The Louvre is one of the world’s biggest museums and home to some of the most famous artworks you’ll ever see — think the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, alongside pieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Caravaggio. Its glass pyramid entrance is instantly recognisable. Inside, you’ll find around 35,000 paintings, sculptures, and objects, covering everything from ancient civilisations to 19th-century art.

If you’re ready to swap Paris’s romantic boulevards for a different kind of magic, head to Disneyland Paris. The resort has two parks: Disneyland Park, packed with rides, shows, restaurants, cafés, and endless shops; and Walt Disney Studios Park, which adds movie sets, live performances, and behind-the-scenes fun to the mix. Stroll down Main Street, U.S.A., set sail for Adventureland, or meet your favourite characters in Fantasyland. Whether you’re a kid, a grown-up, or somewhere in between, there’s more than enough here to keep the magic alive all day.

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.

The River Gambia National Park (or Baboon Island) is a collection of 5 river islands inhabited by all manner of indigenous animal species, from the endangered hippopotamus to omnipresent primates - bonobos and chimpanzees. The best way to experience this natural reserve is to stay overnight - the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project Camp (Badi Mayo) offers all-inclusive stays in safari tents on the water.