Built in 1963 to commemorate Tunisia's first president Habib Bourguiba, this colourful mosque demonstrates typical Tunisian religious architecture complete with pink marble pillars and golden mosaics which are exquisitely preserved. The impressive prayer room which is the focal point of the mosque can take up to one thousand visitors and is often busy with locals and tourists meandering through. It is worth noting that, although admittance to the mosque is free of charge, opening times may vary. To get the most out of the experience a guided tour from one of the private tour operators in the area might be helpful.

Pamukkale, located in western Turkey, is famous for its mineral-rich thermal waters and striking white terraces. Its name translates to 'cotton castle,' a reference to the bright travertine formations created by mineral deposits from the hot springs. As the water flows from the summit, around 320 metres high, it forms a series of natural pools that look almost otherworldly. If you’re staying in Izmir, Pamukkale makes an excellent day trip. The journey takes roughly 2.5 hours by bus or private car, and many travellers opt to join an organised tour for convenience. Setting off early in the morning is advisable so you can enjoy the site fully and avoid the midday crowds.

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.

This noble Baroque building dates from the second half of the 17th century. The facade has a large doorway framed between two Tuscan Order pilasters of fluted shaft and sober entablature. Both the entrance and the coats of arms are carved in pink marbled stone. The different spaces and chambers are organized around a main courtyard with upper gallery; at ground level we find a first body of arches resting on Tuscan marble columns, the upper level is a gallery of rectangular balconies. There is also an additional yard, simpler, with a gallery of arches at ground level on one side and on the upper level of the other side a landscape-observation gallery crowned by cubical body battlements with pyramidal tops. The structure's load-bearing walls are made of rammed earth and slab with fully treated and restored wooden beams for its floors and ceilings.