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​Radiating vitality from its natty north to its stylish southern heel, there are plenty of reasons Italy attracts a remarkable range of traveller types. Given its fabulous food, sun-soaked coastline, picture-perfect panoramas, and all those extraordinary ancient sites, it’s no wonder Italy sparks a desire to return. There’s simply too much to see — and fall in love with — during a single trip, and planning a stay in Italy can be overwhelming.

We’ve all seen them. Envy-inducing Insta posts and enticing ads for longer-term, remote-working visas. You know the images we mean — pics of impossibly happy people lounging in hammocks, laptop casually to hand, with a beautiful beach as their genuine backdrop. No filter, no fake background. Just pure unadulterated, work-play balance bliss, and aspirational “this could be you” messaging. And the glorious truth is, this really could be you.

Have you ever watched a TV advert for a new computer game and struggled to tell the difference between the gameplay graphics and real life?

From Bavaria to the Baltic coast, there are dozens of scenic German towns in with romantic old town centres. The World Heritage List includes several with exceptional qualities besides their good looks and romantic atmosphere. Some also have an untouched medieval core, proud pointers to the enlightened era of Classicism, or unique buildings that inspired architects across Europe. Read on for more background on some of the most beautiful towns in Germany.

To reveal the most underrated places in the UK, Rough Guides have partnered with Reddit, the online community which revolves around passionate participants sharing their top tips on everything from short-haul travel to fitness. In this case, it’s the perfect partnership — the trusted voice of Redditors partnered with Rough Guides’ unmatched knowledge about not only the world’s most far-flung corners, but destinations closer to home.

Rough Guides writer Lucy Pierce travels around Switzerland sustainably by rail, visiting thermal spas, alpine villages and world-renowned ski resorts.

Intrigued by the idea of a UK city break with an outdoorsy twist? Look no further. We’ve collated our favourite city-based activities. You’ll see the sights while enjoying the great outdoors, and see the UK’s best-loved cities in a whole new way. Between walking London’s canals, paintballing in the Eccles Forest or cycling the Taff Trail, we’re sure you’ll find your next outdoor adventure in a British city here.

Follow Rough Guides writer, Lucy Pierce , as she explores the Bedouins and learns about nomadic life in the Jordanian desert.

You may already be a connoisseur of British culture, but we’re here to show you a different side to this deliciously diverse country. If you’ve already marvelled at Big Ben and seen Stonehenge, now’s the time to discover what else Britain has to offer, beyond her world-famous landmarks. From wonderfully bizarre traditions to inspiring up-and-coming art scenes, prepare to discover Britain’s lesser-known, but equally cool, icons.

Follow Rough Guides writer Lucy Pierce as she embarks on an Oslo city break, experiencing the city's sauna scene, tucking into reindeer sausage and uncovering a Norwegian infatuation with electric cars.

When one thinks of British cuisine, the first thing that often comes to mind is fish and chips or a traditional afternoon tea. But the UK has so much more to offer beyond its classic dishes. From VR wine tasting to innovative foraging workshops, Britain is full of unique culinary surprises that are just waiting to be discovered. So come and explore with us, as we take you on a journey through the diverse and dynamic world of British food and drink, and show you a side of Britain that you may not have expected.

Rough Guides writer Lucy Pierce explores the best runs, off-piste skiing and touring in Verbier’s 4 Valleys, Switzerland.