This lively French city, birthplace of General de Gaulle, has plenty of shops and restaurants in a largely pedestrianised city centre. The many fine buildings include the Vieille Bourse, the Ribour Palace and the Palais des Beaux Arts which houses one of France's finest museums. Look out for the Christmas Market in December -On Place Rihour, more than 80 chalets teem with gift ideas, nativity figurines, Christmas decorations and festive food. You can find regional specialities here, and you can also find arts and crafts not to forget the gingerbread and other delicacies which you can take away or eat on the spot with a glass of mulled wine. Passport required.