Tangier fell under the Carthaginian settlement and remnants of this past are evident at Cape Spartel. One of its biggest draws is the ornate lighthouse and nature reserve with its epic views of the sea.  

Find a moment of calm from the bustling kasbah at La Terrasse De Dar El Kasbah. This colourful 19th-century tea house is stationed in the original 1884 building, the first English telegraph line between Tangier and Gibraltar. 

For a true taste of art deco, head to Cinematheque Tanger, an all-artist-run creative hub. The theatre is North Africa’s first arthouse cinema and has masterclasses on independent films. 

For the best views of the city, climb the 45m tall watchtower to its rooftop terrace. The tower was built in the 1700s when trade was booming and it was used to monitor ships coming into the harbour. One level below is the camera obscura, a visual projector which is showcased every half hour.

Cádiz is famed for its history as one of the oldest cities in western Europe. The Roman Theatre, built around 70BC, is well worth a visit and easily reached on foot. The theatre is thought to have welcomed 10,000 spectators in its heyday. Guided tours are available.

Visit the famous Palacio Real (Royal Palace) and discover centuries' worth of exquisite paintings, furniture and armour.

A trip to the Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza makes a great counterpart to Madrid's other two big galleries, the Prado and Reina Sofía museums. Here you'll find works from the extensive private collection of the Thyssen-Bornemisza family, spanning multiple genres and centuries, from the Old Masters to American Expressionism and everything in between.

Originally an abattoir, the eye-catching building of Matadero Madrid now houses the city's most vibrant cultural centre. It hosts exhibitions, immersive experiences, art installations and much more – just the thing if you want to experience the city's alternative side. Visit at the weekend to catch the artisan food market.

Board the sunshine-yellow Ascensor da Glória up to the small landscaped terrace viewpoint of Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara. Enjoy a glass or two overlooking the spectacular panoramic views across the city.

Any rail enthusiasts should make time to visit Entroncamento, home to the Museu Nacional Ferroviário (National Railway Museum). You can see royal and presidential carriages at the museum, and learn more about the town's important role in the history of Portugal's railways – Entroncamento even means "junction".

Featuring eight museums and exhibitions, WOW is a must-do. The Wine Experience will take you on a journey from vine to bottle, including a tasting at the end.

Take a fascinating tour of a working sardine factory. Pinhais & Cia is housed in one of the city’s most beautiful buildings in the Matosinhos district, 15 minutes by metro from the centre of Porto.

Named the ‘Islands of the Gods’ by the Romans, the Cíes Islands are a true gem in the Vigo Estuary. Boat trips operate to a few of the islands: Rodas beach joins the islands of Monteagudo and Faro and is a highlight.

A wander round the streets of Vigo’s old town will take you back to its fishing heyday. The granite-built buildings are a higgledy-piggledy mix of tiny houses and grand townhouses.

The Museo de la Evolución Humana explains the fascinating finds from the nearby Atapuerca archeological sites, which shed new light on the history of humanity. Most of the main fossils are held in the city-centre museum, but you can also visit the sites where they were found, about 15km from Burgos.

A trip to Burgos would not be complete without a visit to the city's awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage-listed cathedral, complete with its ornate 15th-century façade, beautifully preserved cloisters and delicate, intricate dome.

Explore the diminutive but diverse collection of erotica from across history at Barcelona's Museu de l'Erotica. From pictures of lithe Kama Sutra bodies to the voluptuousness of Japanese Shunga drawings, this museum opens a door into the history of desire and sexual expression.

Discover Barcelona's rich heritage in this vast living museum, with its main building on Plaça del Rei. The Museu d'Historia de Barcelona (MUHBA) contains the remains of Roman villas, an underground winery and the largest Roman excavation outside Rome.

There are a number of beaches in and within easy reach of the city. Barceloneta is the closest to the city centre and both the most famous and most popular. There's plenty of beach volleyball and ping pong on offer, as well as places to find fresh seafood. Head to Nova Icaria if you're after something a little more sedate, with the same range of beach activities on offer on a smaller scale. For something altogether quieter, make your way north to Platja d'Ocata, a pristine, tranquil stretch of beautiful golden sand.

Spend an afternoon strolling around Marseille’s Vieux Port, one of the oldest parts of the city and one of Europe’s largest regeneration areas. It's in the streets around the marina that you'll find some of the city's must-see attractions, plus fantastic shops, restaurants and food trucks. There are some great rooftop bars open in the evening, too.

Take in the view from the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, which stands guard over the city from the highest point. It’s a steep walk up the steps to the top but you can also take a more leisurely route on the "petit train" from the Old Port.

Located just off the coast of Ajaccio, the Îles Sanguinaires (Bloody Islands) are a group of small islands known for their beauty and rich history. Take a boat trip from Ajaccio and spend the day hiking along the trails that wind through the Mediterranean vegetation, or visit the Genoese tower, built in the 16th century, which offers stunning views of the islands and the surrounding  waters. 

The Bastion de l'Étendard (The Fortress of the Standard), is a historic fortress that has stood since the 15th-century and is the highest bastion in France. Its strategic location atop the cliff offers panoramic views of the harbor and the city, while the landscaped gardens offer various viewpoints. Make your way underground to rooms dug into rock and an exhibition charting the history of the bastion. 

Step back in time at Bastia’s citadel, founded in 1380 by Genoese governor Leonello Lomellini and destroyed by Nelson in 1794. The impressive fortress is now a fascinating museum.

Wander the myriad streets of Bastia's old town to admire the beautiful pastel-coloured buildings and grand churches.

Visit one of the city's 40 palaces – a splendid collection of grand Renaissance and Baroque buildings. We love Palazzo Reale with its stunning paintings and pretty gardens.

Head to the outskirts of the city to visit La Vigna di Leonardo, Leonardo Da Vinci's small vineyard, which is housed in the peaceful gardens of Casa degli Atellani, a 15th-century mansion.

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. 

Wander around the Altstadt with its web of alleys and historic architecture. You'll find everything you need in this central hub including restaurants, bars, shops and art galleries.

Lace up your hiking boots or hire a bike to explore the town and surrounding countryside on the area's many trails. Check out some great routes here, and head to Outside Chur to rent an e-bike (urban and mountain bike styles available).

Hike to St Luzikapelle, or St Luzi’s Chapel, built into a cave about 45 minutes' walk from Chur's old town. It's a scenic spot, ideal for some peaceful reflection.

Gornergrat (10,135ft/3089m) is reached from Zermatt via the gradual uphill of the open-air Gornergrat cog railway (roughly 30mins). On a sunny day, there are gorgeous views all the way up – sit on the right for the Matterhorn view – as well as from the viewing platform at the top.

For the quintessential Alpine experience, ski to Chez Vrony and enjoy cheese fondue on the terrace with a direct view of the Matterhorn. The rest of the menu is just as appealing, and they can cater to vegetarians.

The summer-only 10km Five Lakes Trail takes in the Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee and Leisee lakes. If you fancy a quick dip, make for Grünsee or Leisee. 

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. 

Spend some time wandering round Zürich's old town, along the historic streets of Rennweg and Augustinergasse, home to pretty buildings, shops and cafés, or walk to Lindenhof for views over the river and city. Visit the Fraumünster, a former abbey famous for its stained glass windows, then finish off with a visit to Café & Conditorei 1842 for a hot chocolate (or tipple) and cake in elegant surroundings. 

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). 

Take a stroll through the Gornji Grad (Upper Town) for delightful medieval buildings. Make sure to stop by St. Mark's Square, the Church of St. Mark, and the Museum of Naïve Art (Muzej Naivne Umjetnosti). Another highlight is the traditional lamplighter, who takes to the streets at dusk to light the authentic gas lamps. 

Visit Jarun Lake, a recreational area located southwest of Zagreb's city centre, also known as the 'Zagreb Sea'. The lake offers numerous activities, including swimming, paddle boating, and cycling, and at night turns into a nightlife hotspot. There are also artistic and educational exhibits, alongside sports facilities, and picnic spots where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Escape the city's hustle and bustle by visiting Vrelo Bosne, a tranquil park located on the outskirts of Sarajevo at the foot of Mount Igman, at the end of the tram line. Explore the park's lush greenery, walking paths, and crystal-clear springs.

Discover the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, also known as Bey's mosque. Completed in the 16th-century and named after the Ottoman Governor, it is one of the most important and beautiful Ottoman mosques in the Balkans, with intricate architecture and serene interior. 

Take a dip in one of Europe's most stunningly restored swimming pools, the Müllersches Volksbad. The building has an Art Nouveau dome and the steam rooms are full of Baroque touches like murals, stucco, bronze statues and ornate iron bars.

Meander through mature trees and open meadows at the stunning Englischer Garten. Stop by the food court for lunch or a refreshing drink, or watch the surfers on the Eisbach river negotiating the wave created by a kink in the floor of the river.

You could spend hours at the Pinakothek der Moderne discovering works from the most famous art movements. All the big names of modern art – Kirchner, Kandinsky, Klee, Bacon, Braque, Otto Dix, Picasso, Magritte, Ernst, Miró – are present in the museum's impressive permanent collection.

Visit one of the most photogenic churches in Germany, the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, and enjoy a moment of peace beneath the spectacular blue stained-glass window.

Known as the vegan capital of Germany, Berlin place is an ideal holiday destination if you're following a plant-based diet. Highlights include vegan takes on the iconic local street food currywurst, delicious doughnuts, authentic Georgian cuisine and high-end dining – book at table at zero-waste FREA if you can, which was awarded a green star by Michelin.

Shopaholics, head to KaDeWe, Europe's second-largest department store. If you're in need of a bite then go to the top floor, where you'll find the impressive foodhall. 

Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek is a museum dedicated to Carl Jacobsen’s vast collection of art and cultural artefacts. Visit the museum to see one of the world’s largest collections of Mediterranean antiquities and 19th-century art.

The former meatpacking district of Kødbyen, with its striking white buildngs and blue-framed windows, is now protected as a national industrial monument. It's also a hipster haven with cool bars, restaurants and urban culture, and is a great place to chill out in the evening.

Copenhagen is one of the most cycle-friendly places in the world, and most locals navigate the city on two wheels. Hire a bike and explore the capital's lakes and parks, and even the beaches to the north in Hellerup and Charlottenlund.

Explore Stockholm's art scene at the red-brick Fotografiska. Despite being a relative newcomer (it opened its doors in 2010), Fotografiska has been quick to establish itself as one of the leading museums of photography in the world.

Head to Stockholm's historic centre, Gamla Stan, and discover medieval churches and the baroque Palace.

Stockholm's underground transit – the tunnelbanna – is widely regarded as one of the world's longest art galleries. With over 100 stations and nearly 90 artworks across them all, it's well worth getting off at every stop. The most iconic include: Kungsträdgården, with a multicoloured patchwork ceiling; Central Station. with a striking blue and white graphic design, and; Rådhuset, painted entirely in a devilish red.

Immerse yourself in the heritage of Narvik at the Narvik Museum and learn about the history of farming, fishing, the construction of the Ofotbanen railway and the trans-shipment of iron ore that transformed the area. The museum also has exhibits showcasing traditional Sami culture.