At the beginning of April we spent three days in Rome using the Rome City Pass — and despite a few quirks, it helped shape a magical trip. From iconic sights like the Colosseum, Pantheon and Vatican Museums to hidden gems such as the Case Romane and Vicus Caprarius, the pass offered excellent value, skip-the-line convenience, and a brilliant mix of ancient history, art and quieter corners of the Eternal City.

We explored Madrid using the GPSmyCity walking app, following a route from the Royal Palace to Retiro Park. It’s a brilliant way to see the city at your own pace, with plenty of stops for history, food and people-watching. A few directions could be clearer, but overall we’d happily recommend it.

A review of the Hotel Juderia, Az Zait, Casa Placido, Castizo. Sight-seeing hints and tips, and all can be done within a short break.

Ronda is more than another pretty Spanish whitewashed town. It's spectacular, a town divided by a deep gorge and full of history - reviewed

Two days in Bucharest; where to stay, what to see, where to eat, what to eat - our whistle-stop review of the city.

Visiting the Alhambra, Granada in Spain off season. What you need to know for a successful trip to this stunning place.