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.

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. 

Rent a bike to explore Villa Borghese, an elegant 200-acre park full of tree-lined paths, Classical sculptures, a large lake, and beautiful buildings. The most impressive are the 17th-century Galleria Borghese, and a reconstruction of Shakespeare's globe.

Head across the river for an evening in Trastevere to soak up the authentic Roman atmosphere. The charming streets are lined with some of the city's best restaurants and buzziest bars.

Visit antique and vintage shops along the pretty streets of Via del Governo Vecchio.

Visit the island of San Francesco, which is home to a peaceful monastery. The beautiful gardens and Medieval cloisters are a lovely spot for an afternoon walk.

Travel by boat to the island of Sant'Andrea, a ruined 17th-century fort. It's a great place for a walk and a picnic.

Taste the freshest local food at the Mercati di Rialto (Rialto Market). The bustling stalls on the banks of the Grand Canal offer a vast range of regional produce.

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

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.

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