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.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies houses 10,000 sea creatures spanning over 350 species. Among the attractions in store are the tropical rainforest, shark lagoon, gallery of the seas, penguin playhouse, coral reef, touch-a-ray bay, ocean realm, stingray bay, systems control, and the discovery center. Underwater tunnels give visitors the feeling of truly being in the water with the fascinating creatures, and dive and feeding shows are equally as interactive.

During Waterville's cozy summer months, enjoy free live concerts in the Town Square courtyard every Saturday evening from July through Labor Day. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, and take in the music from the courtyard, the beach, or even while boating on Corcoran Pond.