Crowning Girona’s skyline, the Cathedral of Santa Maria commands attention from the top of a majestic 86-step staircase. Its soaring Baroque façade, added in the 17th century, belies a far older history: foundations date to the 5th century, with a Romanesque church and 12th-century cloister still preserved within. The cathedral’s most notable feature is the 23-metre-wide Gothic nave (widest in the world!) completed in the 14th century and illuminated by vast stained-glass windows. Inside, the Museum of the Cathedral safeguards extraordinary treasures, including the 11th-century Tapestry of Creation, a vivid Romanesque depiction of divine order, and a gem-studded 14th-century silver altarpiece. The cloister captivates with carved capitals portraying biblical tales and mythical beasts. For context, use the included audio guide to unravel layers of history, from Roman forums to medieval masterpieces.

The Arc de Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon after his win at Austerlitz in 1806, took about 30 years to finish and was finally opened in 1836. Standing 50 metres tall, it sits at the centre of Place Charles de Gaulle, right at the western end of the famous Champs-Élysées. You’ll probably find yourself there at some point, as most visitors wander down this iconic avenue. The monument honours those who fought and died for France during the Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. Beneath it rests the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I.

The Museum of Art and Cultural History is a delight for every history, art and design enthusiast. The museum takes its visitors step by step through the centuries and shows them paintings, furniture, handcrafts and all sorts of collections from the dawn of time until the 21st century. You can even feel the historical importance of the museum itself when you stroll and gaze in awe with all the artifacts. The museum was formerly a deposit bank, built in 1923.

Boca Raton is a city for all seasons. Beautiful landscapes and superb dining highlight Mizner Park, along with great cultural attractions such as The Boca Raton Museum of Art and Mizner Park Amphitheater. Just outside the Mizner, there is a terrific collection of upscale stores, bistros and outdoor cafes.