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.

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.

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

Feel the wind in your hair as you glide along, above the water in a parasailing session. 

Wander the many fantastic museums and galleries – don't miss the Matisse museum (closed Tuesday) or the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (closed Monday).

Beneath the striped awnings, immerse yourself in the bustle of Old Nice’s Saleya flower market (which also sells fruit, vegetables and local street snacks). The fruit and veg stalls tend to pack up by lunch time, but flower stalls are there until around 5pm.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Cruise along the Grand Canal, the wide stretch of water that winds through the centre of Venice from the train station to San Marco. The vaporetto (water bus) is the local way to travel on the canal – if you want to hire a gondola it's best to head to a gondola station away from the grand canal where it's quieter.