Dubrovnik, Croatia

Flight duration from London: 2hrs 30
Average temperature for June/July: 21°C with highs of 27°C
Must pack: Your Game of Thrones t-shirt – Dubrovnik was the main filming location for King’s Landing and there are themed tours

Dubrovnik is a beautiful, enchanting and charming city. The Old Town is overflowing with history and it has a truly magical atmosphere. Get an amazing view of the glittering Adriatic Sea from the old city walls, and take in music, theatre, opera and dance performances during the world-renowned Dubrovnik Summer Festival (July to August). Enjoy sundowners at Buza Bar, built into the cliffs with panoramic sea views, and there are some great pizza restaurants in the Old Town, and plenty of gelato to be found along the Stradun (main street) after dinner. Stay in Ploce – it requires a walk but has fantastic views of the Old Town, the harbour and the sea.

Marrakech, Morocco

Flight duration from London: 3hrs 45
Average temperature for June/July: 27°C with highs of 37°C
Must pack: Antibacterial hand gel/wet wipes – not the most exciting, but you’ll probably get hot and sticky in the Medina

Whether you’re looking for a jam-packed city break, a lazy sun-drenched getaway, or a combination of both, Marrakech is a great hand-baggage option. Spend the day discovering the souks in the Medina, getting lost and buying things you don’t need, and if you can stick the heat, it comes alive at night for a taste of the real Morocco. Recover at a Moroccan Hammam afterwards, and check out Jardin Majorelle, a garden formerly owned by Yves Saint Laurent (but avoid the overpriced café). Stay in one of Marrakech’s authentic and historic riads near the souks in the Medina or there are plenty of luxury hotels further out.

Stylist's hand-luggage heroes: useful and stylish packing ideas for your carry-on