Once a sacred site for the ancient indigenous community of Muiscas, La Candelaria neighbourhood is where Bogotá was founded back in 1538. Naturally, this is the first stop for many tourists. Steep stone streets are lined with colonial buildings that house cafes, restaurants and artisanal shops. Some buildings are showing signs of their long life, while others have been revitalised with colourful street art. You will find major cultural hotspots like the Gold Museum, Museo Botero, the colonial-era cathedral dedicated to the Virgen de la Candelaria and the neoclassical Capitol flanking Bolivar Plaza. Navigate the winding streets of the historical centre yourself or follow a guided tour of La Candelaria.

Plaza de Bolívar is the political heart of Colombia. The massive square is surrounded by the Cathedral of Bogotá, the mayor's office and the Capitol Building. The Palace of Justice, once besieged by the infamous Pablo Escobar, is also here. Just around the corner you'll find the heavily guarded Casa de Nariño — the official home and principal workplace of the President of Colombia. Spend some time on this square crowded with street-sellers, pigeon and monumental buildings. An absolute must-see.

Across the Grand Harbour, to the south of Valletta, are the historic fortified towns of Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea, commonly referred to as the three cities of Cottonera. If you only have time for one of them, Vittoriosa is the one most worth a visit. Here you'll find Fort St Angelo, the Inquisitor's Palace, and the Vittoriosa waterfront, which was refurbished in the early 2000s to once again reach up to its former glory.