Montreal

With 18th-century structures blending into a 21st-century skyline, this city represents the fusion of the Old and New Worlds. Rainbow flags flutter alongside cloth emblems from India, Portugal, and France, and traditional French pastries coexist with the distinctively sweet sesame seed, Montreal-style bagel. Just when you thought you'd seen everything, a short elevator ride transports you to another city several stories below ground level.

The top attractions in this versatile city include world-class museums and bustling marketplaces. Begin your tour by walking through the ancient cobblestone streets of Vieux-Montréal. Explore historic cathedrals or enjoy a cappuccino at one of the traditional French cafes along Boulevard Saint-Laurent. If history doesn't pique your interest, head to the bustling downtown area for some retail therapy or to Parc du Mont-Royal for a hike. Just remember to save some energy for when the sun goes down; Montreal, particularly Rue St-Denis, is known for a nightlife scene that lasts until the early hours of the morning.

The months of March to May, as well as September to November, are ideal for visiting Montreal because the weather is milder and hotel vacancies are plentiful. Aside from fluctuating rates, you'll discover that there's never a bad time to visit here. The heated Underground City passages provide refuge during the winter, while the warm summer temperatures make exploring on foot much more enjoyable. If you're drawn to the mild summer, make sure to book ahead of time: Montreal hosts a number of popular festivals during this time of year.