3. Dubrovnik, Croatia. Dubrovnik is a beautifully preserved fortified town pressed against the sea within magnificent medieval walls. First settled by Roman refugees in the early seventh century, it has survived centuries of battles between Slavs, Muslims, Christians, Byzantines, Venetians and even an eight-month seige in 1991 by Yugoslav forces. History oozes from the city’s medieval gates, Franciscan monestary, fifteenth-century palace, and even from its small city beach. Definitely a sight worth seeing.

4. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic. Dramatically squeezed into an S-bend in the River Vltava, Cesky Krumlov ranks as one of the most superbly preserved medieval towns in Europe. The twisting river divides the town into two segments: the circular old town on the right bank, and the Latran quarter on the hillier left bank. Start with the castle in the Latran quarter but be sure not to miss the expansive terrace gardens high above the town, and the (not so medieval) Egon Schiele gallery.

5. Canterbury, England. One of England’s most venerable cities, Canterbury offers two thousand years of history, with Roman and early Christian ruins, a Norman castle, and a famous cathedral that dominates a medieval warren of time-skewed Tudor dwellings. It does get crowded during high season, but it’s still well worth a visit.