of must-visit destinations across Asia where human creativity, architectural brilliance, and cultural heritage come together in unforgettable ways. From ancient capitals that feel like open-air museums to lantern-lit trading ports and lakeside palaces, these cities show how urban landscapes can tell powerful stories of both tradition and innovation.

Travelers are increasingly seeking trips that go beyond checklists of attractions, looking instead to immerse themselves in the design, history, and daily rituals of the places they visit. Whether it's wandering through centuries-old alleyways, gazing up at intricate temple roofs, or crossing grand historic squares at sunset, Asia offers a wealth of man-made wonders that bring its cultures to life.

Krishna Rathi, Associate Vice President at Agoda, shared, "More and more travelers are choosing cities not just for the tallest tower or newest mall, but for the stories etched into their streets, temples, and town squares. According to our 2026 Travel Outlook Report, cultural exploration is one of the top three motivators for Asian travelers, with architecture playing a crucial role in that experience. The places that really resonate are those that protect their heritage while still feeling current – they are living cities, not museum pieces. With Agoda, it's easy to find and book these kinds of trips, where every walk through town feels like a front-row seat to Asia's architectural and cultural evolution."

Here is Agoda's selection of six captivating destinations where travelers can explore Asia's man-made marvels:

1.       George Town, Penang – Malaysia: George Town's UNESCO-listed historic center is a vibrant blend of Chinese shophouses, colonial facades, clan houses, and contemporary street art. Travelers can wander narrow lanes lined with colorful buildings, visit ornate temples such as Khoo Kongsi, and pause at traditional kopitiams that have served the community for generations. It's a city where every corner café and courtyard tells a story of migration, trade, and creativity.

2.       Gyeongju – South Korea: Once the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, Gyeongju is often described as a "museum without walls." Grassy royal tombs rise from city parks, while sites like Bulguksa Temple and the Seokguram Grotto showcase intricate Buddhist architecture and craftsmanship. Travelers can also visit Cheomseongdae, one of Asia's oldest astronomical observatories, and experience how history, spirituality, and urban life coexist in a remarkably serene setting.

3.       Hoi An – Vietnam: Hoi An's lantern-lit old town, set along the Thu Bon River, is a beautifully preserved trading port that reflects centuries of cultural exchange. Traditional merchant houses, assembly halls, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge create a unique streetscape best explored on foot. As day turns to evening, the glow of lanterns, riverside cafes, and wooden shopfronts offers a cinematic view into Vietnam's architectural and cultural heritage.

4.       Luang Prabang – Laos: Nestled between rivers and mountains, Luang Prabang is a gentle, contemplative city where gilded temples, French-colonial villas, and wooden houses sit harmoniously side by side. Travelers can watch the daily alms-giving ceremony at dawn, climb to Wat Phou Si for views over the town, and explore tranquil monasteries that remain central to local life. The result is a destination that feels both intimate and majestic, shaped by centuries of spiritual and cultural traditions.

5.       Udaipur – India: Often called the "City of Lakes," Udaipur showcases some of India's most romantic man-made vistas. The City Palace complex rises dramatically above Lake Pichola, while island palaces and havelis appear to float on the water's surface. Winding old streets, intricately carved balconies, and hidden courtyards offer endless details for travelers to discover. With its combination of royal architecture and atmospheric lakeside views, Udaipur is a striking example of how design and landscape can work in harmony.

6.       Kanazawa – Japan: Kanazawa offers a refined glimpse into traditional Japan without the crowds of more famous cultural hubs. The city is home to Kenroku-en, one of Japan's most celebrated landscape gardens, as well as well-preserved districts like Nagamachi, once home to samurai families, and Higashi Chaya, known for its historic teahouses. Museums, craft workshops, and restored wooden buildings help tell the story of a city that has carefully protected its heritage while evolving into a modern cultural center.

Agoda offers over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in the same booking. Discover the best deals on Agoda's mobile app and start planning your next adventure today.

SOURCE Agoda