The favelas are Brazil's gloomily famous shanty towns. Once a shelter for war veterans and freedmen, they have now become the symbol of social and economic inequalities in the country. A guided tour of these communities represents a unique opportunity to understand the locals' living conditions, their challenges and their daily struggles. If you have the chance, visit the famous favela named Rocinha to discover a whole different side of Rio de Janeiro. Visits are only recommended as part of a supervised guided tour and may be unsafe to do on one's own.

Built on the land occupied earlier by the Corpus Christi hospital, one of the city's medieval hospitals. In 1558 the city exchanged plots with Archishop Esteban Almeyda and the hospital was relocated to the Parish of Santiago. The building may have started in the 16th Century, soon after the establishment of the Orihuela Bishopric. It underwent profound changes in the 18th Century under the reigns of Bishops José Flores Ososrio and Pedro Albornoa Tapia. In the mid-20th century, it lost its original functions, was restored at the beginning of the 21st Century and is currently home to the Diocese Museum of Sacred Art. At the back, facing the river, there is a gallery with semi-circular arches. Inside, another striking feature is the cloister with heraldic decoration, the main staircase of Alicante marble and the dome built on an octagonal base, with exterior cobalt blue glazed tiles.

Located on an island at the north end of Hoan Kiem Lake, this peaceful temple site pays homage to scholars and war heroes. Its most notable feature is the preserved turtle carcass, intricately tied to the lake's mythology. Accessible via a traditional Vietnamese-style red bridge, this site is among the most visited temples in Hanoi, drawing visitors keen to explore its serene grounds and immerse themselves in its rich cultural significance.

Hammarby is a rural 18th-century estate bought by Carl Linnaeus in 1758. In the well-preserved manor house, you’ll find Linnaeus’ study with unique plant illustrations. Many of the plants that Linnaeus grew still flourish in the lush park. From the hill above the farm, you can enjoy the scenery and dream yourself back to the landscape of the 18th century. The manor with a café and exhibitions is open from May through September, and the surrounding cultural reserve all year round.