This is the most picturesque and romantic district of Strasbourg. The alleys offer a succession of old half-timbered houses and, thanks to canals, the river Ill gives visitors the feeling of strolling in Venice. Fluvial tours of 70 minutes with explanations in several languages are available.

Tucked into the hillside just outside Cortona, Le Celle is a small Franciscan hermitage dating back to the 13th century. It’s peaceful, simple, and still run by monks today. Saint Francis stayed here briefly, and you can actually see his old cell. The hermitage is a sight in itself, but also benefits from beautiful surroundings.

Take a 1-hour journey to Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí, and step into his surreal masterpiece — the Dalí Theatre-Museum, designed by the artist himself. Constructed to replace an old theatre that burnt down during the Spanish Civil War, the building is a work of surrealist art, topped with giant eggs and crowned by a geodesic dome. Inside, it holds the world’s largest collection of Dalí’s works, from early impressionist pieces like Port Alguer (1924) to later marvels like Galatea of the Spheres (1952). Don’t miss the Mae West room, an upside-down bathtub fixed to the ceiling, or the glittering jewellery collection. The artist himself is buried in a crypt below the stage, adding a layer of solemnity to the whimsy. Book tickets online to avoid long queues, and allow at least half a day to fully absorb the labyrinthine galleries, optical illusions, and the sheer audacity of Dalí’s vision.

The late Renaissance St Peter's Basilica is an iconic landmark of the Vatican City, a monumental structure that the likes of Michelangelo helped bring into existence. Today, the basilica is open to visitors wishing to explore its inside naves and chapels and see works of art by great masters such as Raphael and Bernini. While here, don't miss out on climbing to the top of the dome, where the stunning view of St Peter's Square awaits you.