The half-timbered medieval houses line lanes date from Roman times. At its heart, relaxed Place Plumereau, the centre of Tours’ nightlife, is filled to the brim with café tables.

Originally serving as the seat of the city council during Spanish rule, the Cabildo now marks the beginning of the Louisiana State Museum. It offers group tours that delve into Louisiana’s rich history, from the early European settlers to the Civil War.

The Lace Market is named after the booming lace trade that Nottingham was famous for in the 18th century. This hip and happening part of town is home to some of the city’s best restaurants, bars and shops. The cobbled streets and stunning architecture also make it arguably the most attractive area of Nottingham.

The onyx black sand of Reynisfjara is formed from volcanic activity in Iceland: when lava collides with the ocean, it rapidly cools and shatters into small fragments of basalt. With its enormous basalt stacks (features in Game of Thrones and once believed to be petrified trolls), roaring Atlantic waves and stunning vistas, Reynisfjara is widely considered to be the most beautiful example of Iceland’s black sand beaches. The sea stacks along the shore are home to thousands of nesting seabirds like puffins, fulmars and guillemots — a must-see for birdwatchers. A visit to Reynisfjara is included in most tours of southern Iceland. Driving here is a good option, too, since it's only about 180 km from Reykjavík.