Santander, the capital of Spain’s Cantabria region, sits along the Bay of Biscay and offers travelers a mix of coastline, culture, and history shaped by centuries of maritime life. Once a bustling port for Castilian exports, Santander saw its golden age in the 19th century when Spanish royalty turned it into a summer retreat. The legacy of that era remains visible at the Palacio de la Magdalena, perched on a peninsula with views of the sea and home to royal stables, a mini zoo, and guided tours.
Bordeaux is ready for its close-up! After years of improvements, modern public transportation is in place and the city is gleaming after a wave of restorations. When visiting this lovely destination, be sure to walk across the Garonne River-spanning Stone Bridge (17 arches in all!) and see Place des Quinconces, France's grandest public square.
Ceske Budejovice, the vibrant capital of the South Bohemian Region in the Czech Republic, is a city rich in history and culture. Its most famous landmark is the magnificent Black Tower, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. This 72-meter-tall Gothic tower, completed in the 16th century, is a prime example of the city's architectural heritage source.