Tucked in a lovely valley between the Rhine River and the Taunus Mountains, Hesse's capital of Wiesbaden has long been an important spa city, dating back to Roman times when it was called Aquae Mattiacorum. In the 19th century, Wiesbaden also became a popular gambling center. For a soothing plunge, try the famous Kaiser Friedrich's Therme in the city center. And don't miss the Schlossplatz (Palace Square) and impressive Kurhaus Wiesbaden event and conference center, both within a few blocks.

A romantic wine village located along Germany's Rhein River.

A romantic German riverfront town that dates back to the 9th century. Marburg Castle overlooks this medieval university town.

Though probably best known as the capital of West Germany from 1949 to 1990 (and of reunified Germany until 1999), Bonn actually has a history dating back to the 1st century BC. Roman soldiers were stationed here and the largest known Roman fort was built at Bonn. In medieval times, the town gained prominence when the Archbishop of Cologne transferred his seat to Bonn. The city's most famous son is Ludwig van Beethoven, born in 1770 at Bonngasse, where a museum now honors him.

Roman legions marched into what is now the Rhineland's largest city in 38 B.C. These two thousand years have produced a wealth of sites to visit, from Roman towers to Gothic churches to modern architecture. With a reputation as a fine art center, Cologne has museums running the gamut from the Museum of Applied Art to Museum Ludwig, home to works by Warhol and Picasso, to the Chocolate Museum. The city has an excellent bus, tram and train system, on which Kolner Tageskarte, Day Tickets, are valid.

Amsterdam is truly a biker’s city, although pedaling along the labyrinthine streets can get a little chaotic. Stick to walking and you won’t be disappointed. The gentle canals make a perfect backdrop for exploring the Jordaan and Rembrandtplein square. Pop into the Red Light District if you must—if only so you can say you’ve been there. The Anne Frank House is one of the most moving experiences a traveller can have, and the Van Gogh Museum boasts a sensational collection of works.

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.

Belfast has grown into a cosmopolitan city and become a popular weekend-break destination. The city pulses with an irrepressible optimism and energy. The Northern Ireland capital has an increasing number of intriguing bus, taxi, boat and pedestrian tours. Attractions such as Ulster Folk Museum and Belfast Cathedral, award-winning restaurants, lively bars from modern lounges to traditional pubs, hip clubs, great shopping, impressive theatres, galleries and live music make it a vivacious destination.

A town literally carved into the volcanic rock, Goreme is the gateway to the Goreme National Park, a vast UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses spectacular 10th- and 11th-century cave churches. The park itself is known for its chimney rock formations and is very popular with backpackers. It’s also a great area to sample Turkish cuisine and wine.