This is the most European city in the US (according to an American)

That Madison, the capital of the US state of Wisconsin, is a sister city to Freiburg in Germany makes perfect sense when you consider some of its typically European characteristics. The city is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the United States, with trails crisscrossing every corner; it's surrounded by two idyllic lakes, Monona and Mendota; and at its center is a university that breathes new life into its city every fall, when more than 50,000 students flock to its lush green campus.

Madison experiences all four seasons intensely. The cold is relentless, forcing residents to take refuge in charming bars for a drink or driving them to the lake, where it's common to see people ice fishing or simply strolling around it. Visiting in winter is not recommended unless you have a very thick jacket you're eager to break out. In any other season, Madison and its greenery win everyone over.

A university refuge

The University of Wisconsin begins practically where the Capitol building ends with State Street, the avenue along which students disperse after classes. Behind this grand thoroughfare, the campus is filled with green spaces, with countless gardens and a huge hill, Bascom Hill, at its center. But the most impressive feature is the trail that starts from the Memorial Union and goes for miles into the forest, overwhelming any visitor with its beauty. Whether by bike or on foot, the path winds through Mendota Terrace before leading to a viewing platform. In winter, when the lake freezes over, many venture across it on foot to the viewing platform, where they often light a bonfire.

The campus offers a typical American college atmosphere, even by Hollywood standards. In fact, it was the setting chosen for the film The Graduate (1967), starring Dustin Hoffman. The student body lives by the motto "work hard, play hard." This academic spirit is balanced each fall by the fervor for the university's football team, whose Saturday games are open to the public. Among the traditions are the more than 80,000 fans dressed in red and white and the frenzied atmosphere. Attending a game at Camp Randall is reminiscent of the most passionate football culture.

Community and culture intertwined

Community is key in Madison. The imposing Capitol, with its white dome reminiscent of Washington, D.C., is surrounded by an area known as The Square, which is never more welcoming than in the fall. With the arrival of spring, the farmers market returns, offering fresh vegetables from surrounding farms. There, we find the beloved—and obligatory—spicy cheese breads, which can be savored under the warm sun at the end of the long winter, while strolling leisurely through the crowds. Although crowded, the atmosphere is relaxed and smiles abound.

From that square, the options are endless. At the foot of the Capitol, State Street is filled with international flavors like Russian dumplings at Paul's Pelmeni or Nepalese food at Himal Chuli. And we can't forget coffee, because Madison's mocha culture is exceptional. The city is filled with coffee shops like Michaelangelo's Coffee House, with its wide range of flavors and specialties that become the perfect remedy for the day.

If you're looking for culture, music abounds throughout the city center: indie music venues like The Majestic, The Sylvee, and The Orpheum are just steps away from the heart of the city. On Williamson Street, you'll find the iconic jazz club Cafe CODA, where on Saturday nights, audiences can even get up from their chairs and pick up an instrument.

Overflowing nature

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However, to get the most out of Madison, you have to get out of the downtown area and off campus. The city is ideal for biking, with paths shaded by tall trees that stretch for miles. One of the most popular routes passes through Monroe Street—home to the popular record store Strictly Discs—and heads off toward the neighboring village of Fitchburg. The path is lined with trees, cyclists, and a few places to enjoy one of the local craft beers. They're so good they're on par with those brewed in Germany, the country with which the city is so often associated. If you're looking for a light, refreshing beer, Spotted Cow is an ideal choice.

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Madison's natural beauty isn't limited to its bike paths or its extensive green spaces. Nor should you think that its lakes can only be enjoyed when they're frozen. A highly recommended summer activity is to rent a kayak or canoe and paddle across Lake Monona. From there, you'll get stunning panoramic views of downtown. To complete a perfect summer day, Babcock ice cream—the student-made brand that leverages Wisconsin's reputation as the dairy capital of the country—is ideal. Enjoying a Key Lime Pie ice cream on the multicolored chairs of the Mendota Terrace is a true summer treat.