Tallinn, Estonia

Choral music rings out from old Lutheran churches in this magnificently restored Baltic city. Built by German merchants who grew rich on the flourishing Hanseatic trade, Tallinn is one of the best-preserved capitals in Europe. Its magnificent Town Hall is the oldest city hall in Northern Europe and the only one preserved in Gothic style. But two centuries of czarist rule and nearly half a century of Soviet domination added a distinct Russian flavor to its Germanic heritage. Walk the atmospheric streets to Toompea, the upper town with its majestic castle and splendid views overlooking the city, and then explore the ancient convents, steepled churches, handsome guild houses and burghers' mansions in the lower town. The entire historic district is a UNESCO World Heritage site. After exploring, relax at the famous Kadriorg Park with its exquisite gardens and colorful palace. More than a quarter of Tallinn’s acreage is public and green.