Slovakia lacks the glitz of its former compatriot, the Czech Republic, but since its independence in 1993, the country's been shedding its Eastern Bloc past and embracing its own folk culture. The capital of Bratislava is a popular destination, but don't bypass the old-world essence of places such as the Spis castle overlooking Spisske Podhradie; Liptovska Sielnica, with its preserved historical homes; and the spas of Piestany. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking and skiing the High Tatras.

Croatia has had a turbulent history but is establishing itself as an exciting destination great for all the family. Among other things, you may not be aware that the small Central European country pioneered fountain pens and invented the necktie. Aside from the pub trivia side of things, however, Croatia is a fantastic country steeped in history, and benefiting from the hot summers and mild winters of a Mediterranean climate.

From the silvery crests of the Alps to the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, Italy’s beauty is unparalleled. A visit could mean marveling at the Colosseum after a tender plate of pasta, or drifting lazily down a canal, your belly full of local Sangiovese. Explore Tuscan vineyards and olive groves or drool over boutiques in fashionable Milan. Look for mermaids from the cliffs of Sorrento or nibble on Parma’s famous cheese and prosciutto. Anywhere you choose, the country will captivate you.

Home to ancient market towns and iconic cities, rolling green hills and dramatic coastlines, England is the place to be. Soak up the cosmopolitan vibe of Liverpool, Manchester and Bristol; be captivated by ancient legends in medieval York and the spa city of Bath; and explore England’s largest National Park (the Lake District) or Dorset’s majestic Jurassic Coast. Get up-close-and-personal with royalty in Windsor, explore the castles of Kent, or wander the hallowed halls of Oxford University.

Set your own pace by cycling through Khmer ruins at Angkor Wat or pedaling the banks of the mighty Mekong. Trek off the beaten path on eco-adventures through the Cardamom Mountains, southern tropical islands or crater lakes of the remote northeast. Add urban adventure and hire a "motodop" taxi in Siem Reap.

Brittany's dramatic 750-mile coastline traces a rugged hem against the chilly Atlantic. Attractions such as St-Malo's 1689 Fort National, the prehistoric ruins and striking beauty of Gavrinish Island and Brest's Oceanopolis aquarium cling to the rocky shoreline of France's most northwestern province. Nantes, Rennes and Brest are the largest cities. Rennes is just two hours from Paris by TGV. Breton and Gallo, the ancient languages of this Celtic province, are still spoken in pockets throughout the area.

From sun-drenched archipelagos and bustling urban cities to snowcapped mountains and semi-arid deserts, Spain epitomizes geographical diversity. As the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, this vast country offers some of Europe’s most dramatic landscapes, as well as some of its tastiest cuisine.

Portugal’s Mediterranean charm is most prominent on the golden beaches of the Algarve; in the wilderness of the Azores islands; among the vineyards of Douro Valley; and on the cobbled streets of Lisbon and Porto, where old-world culture meets cosmopolitan bars and restaurants.

Romantic Rhineland-Palatinate is at the very heart of Riesling production in Germany, home to the largest wine regions in the country. The state is defined by lush vineyards, quaint medieval villages, UNESCO World Heritage sites, picturesque castles, volcanic lakes and wine-rich valleys. Its sylvan forests and rising mountains provide the perfect backdrop to a summer hike, bike ride or wine tasting adventure, while its cities and towns are alive with cultural activities and festivals.

With seemingly endless sunny beaches, charming towns, glamorous yachts and celebrities galore, the French Riviera keeps the Belle Époque alive. Most towns are best explored on foot, while a cheap and reliable rail network connects the cities and towns. Fabled destinations such as St-Tropez, Nice, Cannes, Antibes, Villefranche-sur-Mer and St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat lure visitors to follow in the wake of Picasso, Matisse and Bizet. Over a hundred museums and more than 150 galleries keep the artistic ambiance alive.