The Phoenix

From the diners of Greektown to the fresco murals painted by Diego Rivera, Detroit in the USA is a vibrant and eclectic city. Its history is as varied and culturally rich as the people who proudly call it home – this is the birthplace of Motown Records, after all. Spend your time hopping between museums, galleries and markets, grab a beer at an urban brewery or catch an open-air film or concert in the park.

Get a taste for the city's history with a stay in a Detroit hostel in a 100-year-old house that still has its original features. A place with extra-large mattresses ensures you'll be comfortable, while a homely hostel with murals on the walls will make you feel part of the family. Choose a place with free Wi-Fi to stream a film in the evening or one with a common area to mingle with fellow urban explorers. Hostels in Detroit with self-catering facilities mean you can cook dinner yourself and save a few dollars to spend later at the city's market. 

Downtown Detroit is a maze of skyscrapers, theatres and green parks that end at the river. For arts and culture, head to Midtown and get your fill of galleries, museums and events. As the home of Wayne State University, this is the spot for the city's youthful underground scene of clubs and rock shows. Detroit's southwest side is a cultural kaleidoscope, from colourful Mexicantown to the industrial-chic vibes of Corktown.

For theatres, shops and restaurants all in one spot, head to the Renaissance Centre, Detroit's stand-out skyscraper overlooking the river. At the Detroit Institute of Arts, you can marvel at works by famous artists like Van Gogh and Picasso. To do a little window shopping, drop by the Detroit Antiques Mall, followed by a tour of Greektown to sample international dishes. Catch an open air film showing at New Center Park or see where Marvin Gaye recorded at the Motown Museum.

If you're flying into Detroit Metro Airport, you can reach downtown in roughly an hour when you take one of two airport buses. You'll find both the Detroit Train Station and the main bus terminal downtown as well. To get around the city, hop on the elevated rail system or a public bus. Downtown is easy enough to navigate on foot when you want to tick off the main sights.