The National Mall is the central strip of D.C., where most of the major sights are lined up. You can stroll past the Smithsonian museums — like the National Museum of American History — and pop into the National Gallery and its Sculpture Garden. Monuments and memorials are scattered along the way, from Lincoln and Roosevelt to the Vietnam and Korean War memorials.

The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world, and its three buildings — the Thomas Jefferson, James Madison Memorial, and John Adams — are well worth exploring. Free tours show off the architecture and highlight the rare collections, while exhibitions, gallery talks, concerts, and lectures give visitors plenty to see and do.

Explore one of the world's most fascinating archaeological sites on a day trip to Pompeii from Rome. Gain interesting insight from your expert guide into the eruption of Mount Vesuvius that buried the city of Pompeii and the surrounding area. Walk through the cobblestone streets to see the ruins of the forum, bathhouse, individual homes, and even a brothel. Plus, hike up the side of the volcano, walk along its ridge, gaze into the crater, and then enjoy dramatic views over the Bay of Naples.