Just down the coast from Dune de Pilar, Arcachon’s golden beaches and 1950s villas make it a choice destination for sophisticated holidaymakers. The sweeping ocean views are best enjoyed alongside regional delicacies such as Arcachon oysters and Bordeaux wine.

A magnet for skiers and hikers, these dramatic peaks – including the iconic Matterhorn – range from 3,000 to 15,000 feet and spread across three-fifths of the country. Abundant glaciers, scenic valleys and gorgeous alpine lakes add to the region's visual appeal. The Glacier Express train travels the 7.5-hour route through the Swiss Alps from Zermatt to St. Moritz, passing through fairy-tale villages and over 291 bridges along the way.

Yekaterinburg is the thinking tourist's city, jam-packed with libraries, theaters and museums, plus seemingly out of place monuments that pay homage to entities like Michael Jackson and a keyboard. The beautiful Yekaterinburg Circus building is an intricate lace dome that arches over seating for 2600 spectators.