Located at an altitude of 1,326 metres, at the confluence of five valleys, Briançon is the highest town in France. This City of Art of History, fortified by French military architect Vauban in the 18th century, is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site precisely because of its remarkable group of fortifications built between the 18th and 20th centuries in order to improve the town's defense system.Once through the Pignerol gate, the incredibly picturesque old town offers visitors many examples of its past. There's plenty to explore for architecture fans, including the 18th-century collegiate church of Notre-Dame, 14th-century Cordeliers church, old houses lining the steep, narrow streets, the charming Place d'Armes square which is surrounded by pretty, colourful Provence-style facades, fountains and sundials. In winter, Briançon turns into a favourite destination for ski lovers as its ski area is part of the famous Serre Chevalier ski resort. READ MORE ->

Monteriggioni in Tuscany, Italy is one of the most incredible and representative Tuscan villages of the medieval period. A castle built by the Republic of Siena and a strategic point of control of passages on the Via Francigena, Monteriggioni soon became a coveted Tuscan stronghold. Dante tells us in the 13th canto of Purgatory, through the voice of the Siena noblewoman Sapia Salvani, of the tough battle that took place in 1269 between Siena and Florence (known as the Battle of Colle), which saw the victory of the latter and the subsequent siege of the Monteriggioni castle READ MORE ->

The highlight of any visit to Marrakech. This square is largely filled with snake charmers and people with monkeys, as well as some of the more common stalls. In the afternoon and evening the square becomes more crowded, with story-tellers, magicians, and peddlers of traditional medicines. As dark descends the square fills with dozens of food-stalls, and the crowds are at their height.

Beach renowned for black sand & strong waves ideal for surfing, with panoramic views -Google. Most famous surf beach. Situated on the west coast of the North Island, 40 kms from the city of Auckland, this black iron-sand beach has a reputation for awesome surf which rolls in over the Tasman Sea. READ MORE ->

Xochimilco is a suburb of Mexico City that once sat the shores of Lake Xochimilco before the Spanish arrived. Today it is most famous for its canals that, in ancient times, connected the villages around the lake. A visit to Xochimilco is like stumbling across an oasis in the desert. This eclectic place is set in the middle of a colossal city where you can discover colors your eyes have never seen before. Discover its colors as you walk down the aisles of its markets full of iris flowers. Float along the walled canals lined with gardens and curtains of trees on brightly painted and decorated trajineras (a traditional flat-bottomed boat) and evoke a time when this watery surrounding dominated the landscape of the Anahuac. Discover the small artificial islands, called chinampas, which are used to grow flowers, vegetables and ornamental plants. READ MORE ->

The Pilsen neighborhood is 4.5 miles from downtown Chicago on the city’s lower west side. Nestled along the busy railroad lines that run along 16th street, Pilsen has long been a first-stop neighborhood for many immigrants. First, Bohemians were drawn to the neighborhood in the 1800s in part by a construction project to build what is now Ogden Avenue. Then Mexican immigrants began to settle there starting in the 1950s. Today those working class roots are still a big part of this busy neighborhood that now also includes a very vibrant cultural scene focused on Mexican-American art, food, traditions and more. READ MORE ->

Fishing village on the coast of False Bay, South Africa - one of the coolest neighborhoods in the World. A gem on the False Bay coastline, Kalk Bay is known for its raw beauty, interesting shops, vast selection of restaurants and stunning views. READ MORE ->

Zermatt lies at the foot of the Matterhorn. The town's touristic development is closely linked to what is most probably the world's most famous mountain. The vacation destination is a car-free zone, has preserved its original character and offers nearly unlimited possibilities : spend your day shopping chic boutiques, tandem paragliding, snowshoeing, ice climbing, ice skating, ice hockey and sledding, including the toboggan run on the Gornergrat, considered one of the finest in the Alps. READ MORE ->

An almost unspoilt townscape dating back over 400 years, mighty churches, proud patrician houses and enchanting semi-timbered houses make Dinkelsbühl, “one of the closely packed and best preserved medieval towns in Germany”, say art historians. Today, the Gothic Minster of St. George, one of South Germany’s most impressive hall churches, still dominates an old-town ensemble of particular beauty. READ MORE ->

Located on an island on the eastern side of Lake Constance. Streets lined with century-old houses, nice and quiet harbor with views of the Austrian shoreline, Maximilianstrasse lined with beautiful homes and its family-run shops, cafes and restaurants. The location is unique: an historic island with a distinctive charm surrounded by a crystal clear lake and a lush environment. And in the background, the snow-covered scenery rises upwards - Lindau offers a holiday atmosphere on the shores of Lake Constance. READ MORE ->

The diving at Bonne Terre Mine in Missouri is one of the top 10 adventures in America (National Geographic Adventure) Over the course of a century, miners carved, chipped and drilled their way under Bonne Terre, creating Bonne Terre Mine. At some point during their work they hit water. Miners installed pumps to stop the mine from flooding. Finally, in 1962, they turned the pumps off and the man-made caverns silently filled with crystal-clear water. This preserved the mine and all of its abandoned equipment like a time capsule, and created a one-of-a-kind dive site in the process. Today you can dive the mine with a guide on any of 24 routes. You’ll find picks and shovels, ore cars, a machine shop, geology lab, offices, a movie theater, and a drinking fountain. READ MORE ->

Würzburg is an ancient episcopal seat and a vibrant university town with a baroque, distinctly southern feel. It is in an idyllic setting surrounded by vineyards and is defined by its architectural splendours that reflect a range of epochs. Würzburg’s main places of interest are the magnificent prince bishops’ Residenz Palace, an impressive example of Mediterranean baroque architecture, and the mighty Marienberg Citadel. READ MORE ->

Charming medieval town sitting next to the Danube river. It was the first capital of Bavaria. Some people call it “Italy’s northernmost city”, others prefer to describe Regensburg as “Germany’s medieval miracle”. The best preserved medieval city in Germany, situated at the northernmost point of the Danube River has a special charm. Two millennia of history have remained alive here. The most Italian city north of the alps also offers world renown sights such as Porta Praetoria, the gate to the Roman Castra Regina, the Old Stone Bridge and St. Peters Cathedral. READ MORE ->

The third oldest German city after Neuss and Trier, Augsburg was founded by the Romans in 15BC. The city had always been at the nexus of European trade, but its glory days arrived in Early Modern Age when the Fugger and Welser banking families amassed inconceivable wealth. That gave Augsburg the first Renaissance buildings north of the Alps, at the sublime City Hall and the lavish residence of the Fugger family. Augsburg’s churches and galleries are brimming with Renaissance art, while the central Maximilianstraße has long rows of historic facades and three Mannerist fountains built for the city’s 1,600th birthday. With wealth came culture, and Hans Holbein the Elder and Leopold Mozart are just two Augsburg citizens who helped change the course of art and music. READ MORE ->

13th-century church including the Bamberg Horseman statue & the marble tomb of Emperor Henry II. -Google. The Bamberg Cathedral is a late Romanesque building with four imposing towers. It was founded in 1002 by the emperor Henry II, finished in 1012 and consecrated on May 6, 1012. It was later partially destroyed by fire in 1081. The new cathedral, built by St. Otto of Bamberg, was consecrated in 1111, and in the 13th century received its present late-Romanesque form. Due to its long construction process, several styles were used in different parts of the cathedral, particularly the Romanesque and Gothic ones. Between these two styles is the Transitional style, and this is the style which is characteristic of the nave. READ MORE ->

Great destination for 1 day trip from Nuremberg. Walk thru narrow streets of the Old Town, see the quaint old fishermen’s houses, then marvel at the 11th-century Bamberg Cathedral or visit The New Residence with its beautiful rose garden and pavilion cafe.

One of the country’s most beautiful towns with a relaxed maritime atmosphere along with picturesque fisherman’s cottages and boats dotting the landing stage near the water. For over a hundred years Smögen has been a popular seaside resort. In contrast to other resorts such as Varberg (in Halland) or Gustafsberg (near Uddevalla, Bohuslän), the “high society” has never been at home in Smögen. Today many Swedes and Norwegians connect Smögen not only with sailing, motorboating, diving and other water sports, but also with parties, nightclubs, alcohol and amorous adventures. READ MORE ->

A beautiful small town in Jihlava District in the Vysočina Region.... Telč certainly belongs to the most attractive ones from a tourist’s point of view. It is internationally famous for the well-preserved Renaissance and Baroque architecture in its historic center, as well as the nearby Renaissance château. READ MORE ->

3th-century, hilltop fortress with a multimedia history show, temporary exhibitions & ornate rooms. -Google. The Castle of Gruyères has stood proudly atop a verdant hill at the foothills of the impressive Fribourg Pre-Alps since the 13th century. Today, the medieval fortress houses prestigious collections that bear witness to its long and eventful history. Visitors to the castle can embark on a journey through the ages and discover its many amazing treasures. These include the precious stained-glass windows dating from the Middle Ages, capes belonging to Charles the Bold’s Knights of the Order of the Golden Fleece, the wall hangings commissioned by the bailiffs under the Ancien Régime, paintings by Jean-Baptiste Camille Corot and the troubadour decorations of the Knights’ Room, created in Gruyères in the 19th century by a colony of passionate artists. READ MORE ->

The picturesque town of Gruyères gets its charm from the Middle Ages. The town gave its name to the region La Gruyère and its delicious cheese. The 13th century castle, visible from a distance, dominates the town. A multimedia show takes the curious on a captivating journey through time. The knights' hall impresses, the towers, ramparts, and gardens are an unforgettable experience . The museum and bar of Oscar-winning artist H.R. Giger shows the fantastic works of the creator of Alien's. The Tibet Museum offers visitors the opportunity to discover Tibetan Buddhist art in the setting of an old renovated chapel. READ MORE ->

Beautiful fairytale town Small medieval South Bohemian town on the banks of the Vltava River. It was built around a 13th-century castle. Thanks to its peaceful evolution over more than five centuries, its beautiful architectural heritage has remained intact. The narrow, twisted streets with its cobblestones – each polished and naturally worn by the millions of footsteps it has weathered through the centuries – are designed to conform to the whims and meanders of the Vltava river, adding to the town’s mystery. You cannot see far beyond, making each turn a surprise. READ MORE ->

The rocky Folegandros island is surrounded by piercing sunlight and azure waters. Conde Naste Traveler : 'Greece's most beautiful undiscovered island'

A harbor town and resort. Glorious beaches, a warm atmosphere and fine Victorian houses. Enjoy a spot of fishing, relax on Caldey Island, Visit the 15th century church or take a walk along the beautiful Pembrokeshire coastal path. READ MORE ->

The Venice of Holland. It is so peaceful, so different and has such simple beauty that it hardly seems real – gently gliding along small canals past old but pretty thatched-roof farmhouses. You can turn down a “side street” (another small canal) and drift under a wooden bridge where an elderly resident may be strolling over to see a neighbor. No this is not Venice, or Amsterdam. READ MORE ->

One of the best places to see puffins . Immense biodiversity, including 150 not yet classified plant species as well as millions of birds that nest on and in the cliffs.

One of the most picturesque places in all of Europe. The white stone, indigent to the island of Brac, is what makes this small harbor town a truly one-of-a-kind destination. Sitting on the northern coast of the island and sheltered by a protective cove, enjoy stretching out on pristine sands, soaking in the sunshine and taking a cool, refreshing dip in the sparkling Adriatic.

The former capital of a Moorish kingdom (Taifa), village has preserved all its Islamic and medieval appearance. Albarracin is one of Spain's most beautiful villages and if you are in the Aragon region you should definitely head in this direction. The village is set on a cliff above the Rio Guadalaviar and its medieval houses have remained virtually unchanged for centuries. READ MORE ->

Unusual and very photogenic, Göreme is one of the most beautiful villages in the world The city was built during the Roman era, constructed amid the exquisite rock formations that dominate the area. The hard natural rock served as foundations and fortifications for those that built the town, and to this day, much of the ancient architecture still stands, with many of the churches carved directly into the rocks themselves. This beautiful town is something that truly must be seen to be believed, looking as if it could only exist in a fairytale. One of the best ways to see the surrealistic landscape is from above – and every morning just before sunrise, hundreds of hot air balloons are fired up across the region, floating above and around the rock formations.

Picturesque medieval castle & prison in the middle of the Thiou Canal, now an art & history museum.-Google. Dating back to the 12th century, it is one of the main landmarks and most photographed sights in the town, and, indeed, in France.

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Pearl of the French Alps or Venice of the Alps

A city of Art with a magnificent architectural harmony. Walking around Annecy old town is a real delight. With its charming canals, its flower-bedecked banks, its small delightful bridges and its beautiful houses with colourful facades,

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Annecy is a picturesque town located in the Haute-Savoie department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France. It is situated at the northern end of Lake Annecy, surrounded by stunning mountains.The history of Annecy dates back to the Roman era when it was a small trading settlement. Over the centuries, it became an important strategic location due to its proximity to major trade routes. In the Middle Ages, Annecy was ruled by the Counts of Geneva and later became the capital of the County of Savoy.

One of the iconic landmarks in Annecy is the Esplanade de l'Hôtel de Ville, located in the heart of the town. It is a spacious square lined with beautiful buildings and offers a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

The Hôtel de Ville, or Town Hall, is an impressive building situated on the Esplanade. It dates back to the 16th century and features a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic and Renaissance elements. The building is adorned with intricate carvings and decorative details, showcasing the rich history of the town.

Annecy is also known for its charming canals, earning it the nickname 'Venice of the Alps'. These canals flow through the old town, adding to its romantic and picturesque ambiance. Strolling along the canals, visitors can admire the colorful houses, flower-lined streets, and numerous bridges that connect the different parts of the town.

Another notable attraction in Annecy is the Château d'Annecy, a restored medieval castle that overlooks the town. The castle dates back to the 12th century and now houses the Annecy Castle Museum, showcasing the history and heritage of the region.

The town of Annecy is also famous for its annual International Animated Film Festival, which attracts filmmakers, artists, and animation enthusiasts from around the world. The festival showcases a wide range of animated films, exhibitions, and workshops, making Annecy a hub for the animation industry.

Overall, Annecy is a charming destination that combines natural beauty, rich history, and cultural events. Whether you are exploring its historic landmarks, enjoying the scenic views, or immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the town, Annecy offers a unique and memorable experience.

Bibury is a charming, typically Cotswold, village just a short drive from 'The Capital of the Cotswolds', Cirencester. Bibury was once described by William Morris (1834-96) as 'the most beautiful village in England'. In fact, Fox News says that Bibury is one of the world's most picturesque villages, and an article on the Huffington Post website (1st May 2014), titled 'The Most Charming Towns In Europe You'll Want To Visit ASAP', mentioned Bibury. And the cottages of Arlington Row are often referred to as the most photographed and beautiful cottages in the country. READ MORE -> Bishop Wilfrith of Worcester granted the estate to Earl Leppas and his daughter Beaga (721 - 743 AD). The village became known as Beagan-byrig, or Beaga's enclosure. Over centuries the name was gradually corrupted into its current form of Bibury.

Quaint alpine lakefront village with a funicular to a salt mine & a multimedia history museum. -Google. Nestled between the edge of Hallstätter See and the towering Dachstein mountains, Austria’s oldest and possibly most photographed village READ MORE ->

The largest town on Scotland’s Isle of Skye, a bustling port as well as a thriving cultural center. The harbor is the focal point, featuring a number of pubs, seafood restaurants and spectacular views across the bay. It’s one of the best places to base your stay if you plan to explore this incredibly scenic wild region, due to its close proximity to some of the most breathtaking and unique attractions, including rock formations like the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and the extraordinary pinnacles of the Quaraing.

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A fascinating insight into 1,000 years of European history through its exceptional heritage. Wonderfully preserved from the ravages of time, its homogenous historical centre is classed as a 'protected area' and has benefited from careful restoration and ongoing improvements for more than 25 years. The city has an impressive selection of quality restaurants and shops selling high-quality local products... Not to miss: the romantic and world famous district of 'the Little Venice'. READ MORE ->

A medieval village in France’s Alsace wine region. Ranked one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France Built around its castle, this medieval city unfolds in concentric circles. You will discover in this original village, fountains, colongereal courtyards and a church sheltering a 13th century 'Opening Virgin'. READ MORE ->

The Pink Granite Coast, so-called because of the color of its rocks, is one of the most beautiful stretches of Brittany’s coastline. The area is renowned for its unusual rock formations, the best of which can be found on the coastal path between Perros-Guirec and the port of Ploumanach. The Cote de Granit Rose (pink granite coast) runs from Plestin-les-Greves to Louannec in the Cotes d'Armor department of Brittany and is one of the most outstanding coastlines in Europe. This particular beautiful thirty kilometer stretch of rocky coast, an incredible pink color edged with turquoise sea and safe sandy beaches, is a splendid place for family holidays and hikers. READ MORE ->

This little town in the south of Belgium offers the perfect mix of history, culture and nature.

A true picture-postcard town, Dinant provides a stunning spectacle, especially when you look across the Meuse and lift your gaze towards the Citadelle and the onion-domed tower of the Collegiate church, all highlighted by the ribbon of houses and shops running alongside the river.

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Portofino is the quintessential fishing village on the Italian Riviera: a row of houses painted in bright colors set like a crown around a sheltered and hidden bay, surrounded by lush vegetation. Portofino has a dual personality because, while it is a popular meeting place for VIPs from around the world, it is also an irresistible destination for lovers of nature, sea and outdoor activities. READ MORE ->

Historic Victorian seaside gem. the oldest resort and one of the most beautiful spots in the country. Fine wines, outstanding restaurants, classic jazz festivals and special events... READ MORE ->

A classic weekend daytrip destination, a town where the main street is lined with restored historic buildings that once outfitted wagon trains.

Saugatuck's Oval Beach has been rated by Conde Naste's Traveler Magazine as one of the 25 best shorelines in the world. Year-round, gay-friendly beach for swimming, sunbathing & walking with dunes & a nearby nature area. -Google. Celebrated around the world for its beautiful sweep of shoreline and backdrop of rolling dunes, this is the main beach in town and the most happening place to soak in the sun. Its impressive pedigree of awards (Condé Nast Traveler’s Top 25 Beaches in the World, National Geographic Traveler’s Top Freshwater Beaches in the USA, and MTV’s Top 5 Beaches in the USA) is proof of its status as a summertime favorite and natural beauty spot. READ MORE ->

Charming beach town and famed art colony. The main draw is the lovely Oval Beach.

Nestled at the foot of magnificent glacial carved mountains facing the Pacific Ocean on Baranof Island, Sitka is located on the outer coast of Alaska’s Inside Passage and lies at the heart of the largest temperate rain forest in the world, the Tongass National Forest. With views of island-studded waters and forests descending to the water’s edge, Sitka is home to 9,061 people. Sitka’s colorful past is a unique blend of native Tlingit culture and Russian history. In 1867, when the United States purchased Alaska from the Russians, the transfer ceremony was held in Sitka, and Sitka became Alaska’s first capital city. READ MORE ->

Rovinj is a stunning little city in Croatia filling every inch of a peninsula bordered on three sides by the Adriatic Sea. The core of the old town is mostly Venetian and built with pale limestone that glows in the sun, containing exciting fragments from every stage of its turbulent history. READ MORE ->

The best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy & the incredible nature right here. Pula is one of the oldest cities in Croatia. There is a strong Roman influence in Pula’s history, evidenced by the largely intact Roman coliseum that dominates the center of the city.The Arena was built in the 1st century AD and was used until the 5th century for gladiatorial fights and other mass spectacles. The Temple of Augustus was built in the 2nd century BC and dedicated to Emperor Augustus and the goddess Roma. The Triumphal Arch of Sergius (built in the 1st century AD,) is a monument erected to honor the members of the Sergii family who fought and died in a battle between Octavian’s Roman army and Mark Antony’s Egyptian-Roman army. The Cathedral Of The Assumption Of The Holy Virgin built by the Christians during their persecution. READ MORE ->

Settled in 1734. Handsome town which inspired Norman Rockwell's artwork. The Stockbridge area is blessed with a line-up of cultural attractions that rivals that of many metropolitan areas: internationally renowned summer festivals of music, theatre, and dance; major art museums and galleries, and historic homes and gardens. The spectacular Berkshire countryside that provides a backdrop for the cultural showcase is itself a destination, with numerous trails and back roads for hiking, cycling, bird watching, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. READ MORE ->

Cool Victorian town. Downtown Berlin was named an official 'Maryland Arts & Entertainment district', The second Friday of every month is when Berlin’s artists come out to shine. Walk the streets with outdoor entertainment, great galleries, and local food and drinks. READ MORE ->

A haven for leisure. Nicknamed the 'village between the lakes,' Grand Rivers offers unique shops, good restaurants and all the lakeside fun. The beautiful town of Grand Rivers sits on both Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, Grand Rivers is also located on the North entrance of the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.

Trogir was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997 and is home to a number of fascinating historic sights, the best of which is the Cathedral of St Lawrence. Although findings in the local area suggest that there must have been settlements at the site of Trogir in prehistoric times, the town’s history really starts with a Greek settlement in the 3rd century BC. Greeks from the island of Vis founded the settlement Tragurion, which then went on to become part of the Roman Empire which was expanding through Dalmatia at that time. READ MORE ->

The beauty of the Graslei in Ghent brings everyone and everything to a standstill. This is the place where beautiful façades are reflected in the River Lys. Tourists and residents alike relax on either side of the water, whether dangling their legs over the quay, or sitting comfortably at a café terrace. READ MORE ->