Samarra is a small yet historically rich city located approximately 125 kilometres north of Baghdad. Founded in 836 AD by the Abbasid Caliph al-Mu'tasim, it holds deep significance for Sunni Muslims and features some of Iraq's most iconic Islamic architecture. The easiest way to visit Samarra is on a day trip from Baghdad. Head to the Alawi garage to catch a shared taxi or minivan. A one-way journey in a minivan costs around 10,000 Iraqi dinars. Shared taxis are slightly more expensive but offer a faster and more comfortable ride. Samarra’s most famous landmark is the spiral minaret of the Great Mosque, which was once among the largest mosques in the world. The minaret stands at 52 metres and features a distinctive spiral ramp that winds its way to the top. Climbing the minaret is not always allowed and it is unclear when it's possible to climb it and when it's not. There's also another similar minaret nearby called the Abu Dulaf Minaret, located 28 kilometres from the Great Mosque. Samarra is also home to the Askariyya Shrine, an important site that is sacred to Shia Muslims due to the tombs of the tenth and eleventh Imams. Non-Muslim visitors are allowed inside, but modest dress, respectful behaviour, and compliance with local customs are expected. Due to the shrine’s religious importance, security is very tight and includes several checkpoints. As a predominantly Sunni city in a complex religious landscape, Samarra maintains strict security protocols, particularly for foreigners. If you're not part of an organised tour, expect to be the only foreigner on the journey. This may result in added scrutiny at checkpoints, including detailed passport checks and questions about your travel plans.

Every day at high tide for the past 70 years a unique occurrence has taken place: hundreds of fish gather at the shallows by Doctors Gully Road in search of a meal, including milkfish, bream catfish and the barramundi. Aquascene gives visitors the chance to get up close and personal with the fish, splash around with them and hand-feed them.

If you want to escape the pace of the city you can go to Mount Vitosha, whose peak is visible from multiple spots in the city. Here you can enjoy a hike through the forested slopes or rocky peaks, and even go rock climbing if active pursuits are a thing for you.

Ordsall Hall is Salford's 'hidden gem'. Dating back over 600 years, it is one of the region's finest examples of an Elizabethan black and white half-timbered manor-house. Wander back through time soaking up the atmosphere of its fully-furnished Great Hall and Star Chamber Bedroom. Get the low-down on Tudor lifestyles; maybe reminisce in its Victorian showcase and kitchen, or unearth the wealth of new discoveries to be made in its exciting and informative family events and exhibitions programme.