Bran, a small village nestled in the Carpathian Mountains of central Romania, is best known for its medieval fortress commonly referred to as “Dracula’s Castle.” While the connection to Bram Stoker’s fictional character is loose at best, Bran Castle continues to draw travelers with its striking towers, stone walls, and position on a rocky cliff. Originally built in the 14th century to defend against invading forces, the castle has passed through royal hands, most notably Queen Marie of Romania.

A quaint Italian town off the beaten path.

A tributary of the Rhine, the Moselle River flows through France, Luxembourg and Germany. The Moselle also lends its name to a region of France, a valley which it bisects, and a wine produced along its banks.

Porvoo, Finland, is a charming and picturesque town that transports visitors back in time with its well-preserved medieval atmosphere. Located just 50 kilometers east of Helsinki, it is one of Finland’s oldest cities, founded in the 14th century. Its most iconic feature is the Old Town, with its cobblestone streets, wooden houses painted in vibrant reds and yellows, and the majestic Porvoo Cathedral, which dates back to the 15th century.

Haines is a charming stop in the Alaska Panhandle and a gateway to Glacier Bay National Park and Tongass National Forest.