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Bern, Switzerland
Bern is one of Europe's most underrated capitals. The entire old town is a UNESCO site, built on a sandstone ridge in a loop of the turquoise Aare River. Six kilometers of Lauben (covered arcades) line the streets — the longest covered shopping promenade in Europe — keeping walkers dry in any weather. The Zytglogge (clock tower) performs a mechanical show four minutes before each hour, and the streets are punctuated by elaborately painted Renaissance fountains. The Federal Palace offers free tours when parliament is not in session, and the Einstein Museum is housed in the apartment where the physicist developed his theory of relativity. The Rose Garden above the Bear Park offers the classic panoramic postcard view. In summer, locals swim in the Aare River, carried downstream by the current in one of Europe's most unique urban swimming experiences.
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The covered arcades mean you can walk the entire old town without getting wet — but do step outside them to admire the Renaissance fountains and building facades.
June through September offers warm weather for Aare swimming and outdoor dining, while the Zibelemärit (Onion Market) in November is Bern's quirkiest tradition.