Visit the shop of Patrick Roger, the famous Parisian chocolatier, who takes the art of chocolate to another level. Marvel at his sculptural creations and taste some of France’s most unusually flavoured and exquisitely crafted chocolate.

Take a trip out to the Jardin Albert Kahn and immerse yourself in orchards, rose gardens and forests that combine French, Japanese and English garden design. They were originally created by banker Albert Kahn before the Wall Street Crash, after which he lost his bank and his fortunes – including this garden.

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

Turin's Museo Egizio is the world's oldest museum devoted to Egyptology, and it holds some of the most important archeological pieces that can be seen outside of Cairo. See the website for temporary exhibitions and special events.

Stroll through the delightful Parco del Valentino on the west bank of the River Po. Be sure to visit the palace, a stunning 17th-century French building which now houses the university's architecture faculty.

Visit the grand 16th century Palazzo Reale for an insight into Turin's royal past. Its lavish, gilded interiors are so richly decorated it's hard to take everything in, while the stately Giardino Reale was designed by the same person as the gardens at the Palace of Versailles.

Stroll along the Ponte Vecchio, the historic bridge that spans the river Arno. Take your time to pop in and out of the local shops and restaurants that line the main walkway, and pause to admire the fantastic views of the river.

A visit to the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, more commonly called Il Duomo, is an essential part of any trip to Florence. The cathedral is Florence's most prominent landmark, looming over the city, and has the largest masonry dome in the world. This architectural masterpiece features the famous bronze doors named 'the gates of paradise' by Michelangelo. Admire the religious relics and let yourself be enchanted by the famous paintings, sculptures and marble facade.

Eating vegan in Florence is easier than you might think. Enjoy plant-based takes on traditional Italian dishes, raw-food restaurants, and gorgeous patisseries. There are even vegan supermarkets where you can stock up on goodies.

Take in the tranquility at Siena's Botanical Garden (Orto Botanico) in the historic centre. Together with the Herbarium, it forms part of the Botanical Museum, and is located just outside the city walls. This pretty park extends to 2.5 hectares and is home to over 2000 plant species from Italy and beyond. 

Siena's National Art Gallery, the Pinacoteca Nazionale, is housed in the 14th-century Palazzo Buonsignori and is home to an impressive collection of Italian artworks from the late medieval and Renaissance centuries, including pieces by famous artists like Duccio di Buoninsegna and Simone Martini.

Hit the shops in Europe's fashion capital. The beautiful Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping centre is home to a vast range of clothes shops, including the original Prada store, which is one of the most notable landmarks in Milan.

Marvel at the view from the rooftops of the Duomo di Milano – the largest church in Italy. No visit to the city is complete without experiencing this iconic cathedral, built over centuries in an overwhelming mix of grand Gothic styles.

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 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.