Islamabad

Under a hot middle eastern sky, Islamabad is a modern city backed by the Himalayan foothills. Built to become the new capital of Pakistan in the '60s, the city's young age shows in its thoughtful grid-like layout punctuated by pockets of greenery. Head up to a viewing point and look out over museums and mosques, relax with a picnic in a park or get up close to the culture of the country at a gallery.

You can sit down around cups of tea and share stories at a hostel in Islamabad that's run by travellers. At a place with huge windows and air con, take in views of the city without the humidity. Look out for an Islamabad hostel with free Wi-Fi that lets you keep in touch with friends back home. Some hostels in Islamabad have shared kitchens so you can cook for yourself when you're not discovering the city's street food.

Islamabad is split into five different zones. Zone 2 is the most residential area, giving you a glimpse into local life. For a more rural vibe, visit Zone 5 with its parks, public gardens and the slow-moving Soan River. Just beyond the city, you can find Saidpur village in the Margalla Hills for a quiet respite from the bustling city. Head here for authentic Pakistani food, markets selling arts and crafts and an abandoned Hindu temple set against a backdrop of wilderness. 

Stroll up the Shakarparian Hills to see the Pakistan Monument, a striking open-air structure that mimics flower petals reaching for the sky. On top of indoor and outdoor exhibitions at the Lok Virsa Heritage Museum, you can listen to traditional music, pick up some handicrafts and take in a cultural event. To really appreciate the meticulous layout of the city, hike up to Daman-E-Koh viewpoint and watch the traffic navigating the grid-like roads. Faisal Mosque is the largest in the country, and its unique Bedouin tent shape makes it an intriguing spot for taking in the religious architecture of the capital.

Islamabad International Airport is close to the city centre at just 30 minutes away by car. Islamabad has good public transport; take the metro bus or opt for the hop-on hop-off tour bus to travel easily between the top sites around the city. You can also hail a taxi in the street.