Saarland's cultural centre holds a diverse range of performances from opera to ballet productions, and neighbours on a nice verdant park with trees lining the Saar river.

One of the least known lakes in northern Italy, and much quieter than Garda. Check out the Franciacorta wine-growing district, south of the lake, or head to Monte Isola – the largest lake island in Europe, mercifully free of cars! To get here take the frequent train from Brescia to the pretty town of Iseo, and then the lake ferry.

Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral was completed during the period when Poland was part of the Russian empire in 1884. It's a shining example of Orthodox religious architecture in Poland.

Crowning Girona’s skyline, the Cathedral of Santa Maria commands attention from the top of a majestic 86-step staircase. Its soaring Baroque façade, added in the 17th century, belies a far older history: foundations date to the 5th century, with a Romanesque church and 12th-century cloister still preserved within. The cathedral’s most notable feature is the 23-metre-wide Gothic nave (widest in the world!) completed in the 14th century and illuminated by vast stained-glass windows. Inside, the Museum of the Cathedral safeguards extraordinary treasures, including the 11th-century Tapestry of Creation, a vivid Romanesque depiction of divine order, and a gem-studded 14th-century silver altarpiece. The cloister captivates with carved capitals portraying biblical tales and mythical beasts. For context, use the included audio guide to unravel layers of history, from Roman forums to medieval masterpieces.