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Founded in 1706, Albuquerque was ruled by the Spanish until 1821 but later came under Mexican and then American rule. The city still retains its Spanish atmosphere however, with the tranquil Old Town Plaza lying at its heart. Overlooked by the lovely 1893 San Felipe de Neri Church and flanked by El Camino Real, it is just one of the city's many quiet charms.

All around town you will discover little pockets of peace and quiet from hidden patios to winding brick paths, gardens and balconies. More formal attractions include the fascinating Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, a Rattlesnake Museum and nearby Acoma Pueblo, a still inhabited village of roughly 300 adobe buildings sitting on top of a mesa.

Historic Route 66 winds past the Rio Grande Botanical Garden and the Albuquerque Aquarium, whilst the city's best restaurants are all to be found on trendy Nob Hill. For a look at the deep canyons and spectacular terrain that surround the city take a trip on the Sandia Peak Tramway which transports visitors 10,000 feet up a mountainside.