Potsdam was the residence of the Prussian kings and German Kaisers until 1918. It is the site of the parks and palaces of Sanssouci, the largest World Heritage Site in Germany. The city is now the capital of the German federal state of Brandenburg and a home to three public colleges and a major film production studio.

In progressive Berlin, the old buildings of Mitte gracefully coexist with the modern Reichstag. Don't miss top historic sights like the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, the Brandenburg Gate and Potsdamer Platz. The city's great zoo makes for a fun break from touring the staider attractions.

It’s always hard to fill the shoes of someone who used to do your job very well. If you’re the choirmaster at St. Thomas Church in Leipzig, guess whose shoes you have to fill? Bach’s. (No pressure.) Leipzig is closely connected to classical music—Wagner was born here, and Mendelssohn established a conservatory here in 1843. If you’re more of a melancholy, contemporary type, visit during the Wave-Gotik-Treffen, billed as the world’s largest "dark" (Goth, industrial, punk, etc.) music festival.

In the city that inspired great minds from Charles Darwin to Stephen Hawking, you'll find one of the world's oldest universities, the 1871 Gothic- revival All Saints Church and the gardens favoured by 17th-century poet John Milton. Cambridge is also home to ADC Theatre, the oldest university playhouse in England. Evenings are perfect for taking in the mix of traditional pubs and contemporary restaurants. Climb the tower of the University's Great St Mary's Church for sweeping views of the city.

What makes Anguilla's beaches the best in the world? White, powdery sand that stretches for miles, pristine waters and the laid-back, welcoming attitude of the Anguillan people. Swim and sunbathe all day—and all year round—at romantic public beaches like the aptly-named Rendezvous Bay, then dance to calypso music at Anguilla's annual summer festival.