Euxinograd, eight kilometres north of Varna along the Black Sea coast, was the summer residence of Bulgaria's post-Liberation monarchs — Alexander of Battenberg, Ferdinand, and Boris III. The palace is modelled on an 18th-century French château, complete with mansard roof, clock tower, and interiors furnished in mahogany and walnut. Look out for the chandelier gifted by the House of Bourbon and the sundial sent by Queen Victoria. The estate's winery, established in 1891, still produces well-regarded white wines and a French-style brandy called Euxignac, and the cellars hold bottles going back to 1904. Tours run three times daily but must be booked in advance by email. The limited access is precisely why the place feels so well preserved.

Asparuhov Park dates to 1935, when what had been barren wasteland was transformed into a shaded retreat of wide paved alleys and mature trees, designed by Anton Novak, the same man behind the Sea Garden. A statue of an Asparuh warrior stands at its centre, facing the sea. The park is quieter and less polished than its city-centre counterpart, which is precisely the appeal: squirrels dart between the trees, and the pace is unhurried. The beach below is broad and shallow, making it well suited to families, with sunbeds, bars and water sports on offer. From there, the Bunkera area to the west rewards those up for a short hike through scrubby coastal terrain. Round off the afternoon by heading east to Observation Deck Galata, where you get a sweeping view over the port entrance and the sea beyond.

The Old Courthouse Theatre is Cabarrus County’s beloved community theatre, carrying on a tradition of creative excellence since its founding in 1976. Housed in a beautifully preserved 1923 church with charming Gothic architecture, this non-profit venue brings a variety of productions to life, from classic plays like To Kill a Mockingbird to seasonal favorites like A Broadway Christmas Carol.

Plaça Reial, a beautiful square in the Gothic Quarter and one of Barcelona's busiest, most vibrant spots (especially so at night), is known for its many outdoor venues, restaurants, and nightclubs. During summertime, it becomes an even more popular meeting place when open-air concerts take place. A standout feature is the elegant lampposts designed by Antoni Gaudí in 1879—one of his earliest works—featuring intricate details like the city’s coat of arms. Stroll around or sit down for a drink at one of the bars and just enjoy the moment.