The perfect book to accompany your Barcelona city break is The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón. The author was born in Barcelona and grew up in the city so it’s no surprise he’s able to bring the atmosphere and history of the Catalan capital to life. 

Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami is set in 1960s Tokyo and offers a fascinating glimpse into the youth movements that dominated the decade and a rich depiction of life in the city. 

Stasiland by Anna Funder tells the stories of East German citizens caught behind the Berlin wall. 

If you’re planning a visit to the Big Easy, the best book for your break is A Confederacy of Dunces. Written by John Kennedy Toole, the book offers a rich depiction of New Orleans, its dialects and its characters.

If you want to optimise your experience of the city, pack a copy of Victor Hugo's Les Miserables. Although not the most lighthearted book set in Paris, the epic tale will help to bring the city's history to life.