Venice

Venice is a treasure-trove of astonishing architecture and art, which sprawls enticingly across a dense network of islands, connected by sun-spangled canals and ornate bridges. Surrounded by water and inaccessible by car, its historic centre offers an immersive trip back in time to the middle ages, with well preserved architectural icons like St Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace having lost none of their original lustre.

This bucket-list destination draws visitor crowds throughout the year, but you can escape the hustle and bustle with a romantic gondola ride or a quick water-taxi trip to the Lido, an effortlessly elegant beach resort that plays host to the glamorous Venice Film Festival each September.