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). 

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

Milan has a long artistic tradition and there is no shortage of places to see it. From the oldest collections of Italian Masters at Pinacoteca Ambrosiana to the more modern at Galleria d’Arte Moderna as well as cutting-edge contemporary art at Fondazione Prada, there's something for all tastes in this creative and cultural city.

Head to the Basilica di Santa Croce with its ornate 17th-century Baroque façade. Take your time to examine the stunning intricacy of the sculptures and the rose windows.

Join in with the local passeggiata, a collective post-siesta, pre-dinner walk around the old town. Lecce is especially well-known for its loyalty and commitment to this tradition, with people travelling from nearby towns to join in the walk from Piazza Mazzini to Piazza Sant’ Oronzo, stopping to enjoy a coffee or gelato on the way.

This 2nd-century AD Roman amphitheatre was not unearthed until 1929, but still stands in incredible condition. Head to the southern part of Piazza Sant'Oronzo to take a guided tour of this ancient arena.

For something a little unusual, explore the 16th-century Anatomical Theatre of the Archiginnasio. This beautifully preserved building was formerly used by Bologna's medical school, and is now a fascinating public museum. As the home of the world's oldest existing university, Bologna is filled with fascinating and quirky museums like this, each highlighting a different part of the city's academic legacy.

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.

Explore the Munich Residenz, home to Bavarian dukes, electors and kings until 1918. Spend some time getting lost in the fascinating museum or the perfectly manicured gardens.

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.

Stroll along the Canal Saint-Martin, for boutique shopping by day and buzzing bars and restaurants by night.

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.

Head to Paris' Marais quarter for indie boutiques and some of the city's coolest bars.