You can’t really miss it—Florence’s cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore) dominates the skyline with that massive red-brick dome. Construction began in the 13th century and continued for nearly 150 years, which is evident in the diverse styles. The outside is covered in pink, green and white marble—oddly beautiful up close. Inside, check out Vasari’s Last Judgment fresco under the dome. If you’re up for the climb (and it is quite a climb), the view from the top is worth the leg burn.

Handling something as unusual and amusing as toilets, Sulabh International Museum integrates some bizarre exhibits with a matter of fundamental importance in India such as sanitation. Founded by Dr. Bindeshwar, an inspiring personality who strongly contributed to integrate untouchables, it aims to educate about sanitation and its development throughout the years.

Siena still runs on medieval time—in the best way. Its centre hasn’t changed much in centuries, and that’s part of the charm. The Piazza del Campo is the heart of it all—it’s where the Palio horse race happens twice a year. Climb the Torre del Mangia for wide views across the rooftops. The cathedral’s worth the time, especially its black-and-white striped interior, detailed floor mosaics (open seasonally), and the Piccolomini Library tucked inside. Don’t skip the crypt or the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo—they’re quieter and give you a different angle on the city.

Enjoy the tranquil beauty of the elevated 1.3-kilometre boardwalk through enchanting subtropical rainforest in the Sea Acres National Park and experience the wonders of one of the largest coastal rainforest reserves in New South Wales. Take a tour with the award-winning Rainforest Discovery volunteers or join an Aboriginal cultural tour. And relax on guided rainforest meditation walks, led by a local yoga instructor, once a month.