Known by the German name "Budweis" in the 19th century, the south Bohemian city of Ceske Budejovice has been a center of brewing since the 13th century. The original inspiration for the American version, Budwar or Budweiser beer remains one of the most popular in the country. The vast, beautiful Námesti Otakar II square is the site of stately Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque buildings, including the beautiful 1727 town hall. Buses and trolleys link areas, and cycling paths run through the city.

Despite its baroque architecture and historic old town, Linz is strikingly contemporary. The northern city hosts a cutting-edge cultural scene, exemplified by its futuristic electronic arts center and glass-fronted modern arts museum, both set on the banks of the Danube River.

Known as Dreiflüssestadt (City of Three Rivers), Passau is the place where the Danube meets the Inn and the Ilz. The picturesque city lies in Germany’s far southeast corner near the Austrian border. Settled since prehistory and a former hub of the salt trade, it became the Roman village of Batavis, then later the Holy Roman Empire’s largest diocese and a sword-making center. Saint Stephan’s Cathedral, home of the world’s second-largest cathedral organ, is one of Passau’s favorite attractions.

One of Italy's largest ski resorts, Madonna di Campiglio has 100 miles of downhill pistes on 51 individual tracks, plus 20 miles of cross-country trails. Campiglio is also part of the greater Skirama Dolomiti Adamello-Brenta area, giving visitors access to eight Alpine ski resorts and over 200 miles of slopes.

Packed with historic landmarks, bustling eateries, and manicured parks, the vibrant city of Lahore exudes culture at every corner. From soaring minarets and colorful facades to street-level stalls selling flavorful Punjabi favorites, the increasingly cosmopolitan city radiates with energy.

Conquering New York in one visit is impossible. Instead, hit the must-sees – the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art – and then explore off the beaten path with visits to The Cloisters or one of the city’s libraries. Indulge in the bohemian shops of the West Village or the fine dining of the Upper West Side. The bustling marketplace inside of Grand Central Station gives you a literal taste of the best the city has to offer.

One of the most historic cities in America, Philadelphia is an ideal place to spend a weekend - preferably a long one. Be sure to see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where the Constitution and Declaration of Independence were signed. Both are part of Independence National Historic Park. Philadelphia also boasts some outstanding art museums, including the Rodin Museum. The Franklin Institute Science Museum is one of many area attractions honoring the life and work of Benjamin Franklin, the city's most famous ambassador. After digesting all of that history, be sure you save room for a classic Philly cheese steak sandwich.

Detroit is an amazing destination for your next weekend getaway. If exploring is your thing, hop on a bike and meet new friends on the Slow Roll bike tour (you’ll find a unique perspective on the city, and the slow pace is perfect for all skill levels). And while you may not think of Detroit as wine country, the newly opened Detroit Vineyards is one of the country’s largest urban wineries, crafting superior wines right in the heart of the city. Grab your glass and make a toast to the weekend!

Ohio’s capital city is full of beautiful neighborhoods, a critically acclaimed food scene and top-ranked attractions. This creative-minded destination offers something for everyone. Families will enjoy COSI, the nationally known science center, as well as the Columbus zoo and its neighboring water park. Art lovers will savor the collections at the Columbus Museum of Art and revel in Gallery Hop, a monthly celebration in the Short North Art District. Columbus is a city that invites exploration.

The windy city is a cornucopia of modern art, fine dining, cutting edge comedy, and die-hard sports fans. Snap a photo of your reflection in the silver Cloud Gate sculpture at Millennium Park before heading to Grant Park to get hit with the refreshing spray of Buckingham Fountain. There are dozens of museums and theater companies in Chicago, so a cultural experience is never hard to find. You’re sure to laugh your head off at the Second City Theater, the professional launch pad of many famous comedians.