Take a 1-hour journey to Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí, and step into his surreal masterpiece — the Dalí Theatre-Museum, designed by the artist himself. Constructed to replace an old theatre that burnt down during the Spanish Civil War, the building is a work of surrealist art, topped with giant eggs and crowned by a geodesic dome. Inside, it holds the world’s largest collection of Dalí’s works, from early impressionist pieces like Port Alguer (1924) to later marvels like Galatea of the Spheres (1952). Don’t miss the Mae West room, an upside-down bathtub fixed to the ceiling, or the glittering jewellery collection. The artist himself is buried in a crypt below the stage, adding a layer of solemnity to the whimsy. Book tickets online to avoid long queues, and allow at least half a day to fully absorb the labyrinthine galleries, optical illusions, and the sheer audacity of Dalí’s vision.

Fundació Mona is a pioneering primate rehabilitation centre dedicated to rescuing and caring for chimpanzees and macaques recovered from abusive situations like circuses, the advertising industry and the illegal pet trade. Here, primates regain physical and emotional health while living in social family groups within large, naturalistic enclosures. Visits are educational and ethically focused: guided by expert staff, you’ll learn about primate behaviour, conservation challenges, and the stories of individual animals. Advance booking is essential, and tours emphasise respect for the residents’ well-being over entertainment. Through its work, Mona raises awareness about wildlife trafficking, species extinction, and the importance of protecting our closest evolutionary relatives.

The Maritime and History Museum of the Croatian Coast is housed in what in the past was the residence of Hungarian reagents, who controlled Rijeka from 1869 until 1918. The museum hosts permanent exhibits like archaeology, art and the original furniture of the Governor's Palace. The building itself is the first exhibit and is worth a visit.