Brighton and Hove may not be the Seychelles but it is about to join the list of top tourist destinations.

The city is to feature on the BBC's Holiday programme, which will show the area in all its glory.

While Brighton and Hove has traditionally been popular for weekend breaks, programme makers were also keen to promote new additions to the city, which have boosted its image as a fashionable place to be.

Filming was done over three days during the Brighton Festival in May.

The crew stayed at the Hotel Pelirocco in Regency Square, which boasts 18 individually-designed rooms based around the theme of youth culture.

Popular rooms include one based on cult mod film Quadrophenia and a Muhammad Ali room complete with boxing ring ropes.

Jane Slater, co-owner of the hotel, said: "We hope the programme will show the quirky, modern side of Brighton. I think a lot of programmes focus on Brighton's traditions so it would be good to show the other side."

Other places used as footage were the Palace Pier, Brighton Dome, The Lanes, Brighton Marina and the Royal Pavilion.

Pavilion spokesman Martin Ellis said: "We showed the crew around the refurbished museum and art gallery, the restored grounds and the Pavilion itself.

"I think we managed to show the history of Brighton together with why it is a good place to live now. I hope the programme will show Brighton as a welcoming, lively and refreshing place."

Sarah Gibbs, of the city council's visitor and convention bureau, said: "Working with TV companies is one of the most effective ways we promote the city. It's great for the city to be featured on such a high-profile programme.

"The filming was done during one of Brighton's most colourful and vibrant months and is sure to tempt viewers to a city break with a difference."

The city will feature in the Holiday programme on December 16.