Europe Action & adventure, Mountain, Museum + Sunset & sunrise pictures

• World

Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, nestled between extinct volcanoes and hills, is almost fairytale in appearance, with its medieval buildings in the Old Town and the wide streets and spacious homes Georgian New Town, and the spectacular castle looking down from its cliff. Edinburgh was declared a World Heritage Site in 1995, which only begs the question: why did it take so long?

Sitting high upon the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples, Sorrento is a rustic tourist spot that offers visitors fantastic views. Centuries ago Roman emperors, Italian nobles and artists flocked to the province of Campania to soak in its inspiring beauty. Today, its cobblestone streets, magnificent villas, fishing ports, pleasant Mediterranean climate and citrus trees pull in holidaymakers from all over the world.

Discover themed gardens, artist pavilions, viewpoints and wildlife stations set around a natural amphitheater in the grounds of a medieval castle. 

Make your way along elegant promenades to find medieval churches, thermal spas and stunning gardens in the shadow of the Italian Alps. 

Tear yourself away long enough from snorkeling and relaxing in the thermal spas of Ischia to explore this gem of a medieval fortress on a rocky islet in the Bay of Naples.

Admire the craftsmanship of the Tuscan artists and architects that created this richly ornamented bell tower. Climb its staircase for glorious views of Florence. 

One of the world’s smallest countries lies within eastern Italy’s countryside. Visit the longstanding city-state for natural beauty, culture and food specialties.

For some of the best views over Verona, head up the hill to the castle that stands on the site where the city was founded.

Lose yourself in the Renaissance charm of Florence’s old town, where masterpieces by Brunelleschi and Giotto line up alongside cafés, gelato shops and trattorias. 

Explore this photogenic riverside square, which is bordered by two grand neoclassical palaces and features a spectacular fountain at its center.

Discover the fascinating history, superb restaurants and interesting maritime museum of this pretty coastal town.

Escape the city and head to one of the world’s largest urban parks, which has lakes and meadows, as well as beer gardens and a variety of interesting relics.

Explore this photogenic riverside square, which is bordered by two grand neoclassical palaces and features a spectacular fountain at its center.

For some of the best views over Verona, head up the hill to the castle that stands on the site where the city was founded.

Make your way along elegant promenades to find medieval churches, thermal spas and stunning gardens in the shadow of the Italian Alps. 

Tear yourself away long enough from snorkeling and relaxing in the thermal spas of Ischia to explore this gem of a medieval fortress on a rocky islet in the Bay of Naples.