Nestled behind the Cathedral, the City History Museum tells the story of Barcelona in a series of buildings that are interesting in their own right. The highlight, though, lies beneath the medieval buildings where the Roman city has been extensively excavated and preserved. It's fascinating and an amazing achievement.

Pl rei 7, Barri Gotic. www.museuhistoria.bcn.es

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

The second largest aquarium in the world and the largest in Europe, this is a truly remarkable place to visit. Four habitat zones show life above the water, the central tank is huge, and you can even watch the penguins "fly" under the water.

Parque das Nações, at the south end of Doca dos Olivais

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

Canada celebrates its native people's history to a far greater extent than its southern neighbour, and this museum provides a wonderful introduction to an artistically rich culture.

The museum is actually across the bridge on the Quebec side in Hull, right on the banks of the river.

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

Originally built as a supply route (via the Ottawa River) between Montreal and the Great Lakes in the event of an invasion by the US that never happened, it is the longest working canal in North America and - in winter - the longest skating rink in the world.

You can rent bikes or skates at the canal near the Chateau Laurier Hotel.

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

In 1786 real estate was scarce in Paris, and overcrowded cemetries were too valuable to leave to the dead. The government decided reclaim the land by moving the bones to the empty underground limestone quarries at the edge of the city. By 1860, 5 to 6 million skeletons had been moved and arranged into mounds and macabre designs.

An unassuming black door opposite Denfert-Rochereau Metro station takes you to the underground passages.

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends

Nothing special about the hotel itself - standard 3-star fare. But the views of Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and the Bosphorus from the rooftop restaurant and bar are pretty hard to beat.

Yerebatan Cad. Cami Cikmazi No:36-40 34410 Sultanahmet Istanbul. Tel: +90 (212) 512 02 07. www.andhotel.com

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends