St Augustine

St. Augustine, commonly known as the "Old City," was founded by the Spanish in 1565 and is the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the United States, predating the landing of the pilgrims on Plymouth Rock and the founding of Jamestown, Virginia by several decades. Unsurprisingly, this city is steeped in history, and visitors are spoiled for choice with the array of world-class museums, inspiring monuments, and authentic colonial architecture available.

Every turn reveals traces of its long history and diverse cultural influences, and there's no better place to soak it all in than the 144-block National Historical Landmark District. The Mission de Nombre de Dios, the city's original settlement, and the seventeenth-century fort of Castillo de San Marcos are both striking reminders of the Spanish colonial era. Many historical landmarks date back to the 1800s, when the city experienced a renaissance led by Henry Flagler, giving rise to the impressive Flager College and the beautifully restored Casa Monica hotel.

After you've explored the historic streets, there are several museums where you can learn more about St. Augustine's illustrious past. Ripley's Believe It or Not!, The Lightner Museum The Museum and Lincolnville Centre all house evocative collections that help to bring the past to life, while also being housed in attractive historical structures.

Suggested holiday:

• Enjoy a tailormade road trip taking in St Augustine plus the next two locations on wish-list below – Charleston and Savannah - Experience The Historic Deep South.

Location: Florida