Another must-see in Leipzig, the Bach Museum, is devoted to the life and works of Johann Sebastian Bach, whose 27 years as cantor and the city’s music director shaped Leipzig’s musical life. Visitors can explore sheet music, documents, artworks, musical instruments and period furniture, as well as the opportunity to listen to some of Bach’s music in the complementary audio guides.

Ostuni, about 32 km (20 miles) west of Brindisi, where a labyrinth of whitewashed lanes and alleys surrounds a hilltop crowned by a medieval cathedral, is the most impressive of Apulia’s "white towns", with sweeping views across the surrounding farmlands to the east coast.

When you think of theatre, you might not immediately think of mechanical sculptures — but that's exactly what you'll find at the Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre. The theatre showcases intricate mechanised figures that "perform" thought-provoking shows on life's big questions. Perfect for both kids and adults, it's a collaborative wonder featuring the work of sculptor-mechanic Eduard Bersudsky, theatre director Tatyana Jakovskaya, and light and sound designer Sergey Jakovsky.

The Royal Tank Museum rolls into Amman’s cultural scene with unexpected swagger, its 150 armoured beasts (from WWI relics to Jordan’s homegrown modifications) displayed with cinematic flair. Architect Zaid Daoud’s sleek 2018 design lets you circle Soviet T-34s and hulking Challengers like a battlefield rubbernecker, while interactive displays appeal to kids and military buffs alike. Displayed chronologically, the exhibits trace Jordan’s martial legacy from the Arab Revolt’s camel cavalry to 1967’s Battle of Karamah, though the real stars are the machines. German Panzers stand next to locally retrofitted Centurions, their spec in English and Arabic. Recharge your batteries at the café on the top floor. Budget an hour, ignore the jingoistic plaques, and don’t miss the outdoor arena where (select weekends) engines roar to life.