Home to one of the best universities in the world for technology as well as the famous Royal Delftware pottery, this picturesque municipality lies just outside of The Hague, making it the ideal day trip away from the city. Discover how Vermeer was influenced by the city that pioneered microbiology and blue earthenware during his formative years on The Vermeer Walk. Or you can book one of the guided tours such as Discover Delft or Explore Delft, which take you through the history of the area in both fun and informative ways.

Crowning Girona’s skyline, the Cathedral of Santa Maria commands attention from the top of a majestic 86-step staircase. Its soaring Baroque façade, added in the 17th century, belies a far older history: foundations date to the 5th century, with a Romanesque church and 12th-century cloister still preserved within. The cathedral’s most notable feature is the 23-metre-wide Gothic nave (widest in the world!) completed in the 14th century and illuminated by vast stained-glass windows. Inside, the Museum of the Cathedral safeguards extraordinary treasures, including the 11th-century Tapestry of Creation, a vivid Romanesque depiction of divine order, and a gem-studded 14th-century silver altarpiece. The cloister captivates with carved capitals portraying biblical tales and mythical beasts. For context, use the included audio guide to unravel layers of history, from Roman forums to medieval masterpieces.

A stroll along Passeig de la Muralla offers Girona’s most dramatic perspectives, tracing the line of ancient fortifications that once enclosed the city. These walls, Europe’s longest surviving Carolingian remnants, combine Roman foundations with medieval expansions, now restored to create an elevated walkway. The path winds past historic watchtowers and through the lush Jardins dels Alemanys, offering quiet corners and photogenic vantage points. Though some sections involve steep steps and uneven stones, the reward is a peaceful, crowd-free journey through layers of history. For a memorable descent, exit at the Jardins de la Muralla, where the ramparts gently return you to the modern city. Access is free, with multiple entry points. Start near the cathedral for a climb up the Torre Gironella, where a spiral staircase leads to sunset views over the terracotta skyline and distant Pyrenees.

The Singel Flower Market is one of Amsterdam’s most colourful attractions. The small shops are located inside a row of floating barges — a holdover from the days when the flowers arrived in Amsterdam every day from the countryside by boat. At the flower market you’ll find tulips of every colour, either in bouquets or as bulbs to plant at home. If you plan to buy bulbs to take out of the country, be sure they have a "customs cleared" stamp on the packet so you won’t have trouble at the border.