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.

Nieuwe Markt, at the heart of Groningen's city centre, emerged as a vibrant square with a modern touch. Surrounded by contemporary structures and historic townhouses, it offers a unique view of the city. The centrepiece of the square is the recently completed Forum Groningen is a cultural centre with a library, cinema, and select parts of the Groninger Museum.

Despite its relatively small scale, this is a world-class attraction. It is the best-preserved Roman temple anywhere. Built in 19 B.C. by Roman emperor Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa, the original patron of the Pantheon in Rome.

Hard to miss and easy to linger in, this L-shaped square is basically an open-air museum. Grab a seat at a café (yes, it’s pricey, but the people-watching is worth every euro), and you’ve got front-row views of Palazzo Vecchio, the Fountain of Neptune, and the statue of Cosimo I on horseback. Just off to the side is the Loggia dei Lanzi, packed with Renaissance sculptures—all free to see, no ticket needed. Early mornings or late evenings are quieter if you want to take it all in without the daytime crowds.