The Buriganga River, which runs peacefully through Dhaka, showcases a microcosm of the whole country on its banks. You can see people fishing by the shore as your vessel navigates through the maze of boats making their way down the river. Taking a ride here is one of the best ways to get a true view of Bangladesh and its way of life.

Even if ancient ruins aren't your cup of tea, a trip to an archaeological site is worth the detour. The journey will take you through the quaint countryside, threading through small towns and villages that might otherwise escape your notice. Just a few kilometres from the holiday resort of Altinkum, in Yenihisar, you'll find Didyma — home to a grand temple dedicated to Apollo. Didyma was more than a religious site; its oracle rivalled the fame of Delphi's. While the original temple was destroyed by the Persians around 400 BC, the existing ruins hail from the Roman times. The remnants of 120 columns stand as testament to the temple's once monumental size.

A compact, sheltered cove where the tiny paradise beach of Mikri Vigla is located used to only be visited by a handful of travellers in-the-know, but has become increasingly popular with holidaymakers over the past years. There is a single (very popular) tavern here, ideal for a refreshing retreat.

Situated in a typical 18th-century townhouse, the Hyacinthe-Rigaud Art Museum displays rare and rich collections of art and cultural artefacts of the Oriental Pyrenees from the 13th century to the present, displayed in the permanent collection or in occasional temporary exhibitions.