Val d’Orcia conjures up everything you picture when you think of Tuscany—rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and quiet hill towns. It’s a protected UNESCO site, partly because of the landscape, partly because of how little it’s changed over the centuries. Pienza is the standout—it was designed as the 'ideal city' during the Renaissance and still feels unusually well put together. The Abbey of Sant’Antimo is a peaceful stop, tucked into the countryside. And if you're into wine, this is Brunello country—some of the best reds in Italy. Even just driving through is half the experience.

Düsseldorf's Altstadt (Old Town) is also home to some of the city's most beautiful churches. For instance, the Sankt Lambertus Basilika, which was first built in the 13th century, and which with its twisting spire helps make Düsseldorf's skyline unique. In conjunction with the Schlossturm (Castle Tower) and the River Düssel, the basilica remains part of the Old Town's original core. This church's parish altar also houses a shrine containing relics of Saint Apollinaris, the city's patron saint.

Board the famous Kuranda Scenic Rail for a breathtaking journey on one of the world’s most scenic operational rail journeys to the charming town of Kuranda and a return journey by cable car across the canopy of the rainforest. With the cable car, you will get amazing birds-eye views so make sure not to forget your camera.

This imposing Lutheran church was constructed in the 1770s, and is another dominant element of the Baroque-style works of F. J. Stengel, having earned just as much recognition as the Frauenkirche in Dresden or the St. Michael's Church in Hamburg.