For a small city, Columbus has a lot to offer. Once somewhat eclipsed by Cincinnati and Cleveland, Ohio's capital city has emerged to offer visitors world-class culture, sports, entertainment and a vibe all of its own. Enjoy a day at the zoo, aquarium or the nationally-known science centre. Art lovers will relish the collections at the Columbus Museum of Art and gardeners will revel in the magnificent roses at Whetstone Park. The Franklin Conservatory and Botanical Garden also boasts beautiful flora and fauna. And the city is chock-full of government landmarks, both historic and modern. Spend the weekend savouring celebrated attractions and exploring unique neighbourhoods, all served up in Columbus's welcoming, friendly style.

Nature is a big part of Boise, Idaho. The snow-capped Rocky Mountains serve as a backdrop, the Boise River and its riverside paths wind through the city and skiing is a short drive away. Boise's varied museums include the Idaho History Museum, the Boise Art Museum, the Basque Museum and Cultural Center and the interactive Discovery Museum of Idaho. Unique attractions include Old Idaho Penitentiary and historic Pioneer Village. Old Boise offers shopping, dining, culture and nightlife.

Horseback riding, fishing and yoga are just a few of the myriad things to do on the gorgeous Playa Samara. The white-sand beach is the perfect place to relax with a book or run wild with the kids, offering a fabulous setting for any beachside activity you could dream of. Offshore, a coral reef rewards snorkelers with active, beautiful marine life.

Nestled at the foot of the Black Forest in South Germany, Baden-Baden is a chic destination for those who fancy a dip in its famous salt- and radon-rich thermal hot springs. The town has been a popular destination for so long that it's starting to show its age, but not to worry. It's still very classy, picturesque and well-maintained. (The Dame Julie Andrews of German spa towns, if you will.) Sporty types will find an abundance of opportunities to enjoy golf, tennis, horseback riding and skiing nearby in winter.

The storybook city of Bydgoszcz is a stunning mélange of Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture, 18th-century granaries, cobblestone streets and outdoor cafes. Cruise the scenic Brda River, wander the charming streets of historic Old Town, or picnic and people-watch at Mill’s Island. Thoughtful public art, a thriving jazz scene, an opera house and an extraordinary concert hall add cultural dimension to Bydgoszcz’s beauty.

With its iconic fairy-tale church steeple perched atop the tiny rock island at the middle of Lake Bled, Bled is a sight that stays in your memory. The town has also long been a destination for those seeking relaxation, through its sunny alpine air and thermal springs, which are especially welcoming after a day of mountain trekking, golf or touring on horseback.