With half a million people, Nuremberg is Bavaria's second largest city. While its history dates to the 11th century, Nuremberg is most often linked to the 20th century (specifically World War II). It first served as the site of many pre-war Nazi rallies, then was nearly levelled by Allied bombing, then was the site of the famous post-war Nuremberg Trials. The city has much to offer today's visitors, including the rebuilt Nuremberg Castle and the world-famous gingerbread at Hauptmarkt. Hansel and Gretel would have loved this place.

Walk atop Rothenburg’s city walls or climb to the top of the town hall for great views. The Night Watchman tour is an unforgettable way to learn the city’s history. And our travelers also recommend the Medieval Crime Museum (Mittelalterliches Kriminalmuseum)—it’s gruesome but fascinating.

At the top of Bavaria and dating back to at least the 11th century, Coburg sat undiscovered by many late 20th century tourists, surrounded as it was on three sides by the former East Germany. The town’s main attraction, impossible to miss since it overlooks the town, is the 13th century Veste Coburg Castle, one of Germany’s largest and most beautiful. Sometimes called the Franconian Crown, today it’s home to three museums. Reformer Martin Luther, then an outlaw, spent five months here in 1530.

Like Rothenburg, Dinkelsbuehl is one of the smaller mediaeval fortress cities. With its walls and towers still intact, it has the look of a typical German town of the 15th to early 17th century. Sample the famous German cuisine served in larger cities, but without the crowds. Don't miss the annual summer celebration, marking the city's surrender to Swedish troops during the Thirty Years' War. The event is emphatically reenacted by many of the town's residents. And really, who doesn't love amateur theatre?

Set on the vine-clad banks of the Main River and embellished with beautiful baroque masterpieces and delightful Franconian wineries, this lively university city of Wurzburg serves as a suitably picturesque starting point for Bavaria’s Romantic Road.

Founded by the Romans in 179 AD as Casta Regina (meaning Fortress by the River Regen), Regensburg is one of Germany's oldest towns. It was relatively spared from Allied bombings during World War II. Today, many flock to see the wonderfully intact old city and its many medieval structures. The 12th-century Stone Bridge was used by Crusaders en route to the Holy Land. The Regensburg Cathedral (or Dom St. Peter) is one of southern Germany's finest examples of Gothic architecture.

The landscape that inspired Anne of Green Gables entices legions of lovers to Canada’s smallest province. Peaceful P.E.I. is a slow paced haven, full of distinctively Maritime delights. Red sandstone cliffs rise above gentle beaches. Lonely lighthouses dot rocky bluffs. Deserted trails beckon for romantic roaming.

Quebec City may be the only fortified city north of Mexico, but it welcomes visitors with open arms. Explore the Citadel, where you might catch Canadian troops staging a military ceremony. As for food, you could splurge on afternoon tea at the Chateau Frontenac, or do as the locals do and snack on poutine—french fries with gravy and cheese curds.

Montreal, c’est si bon! This French-speaking city is considered the cultural capital of Canada, and is a cosmopolitan celebration of Québécois style. A horse-drawn carriage ride around the cobblestone streets and grand buildings of Vieux-Montréal will give you a taste of European flavour. The Basilique Notre-Dame is a confection of stained glass, and the Plateau Mont-Royal district will delight you with its quaint boutiques and cafés. Dig in to a massive plate of poutine to fuel up for a tour of the epic Olympic Park.

We've heard Toronto described as "New York City run by the Swiss," and it's true—you can find world-class theatre, shopping and restaurants here, but the sidewalks are clean and the people are friendly. The best place to start is literally at the top—the CN Tower, the tallest freestanding structure in the Western Hemisphere.

A popular spot for getting wowed or soaked amid natural splendor, Niagara Falls attracts curious spectators and adventurous honeymooners from around the world. The splendid main attraction - more than six million feet of water cascading over a rocky crest - sits partially in the United States and partially in Canada. The U.S. side has recently been busy promoting other activities to lure visitors. Venues like the Aquarium of Niagara offer parents fun and engaging alternatives for kids, after or in between visits to the Falls. Outdoor recreation such as hiking, biking, fishing and camping can be found at the Niagara Falls State Park. The storied history of attempts to conquer the majestic Falls is captured at the Daredevil Museum; the Schoellkopf Museum concentrates on the history and geology. There's more to the Falls than, well, the Falls, including a wide array of dining and lodging options, from budget to upscale. This awe-inspiring region makes for an exhilarating and multi-faceted getaway