Built on a hill overlooking Granada and set against a backdrop of the Sierra Nevada, the Alhambra is a majestic medieval complex of intricately decorated palaces, pristine gardens, and a once-mighty fortress. It is among the top 3 most visited landmarks in Spain, and together with the Generalife Gardens, they form a UNESCO World Heritage site. See the complex's fascinating mix of Renaissance and Moorish architecture, admire panoramic city vistas from a hilltop perch, and then stroll through the botanical beauty of the Generalife Gardens.

Portland is home to the nation's largest wooded urban park—Forest Park. A short hike in, and you'll find it hard to believe that civilization is just steps away. With 70 miles of trails winding through the forest and offering views of the Willamette River, you'll often have nature all to yourself. However, you're also likely to run into locals jogging or walking their dogs—expect to be greeted with a friendly "hello." If you have the time, hike up to Pittock Mansion, a stunning French Renaissance-style château that once belonged to Henry Pittock, a prominent publisher and businessman. Today, the mansion serves as a historic house museum open to visitors, offering panoramic views of the city. Another popular destination within Forest Park is the so-called "Witch's Castle"—the moss-covered ruins of an abandoned stone house. Despite its eerie name, there’s no record of witchcraft here. However, legend has it that its original inhabitant was the first person in Oregon to be sentenced to execution for murder in 1859.

Built in the 13th century, the Palace Of Kings of Majorca is one of the most remarkable examples of medieval civil and military architecture in southern France. The main courtyard and its ensemble of Gothic buildings, as well as the garden, are worth your attention, but this majestic palace is worth a visit even just for the views of the city.

Built in the 1300s to protect the Alcazaba and house troops, Gibralfaro Castle still has walkable ramparts with some of the best views over Malaga, the port, and the coastline. Inside, there’s a small military museum. The name comes from Jabal-Faruk, meaning 'hill of the lighthouse' in Arabic. The castle was also the site of a long siege in 1487, when Catholic forces took the city from the Moors.