Plaça Reial, a beautiful square in the Gothic Quarter and one of Barcelona's busiest, most vibrant spots (especially so at night), is known for its many outdoor venues, restaurants, and nightclubs. During summertime, it becomes an even more popular meeting place when open-air concerts take place. A standout feature is the elegant lampposts designed by Antoni Gaudí in 1879—one of his earliest works—featuring intricate details like the city’s coat of arms. Stroll around or sit down for a drink at one of the bars and just enjoy the moment.

The Vincent van Gogh House: a living arts centre in the birthplace of Brabant’s most famous artist ever, stands on the spot where Vincent van Gogh came into the world on 30 March 1853. The protestant Van Gogh spent his childhood years in catholic Zundert, not far from the Belgian border. A reticent and introvert boy, he was educated at home and it soon became clear that Vincent was ‘different’. In the Vincent van GoghHuis you can experience how his time in Zundert moulded him and eventually enabled him to mature to become a world-famous artist. “A must see if you want to know Van Gogh” Vincent’s life had a tough beginning. As the son of the minister Theodorus van Gogh, he quickly became an outsider in the catholic village. He could often be found in the large garden with his younger brother Theo. He would have a wonderful time outdoors, but could also take comfort in it. Maybe that’s one of the reasons why the countryside played such a large role in Van Gogh’s later work? More than a museum In the permanent presentation ‘Vincent van Gogh – the Roots of a Master’, Vincent will take you by the hand and lead you through a re-enactment of his youth and you can learn more about his struggle with faith. Changing exhibitions show the enormous influence of Van Gogh on 20th and 21st century artists, modern art enthusiasts are therefore very much catered for. In addition, the Van GoghHuis has an artist in residence scheme, where an artist can literally step, and live, in Van Gogh’s footsteps every day! Heritage locations in Brabant The Vincent van GoghHuis has its own VVV (Tourist Information) counter and is of course one of the five Van Gogh Heritage locations in Brabant. You can also get to the Van GoghHuis by bike via the Van Gogh Cycle Route that connects all the heritage locations in Brabant.

For a classic Irish pub experience, look no further than Biddy's O'Barnes in Barnesmore, Donegal. With origins dating back to the 18th century, Biddy's is still an iconic watering hole for roadtrippers looking to enjoy some of the best Guinness in the country. Think open fires, cosy seating, and traditional tunes.

Deera Square is a central public space known by several names, including Alsafat, Justice Square, and colloquially as 'Chop-Chop Square', a reference to its former role as a site for public executions. Today, that macabre past stands in stark contrast to its present function. The square has been transformed into a vast, open area with landscaped greenery, benches and cafés. By afternoon and evening, it becomes a lively social hub where locals gather, creating a relaxed and communal atmosphere far removed from its historical notoriety.