Situated within an hour's drive from Birmingham, Twycross Zoo is a world-renowned primate sanctuary celebrated for its extensive collection of monkeys and apes, making it the largest in the Western World. However, the zoo offers much more than just primates, with over 160 species and approximately 900 animals to marvel at, including leopards, meerkats, elephants, giraffes, birds, reptiles, and a diverse array of captivating creatures.

Six of the seven original Etruscan arches into the city can still be seen, with Roman, Medieval and Renaissance alterations. Take a walk around the city following the original walls – the tourist office in Piazza Matteotti has a leaflet with suggested routes.

El Retiro, an iconic park in Madrid, was once reserved exclusively for Spanish royalty, but it became accessible to the public in the late 19th century. Covering 350 acres, it is one of the largest parks in the city and is often referred to as "the lungs of Madrid" due to its vast green spaces. It's a popular spot for leisure, sports, and outdoor activities, with wide avenues and flat terrain perfect for running, cycling, and skating. Visitors can also rent rowboats to paddle around the Estanque or enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride. The park is home to several architectural and historical features, including the Velázquez Palace and the Crystal Palace, as well as remarkable sculptures and fountains, such as the statue of the Fallen Angel, the only sculpture in the world to represent the devil (Lucifer). The park also boasts a Puppet Theater, which offers a unique program every weekend and is one of a kind in Europe.

Parque Juan Carlos I opened at around the same time Madrid was crowned "The European Capital of Culture" in 1992. The park boasts 19 captivating outdoor sculptures, as well as a lake, a river, a greenhouse, an auditorium, and numerous other attractions.