The building of La Vieille Bourse, as it is known locally, consists of a couple dozen separate buildings and a beautiful courtyard containing a book flea market. It is a fine example of 17th century ornamental Flemish Renaissance.

The Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts sits in a grand 19th-century building just off the main shopping street. Inside, you’ll find a collection of European paintings and sculptures, from the Renaissance through to the 20th century, including works by Rubens, Delacroix, and Picasso.

For a memorable night of cultural immersion, visit an evening show at the Nha Trang Water Puppet Theatre. Water puppetry as an art form originated in northern Vietnam as early as the 11th century and is kept alive by a small number of enthusiasts. Although production value is no match to that of bigger cities, the show itself feels thought out and intimate thanks to the smaller performance room. The show is narrated in Vietnamese, but the visual emphasis and engaging subject matter – folk tales and legends – make it easy to follow even if you don't speak the language.

The Maritime Museum is located in the heart of La Rochelle. Here you will find everything concerning the shipping and fishing industry and the maritime history of the city. At this museum you can also go on guided tours and ask questions to former sailors.