There is no better way to start your visit to Lima than where it all began. The Plaza de Armas or Plaza Mayor is the birthplace of Peru's capital and still the city's main hub. Around the square, you will find many of Lima's historic landmarks such as a 17th-century Cathedral, the Government Palace (the official residence of Peru's president), the Archbishop's Palace, the Municipal Palace, the Palace of the Union, and the Casa del Oidor — it is a great place to admire many of the colonial architectural gems Lima boasts. Embellishing the centre of the plaza is a beautiful 1650 bronze fountain set on what once was the grounds of the city's gallows. At noon, walk to the Presidential Palace to watch the traditional changing of the guards. Just a few minutes from there is the historic Gran Hotel Bolivar, where many Hollywood stars, singers, politicians and famous authors have stayed. The list includes former American President Nixon, Ernest Hemingway and Mick Jagger, among others.

Transport yourself back in time by the ruins of what once served as the most important religious centre for indigenous people on the Peruvian coast. Situated 40 km southeast of Lima, the archaeological site of Pachacamac is a good day trip from the city where you get to explore the remains of pyramidal temples as well as other impressive ancient constructions.

This 13th-century Gothic cathedral, which peers straight over the Binnenhof is a standout landmark of The Hague. Although the original structure of the ‘Great Church’ is built from wood, the 2,200 square metre area that the church now takes up includes stone, marble and iron features as well as impressive touches such as intricate mechanistic clocks, detailed stained glass windows and 51 carillon bells, which were added over the years as the edifice grew in prominence. There are lots of events taking place in the Grote Kerk all year round, so it is worth checking the agenda on their website ahead of time to see what’s on. Book a tour and climb the 288 steps to the top where the entire city centre can be seen.

The National Museum of the History of the Great Patriotic War is a great place for getting a profound understanding of Kyiv´s history and the impact it has made on the country today. This museum has both an indoor section and a big outdoor section with monuments and statues.