This British city is situated on the north bank of the Thames, next to a sea port and a fortress. Initially built to house railway and port workers, Tilbury became a major point of defense for England, along with neighboring town Gravesend, due to the narrowness of the Thames at this point. The forts constructed in Tilbury and Gravesend under Henry VII, due to this narrowness in the river, were of major importance as defenses during several wars, including during the Armada campaigns of 1588.

In the north of Belgium, along the Scheldt river is Antwerp, a city known worldwide for the important role it plays in the processing and trading of diamonds. Antwerp has its very own Diamond District, visitors can partake in walking tours to learn more. The historic center of Antwerp is characterized by many well-preserved buildings from the late Middle Ages, Renaissance, Baroque and Art Nouveau periods. Antwerp is also known for the vast array of markets which take place in the city, offering items such as antiques, flowers, local produce and much more.

Rouen is located about 80 miles inland along the Seine river. It is often referred to as 'the city of one hundred steeples' as stated in one of the poems of the famous french poet Victor Hugo. Although many of the buildings were destroyed during the Second World War, many of the half-timbered houses are still worth seeing. For the architecture lovers the Basilica of Saint-Ouen and cathedral will be a treat with their breathtaking sights.

Honfleur is located at the mouth of the Seine, as it flows into the English Channel. The port city is known for its shimmering light. Many painters used this region in the past as inspiration for for their artwork. One of the attractions, the Pont de Normandie, connects Honfleur and Le Havre. This bridge has a span of 856 m, the largest cable bridge in Europe. Among the attractions in Le Havre are the Church of St. Joseph, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Bridge of Normandy.