Rome is not just a destination; it's a promise—a promise that every moment spent in Rome is a moment well-lived and etched in the memories of those who embrace its magic.

Pro tip: Opt for October through April for the perfect weather—summers can be quite warm.

Rome is well-known as a city rich in history, but if you enjoy exploring beyond what is highlighted in the guide books, read on! This guide highlights the must-see historic sites of Rome with some of my favorite slower-paced wanderings, including neighborhoods to explore, and fountains to photograph. I've also included some local customs around evening habits and dining that are helpful to know for your visit to Rome.

You’ll likely be spending most of your time in Central and West London, where you’ll find the city’s most popular attractions, like Hyde Park, Piccadilly Circus and Big Ben. These areas are especially great if you're a London first-timer, or if you want to check off the city's greatest hits from your bucket list. But Central and West London are also home to posh neighborhoods, each with their own distinctive feel. Unsurprisingly, you’ll also find many of the city’s best hotels here, where glamor (or rather, glamour) and luxury reign.

Witness the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, don your chicest ensemble for afternoon tea, rent a paddle boat on Hyde Park's Serpentine Lake, visit the city's world-class museums — immersive activities abound. But you should also budget ample time for wandering and serendipity, as London is full of hidden gems.

Budapest, the charming Hungarian capital straddling the Danube, is a gem of a city; in fact, it’s really two cities, Buda and Pest. Walk from one city to the other via the Széchenyi Chain Bridge (a must), wander around the cobblestoned streets of Castle Hill, where you’ll find the historic Buda Castle complex, listen to the grand organ at St. Stephen's Basilica, savor goulash and chicken paprikash in a cozy bistro (or at a Michelin-Starred restaurant)...I could go on.

You won’t be at a loss for things to do in Budapest. There are numerous neighborhoods to explore, from the bustling Terézváros to the under-the-radar Józsefváros. As for where to stay, let me help narrow down your options. Read on for a few of the best hotels in Budapest.

Prague, the Czech Republic’s capital straddling the Vltava River, is fit for a fairytale. There are medieval castles and charming narrow streets (perfect for wandering) and beautiful bridges offering stunning views...the list goes on.

Prague is also, unsurprisingly, home to some pretty spectacular hotels.

Vienna, Austria’s magical capital city, deserves a spot on any bucket list. Stroll along the Danube, marvel at the Gothic architecture of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, wander in the lush Belvedere gardens, peruse the chic local boutiques of the Neubau neighborhood, walk the Ringstrasse — a boulevard that surrounds Vienna’s historic inner city — enjoy a night at the opera house...I could go on. But an excellent trip requires an excellent place to stay, of course, and Vienna has some serious hotel game. From fun boutique stays to five-star hotels, these are the best hotels in Vienna.

Hotel Sacher Wien