Nessebar, a city-museum and UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another marvellous day trip from Burgas, located just 35 kilometres away. This ancient town, often called the "Pearl of the Black Sea", sits on a small peninsula connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway, offering stunning sea views on both sides. Its cobblestone streets wind through a historic centre filled with over a millennium of architectural treasures, including the Church of St. Sofia, a 5th-century basilica, and other medieval churches like St. John the Baptist and St. Stephen. The Old Town, a maze of narrow lanes and 18th-century houses, invites leisurely exploration, with artisan shops and street vendors adding to its charm. Nessebar was once a Thracian settlement and later a Greek colony, playing a key role in the development of trade and culture in the Black Sea region. Its unique blend of ancient ruins, Byzantine churches, and a lively atmosphere makes it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and casual vacationers.

Al-Shaheed Martyrs Memorial is one of Baghdad’s most recognisable landmarks, commemorating the courage and sacrifice of Iraqis who fought in various wars. Designed by renowned Iraqi architect Ismail Fatah Al Turk, the monument was built between 1981 and 1983. Located about 4.5 kilometres north of Tahrir Square, near the Tigris River, the site forms part of a larger complex that includes well-maintained green spaces, trees, and an indoor park. Although the memorial is currently closed for renovations, as is the case with several historical sites in Iraq, you can always negotiate with the on-site guards for a closer look past the gate.

A trip to Iraq is often driven by a passion for history, and Ancient Babylon, located roughly 100 kilometres south of Baghdad, is a key attraction. Since accommodation near the site is limited, most visitors opt for a day trip from the capital. To reach Babylon, head to the Alawi car park, locally referred to as the 'garage', and ask about shared taxis or minivans heading there. The journey costs no more than 15,000 Iraqi dinars and takes about two hours. These vehicles typically drop passengers a few kilometres from the entrance, so you may need to arrange a local taxi or ask nearby residents for assistance. Currently, entrance to the archaeological site costs 25,000 Iraqi dinars, approximately $18 USD. Payment by card is possible, but it's advisable to carry cash, as foreign cards may not always be accepted. Inside, the ruins reveal a fascinating glimpse into the past. The main area consists of castle-like arches leading to wide terraces, alongside the remnants of the ancient gardens and in the distance, Saddam Hussein’s hilltop mansion looms. Access to the mansion is not guaranteed, as its opening appears to depend on the day and circumstance.

Constructed on the site of a former mosque from the Islamic city, this church dates back to between 1402 and 1417, according to the oldest documented evidence. Featuring a single nave design and side chapels nestled between buttresses, the original Gothic structure has undergone significant modifications due to restorations and extensions carried out between the 16th and 18th centuries. Notable elements within the church include a Renaissance presbyter, shaped like a triumphal arch, and the chapel dedicated to the Holy Family (1765-1766), which showcases the artistic influence of sculptor Francisco Salzillo. The main entrance of the church, adorned with the shield of the Catholic Monarchs at its peak, is in the Isabelline Gothic style. In contrast, the adjoining communion chapel exhibits a more Baroque aesthetic, featuring an entrance constructed between 1726 and 1735.