Emily Chan
Another castle in the area is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. It’s open to the public when the royals aren’t in town. After you’re done with the castles, sip on some whiskey at a pub. Whiskey is Scotland’s national drink. Then, do some shopping on Victoria Street or go for a walk down the Royal Mile.
Granada, Spain
Granada is more laid-back and slower-paced than popular destinations like Madrid and Barcelona. Visit one of the most famous monuments in the city, the La Alhambra. The well-preserved palace and fortress complex is a historic wonder and contains notable examples of Spanish Renaissance architecture.
A short walk from La Alhambra will take you to the Mirador de San Nicolás, a scenic spot on an elevated hilltop. It’s best known for its dramatic sunset views.
If you want to really immerse yourself in Spanish culture, pop into one of the bars along Camino del Sacromonte to witness a flamenco show and enjoy nibbling on tasty tapas!
Bologna, Italy
The lively, bustling city of Bologna offers a piece of Italy’s rich culture without breaking the bank. Piazza Maggiore is a historic square that sits in the heart of the city and houses some of the most important and oldest buildings in Bologna.
Admire the sight of the two medieval leaning towers and do some walking along the Portico di San Luca, the longest covered walkway in the world. When you’re all tired out, pull up at a cafe or restaurant and gorge on pasta, wine, and gelato.
Lyon, France
Lyon is the third largest city in France. There are so many places to spend time at, from food markets and restaurants to historic highlights. For instance, St. George’s Church features medieval and Renaissance architecture that will make for some great photos. You can also head to Place Bellecour to shop around, grab a drink, and even ride the Ferris wheel.
In addition, Lyon is famous for being one of the biggest producers of silk in the world. In the La Croix-Rousse, you can see silk weavers at work. The Maison des Canuts can also teach you about the history of silk in Lyon.
