In a country where sheep outnumber people, it's not terribly difficult to rank as the largest and most cosmopolitan city. Diversity seekers will find a mix of Asian and Polynesian residents here, while the Auckland Museum pays homage to traditional Maori culture.
What these islands lack in size, they more than make up for in jaw-dropping scenery. The country has a reputation as one of the world's best hiking locales.
Head to the French Riviera’s prized cities of Cannes and Nice for Mediterranean sun, Roman-era ruins, boulevards with grand hotels and designer shops, and restaurants with authentic Provencal cuisine.