ITALYTUSCANYA hill city where the medieval republic that rivalled Florence survives almost untouched, red-brick lanes draining into a shell-shaped square. It splits into seventeen contrade, each with its own flag and fountain. Beds run out early for the Palio horse races (2 July, 16 August).
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GERMANYNORTH RHINE-WESTPHALIAThe towers are too close to fit one frame, and the station right behind puts them there as you arrive. The old town is on the left bank, the view back at it from the right. April to June is good, September and October too; February carnival needs booking early.
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KOREASEOUL CAPITAL AREAWhen the port opened in 1883, Qing, Japanese and Western concessions arrived together, and buildings from that era crowd the hills of Jung-gu. The city takes in Yeongjong island, home of the international airport, and Ganghwa, so the sights are widely spread. It also suits a long layover.
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