Ireland’s largest medieval parish church, St Nicholas' Collegiate Church dates from 1320 and is famed for its collection of curiosities. These days, traditional Irish Sessions take place in the church, with the rector playing the flute on summer nights. The church is loved by many, and it’s even said that Christopher Columbus prayed here in 1477 before setting off on his voyage to the New World.

This is one of the major political centres of the European Union, with the Council of Europe, the Palace of Human Rights and the European Parliament all clustered close to the Rhine. Visits are upon reservation only, but even a walk around those huge buildings is worth seeing.

Step away from the rush of modern life and immerse yourself in a simpler, slower-paced way of life on this unique day trip from Philadelphia. As you journey through Lancaster County’s rolling farmlands, you’ll witness horse-drawn buggies share the road with cars, a tangible sign of the community’s dedication to tradition. A visit to the Amish Village Museum provides deeper insights into the daily life and beliefs of the Amish—from their meticulous craftsmanship to their intentional rejection of modern conveniences. You’ll also have the chance to shop for handmade quilts, enjoy homemade pies, and perhaps even chat with a local farmer as they tend to their fields.

Maria Island is a natural wildlife sanctuary and off-shore retreat with historic ruins, sweeping bays, dramatic cliffs and plenty of stories to tell. Located off Tasmania's east coast and accessible only by ferry, Maria Island contains the most intact example of a convict probation station in Australia. Spend the night and piece together Tasmania’s intriguing convict history, encounter very cute wildlife and explore Maria Island’s pristine beaches and ancient forests. The island offers excellent walking and cycling journeys and a limestone quarry at the Fossil Cliffs provides a fascinating close-up look at the many ancient creatures immortalised as fossils in the rocks. The Painted Cliffs at Hopground Beach are beautifully patterned sandstone shaped by the mineral-rich water and wind.