Islamabad is the capital city of Pakistan and is an underrated holiday destination. Situated in proximity to the metropolis of Rawalpindi, the Pakistani capital is a great place to relax and enjoy serene accommodation while being able to dive into the big city when you want to see the sights, indulge in some local cuisine and explore Pakistan’s rich culture. The area around the city is rich in famous tourist attractions. Visit the astonishing Faisal Mosque which is one of great modern works of art of Pakistan, or learn about folk culture at the Lok Virsa museum. Visit a reconstructed Mughal village at Saidpur and see how the industry came to Pakistan at the Golra Railway Museum.

Another great local attraction is the ancient city of Taxila. One of Asia’s great ancient centres, Taxila was visited by Alexander the Great, and the excavations are a unique window into the fascinating history of the region. Staying amidst the city is not all about museums, mosques, ruins and markets - there is some lush natural beauty to be experienced as well. Drive up into the Margalla Hills without any hassle, which makes for a superb picnic spot. Alternatively, the Lake View Park is a stunning place for an evening stroll. If the capital city is too tranquil, Rawalpindi is about 15 km away and provides an injection of excitement to any trip. Catch an interesting cricket match at Nawaz Sharif Park or shop your heart out at the incredibly cheap Raja Bazaar before having a delicious meal at Fortress Street.