Bucharest, Romania

Romania's capital and economic center might not have the best rap, but it's in fact dynamic, energetic and fun. Travel to Bucharest and you will find a historic city center that survived the bombings of the second world war and was spared by bulldozing communists. Wander and you will find 17th and 18th-century Orthodox churches, art nouveau villas tucked away in quiet corners (often housing museums), lush parks, lakes elegant boulevards and the old town that is abuzz with bars, cafes and restaurants. Points of interest include but are not limited to: the Palace of Parliament, former Ceausescu residence, Herastrau Park, Romanian Athenaeum, the Cismigiu Gardens and Bran Castle - "Dracula's Castle".