The Japanese Garden, a peaceful retreat near the city centre, offers respite from urban heat and dust. Its shaded paths wind past a tranquil lake, arched bridges and quiet corners ideal for walking, cycling, or yoga. While lacking modern playgrounds, the park’s calm atmosphere attracts locals relaxing or roller skating through its greenery.

Neanderthal man: a term known worldwide. The legendary find was made in the 19th century, just a few steps from what today is Düsseldorf’s city limit. Undertake an exciting journey through distant times into the future at one of Europe’s most popular and modern museums.

One of Beijing’s oldest hutongs — the city’s traditional narrow alleyways lined with courtyard houses — Nanluoguxiang has kept its Ming dynasty street layout while changing completely in character. Today, the lane is dotted with cafés, bars, boutiques, and souvenir shops, drawing a mix of tourists and young locals. It runs from Drum Tower East Street down to Ping’an Street, and it’s usually packed in the evenings when the lights come on. The old courtyards are still there behind the modern shopfronts, so you get a contrast between Beijing’s past and its current street life.