Florence, Italy

Date: 2015-10-07; view: 441.

Eiffel Tower, France

Men love to build towers and Gustave Eiffel was no exception. Commissioned to build an eye-catching (привлекающий взгляд) entryway for Paris' upcoming Exposition Universelle, he finally unveiled (торжественно открывать памятник ) his 300m-high iron icon in 1889. The structure was only meant to stand for 20 years but won global admiration for its beautiful architectural form and has stood its ground. Put it on your ‘must-visit' list – after all, 6 million people a year can't be wrong. Visiting hours from July to September are 9–12.30am; miss the rush by arriving first thing or catch the last entry at midnight.

The capital of bella Tuscany can test the endurance (стойкость) of the most hardened traveler (закалённый). Its piazzas (пьяцца, (базарная) площадь ( особ. в Италии )) are filled with the whir (шум) of digital cameras, the leather and jewellery shops hem you in (окружать), and money belts can disappear faster than kisses. But Florence is also Italy's Renaissance jewel (сокровище) and few cities can match (сравниться) its classic beauty. Swoon over (потерять голову?) Michelangelo's David in the Academy of Design Gallery, the gorgeous headpiece of the Brunelleschi-built Duomo, and the stunning (сногсшибательный; великолепный) sculptural landscape of the Boboli Gardens, or just sit in a cafe and swoon over handsome passers-by. The city is virtually tourist free (and cheaper!) in winter; many restaurants and attractions are closed Sunday and Monday, so plan accordingly.