Barca d'Alva sits quietly along the Douro River, right at Portugal’s eastern border with Spain. Once the final stop on the historic Douro railway line, this riverside village remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. The surrounding landscape filled with terraced vineyards, olive groves, and almond trees form part of the UNESCO-listed Alto Douro Wine Region.

North Conway, located in New Hampshire’s Mount Washington Valley, has drawn visitors since the mid-19th century, when artists from the White Mountain School began painting its dramatic landscapes. Today, the area still offers scenic appeal, anchored by the towering presence of Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the northeastern U.S. Historic photographs and lithographs of North Conway hang in galleries downtown, showing just how little the iconic views have changed in over 150 years.

Saint-Malo, a captivating walled city on the coast of Brittany, France, invites visitors to step back in time while embracing the beauty of the rugged coastline. Known for its rich maritime history, this former pirate stronghold has retained its medieval charm, with narrow cobblestone streets, towering granite walls, and fortifications that echo tales of seafaring adventures.

Catania, nestled on the eastern coast of Sicily, is a city shaped by fire and stone. Built from the black lava of Mount Etna, it’s a landscape filled with energy and contrasts from its Baroque palaces to its open air fish markets. At the heart of the city stands the Piazza del Duomo, where the iconic Fontana dell’Elefante, which is carved from volcanic rock, greets every visitor who passes by.

Madeira, an archipelago off the coast of Portugal, is often referred to as the “Island of Eternal Spring” due to its mild climate and lush landscapes. Funchal, its vibrant capital, is a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history. Visitors can explore the cobblestone streets of the old town, marvel at the Gothic-style Sé Cathedral, and stroll through the colorful Mercado dos Lavradores, where local farmers sell fresh produce, exotic flowers, and the island’s famous wine.