Despite its name meaning 'New Bridge', Pont Neuf is actually Paris’s oldest bridge over the Seine, dating back to the 16th century. It’s also a great starting point to explore some of the city’s most famous sights. From here, you can easily wander around Île de la Cité to visit the Conciergerie, the old royal palace turned prison, and the stunning Sainte-Chapelle with its incredible stained glass windows. Just across the river lies the Louvre Museum, while a short walk takes you to the peaceful Place Dauphine, a hidden gem of a square. And, of course, the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral is also close by.

Leave time for a walk in the modern centre – the large area around piazza Vittorio Veneto – which was planned during the early 20th century, by the architect Marcello Piacentini, and is a very interesting example of town planning.

With its impressive display of Neo-Gothic artistry, the Cathedral of Zagreb was rebuilt by Viennese architects after an earthquake in 1880, and most of the money and creativity was spent on its two spires, which, interestingly enough, are not the same height. One is 104 meters tall while the other one is 105 meters.

Cologne’s main opera house stages a mix of classic and contemporary productions, from Mozart to modern composers. The resident company is strong, and visiting performers keep the programme varied. The building itself is modern and a bit divisive—some love it, some don’t—but the acoustics are excellent.