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.

Walking tours are great options if you want to quickly orient yourself in a new city within 2–3 hours and meet a couple of fellow travellers. Your Viking guide will make sure you don't walk past any hidden gems and tell you stories of the Vikings, elves and modern-day Icelanders. Some tours might include lunch, others — booze. It's up to you how to stay warm.

Serra San Bruno is a village located 70 km from Lamezia, on a little hill. It was named after the founder of the Carthusian Order and, in fact, features a famous monastery; unfortunately, though, the site is out of bounds to tourists because of the Chartusian monks' vow of enclosure, but you can still visit the museum and enjoy the peculiar nature around this area.