Visit one of Turin's many museums and galleries to get a deeper insight into the cultural life of the city. The Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo and rural Castello di Rivoli Museo d'Arte Contemporanea are the best for contemporary art, while the Museo Nazionale del Cinema explores the history of cinema in a one of Turin's most distinctive buildings. The Museo Egizio, as Italy's oldest Egptology museum, is also well worth a visit.

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.

Enjoy a day relaxing at the luxurious QC Termetorino spa, set in a 19th century palace. It's a beautiful spot, with manicured gardens, outdoor and indoor pools and saunas. You can book extra treatments, too.

Paris has no shortage of tempting shops, from independent clothing boutiques to sprawling department stores. Don't miss the opportunity to browse the bouquinistes, open-air booksellers on the banks of the Seine, or indulge at the Galeries Lafayette, the luxurious French department store.

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

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