Paris is known as one of the most beautiful places in the world and is home to some of the most famous landmarks in Europe, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. Although the real charm of the city can be found on a much smaller scale by slowly exploring its side streets and traditional cafes. Strolling around the many parks and gardens in the afternoon is nice at any time of year and once evening comes the centre becomes alive with music and dancing. Paris is full of culture and is an ever-changing destination, making it a must visit within Europe.

Nice is one of the most popular destinations in France, and the 5th largest city in the country, and with the stunning landscape of the surrounding mountains, the inviting warmth of the Mediterranean sea and the close proximity to Italian border, it’s no wonder that Nice draws in more than 4 million visitors each year from around the world. Nice is also steeped in culture and history and, after Paris, is the city with the most amount of museums in France.

With its unique structure built over the many canals and its impressive landmarks, it’s no surprise that the whole city of Venice has been listed as a UNESCO heritage site since 1987. Almost everything in this city is unique, from the most popular transportation being by Gondola, to being home to some of the narrowest streets in the world, one being just 53 cm wide. When you’re not getting lost through the alleyways and along the canals, make sure to visit St. Mark’s Square, particularly atmospheric in the evening when music is played into the night along by the many restaurants.

The capital of Italy is the largest city in the country as well as one of the largest in all of the EU. It goes without saying that Rome is full of history, with famous architecture and landmarks around every corner, some of the most well known being the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain. The size of Rome is usually overestimated, the close proximity of the must see sites mean it’s easy, and much more pleasant, to explore the city by foot. Having 70% of all UNESCO heritage sites in Italy being in Rome makes it one of the most photographed places in the world.

Palermo is the capital of the region of Sicily and, much like the rest of Italy, is well known for its history, culture and architecture. People visit Palermo for a taste of adventure with its historic influences obvious throughout the markets and small side streets in the city center. The Palatine Chapel and the Duomo of Monreale are must sees, make sure to not only admire the buildings from the outside, but to also see the stunning mosaics on the inside as well. Once caught up on culture take a wander down to the beaches where you can enjoy the views of the ocean in one of the warmest cities in Europe.