Known as the Venice of Portugal, Aveiro, located 57 km to the south of Porto, is a charming town surrounded by beaches, lagoons, and beautiful canals that run through it. It is easy to reach Aveiro: several trains leave Porto to Aveiro every day, and the journey takes about an hour.

Smaller and less crowded, The Armenian Quarter has an ancient and intriguing atmosphere. The Armenian community is indeed one of the oldest in the city: it is believed that a group of Christian pilgrims founded it in the 4th century AD. If you're interested in religious architecture, take some extra time to visit. Head to St. Mark's Chapel, one of the oldest churches in Jerusalem, dating back to the 12th century. It's located on the exact spot where Jesus's Last Supper happened, and where the Virgin Mary was baptised. Today, it belongs to Syriac Orthodox believers, and it is richly decorated, with a carved throne and beautiful interiors. St James Cathedral is also worth a visit: it is a site of martyrdom and it's only open during masses. Finally, stop by the Armenian Compound. A monastery and hospice, it was a refuge for those who escaped the dramatic Armenian genocide. Today, it is also the seat of the Armenian Patriarchate.

Located in the Northeastern part of the city, the Muslim quarter will strike you as it is a lot busier than the adjacent Jewish one. Men smoke nargile inside the cafés while children play in the streets. The roads are lined with stands, and vendors loudly present their products. In the northern part, you will find the beautiful Damascus Gate. Built by Suleiman the Magnificent, it has triangular spires at the top, which gives it a resemblance to a crown.

The Western Wall is the only part remaining of Solomon's Temple, built in the 10th century BC and destroyed twice. Praying here carries a lot of meaning for Jewish believers, who mumble hymns and insert prayers written on small pieces of paper between the bricks — every visitor is allowed to partake. The Temple was said to contain the Ark of the Covenant, a biblical golden chest. Moreover, Jesus reportedly visited the Temple as a child and left an impression on the wise men inside with his knowledge of the Bible. There are separate entrances for men and women leading to different parts of the wall. Friday evenings are particularly crowded, as Jewish people celebrate the arrival of Shabbat, the day of rest. Bar Mitzvah ceremonies take place in the morning on Monday, Thursday and Saturday: it's a great time to visit, as the place comes alive with Jewish song and dance.