Set on the Gulf of Tigullio between Rapallo and Portofino, the resort/fishing town of Santa Margherita Ligure really couldn’t be in a better neighborhood. Fashionable but much quieter than Portofino, life in Santa Margherita Ligure centers around the lovely palm-laden harbor, where boating and simple sunning are the orders of the day. The town has some good shopping options, lovely cafes and interesting sights like its 16th-century castle and the 17th-century Basilica di Santa Margherita.

A port city of about 30,000 on Italy’s Ligurian Coast, Rapallo lies on the Tigullio Gulf about 15 miles southeast of Genoa. The 16th-century Castello sul Mare (Castle-on-the-Sea) is Rapallo’s most prominent landmark, sitting as it does smack in the harbor. The sixth-century Basilica of Santi Gervasio e Protasio is also worth a visit. For a real treat, take the bus or the funivia (cable car) to the sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Montallegro (Our Lady of Montallegro), which offers stunning views.

While most visitors to Livorno arrive by cruise ship and press on to nearby Florence and Siena, those who linger in this bustling port town are treated to some of Tuscany’s freshest seafood and the quirky charm of a canal-lined quarter known as the New Venice.

Wandering the narrow caruggi alleyways of Genoa is a bit like solving a medieval labyrinth. In the heart of the Italian port city lies Piazza de Ferrari, a main square with a beautiful fountain and a perimeter lined with historic buildings, including the Palace of the Doges the Teatro Carlo Felice, which was destroyed during WWII and subsequently rebuilt. The seaside neighborhood of Boccadasse is vision of pink and yellow buildings that brighten up this lovely fishing village.

Palma, a former Moorish casbah, or walled city, is Majorca's prime tourist destination. Offering an abundance of hotels, restaurants and nightclubs, Palma's harbor is a bristle of yacht masts, a testament to its popularity. The Old Town is an appealing maze of narrow streets that are a delight to explore on foot. Hop on the Soller Railway for a 17-mile scenic trip, visit 14th-century Bellver Castle and Museu d'Art Espanvol Contemporani, home to works by Picasso and Dali, or check out the hot nightlife.

Coastal Calpe seems straight from a postcard, with a dramatic rocky headland and palm-dotted beaches lapped by Mediterranean waters. Once an ancient fishing village, the Costa Blanca town mixes Roman ruins and scenic nature parks with plenty of modern urban comforts.

Rich in medieval architecture, the northern city of Burgos provides a glimpse into bygone Spain. But the historic capital of Castile looks to the future, too, with its modern museums, celebrated culinary scene, and award-winning infrastructure.

Granada, in Andalusia, is best known for its fascinating Moorish old quarter, the labyrinthine Albaicin, with its secluded inner gardens, and 14th-century palace, the architecturally stunning Alhambra. A Muslim city until it fell to the Christians in 1492, Granada sits at the feet of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The city has a reputation for wild nightlife, partially courtesy of boisterous University of Granada students. Walk the compact city to discover thrilling restaurants, bars and stores.

You've probably heard that Guinness tastes better in Dublin (fresh from the factory), but what you may not know is that Dublin is a perfect destination for the whole family. No, we're not suggesting you let the kiddies drink a pint. Instead, take them to the Dublin Zoo, to feed the ducks in Stephen's Green or on a picnic in Phoenix Park. Scholars enjoy walking in the literary footsteps of such writers as Yeats and Joyce, while discerning shoppers have their pick of designer boutiques.

Plan to cross many bridges when in Cork. Ireland's third-largest city began life as an island and now spans both banks of the River Lee, with watery channels running beneath some of its main thoroughfares. The best way to experience this hilly southern seaport is on foot, following the signposted walking tour past St. Finn Barre's Cathedral and the riverside quadrangle of University College up the hill to red and white Shandon Church. Along the way, you'll meet plenty of the city's talkative residents.

A short ride away from New York City on the Metro North commuter rail, Poughkeepsie sits on the banks of the Hudson River. The close proximity of Vassar College and the Culinary Institute of America guarantees the presence of fun boutiques and fine dining. Main Mall Row, a group of 1870s Renaissance Revival storefronts along Poughkeepsie's Main Street is on the National Register of Historic Places. The twenty-two surrounding parks provide the opportunity to take a relaxing break from city life.

Whether it's your first visit or your 50th, New York City is a great destination for a weekend trip. See the landmark sights, catch a Broadway show or explore small, off-the-beaten-path museums like the Lower East Side Tenement Museum. Just as it has activities to suit every interest, New York City has hotel options to suit every pocket. Whether you're looking for a hip new hotel, an old standard or a budget inn, you'll have plenty of options.