The English writer Samuel Johnson famously said, "You find no man, at all intellectual, who is willing to leave London. More than two centuries have passed since Johnson's era, but his words still ring true. Life in London is nothing short of invigorating. And travelers find that one visit isn't enough to experience everything this two-millennia-old city has to offer. You can immerse yourself in the world of Harry Potter and its distinctive and historic architecture in addition to learning more about the city's distinctive culture.

Here, the antiquated clasps hands with the contemporary. Imagine yourself standing close to the River Thames and admiring the Big Ben Clock Tower's timeless splendor. You can catch both Bard's works and modern plays at Shakespeare's Globe and its accompanying Sam Wanamaker Playhouse. And while Londoners still praise the power of tea, they now make room for Starbucks and Costa Coffees here and there and pressed juice too. A current leader in everything from politics and banking to fashion and music, London's culture compass is always attuned to what's next. Discover it all on one of London's best tours.

• Country: England
• Best Hotels: The Milestone Hotel & Residences, The Stafford London, The Lanesborough
• Best Things to Do: British Museum, Tower of London, Borough Market
• Best Months to Visit: March through May

The City of Light draws millions of visitors every year with its unforgettable ambiance. Of course, the divine cuisine and vast art collections deserve some of the credit as well. The gentle river the Seine rambles through the city, flanked by stately museums, centuries-old churches, and blocks of Rococo and Neoclassic design architecture, further enhanced by cascading trees and glowing streetlamps. Peppering the Seine's cobbled walks and graceful bridges are impossibly chic Parisians, probably on their way to the market, cafe, or cinema.

Containing world-class museums, fashion, cuisine, and an atmosphere all its own, Paris is also a city of "many splendors" as Ernest Hemingway recalled in his memoir, "A Moveable Feast." Visit the beloved Musée d'Orsay, shop the biggest designers on the Champs Élysées, hit the boutiques in Le Marais, take in the view atop the Eiffel Tower, or even plan a day trip to Versailles Palace. But don't miss out on the simple pleasure of meandering the marvelous districts, or snacking on street crepes either.

• Country: France
• Best Hotels: Le Bristol Paris, La Réserve Paris – Hotel and Spa, Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris
• Best Things to Do: Notre-Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame de Paris), Musée du Louvre, Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel)
• Best Months to Visit: From June to August and September to October

Prague is definitely one of the best family vacations in Europe. A prosperous and bustling city, Prague now attracts more tourists than ever. But its picturesque downtown veils both a dark legacy and a resilient past. Dating back to about A.D. 870, Prague has withstood numerous overthrows, invasions, fires, and floods. It's this reputation for survival and perseverance that has made the Czech capital so fascinating. Today, its storied churches, narrow streets, daunting hilltop castle, and statue-lined bridges create the scene of an urban fairy tale. Even the most jaded traveler would have trouble resisting this city's charms.

Prague was once a hidden gem, overshadowed by its flashier neighbors to the west. But the city couldn't keep its marvels a secret for too long – now, it's a haven for travelers seeking awe-inspiring experiences at affordable prices. Even today, top attractions – including the famous Charles Bridge and the historic Prague Castle – offer free admission and many hotels offer rooms at a fraction of the cost of other European cities. But this bargain-hunting legacy has a ticking clock on it, so if you're hoping to find a fire-sale price for the family, now's the time to do so.

• Country: Czech Republic
• Best Hotels: Mandarin Oriental, Prague; Four Seasons Hotel Prague; Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Prague
• Best Things to Do: Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Prague, Charles Bridge (Karluv most), Prague Castle
• Best Months to Visit: The Spring and Early Fall

This little city, tucked amid the Tuscan hills, casts a long shadow through history. The wellspring of the Renaissance, Firenze (or Florence) sheltered the powerful Medici family and inspired artists like Michelangelo (David) and Brunelleschi (the Duomo). If it weren't for the fashionable Italians and chic shops lining Via Tornabuoni, you might think you had traveled back in time to the 14th century.

But Renaissance art is not the only reason to come. You also visit Florence for its gorgeous sunsets, Italian cooking, and its romantic charm. Make the most of your time in the city by letting a local show you around on one of Florence's best tours. Florence is known not only for its famous art but also for its simple yet delicious cuisine, as well as its wine from neighboring towns in Tuscany. While restaurants tend to be overpriced, you can do as the Italians do and head to Mercato Centrale Firenze for fresh produce, bread, cheese, and meat and create your own meal.

• Country: Italy
• Best Hotels: St. Regis Florence, Four Seasons Hotel Firenze, Portrait Firenze
• Best Things to Do: Piazza della Signoria, Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore), Piazzale Michelangelo
• Best Months to Visit: Between May and September

Barcelona contains both the authentically historic and the wildly bizarre. From the scenic trails of the colorful Park Güell to the romantic narrow alleys of Barri Gòtic; from the beachside nightclubs to the city's dozens of sacred churches and architectural marvels, this city by the sea seems to attract all types: the adventurer, the couple, the partier, the culture lover – and more – with an almost overwhelming variety of things to do. You could stay for a few days, but chances are you'll need a whole week to explore.

In Barcelona, even the beach is bustling, but it's really the cosmopolitan city that gets all the attention. Much of the activity revolves around Las Ramblas, a series of narrow streets and alleys packed with restaurants, nightclubs, and a vibrant pedestrian market. But you should also take a tour of Antoni Gaudí's masterpieces; Gaudí is responsible for sites like Casa Milà, Casa Batlló and La Sagrada Familia. You also shouldn't miss out on the eclectic shopping scene and the region's exquisite food and wine.

• Country: Spain
• Best Hotels: Cotton House Hotel, Autograph Collection; Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona; Hotel Arts Barcelona
• Best Things to Do: Park Güell, Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria (Boqueria Market), Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter)
• Best Months to Visit: May to June

One of the most visually arresting cities in Scandinavia and among the best family vacations in Europe, Stockholm is situated on an archipelago containing roughly 30,000 islands that eventually lead to the Baltic Sea. Among the various islands positioned throughout the city's vast amount of waterways, bays, and rivers visitors will find an assortment of architectural, cultural, and natural gems begging for further exploration. From the quaint and pristinely preserved 13th-century-old Gamla Stan, or Old Town, to the sprawling, attraction-packed Djurgården park island, Stockholm is a floating, visual treat that has the power to leave sightseers awestruck at its incredible landscape.

The city's uniqueness isn't only tied to its grand topography – Stockholm also features an astonishing climate and setting. Visit in summer to experience close to 24 hours of sunlight, a phenomenon celebrated with a Midsummer Festival that will leave you with a hearty knowledge of Swedish cuisine and tradition. Or, test your tolerance during one of Sweden's notoriously freezing winters for a chance to ice skate on one of the city's many frozen rivers. Whenever you choose to visit, know that you'd be hard-pressed to find a city like it anywhere else in Europe, maybe even the world.

• Country: Sweden
• Best Hotels: Hotel Diplomat, Grand Hôtel, Bank Hotel
• Best Things to Do: Gamla Stan (Old Town), Djurgården, Monteliusvagen
• Best Months to Visit: Summer

Don't believe everything you hear about Amsterdam. Yes, this Netherlands city takes a lax look at women beckoning business in the Red Light District and "coffee shops" selling an unorthodox type of herb to a toking clientele, but these descriptions only scratch the surface. At some point, during an excellent Indonesian meal, a twilight canal-side rambling, or a shopping excursion through the boutiques of Nine Little Streets, you'll realize – as many travelers have before you – that there's much more to Amsterdam than you might've thought.

And although the city's loose laws on vice seem to attract a college-age, male-dominant crowd, Amsterdam is also ideal as a romantic getaway for two or an educational excursion with the kids. With attractions that range from biking along a maze of canals to remembering the Holocaust through the eyes of Anne Frank; from exploring the swirling Expressionism of Vincent van Gogh to lazing in the expansive Vondelpark, Amsterdam suits a variety of traveler tastes.

• Country: Netherlands
• Best Hotels: Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam, De L'Europe, Conservatorium Hotel
• Best Things to Do: Vondelpark, Jordaan, Anne Frank House (Anne Frank Huis)
• Best Months to Visit: Between April and May or September and November

Rome, the city of seven hills, enjoyed a mythic beginning. Romulus and Remus – twin brothers who were nursed by a she-wolf and fathered by a war god – reportedly founded the Eternal City. And although historians are a little skeptical about this epic entry into the world, most travelers are absolutely certain that there is something magical about Rome. Whether it's the mystery of nearby Vatican City or the ghosts of the Colosseum, an afternoon caffè on Piazza Navona, or a piled-high plate of pasta at a trattoria, Roma is sure to enchant.

Italy's capital city, Rome is also known for a history that dates back to the eras of Octavian, Julius Caesar, and Hadrian, among others. Left behind are structures like the Pantheon, the Roman Forum, and dozens of churches, among other historic gems. Art enthusiasts will relish the trove of art housed at the Vatican Museums, and foodies will enjoy the splendid Italian fare, not to mention the gelato. And though its momentous past is the focus for many vacationers, Rome is also a fast-paced, modern and relevant city, with gleaming designer storefronts, sleek hotels, and cutting-edge restaurants.

• Country: Italy
• Best Hotels: Hotel Eden; Hassler Roma; Hotel de la Ville, A Rocco Forte Hotel
• Best Things to Do: Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi); St. Peter's Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro); Pantheon
• Best Months to Visit: From October to April and May or September

Among the best family vacations in Europe that you must visit is Vienna. History is at the heart of Vienna both literally and figuratively. The narrow streets of the Innere Stadt (Inner City) snake through antiquated buildings, providing an atmosphere so authentic that you almost expect a Vienna native-like composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart or psychologist Sigmund Freud to round a cobblestone corner and greet you with "Guten Tag". Extravagant baroque palaces from the Habsburg Monarchy loom over the city, just as Mozart's classical arias pour from contemporary cafes. If it's the culture you seek, you'll find it here.

But there's more to this city than just music and monarchs. Vienna is also a great place to spend some cash, with independent bookstores competing for business alongside haute couture. There are also a surprising number of attractions for young ones, including an amusement park and a top-notch zoo. And although many Viennese retire early in the night, that doesn't mean you have to; sneak out to one of the bars along the city's Bermuda Triangle, or drop by one of the wine taverns skirting the Vienna Woods.

• Country: Austria
• Best Hotels: Park Hyatt Vienna; Hotel Sacher Wien; Hotel Sans Souci Wien
• Best Things to Do: St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom); Museum of Fine Arts (Kunsthistorisches Museum); Schönbrunn Palace
• Best Months to Visit: April to May or September to October

Burrowed beside long-dormant volcanoes and reigning over green moorlands, Edinburgh is known for more than its staggering landscape. The Athens of the North, as Edinburgh is sometimes nicknamed, also claims a cast of near-mythic characters: Rebel leader Sir William Wallace (aka Braveheart); the tragic Mary, Queen of Scots; the Enlightenment thinkers David Hume and Adam Smith; "James Bond" actor Sean Connery; and prolific wordsmiths Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and J.K. Rowling – are all woven into this very old, yet very relevant city.

But if your impression is confined to bagpipes, tartans, crests, and kilts, you'd be wrong. The second most-visited city in the United Kingdom (after London), Edinburgh offers an abundance of things to do. History buffs will enjoy Edinburgh Castle, Holyroodhouse Palace, and other attractions found along the Royal Mile. Those in search of an authentic live-as-the-locals experience will find it in the outer-lying neighborhood pubs, shops, and parks. Shoppers will find retail bliss in New Town; art aficionados will enjoy the free Scottish National Gallery, and theater hounds will meet their match at August's Edinburgh Festival.

• Country: Scotland
• Best Hotels: The Balmoral, a Rocco Forte Hotel; The Dunstane Houses; The Chester Residence
• Best Things to Do: Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat; Calton Hill; Edinburgh Castle
• Best Months to Visit: June through August

Few cities rival Athens when it comes to historical importance. As the sun rises over the smooth marble monuments of the Acropolis and fills the cobblestone streets along its base, the people of Athens emerge from their homes and head to local markets or sidewalk games of chess. Life moves more slowly as if the entire city is reveling in blissful retirement from its glory days as a political and cultural powerhouse.

But as the sun sets, Athens' contradictions come to light: The air thickens with the aroma of spiced lamb and music from a nearby taverna, dance clubs blast rock music amidst ancient columns, and the bright lights of Omonia Square mirror the glistening columns of the Parthenon, illuminated for all to see. Central Athens is home to everything from traditional mom-and-pop restaurants – generally located in the older districts at the base of the Acropolis – to high-end establishments in Kolonaki. If you're looking for a great meal away from the tourist crowd, head to some of the quieter neighborhoods like Koukaki, Mets, or Pangrati. Keep in mind that Athenians generally don't sit down to dinner until 9 or 10 p.m.

• Country: Greece
• Best Hotels: Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens; Hotel Grande Bretagne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Athens; The Margi
• Best Things to Do: Acropolis Museum; Plaka; Erechtheion
• Best Months to Visit: Between March and May and From September to November

Zurich is also one of the best family vacations in Europe that you shouldn't miss. The fairy-tale city of Zurich is set on the banks of both a river and a lake, with the snow-topped Swiss Alps rising in the background. Clean cobblestone streets hug a hilly terrain, and medieval church spires reach heavenward. Despite its reputation for being the center of old-school international banking and capital for top-notch chocolate confections, Zurich is also a very modern city that chooses to meander through life at an unhurried pace. Travelers desiring an authentic experience should strive to do the same.

Ulrich Zwingli came to proselytize. James Joyce came to write "Ulysses." Bankers came to make money. Dadaists met at Zurich's Cabaret Voltaire to change or ruin art, depending on your position. But you should come for the chocolate, grilled sausages, locally grown wines, amazing museums, medieval architecture, extravagant shopping, breathtaking vistas, and the clean, clear water of Lake Zurich. You can spend anywhere from one to three days in Zurich before hitting the surrounding ski slopes or traveling to Geneva.

• Country: Switzerland
• Best Hotels: Baur au Lac; The Dolder Grand; Widder Hotel
• Best Things to Do: Lake Zurich (Zurichsee); Uetliberg Mountain; Old Town (Altstadt)
• Best Months to Visit: June and August

Like many modern cities, Dublin is a melting pot. Along with its traditional Irish culture, Dublin has been infiltrated by a host of glorious international influences. The city is the largest in Ireland, and its fast-growing immigrant population brings people from all over the world. The influence of these cultures is evident in the diverse and vibrant culinary scene that can be found here. That said, Dublin has held on to some of its classic characteristics.

Known for its traditions, fine literature, folklore, customary music, and dance, and fresh pints of Guinness are never in short supply. Travelers should expect to experience the traditional alongside the contemporary on their next trip to Dublin. In Dublin, you'll find a great mix of medium- to high-price range restaurants, which offer an astounding diversity of options. The best restaurants are found south of the Liffey, but you should be prepared to pay well for a meal. And if you're interested in a day trip to some of Ireland's most famous sights, such as the Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacduagh Abbey, Wild Atlantic Way, Galway, and so on.

• Country: Ireland
• Best Hotels: The Merrion Hotel; Conrad Dublin; The Westbury
• Best Things to Do: Trinity College and The Book of Kells; St. Patrick's Cathedral; Chester Beatty Library
• Best Months to Visit: June through August

In many ways, Madrid is similar to many other international metropolises – it's Spain's largest city, has the largest population, is the capital, and is the center for international business. But, before you jump to conclusions, if you listen carefully, you can hear the gentle melodies of the Spanish guitar, the swish of a flamenco dancer's skirt, and the happy laughter from a midday meal infused with too many glasses of sangria. Yes, Madrid is for travelers interested in famous paintings and stunning architecture, but it's also, and maybe more so, for those looking for an unhurried good time.

Traditionally Madrid's cuisine is fairly rustic. Meat, bread, and cheese heavy, Madrid's food are best tasted in tapas – which are small plates or samples of Spanish dishes that come free when ordered with a drink at a bar. Note that Madrileños eat a late, large lunch, nosh on some tapas around 8 PM, and then enjoy a later, lighter dinner meal. The incredibly popular Mercado de San Miguel offers ready-to-go tapas, as well as coffee, cocktails, dessert, and produce stalls. The market even has a sushi counter. However, if your heart is set on having traditional complimentary tapas with a drink, head to El Tigre.

• Country: Spain
• Best Hotels: Four Seasons Hotel Madrid; Hotel Orfila; URSO Hotel & Spa
• Best Things to Do: Plaza Mayor; El Retiro Park (Parque del Buen Retiro); Prado Museum (Museo Nacional del Prado)
• Best Months to Visit: September to November and March to May

If there was one word to describe the Greek island of Crete, it would be "diverse." Sandy beaches hide among soaring mountains, palm tree forests grow in the middle of sprawling plains, and bustling modern cities share coastlines with centuries-old structures. And speaking of cities in Crete, they reflect the people that came before. The streets are lined with architecture mirroring the styles of the Minoans, the Venetians, and the Ottomans, as well as contemporary Greeks. Despite the visible contradictions, this island maintains a sense of unity, felt whenever you step onto the street, dine at a local taverna, or enjoy a glass of raki at a sidewalk café.

Crete's experiences are as assorted as its history, so take some time to decide what type of vacation you're looking to have before you set anything in stone. For an urban setting with a variety of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, consider staying along the northern coast in Chania or Heraklion. Those who prefer the great outdoors should head to Rethymnon or Agios Nikolaos for the many beautiful beaches.

• Country: Greece
• Best Hotels: Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa; Nana Princess; Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa, Crete
• Best Things to Do: Rethymno Old Town; Elafonisi; Vai Beach (Palm Beach)
• Best Months to Visit: From Mid-May to June or From September to October