Queretaro, Mexico

As far as the silver cities go, Querétaro is sometimes intimated to be the ugly sibling. Indeed, the rather frantic outskirts with their busy freeways can give a misguided first impression. The city's large, historic heart is characterized by charming pedestrian streets, stunning plazas and interesting churches. The city's sophisticated restaurant scene whips up quality cuisine and the museums reflect the city's important role in Mexican history.