Mdina, the old capital of Malta, is a typical medieval town situated on one of the highest hills of the island. Known as the "Silent City", Mdina is one of the few remaining fortified Renaissance cities in Europe. Climb to the top for magnificent views of the island.

Take a 1-hour journey to Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí, and step into his surreal masterpiece — the Dalí Theatre-Museum, designed by the artist himself. Constructed to replace an old theatre that burnt down during the Spanish Civil War, the building is a work of surrealist art, topped with giant eggs and crowned by a geodesic dome. Inside, it holds the world’s largest collection of Dalí’s works, from early impressionist pieces like Port Alguer (1924) to later marvels like Galatea of the Spheres (1952). Don’t miss the Mae West room, an upside-down bathtub fixed to the ceiling, or the glittering jewellery collection. The artist himself is buried in a crypt below the stage, adding a layer of solemnity to the whimsy. Book tickets online to avoid long queues, and allow at least half a day to fully absorb the labyrinthine galleries, optical illusions, and the sheer audacity of Dalí’s vision.

Step into the fascinating world of cacti at Jardín de Cactus in Lanzarote, where more than a thousand different types of succulents from various desert and arid regions are on display. Situated in the village of Guatiza, the garden was the last project of renowned artist César Manrique, and his works can be seen throughout the garden. The garden is designed as a large amphitheatre, with terraced arrangements of plants that provide a stunning visual experience. A restored windmill, once used for producing gofio (a sort of Canarian flour), stands at the highest point, further adding to the charm of the place.