Discover Ireland's Ancient East in the Boyne Valley, just 20 minutes from Dublin International airport. Tours operate frequently, and the wealth of heritage sites makes it worth the trip. The most well-known landmark is the mythical and magical Brú na Bóinne (or "Newgrange"). Every year, crowds flock to Newgrange to celebrate the Winter Solstice and its significance in ancient Pagan culture. The valley's collection of ancient tombs, towers, and runes is accompanied by numerous ancient myths and legends. As well as this, picturesque villages, majestic buildings and the famous Hill of Tara make for an exciting and diverse day out.

The name Malta comes from the Italian word "melita" or "honey". The reason for that is quite banal — when sailors first saw Malta, the islands' limestone silhouette appeared dark yellow, similar to the colour of honey. The Limestone Heritage, Park and Gardens is a former quarry, where you can explore the island's limestone history through its exhibits and sculpting demonstrations.

This fort was built in the mid 16th century as a symbol of the Papal domination of Perugia. Pope Paul III had his architect raze an entire area of the city – 100 houses, churches and monasteries disappeared, and the massive fortress was built in their place. Mostly destroyed by the citizens of Perugia in 1860, you can enter the foundations of the fortress from Porta Marzia, or ride the escalator up from the car-park at Piazza Partigiani.

This is a beautiful medieval structure, first built at the end of the 13th century, and the subject of many additions and alterations over the years. Head up the stairs in Piazza IV Novembre and into the Sala dei Notari – completely covered in allegorical and biblical frescoes that date from the 13th century. Entering the palazzo from Corso Vannucci takes you to the Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria and to two further rooms: the Collegio della Mercanzia and the Collegio del Cambio. The Collegio della Mercanzia is beautifully panelled in wood, probably done by German craftsmen in the 15th century. The Collegio del Cambio has two rooms, the second with stunning late 15th century frescoes by Perugino.