Year after year, the magnetic City of Lights draws travelers to its Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Notre Dame.
But what keeps travelers enchanted is Paris' alluring cafes, vibrant
markets and trendy shopping districts. And we can't discount Paris' je ne sais quoi charm that's unexplainable but also unmistakeable.
Renowned for its legendary fútbol team,
Barcelona boasts much more than athletic talent. Touring the city is a
feast for the eyes: Visitors walk past medieval architecture in the Barri Gòtic and Gaudi's innovative creations at Parc Güell and the Sagrada Familia. Plus, Las Ramblas buzzes at all hours.
London is a world unto itself. With eclectic neighborhoods and a mix of historical landmarks and modern-day attractions, the city can keep you occupied for days (if not years). That said, you should visit the Tower of London and the British Museum. If you have extra time, explore Portobello Road and Borough Market.
New York City hosts infinite urban adventures. Wander through Central Park or tour the exhibits at the Met. Afterward, catch a Broadway show or peruse SoHo's
stylish boutiques. And at night, sit down at a trendy restaurant or
admire Manhattan's glittering skyscrapers from the top of the Empire State Building.
Gourmet eateries, funky boutiques and laid-back vibes are just some of San Fran's charms. Areas like Nob Hill and The Castro offer unique experiences for every traveler. Famed spots, like Fisherman's Wharf and Alcatraz, are must-see attractions, too. And, of course, the city's crowning architectural achievement — the Golden Gate Bridge — is unforgettable.
This world-class metropolis offers more than just a dizzying array of landmarks (e.g., the opera house and the Sydney Harbour Bridge). Sydney features a host of beaches (Coogee and Bondi, for starters) that draw locals and tourists alike. Also, in its rivalry with Melbourne, Sydney wins the weather battle with its warm, sunny climate.
Vancouver may not be as grand as New York City or as historic as Montreal,
but why this Canadian city caught the attention of the International
Olympic Committee is no mystery. The city bursts with parks, galleries
and outdoor activities. Kayak in English Bay before taking in the
scenery at Stanley Park.
From swimming
in Lake Zurich in the summer to skiing in the nearby Alps in the winter,
Zurich attracts visitors year-round. Delectable pastry shops abound, as
do museums, historic churches and upscale shops in Bahnofstrasse. For fun, locals hit up the bars and clubs of edgy Zurich West.
Renowned for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August, this Scottish city impresses visitors with its historic sites along the Royal Mile and its casual pub culture. While you're here, don't miss Edinburgh Castle or Holyroodhouse Palace for a glimpse of the royal lifestyle. And you can't miss the spectacular views from Arthur's Seat.
Here, it's as if Paris migrated to North America. Travelers adore the city's quaint cafes, bustling marketplaces and old-world architecture. To truly appreciate the city's majesty, visit St. Joseph's Oratory, next to Mont-Royal. This immense basilica crowns the skyline and provides stunning views.
Over the past
couple of decades, Prague has transitioned from a backpacker secret to a
flourishing Eastern European capital. As you wind through narrow
streets, you'll admire iconic landmarks such as the Charles Bridge and St. Vitus Cathedral. After you've soaked up the scenery, save some time for enjoying local pilsners on a bar crawl.
If
you have to choose one island to visit in Greece, it's easy to make a
case for Crete. Its diverse landscape features everything from ancient ruins to gorgeous beaches, and you can spend a day doing anything from shopping in Agios Nikolaos to hiking the Samaria Gorge.
It's hard not
to find yourself enchanted by this dreamy, six-mile stretch of
paradise: Lush jungles extend into sky high volcanoes and shimmering
sands stretch into upscale resorts. Carve out some time for hiking Mount Otemanu, observing aquatic life at the Bora Bora Lagoonarium or simply relaxing on the beach.
One of the most-visited cities in the U.S., our nation's capital houses a trove of postcard-worthy monuments. The White House and the Lincoln Memorial
are here, as well as a variety of walkable neighborhoods. Plus,
budget-minded travelers can take advantage of free attractions, like the
Smithsonian museums.
The simple
mention of "the Maldives" conjures images of cerulean waters and soft
sands. This enchanting collection of more than a thousand islands
boasts palatial resorts and pristine beaches — the stuff of dreams. Its allures are difficult to even comprehend without being there.
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