Spend an afternoon relaxing by a fountain on the public chairs in one of Paris' many parks – the Jardin du Luxembourg is particularly peaceful.

You'll find Europe's largest collection of modern and contemporary art at the Centre Pompidou (or Beaubourg as it's often called), housed in a striking building covered in pipes and scaffolding. Inside, you'll find temporary exhibitions alongside the permanent collection that includes masterpieces like Duchamp's Fountain, and recognisable works by Frida Kahlo, Robert Delaunay and Wassily Kandinsky.

Wander through Montmartre and make the climb up to the famous Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Be sure to linger over the spectacular view at the top; at sunset, you'll get the best light as the sun dips below the city skyline.

Leonardo Da Vinci's The Last Supper is a must-see at Santa Maria delle Grazie. Reservations are essential to view The Last Supper, choose from a range of options and book tickets for guided tours here.

Spend an evening at the Teatro alla Scala – better known as La Scala. One of the world's most iconic theatres, the Neoclassical building provides a suitably graceful setting for opera and ballet performances. 

Visit the striking Castello Sforzesco (Sforza's Castle) and the surrounding Sempione Park for a peaceful afternoon wandering through vast castle rooms and relaxing by the lake.

Pay a visit to a football-lover's heaven, the FIFA World Football Museum. Even those who are less than mad about the beautiful game will find plenty to keep them entertained among the interactive exhibits and events.

Get lost in infinity or dance on the ceiling at the museum of immersive optical illusions. One of Zürich's zaniest attractions, the WOW Museum will appeal to kids of all ages (and adults young at heart). 

Climb Zürich's mountain, Uetliberg, which towers an impressive 850m high and offers great views of the city and its lake. There are hiking and biking trails here, and you can also book tobogganing and paragliding.