In the capital city of Bern, Switzerland

 "Switzerland is a small, steep country, much more up and down than sideways, and is all stuck over with large brown hotels built on the cuckoo style of architecture." -- Ernest Hemingway

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(in the de facto capital of Switzerland, referred to by the Swiss as their "federal city") In the west-central part of the country, the city of Bern is found along a narrow loop of the Aare River. The existence of the ancient castle of Nydegg, guarding a crossing over the Aare, is said to have led Berthold V, duke of Zähringen, to establish Bern in 1191 as a military post on the frontier between the German-speaking "Alemanni" and the French-speaking inhabitants of Burgundy. After the extinction of the Zähringen dynasty (in 1218), Bern became a free imperial city. Gradually it extended its power by acquiring surrounding territory, becoming an independent state that in 1353 entered the Swiss Confederation, which it soon began to lead. After a devastating fire ravaged the predominantly wood-built town in 1405, Bern was rebuilt with sandstone. Although much of the surrounding metropolis has since been modernized, the city center (Old Bern) remains intact from that period. Bern’s flag-festooned, cobbled center, rebuilt in distinctive grey-green sandstone after the 1405 fire, is an aesthetic delight, with six kilometers (~4 mi.) of covered arcades, cellar shops and bars, and fantastical folk figures frolicking on 16th-century fountains. From the surrounding hills, visitors are presented with an equally captivating picture of red roofs arrayed on a spit of land on the Aare River bend. A powerful force since medieval times, the thriving Swiss "capital" is now an appealing city of museums and collections. The Historical Museum and the Collection of the Bern Museum of Fine Arts house the art and architecture of millennia. The Einstein House and the Paul Klee Center showcase the work of two of Bern's famous former inhabitants. In short, Bern seduces and surprises at every turn. Its museums are excellent, its drinking scene dynamic, and its locals happy to switch from their famously lilting dialect to textbook French, High German, or English – which all tends to suggest that there’s far more to Bern than government bureaucracy.

In the autonomous community of Aragón, northeastern Spain

 "Stop and take your time to notice things and make those things you notice matter." -- Cecelia Ahern

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(in eastern Aragón, Spain) The autonomous community of Aragón), a historical region of northeastern Spain, is bounded by France to the north and Catalonia to the east, Valencia to the southeast, Castile–La Mancha to the southwest, and Castile-León, La Rioja, and Navarra to the west. Aragón offers great attractions wherever you might roam, from the crusader-like castles and Romanesque churches of the north to the outstanding Mudéjar architecture of Teruel in the south. The regional capital, Zaragoza, is a major Spanish city of culture (e.g., as reflected in the work of local artist Francisco de Goya), while dozens of lovely medieval villages dot the serrated landscape, from pink-hued Albarracín to stone-covered Sos del Rey Católico. What sets Aragón apart, however, is the majesty of the central Pyrenees along its northern fringe. The highest section of that mountain range, it is a delightful sight for sore eyes and a natural adventure playground, with not just Spain's finest hiking and climbing, but also much of its best skiing, canyoning, rafting, and paragliding. Featured here is Matarraña, is a comarca (county) in eastern Aragón -- located in Teruel Province, in the mountainous Sistema Ibérico area, it is nestled among the Aragón, Catalonia and Valencia counties, with its capital located in the lovely town of Valderrobres. Not far from the Mediterranean Sea, the comarca was named after the Matarraña River that flows through it, in the Catalan-speaking strip in eastern Aragón known as La Franja. Far from the maddening (tourist) crowds, Matarraña is a great destination for a quiet weekend getaway. Indeed, you probably should embrace slower modes of travel when visiting Matarraña. The region is often compared to the Italian region of Tuscany for its tranquility and serene atmosphere, with nice, rural accommodation options, and singular spots in the middle of a lovely natural environment that still remains off the beaten path and is among the Starlight Tourist Destinations for its clean sky and ideal conditions for observing the stars, The Matarraña region is home to picture perfect medieval towns with wonderful examples of Baroque architecture. The best way to explore Calaceite, Fresneda, and Valderrobres, which are among the most interesting towns, is by walking around their old quarters: you’ll stumble upon historical places such as churches, town halls and hermitages that reflect their rich architectural legacy from the 18th and 19th centuries. In addition, a trip from Calaceite to Mazaleón makes a great tour for archaeological enthusiasts, with unique cave paintings and Iberian settlements along the way. In addition, the Picasso Center in Horta de Sant Joan showcases reproductions of the works that the great Spanish artist produced in this town, where he spent time in 1898/99 (and later in 1909).

In the capital city of Florence, middle of Tuscany on the Arno River, Italy

 "...You are a child of the universe,

no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should...."
-- Max Ehrmann, Desiderata
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(in the center of the Italy, surrounded by gently rolling hills covered with villas, farms, vineyards, and orchards) In the middle of Tuscany on the Arno River lies Florence, one of Europe's most beautiful cities, brimming with culture and art. The Dome of Florence is found in the city center; Ghiberti's gilded Gates of Paradise and the cathedral's multi-colored marble façade attract tourists in droves. On Piazza della Signoria, they are afforded the opportunity to admire an exact replica of Michelangelo's David. (The original is in the Accademia Gallery.) Ponte Vecchio, the oldest and most famous bridge in Florence, was built in 1345. This bridge over the Arno River houses only jewelers (due to a tradition that dates back to the 16th century). Exiting Ponte Vecchio to the south, one enters a quarter that offers an experience that best reflects the "true character" of Florence. (Nothing but narrow alleys and artists' studios for as far as the eye can see.) For centuries sculptures hewn here have been destined for public squares and private individuals in and around Florence. Indeed, this city is considered to be the artistic, historical, and cultural capital of not only Tuscany, but all of Italy A provincial city with an international flair, and a shrine to the Renaissance, Florence offers not just frescoes and sculptures, but also churches, palaces, and other monuments from the richest cultural-flowering the world has ever known. The city's urban fabric has hardly changed since the Renaissance; its narrow streets evoke a thousand tales, and its food and wine are so great that the tag "Fiorentina" has become an international label of quality assurance. The energy of Florence is indescribable -- overflowing with bustle and charm, teeming with life. Every corner bears new treasures, every cobblestone a gem. The stones are infused with history and culture and knowledge -- still exuding the presence of many generations, while bearing the weight of giants. A city of color, its intricately designed buildings are filled with hand-carved details. A place that has remained intact, there is a genuineness to the city and its people, which has been attested to, and affirmed, by so many famous poets and writers. The awesome art of the city makes for a kaleidoscopic circus of colors, figures, lines, and shapes that dazzle the eye. The aromas of local cuisine waft out of the trattorie and into the streets. And the sounds of the city -- from the bells of the imposing campanile to the massive organs, to street musicians -- all combine to render a marvelous musical melody that follows you everywhere. (A city made for walking, Florence suits me perfectly -- but what never ceases to amaze virtually anyone, is its overwhelming beauty.)

At the Rodenberg house, in the city of Dortmund, Germany

 “Keep moving through valleys to find your sight,

As the dark becomes the light,
Keep moving up mountains to find your strength,
As you climb the hardest length.”
― Laura Robert
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(in the North Rhine–Westphalia Land (state), of western Germany) The city of Dortmund, found at the southern terminus of the Dortmund-Ems Canal, has extensive port installations. First mentioned as Throtmanni in 885, Dortmund became a free imperial city in 1220 and later joined the Hanseatic League. Its far-ranging trade connections made it so prosperous in the 14th century that the English crown was pledged to its merchants as security for loans several times. Its prosperity declined after the Thirty Years’ War, and, when it lost its imperial rights in 1803, its population numbered only about 4,000. The development of coal mining and iron-ore mining in the 19th century and the completion of the canal in 1899 stimulated rapid growth, and Dortmund is now a major transportation and industrial center of the Ruhrgebiet (Rhur valley). These days, however, the mines are closed and the steel mills quiet, with more zeitgeist-compatible high-tech industries having taken their place. Only the breweries are still running strong as ever, churning out rivers of beer and ale -- much of it for export. Dortmund also has a large wholesale fruit and vegetable market. The city was largely destroyed during World War II, which led to lots of reconstruction on modern lines. Four medieval churches -- the Propsteikirche, the Reinoldikirche, the Marienkirche, and the Petrikirche -- have been restored, and the city retains four moated castles and the ruins of Saxon and Carolingian fortresses. Notable examples of modern architecture are the synagogue (built in 1956) and the Westfalenhalle (Westphalia Hall) in 1952 -- one of Europe’s largest halls, which is used for conventions, exhibitions, and sporting events. In the 1980s a casino and a new town hall were constructed. The city is home to the University of Dortmund (opened in 1968), with institutes for molecular physiology and spectro-analysis, Münster University’s Social Research Institute, and schools for social studies, journalistic research, mountaineering, mining, teacher training, and adult education. Dortmund also has several museums, including the Museum of Art and Culture, which houses the “Dortmund treasure,” a cache of more than 400 gold coins; the Ostwall Museum, which features 20th-century art, sculpture, and graphic art; and a natural history museum. (Be sure to visit the Reinoldkirche or the Marienkirche, and the ruins of Hohensyburg Castle.) Depicted here, is “Keep moving through valleys to find your sight,
As the dark becomes the light,
Keep moving up mountains to find your strength,
As you climb the hardest length.”
― Laura Robert
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(in the North Rhine–Westphalia Land (state), of western Germany) The city of Dortmund, found at the southern terminus of the Dortmund-Ems Canal, has extensive port installations. First mentioned as Throtmanni in 885, Dortmund became a free imperial city in 1220 and later joined the Hanseatic League. Its far-ranging trade connections made it so prosperous in the 14th century that the English crown was pledged to its merchants as security for loans several times. Its prosperity declined after the Thirty Years’ War, and, when it lost its imperial rights in 1803, its population numbered only about 4,000. The development of coal mining and iron-ore mining in the 19th century and the completion of the canal in 1899 stimulated rapid growth, and Dortmund is now a major transportation and industrial center of the Ruhrgebiet (Rhur valley). These days, however, the mines are closed and the steel mills quiet, with more zeitgeist-compatible high-tech industries having taken their place. Only the breweries are still running strong as ever, churning out rivers of beer and ale -- much of it for export. Dortmund also has a large wholesale fruit and vegetable market. The city was largely destroyed during World War II, which led to lots of reconstruction on modern lines. Four medieval churches -- the Propsteikirche, the Reinoldikirche, the Marienkirche, and the Petrikirche -- have been restored, and the city retains four moated castles and the ruins of Saxon and Carolingian fortresses. Notable examples of modern architecture are the synagogue (built in 1956) and the Westfalenhalle (Westphalia Hall) in 1952 -- one of Europe’s largest halls, which is used for conventions, exhibitions, and sporting events. In the 1980s a casino and a new town hall were constructed. The city is home to the University of Dortmund (opened in 1968), with institutes for molecular physiology and spectro-analysis, Münster University’s Social Research Institute, and schools for social studies, journalistic research, mountaineering, mining, teacher training, and adult education. Dortmund also has several museums, including the Museum of Art and Culture, which houses the “Dortmund treasure,” a cache of more than 400 gold coins; the Ostwall Museum, which features 20th-century art, sculpture, and graphic art; and a natural history museum. (Be sure to visit the Reinoldkirche or the Marienkirche, and the ruins of Hohensyburg Castle.) Depicted here, is Haus Rodenberg is a moated castle in the Aplerbeck district of Dortmund. Today, the Rodenberg house is home to seminar rooms of the Volkshochschule Dortmund (an Adult Education Center), the fairytale stage (a puppet theater for children and adults), and upscale gastronomy. The premises of Haus Rodenberg can be rented for "ambience weddings" via the Volkshochschule. Today, the Rodenberg house is home to seminar rooms of the Volkshochschule Dortmund (an Adult Education Center), the fairytale stage (a puppet theater for children and adults), and upscale gastronomy. The premises of Haus Rodenberg can be rented for "ambience weddings" via the Volkshochschule.

At the Grand Place, the central square of Brussels, Belgium

 "I have only one goal and one desire, namely to give myself a practical instruction, to get to know the world and its inhabitants. There will come times when this knowledge will be of use to me."-- Prince Leopold II (in 1854, before he ascended to the throne of Belgium in 1865)

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(in Belgium's valley of the Senne River, a tributary of the Schelde) Brussels is the administrative, commercial, and financial heart of Belgium, and the majority of services and institutions of national importance are based in the city. In addition, Brussels is a major European tourist and cultural attraction, functioning simultaneously as a regional metropolis and an international center. In the latter role, it has flourished since the city became host to the European Community (ultimately succeeded by the EU) as well as to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) headquarters. Brussels’ magnificent Grand Place is one of the world’s most unforgettable urban ensembles. Rather hidden, the enclosed cobblestone square is only revealed as you enter on foot from one of six narrow side alleys. The focal point is the spired 15th-century city hall, but each of the antique guildhalls (mostly 1697–1705) has a charm of its own. (The Grand Place is indeed one of the world’s most beautiful squares.)

In the city of Sighișoara, region of Transilvania, Romania

 “In torment, there was release.

In the darkness, there was light.
In solitude, there were companions.”
― C.C. Humphreys, Vlad: The Last Confession
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(on the Târnava Mare River in Mureș County in Romania's historical region of Transylvania) The city of Sighișoara is a popular tourist destination that is known for its well-preserved Old Town, which has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Sighişoara’s pastel-colored buildings, stony lanes, and medieval towers offer an irresistible opportunity for exploration (i.e., without digging too deeply into this beguiling place). Fortified walls encircle Sighişoara’s lustrous merchant houses, now harboring cafes, hotels, and craft shops. Lurking in the shadows of the gingerbread roofs and turrets of the Old Town, however, is the history of Vlad Ţepeş, the notorious 15th-century Wallachian prince who was allegedly born here, in a house that can be visited yet today. Ţepeş is best remembered as Vlad the Impaler, or Dracula, fueling a local industry here, of vampire-themed souvenirs. Find the courage to venture along the alleys, hike to the hilltop church, and sip coffee at cafes that are now some 500 years old. (Sighişoara also makes far a great jumping-off point to explore nearby Saxon villages, such as Viscri and Biertan.)

At the Eltz Castle, in the town of Wierschem, Germany

 "Without words, without writing and without books there would be no history, there could be no concept of humanity." -- Hermann Hesse

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(in the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate) Nestled in the hills above the Moselle River between Trier and Koblenz in the town of Wierschem, where Burg Eltz stands on a 70-meter-high rock surrounded on three sides by the Eltzbach stream. It's one of only three medieval castles still intact on the left bank of the Rhine River. Construction on Eltz Castle began in 1157 and took nearly 500 years to be completed. Found at the head of the beautiful Moselle side-valley (the Eltz), Burg Eltz is one of Germany's most romantic medieval castles. Never destroyed, this fairy-tale vision of turrets, towers, oriels, gables and half-timber has jutted forth from the rock framed by a thick forest for all those centuries. What makes Castle Eltz particularly interesting, is that is has been owned by the same family for 33 generations, for some 850 years, and is still owned and maintained by the Eltz family today. The Eltz Forest, a nature reserve of serene beauty, full of rare fauna and flora, surrounds it. It is in the center of an attractive hiking region with the award-winning dream hike "Eltz Castle Panorama," and other walks for any level of fitness.