Cruise holidays under £500pp

Vigo sits on the rugged west coast of the province of Galicia. Over the centuries, this charming town and its resilient residents have been the target of many naval attacks including some from Sir Francis Drake. This is also a chance to visit nearby Santiago de Compostela, the subject of pilgrimages since the Middle Ages.

Fancy a treat? Look out for the orange and red cocoa bean motif, it’ll be one of the Bruges Guild of Chocolatiers. Thirsty? Sample some local beers at a cosy bar or brewery, but don’t try to tackle them all – there are over 1,000 varieties!

Open your eyes and cover your ears when visiting the deceptively large Castle Cornet, which guards St Peter Port and houses five museums and four period gardens. The Noonday Gun is fired by costumed soldiers daily.

Germany’s ‘Gateway to the world’ has more bridges than Venice and Amsterdam combined (over 2,300). See the baroque St Michaelis Church or pay homage at the Kaiserkeller club, where The Beatles cut their teeth.

Hop on a small riverboat (or hire a pedalo) and see this mesmerizing city from its 165 waterways. Jump off at the Heineken® brewery to quench your thirst, and visit the Anne Frank House for a fascinating and humbling tour.

Cherbourg’s must-see landmarks include The Basilica of the Holy Trinity and the Museum of Liberation, which offers WWII insight and stunning views. Don’t forget the city's must-try delicacies; creamy cheeses and sumptuous French wines!