Every country across the globe has something to offer even the most seasoned world traveler. Some cities in particular just happen to stand out as exceptional vacation spots. Whether they feature artistic marvels, magnificent natural wonders, architectural masterpieces or tremendous culinary delights, the following cities all provide travelers with vacation memories that will last a lifetime.
London offers a hodgepodge of activities. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Hyde Park, shop the day away at Harrods or experience live theater in the West End. Meanwhile, history buffs can tour Winston Churchill's Cabinet War Rooms, Westminster Abbey or the notorious Tower of London.
Although visiting the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty and Times Square may seem like a tourist trap, they remain must-see New York City landmarks while on vacation. Mingle with locals as you explore the city's eclectic neighborhoods, including Chelsea, Greenwich Village and SoHo.
Culture vultures find themselves right at home in Paris, no doubt gravitating toward the extraordinary Paris Opera House, the Louvre and the Musee d'Orsay. Tourists from around the world marvel at such architectural wonders as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and the Sacre-Coeur Basilica.
With its iconic cable cars, steep hills, exquisite Victorian architecture and the Golden Gate Bridge serving as a backdrop, San Francisco provides plenty of scenic gems. Shop and dine your way through the city's most charming neighborhoods, including North Beach, Chinatown and Nob Hill.
The past meets the present in Tokyo, Japan. Start off by visiting the Imperial Palace, as well as the various Buddhist temples throughout the city, some going back more than a 1,000 years. Use the pedestrian walkways across the Rainbow Bridge to take in the sight of Tokyo's enormous skyline.
With the stunning Sydney Opera House, the majestic Harbour Bridge and hundreds of luxurious yachts within glorious view, the Sydney Harbour may be the world's most picturesque waterfront region. Make your way to the enormous Taronga Zoo, where you will see kangaroos, koalas and wallabies.
Prague, Czech Republic--Dotted with Gothic architecture, brightly colored buildings and the famed Astronomical Clock, Prague's Old Town Square remains quite possibly the most beautiful public urban space in all of Europe. Set aside a good part of your day to tour the sprawling Prague Castle.
Cairo, Egypt--In the heart of the country's capital, there's the noteworthy Egyptian Museum as well as the Citadel, a truly impressive 10th century castle that offers fantastic views of the city. Plan to travel to nearby Giza to visit the wondrous ancient pyramids and Sphinx.
Istanbul, Turkey--Situated in both Europe and Asia, Istanbul has scores of breathtaking historic sites, including the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar. Perched along the banks of the Bosporus Strait and Marmara Sea, natural beauty abounds.
