Vacationing in a city is a great way to experience a lot in a short amount of time. Here are three cities that make for a perfect long-weekend getaway.

montreal

French-speaking Montreal, Canada, is a mini-Paris. Most people here are bilingual, so you don’t have to learn French in a day, but you’ll feel like you’re in France! With all of the French food, bakeries, and markets that line the streets you’ll be calling out bonjour in no time. Montreal also has a big arts scene and is the birthplace of the famous Cirque du Soleil shows.

Just 30 miles from the Rocky Mountains, Denver, Colorado, is a year-round recreational mecca. The city has so many professional sports teams that it’s hard to keep count. Historic buildings downtown have been turned into brewpubs, art galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants. And Denver is also home to some of the largest art centers in the world.

San Antonio, Texas, hosts a unique blend of historic landmarks, modern attractions, and excellent dinning. While in San Antonio you must visit the Alamo. And you can’t miss the famous Riverwalk, a four-mile stretch of canals that runs through the heart of the business district. Take a tour of Market Square, the largest Mexican market outside of Mexico. And, of course, a taste of real Texas barbecue is a must.

So use those vacation days on an escape to a city this year.