Ramp up the romance with a visit to the City of Love. Its sights are world class: the iconic Eiffel Tower, the busy Champs- Élysées, Notre dame and Sacre Coeur cathedrals and its many renowned museums, galleries and department stores. Nearby, the Palace of Versailles offers a glimpse into the workings of the 17th century Royal Court, an opulent château fit for a King – for a while, at least.

Uncover hidden alleyways and great squares in the Belgian capital. The Flemish architecture of the Grand Place houses the city’s Guildhalls and its Town Hall; it’s also the setting for a biennial Flower Carpet which attracts visitors in their thousands. Search the streets for Manneken Pis, the diminutive statue erected in the 17th century which has had passers-by chuckling ever since.

Explore a world of chocolates, canals and lace in Belgium’s most beautiful city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll within the confines of the Béguinage, now home to Benedictine nuns, or through the nearby Minnewater Park. Climb the steps of the city’s most famous landmark, the 13th century Belfry that dominates the market square; it houses a carillon with 48 bells. Descend to try the tasty frites with mayonnaise sold from the carts at its base.

Shop for blue and white china in the home of Vermeer. Delft, like many Dutch towns, has a lively market square, and it’s there that you’ll find the 15th century Nieuwe Kerk, final resting place for members of the Royal House of Orange. Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer, responsible for the Girl with a Pearl Earring, was born and worked here. You’ll find his grave at the mediaeval Oude Kerk.

Discover the seafaring history of one of the world’s great maritime cities. Rotterdam is a thriving port to this day and its Maritime Museum is a good starting point for those hoping to understand a little more about the city’s history. Later, wander the Delfshaven neighbourhood; dating from the 17th century, you’ll find the Pilgrim Father’s Church and a great many shops and boutiques.

Glide along the canals in the Netherlands’ largest city, nicknamed the Venice of the North. Its many world-class museums are supplemented by lesser-known but no less absorbing attractions such as the Tulip Museum and the Dutch Resistance Museum. Canalside, explore the cobbles of De Negen Straatjes (the Nine Streets), where you’ll stumble upon countless designer boutiques, gift shops and art galleries.

Explore the Dutch capital, city of peace and justice. The Dutch Parliament meets there at the Binnenhof, a Gothic building once the seat of the Dutch counts that occupies a stunning location on the banks of Hofvijver Lake. Also worth exploring is the 16th century Noordeinde Palace and the United Nations’ International Court of Justice.