The 178km Vee Drive Tour unfolds one stunning vista after another. Setting off on the N25 from Waterford, this driving loop ducks between the Comeragh Mountains and Copper Coast following the N72 to its first stop, the dazzling heritage town of Lismore. Lismore’s showpiece is its castle, founded in 1185, which belongs to the Duke of Devonshire today. Leaving Lismore, follow the R668 as it twists and turns through the Knockmealdown Mountains culminating in breath-taking fashion at the Vee, a hairpin bend overlooking the Golden Vale. Journey from Cahir back to Waterford via the N24 stopping at the heritage gems of Cahir Castle and Ormond Castle. The Vee Drive also features two spurs, which you can use as detours if time permits. The first zips down to Ardmore, where a round tower, cathedral and hermitage captivate visitors to this day. The second spur detours, via St. Declan’s Way.

The oldest market in town is held at Petaling Street in Chinatown. Vendors begin peddling their wares already in the morning, but the market reaches a true fever pitch as the sun goes down. Haggling is a must and so is tasting the cooling longan drink at the corner stall.

Scattered throughout the Old Town, these twelve churches are among the oldest buildings in Cologne—most of them date back to the 12th and 13th centuries. They’ve all got that heavy Romanesque look, but each one’s a bit different. Great St. Martin stands out with its massive tower right by the river, St. Gereon has got an unusual oval dome, and St. Maria im Kapitol is one of the largest. You don’t need to see all twelve, but stopping in at a couple while you’re exploring the Old Town gives you a good feel for the city’s medieval side.

With such close proximity to the ocean and fertile tropical farms, you'll find some of Nicaragua's real treasures along the stalls of this market. It is also a great place to mingle with locals and get a true glance at local daily life.