Historical destinations

Basel

Basel is a place of exciting contrasts. Contrasts such as masterpieces of contemporary architecture set against the well-preserved Old Town or the wonderful harmony between the city's cosmopolitan flair and vibrant traditions. And although classical modernism and street art may seem like they are worlds apart, both have a prominent place in Basel. We are in flux, constantly reshaping ourselves. So every time you come to Basel, you will discover something new.

Pristina

Few places in Europe have remained off the beaten path as much as the Kosovar first city; fewer yet have been at the heart of a political dispute as agonising in recent history. Pristina, the capital of Kosovo, one of the world's youngest states, boasts a youthful populace to match, and exudes a lust for life that's virtually tangible. Still rough around the edges and with no tourist information offices in sight, Pristina remains uncharted territory, a state of affairs foreseen to change as the city attracts a growing number of visitors.

Szczecin

Szczecin is an energetic city where the River Odra eventually flows into the Szczecin Lagoon. Today, it is the capital of the region of West Pomerania, which has suffered a turbulent history and now looks to an enlightened and cultural revival. A focal point is that it has managed to preserve its unique character and charm since its recent reform. Szczecin is now awakening to its full potential at an ever-increasing pace. You will feel truly inspired as you explore this enthralling city.

The Fortress of Koules

The Fortress of Koules was built between 1523 and 1540. It is one of the best-preserved castles of Crete, perched on a small natural elevation where the ruins of an earlier fortress were to be found. It is a massive construction and has 26 chambers on the ground level, situated along a central wide corridor. These rooms were used as living quarters and storage rooms in the Venetian years. During the Turkish occupation period, the Koules was used as a prison for the revolutionaries. Find out more at http://bit.ly/1Xt7hVh

Art in the city

Playful and creative, Nantes has been totally turned upside down by art! Visit the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany and the Machines de l’île, a very original artistic project with the Grand Elephant, the Carrousel of the Marine world and the Galerie des Machines. Le Voyage à Nantes: In July and August, the atmosphere of the city gets a bit more electric than usual with 40 art installations, playgrounds, exhibitions and more!

Minsk

Built anew after the war, the capital of Belarus is a city embracing its own unique brand of modernity. A metropolis of nearly 2 million, Minsk is where nostalgia of Stalinist buildings and Soviet parks meets contemporary art galleries, stylish bars and excellent local eateries.

Rodez

Located at the foot of the Massif Central and less than a two-hour drive from the Mediterranean, Rodez is the capital of the Aveyron Region. This picturesque region is one of the best kept secrets of France, offering more attractions than you would expect. Rodez is surrounded by several village communities, all rich in cultural and historical assets, which contribute to making the town a prime tourist destination.

Kyiv

Golden domes and shimmering spires peek out from the wooded hills rising above the wide Dnipro River. Leafy-green Kyiv, with its traffic-packed boulevards, shopping malls, countless churches, brilliant music and lively nightlife, has embraced capitalism, yet held firmly to its heritage. The Caves Monastery is the spiritual heart of Ukraine, and nearby, a gigantic Brezhnev-era Motherland statue bearing sword and shield casts her all-encompassing eye over the city, the river, and its island beaches.

Guest of Honour

Adaeze won a competition to be London's Official Guest of Honour and spent two unforgettable weeks in London experiencing the very best the capital has to offer. Watch highlights from Adaeze’s trip of a lifetime, from flying first class from her hometown in California; to raising Tower Bridge, attending a Royal Premiere, seeing London from a helicopter, and watching her name appear in the Piccadilly Circus lights! Watch brand new footage from Adaeze’s trip. Look out for some very special guest appearances from Professor Stephen Hawking, Mayor of London Boris Johnson, Downton Abbey star Jim Carter, Michelin star chef Jason Atherton, tennis ace Tim Henman, and British ballerina, Darcey Bussell.

Bergamo

In the Alpine foothills, just 50 km from Milan, Bergamo is the most striking city in Lombardy. Built on two levels, the Lower City is more modern and dynamic, whilst the famous ‘Upper City’ boasts a stunning historic centre full of monuments and works of art. In the area around the city the Iseo Lake is well worth a visit, as are the sanctuary at Caravaggio and Crespi d’Adda – the most important company town in Italy, listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO.

Pafos Region

Beautiful countryside, a cosmopolitan resort, historic sights as well as sporting activities, the Pafos Region has something for everyone at any time of the year. Whether you are a sunseeker, an explorer or someone looking for relaxing holiday with great scenery, there are so many reasons to visit this beautiful part of Cyprus.