Hoxton and Shoreditch are creative hubs brimming with colourful street art, hip cafes and bars, experimental galleries and popular nightclubs. Check out the many themed bars that serve endlessly inventive and delicious dishes from a long list of world cuisines. Vintage and design shops are plentiful.

The 17th century St Paul's Cathedral on Ludgate Hill is one of the capital's most iconic buildings. Designed by the illustrious Sir Christopher Wren, St Paul's was the tallest building in London until as late as 1962. Use the touchscreen multimedia guides or take a guided tour to learn about the famous interior or, if you're feeling fit, climb up to the Whispering Gallery and try out the acoustics. From there you can carry on making your way up to the Golden Gallery atop the dome, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of London. You can also descend into the crypt where you'll find memorials of important historical figures such as Admiral Lord Nelson.

This monastery is a historic pilgrimage place and an UNESCO World Heritage Site, housing amazing churches, museums and eerie monastery caves. In 2007, it was also elected as one of the Seven Wonders of Ukraine.

Ships have been docking here since the 11th century and Ghent wouldn’t have it any other way. It is like the song of the Lorelei. The beauty of the Graslei in Ghent brings everyone and everything to a standstill. This is the place where beautiful façades are reflected in the River Lys. Tourists and residents alike relax on either side of the water, whether dangling their legs over the quay, or sitting comfortably at a café terrace. Lovely Grasbrug This bridge is positively poetic. And it’s every Ghent native’s pride. On your visit to Ghent, it would be a sin to miss this little bridge just around the corner from the Korenmarkt. Cross the river at the Grasbrug and soak in the scenery. There are still boats moored at the quays today. Even better, nowadays you can take a boat ride yourself! There’s nothing that will immerse you more in the history of Ghent. Façades on the Graslei The houses by the water live and breathe history. The Cooremetershuys is now an accessory store. In the Middle Ages, however, the official corn measurer presided over the grain trade there. Have a good look at the completely restored façade of the Guild House of the Free Sailors as well. A lot of money has been invested in this building over the centuries, and it shows! The stately stepped gable from the old corn store has been watching over the town since the 13th century. The corn store—also known as ’t spijker—has been redefined. It’s come a long way from those old sacks of grain. Of course you don’t have to push the boat out quite that far. You can also try a cosy brasserie on the Graslei or Korenlei. Or why not just buy finger food and sit down on the quayside! Because sometimes, appreciating the little things is the most romantic. Aperitif in the sun Tempted by all those café terraces? There is nothing more blissful than enjoying an aperitif—or two—by the waterside. When the sun is shining, this is a delightful spot to hang out ensconced by beautiful old buildings. Enjoying the first warmth of a spring day with a chilled white wine, putting the world to rights…but anyway, we digress.