Plaça de la Independència is the elegant neoclassical heart of Girona, designed by Martí Sureda in the 19th century on the site of a former Augustine convent. Its porticoed arches frame a lively scene of locals and visitors dining or sipping coffee under the shade. The square’s name honours Girona’s defenders during the 1808–1809 siege by Napoleonic forces, a struggle memorialised by Antoni Parera’s central monument in 1894. By day, it’s a prime spot for people-watching; by night, the terraces fill with revellers enjoying tapas and evening drinks. An essential stop for both history and atmosphere.

Hamra Street is one of Beirut’s most vibrant hubs, located in the Hamra neighbourhood. It’s a commercial and entertainment street lined with cafés, restaurants, shops, and bookshops. Long regarded as the intellectual and cultural heart of the city, Hamra also boasts theatres and art spaces, attracting students, writers, and artists. Its cosmopolitan energy and diplomatic presence give the area a distinctly international flair.

Tucked away in the heart of the Barri Vell, the Escales de Sant Martí (St. Martin’s Steps) form one of Girona’s most iconic and photographed scenes, also featured on Game of Thrones. This timeless corner blends medieval romance with Baroque grandeur, framed by the 17th-century façade of the former Convent of Sant Martí and the striking Casa-Palau Agullana. The palace’s skewed arch stretches over the steps, creating a covered passage that feels both intimate and theatrical — a favourite backdrop for artists and Instagrammers. Even though often busy with visitors, the spot retains a quiet magic, especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Sit on the steps with a coffee, and watch as the city’s history unfolds in every shadow and angle.