The Medieval church that stands at the centre of Toompea hill is one of the county’s most fascinating historical attractions. Traditionally catering to the nobility, it is filled with spectacular, wood-carved artwork and elaborate coats of arms. Visitors can climb the 69-metre baroque bell-tower, added in 1779, for amazing views of the city.

County Kildare is home to the windswept Bog of Allen, and to a leisurely section of the restored Royal Canal. There’s a masterpiece of an 8th-century High Cross in Moone. Maynooth Castle anchors the leafy university town of the same name. Kildare is also home to one of Ireland’s great driving routes. Following the course of the Gordon Bennett Cup, which saw racing daredevils whizz through Kildare, Carlow and Laois in 1903, the 104-mile circuit recalls a time when Ireland’s speed limit was just 12mph. The county is a marvellous mix of old and new, of natural landscapes and precisely manicured gardens, of horseracing competitions and stylish fashion events.

Piazza della Rinascita is the centre of public life in Pescara, and as such is bursting with life both in its public space and in its elegant cafés. It serves as an excellent spot for people-watching while you bask in the warm afternoon sun. In addition, the square occasionally transforms into a lively hub, hosting outdoor concerts and festivals.

A lesser-known but stunning way to see the Old City is the Ramparts Walk, which will guarantee you an aerial view from the top of the Ottoman walls that circle the city. You can choose between two options. The longer north sidewalk, which covers the area from the Jaffa Gate to the Lions Gate, overlooks the Christian and Muslim Quarters and ends near the Dome of the Rock. The south sidewalk goes from the Tower of David to the Zion Gate and will bring you right in front of the Western Wall.