Frankfurt

Frankfurt is Germany's thriving, fast-paced financial hub, with a dazzlingly futuristic skyline, chic shopping streets lined with exclusive designer boutiques, and dress-to-impress nightspots galore. The charming Romerberg historic district is home to an array of stunningly reconstructed 15th century buildings, while culture vultures can marvel at masterpieces in the riverfront Giersch art museum.

The city's atmospheric cider taverns offer a novel alternate to the generic German beer hall, while rustic restaurants serve up hearty local dishes like crispy pork knuckle on a bed of tangy sauerkraut.