The largest city in Switzerland is a major contemporary art and shopping destination. Important artworks are displayed in the Kunsthaus and the Rietberg Museum, while those who consider shopping an art can hone their skills along Bahnhofstrasse and Niederdorf. Chagall's stained glass windows in the Fraumunster amaze and Zurich's 500 clubs and bars, including several in swimming pools, pulse with life 'til the early hours. This city on Lake Zurich has excellent public transit and a free bike rental system.

A powerful force since medieval times, the thriving Swiss capital is an appealing city of museums and collections. Bernmobil is the capital's transit service. A BernCard is valid on trams and buses that serve the city. A free bike service is also an option for getting around. The Historical Museum and the Collection of the Bern Museum of Fine Arts house the art and architecture of millennia. The Einstein House and the Paul Klee Center showcase the work of two of Bern's famous former inhabitants.

This Swiss winter wonderland is also a summer playground. Snow-frosted peaks tower above charming towns and villages like Interlaken. Its position, between lakes Thun and Brienz, makes a perfect base for cable car rides up Jungfrau, Mšnch and Eiger or for hikes from traditional village Grindelwald. Thun offers exciting summer diving and sailing. To the west, the glitzy resort town of Gstaad attracts Europe's wealthy. Jungfrau Railway boasts Europe's highest station. The region is accessible by bus or car.

A magnet for skiers and hikers, these dramatic peaks – including the iconic Matterhorn – range from 3,000 to 15,000 feet and spread across three-fifths of the country. Abundant glaciers, scenic valleys and gorgeous alpine lakes add to the region's visual appeal. The Glacier Express train travels the 7.5-hour route through the Swiss Alps from Zermatt to St. Moritz, passing through fairy-tale villages and over 291 bridges along the way.

Marked by the Tatra (called Tatry locally) Mountains that form the country’s southern border with Slovakia, Southern Poland consists of three Viovodships (Provinces): Opole, Silesian and Lesser Poland (Malopolska). Many beautiful medieval castles are still found in the region, including Moszna in Opole and the massive 400-room Ksiaz in Silesia. Lesser Poland is home to bustling Krakow, the country’s third-largest city. The region’s mountains and green areas are perfect for outdoor adventure.

As one of England’s most haunted cities, Derby is awash with ghost-hunting opportunities. The city’s historic cathedral quarter serves as the gateway to the Peak District National Park, where rolling hills, babbling brooks, and traditional country pubs are reminiscent of a Romantic painting.

Once an important center for sugar production, Puerto Rico's fourth largest city's current fortunes come from its factories. Intriguing nicknames for the city of nearly 200,000 include The Land of Giants and Arm Hackers Town. Situated on the island's north shore, this Atlantic city is considered part of the metropolitan San Juan area. Popular attractions include Carolina Beach, Casa Escute art gallery, Caribbean Raceway Park and Isla Verde Mall. To make the most of your visit, consider renting a car.