Established in 1857, the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo is one of Asia's oldest zoological parks. It is reported that the zoo inspired some elements of the animals depicted in the internationally acclaimed film 'Life of Pi'. Expect to see a variety of animals, including hippos, leopards, deer, and reptiles, among others. The zoo is quite large, so wearing comfortable walking shoes is advisable for visitors planning to explore the entire area.

Dating back as early as the 13th century, this late medieval building is the oldest remaining parliamentary court still in use today. It was first built as a castle and home to the various counts of Holland, but after several battles for succession, the Binnenhof changed hands many times and, in the process, saw many new administrative buildings erected around it. Extensive renovations are currently underway and not expected to finish before 2028, so politicians have had to find elsewhere to conduct their business. Tours of the surrounding areas are available and more information can be obtained at the Binnenhof Renovation Information Centre, which is right next to the complex.

The Royal Palace of the Hague, also serving as the monarch’s workplace, may not be as exuberant as its counterpart in Amsterdam, but it is an impressive city centrepiece nonetheless. Built as a farmhouse in 1533, it was reformed and repurposed several times over the years, accommodating such pivotal historical figures as Voltaire and notable monarchs such as King Willem I until its most recent extensions in 1984, which have turned it into a working palace, where political and state affairs take place daily. The palace gardens are open to the public throughout the day and make a nice spot for a picnic, where anyone can enjoy the ponds, flowerbeds and marble statues with views of the royal stables, archives and the Dome of Fagel. Look out for the hidden corridors leading to the Old Hague District in one of the corners of the gardens.

Once known for its notorious banditry and rival gangs, the scenic town of Sartène has long left the grim of its past behind. However, it still maintains the historic tradition of reenacting Jesus' journey to Calvary on Good Friday each year. The town's church of St Mary displays the 35-kilogram cross and 17-kilogram chain used in the reenactment, preserving this important aspect of its history.