The Jardin du Luxembourg is one of Paris’s most beloved green spaces, situated in the 6th arrondissement and home to the French Senate. Commissioned by Marie de’ Medici in the 17th century, it’s a mix of manicured lawns, flowerbeds, fountains, and shady promenades. Locals come here to run, read, sail toy boats on the pond, or just sit and watch the world go by — from students and chess players to kids on the playground and politicians on their lunch break. The Luxembourg Palace sits at its centre, and the Medici Fountain remains one of its most photographed spots.

From a former transmission tower standing at a height of 92 metres, the futuristic Faro de Moncloa provides a breathtaking panoramic view of Madrid. On a clear day, you can observe the city's most notable landmarks and sights, and even catch a glimpse up to a hundred kilometres away. However, be advised that the tower may be closed during bad weather conditions.

A day trip from Madrid offers the perfect excuse to step back in time, and few places capture Spain’s medieval legacy quite like Ávila and Salamanca, both proudly listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Your adventure begins in Ávila, a walled city that appears lifted straight from the pages of a history book. Its imposing stone ramparts, punctuated by 88 defensive towers, encircle a beautifully preserved old town. Step inside and you’ll find Romanesque gems such as the Ávila Cathedral, part fortress and part place of worship, as well as the Basilica of San Vicente, famed for its architecture and colourful stonework. Ávila sits just over 100 kilometres from Madrid, and you can easily reach it by train or coach, both options run frequently throughout the day. From Ávila, continue west to the golden-hued city of Salamanca, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities. Its nickname, La Dorada, The Golden City, comes from the glow of its sandstone buildings, especially beautiful at sunset. Wander across the Plaza Mayor, often hailed as Spain’s finest square, then lose yourself among the cloisters, libraries and carvings of the historic university quarter. While Salamanca is delightful by day, it truly comes alive at night, its tapas bars and buzzing student energy make it tempting to extend your stay beyond a day trip.