Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage site, located in the South of Albania. Due to its existence across many times and civilizations, the city comprises many unique styles of architecture and influences. Its origins date back to the 7th century BC. it is often called the 'Town of a Thousand Windows' with notable landmarks such as Berat Castle, Gorica Bridge, and St. Michael's Church.

Shkodër, regarded as the traditional capital of Northern Albania, is the 5th largest city of the country. It was created as the Capital of the Illyrian kingdom under the name Skodra. The history of Shkodër is storied, with origins in the Bronze Age coupled with Roman, Serbian, and Ottoman influences. Notable sights to see include Rozafa/Shkodër Castle and the Ebu Bekër Mosque.

Quito for some may just be a quick stop on their way to the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador. Make no mistake however, this capital city is worth spending a few days in. Whether you want to check out the crafts and markets at La Ronda, visit the Ecuador, or see the gorgeous church of Basilica del Voto Nacional, you'll be glad you took the time to see this cityscape before your Galápagos trip.

The term Baltic State is geopolitical and refers to the 3 sovereign states located on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea, which have formed close intergovernmental and parliamentary ties with each other. Each capital is quite different and has much to offer. This guide breaks down the Baltic capital cities of Tallinn (Estonia), Riga (Latvia), and Vilnius (Lithuania).

The Norse established their parliament on the Tinganes peninsula of Tórshavn in 850 AD, which has since been known as the capital city of the Faroe Islands with a population of 13,083. The city features great attractions like the Svartafoss Waterfall, Vesturkirkjan, Skansin, and the Tórshavn Old Town. All roads lead to Tórshavn in the Faroe Islands and a day is all you need to explore the city.

The picturesque town of Budva in Montenegro sits on the Adriatic Sea and is around 2,500 years old. Its high city walls and orange rooftops make it a welcome sight for travelers looking for an old town feel. Make your way to Budva and check out places like the Citadela Fortress, Sveti Nikola Island, Jaz Battery, Fort Mogren and Pizana and Mogren Beaches!

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and is the UK's second most popular tourist destination. Aside being the inspiration for Hogwarts by JK Rowling in Harry Potter, the city boasts so many amazing attractions. Spend a weekend here and check out Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill, National and Dugald Stewart Monuments, Arthur's Seat, and Victoria Street.

Graz is the capital city of Styria, the heavy forest region on the Eastern edge of the Alps in Austria. A weekend break here was perfect to walk around the old town, and see places like the Kunsthaus, Eggenberg Palace, Schlossberg, the Graz Cathedral, and the Glockenspiel. I found Austrians to also be very warm and friendly during my stay and because of that, I would LOVE to return.

Vilnius is rich in historical and cultural entities that serves as the capital of the Baltic State of Lithuania. My trip here took me to great places like St. Anne's Church, Vilnius Cathedral, the Three Crosses, Gediminas Castle Tower, Bastion Hill, Cathedral and Town Hall Squares, Pilies and Literatai Streets, and Missionary Gardens, just to name a few. This was my FAVORITE Baltic Capital!

The city of Kraków in Poland is arguably one of the best in the entire country. What is most stunning in this city is perhaps it’s gorgeous architecture. Located along the Vistula River, you can experience sweeping views of the Wawel Royal Castle and Father Bernatek's Bridge. Other attractions include St. Mary’s Basilica, St. Joseph’s Church, Kościuszko Mound, Florianska Street, and Szeroka Square to name a few. Day trips can also be taken to Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

Known for it's cheap beer and destination for stag and hen do's, there is much more to this Central European capital. The main sites like the Lennon Wall, Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square are a must see. Do yourself a favour though and try to get off the beaten path and check out places like the Kafka Museum, Rigierovy sady park, and St. Vitus Cathedral.

Dubrovnik is quickly becoming one of the best summer destinations in all of Europe. This walled city with orange-shingled rooftops may be recognizable from TV shows but here you can also go kayaking around the walls at Kolorina, go hiking on Srd Hill, swim at Poporela, go shopping on Stradun St., and hang out with new friends on the Jesuit Staircase.

The Art Nouveau style of the Latvian capital of Riga is a refreshing change from the skyscrapers that usually accompany capital cities. This city can be reached by bus, plane, or ferry and boasts city center attractions like Riga Castle, Three Brothers, House of the Blackheads, Swedish Gate, St. Peter's Church, and Riga Market.