Johann Strauss’ waltzes aren’t only popular in his hometown of Vienna. They are a highlight at balls the world over. But why?

The Dutch Golden Age was marked by great economic as well as cultural achievements. The works of Rembrandt and Vermeer, and Amsterdam's stunning canal-side mansions, give a sense of this unique era.

The Cité du Vin in Bordeaux, France, is part exhibition space and part theme park. Here you can explore the secrets of wine, underscoring Bordeaux's claim to be the world capital of wine.

Markus Shimizu specializes in soy sauce, miso paste and other fermented products. Top Berlin chefs love everything that is made at "mimi ferments".

Tim Raue used to be in a street gang. Today, he’s considered one of the best chefs in Germany. His “Restaurant Tim Raue” has been awarded two Michelin stars and is listed as one of the 50 best restaurants in the world.

Lennart Grau re-interprets the works of the Old Masters, creating brightly-colored works that have met with widespread acclaim and are very much in demand. They hang next to those of artists such as Gerhard Richter.

Since the death of her mother Laura Biagiotti, fashion designer Lavinia has been managing the House of Biagiotti. She’s remained true to her mother’s style and favorite materials and colors, cashmere, silk and white.

The eternal city and its ancient monuments are a major tourist magnet. And the Romans’ pride in their city’s long history is often quite apparent. Many residents earn livings as city guides, restorers or bar proprietors.

Fine fabrics made of silk and velvet have been woven in Venice for centuries. Visits to the traditional Bevilacqua weavers and the Fortuny Museum are journeys into the history of fabric design.

He's called the modern-day "Waltz King," so it almost goes without saying that he lives in a castle: André Rieu. The Dutch violinist is one of the most successful in the world, and he conducts his own orchestra.