In episode two of our series exploring the great historical cities of Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas, travel writer Paul Bloomfield is joined by Dr Christopher Harding as they delve into the fascinating, yet often turbulent, story of Tokyo. Together, they’ll visit key sites where major events unfolded – from exploring its medieval origins, and its growth as the base of the ruling shogun, to considering the major social and political upheavals of the 19th and 20th centuries. Along the way, they also meet some of the major figures who played pivotal roles in the development of what's now known as Tokyo.History's greatest cities is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In episode one of our series exploring the great historical cities of Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas, travel writer Paul Bloomfield is joined by Professor Elizabeth Horodowich as they roam along the canals and alleys of Venice. Together they explore its roots in medieval colonies on islands in the lagoon, its blossoming as a powerful trading empire as well as the challenges facing an island city in the modern era. They also meet some of the figures who played pivotal roles in the development of the Italian city and discover some lesser-known places to visit for insights into its heritage.History's greatest cities is produced by the team behind BBC History Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How have the world’s great cities responded to centuries of exploration, conquest and increasing globalisation? That’s the question driving series three of History’s Greatest Cities, a podcast from HistoryExtra.Travel writer and history buff Paul Bloomfield once again will be joining expert guides with rich local and historical knowledge. Venturing to the great cities of Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas, they'll explore centuries-long stories of foundation and growth, and examine how contact between continents shaped these far-flung places. Along the way, they'll introduce the colourful characters who played pivotal roles in the development of these cities, and lead listeners through the must-visit palaces, temples, bazaars and, of course, bars and restaurants. And, our experts will also share insider tips to help visitors discover hidden facets of each fascinating destination.Episodes of History’s Greatest Cities series three will be released weekly from 1st June. History Extra Plus subscribers can access all episodes ad-free immediately, via Apple podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In our series exploring the sights and stories of Europe’s most fascinating historic cities, Alexandra Richie takes a deep dive into the pivotal historical episodes of Poland’s capital In our series exploring the sights and stories of Europe’s most fascinating, enduring and historic destinations, travel journalist Paul Bloomfield is joined by historian and author Dr Alexandra Richie for a tour of Warsaw. Together, they consider the city’s medieval origins, 16th-century rise to political prominence, turbulent years under nations such as Sweden and Russia, and the tumult, violence and oppression of the 20th century. Along the way, Alexandra also highlights some top places to visit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In our series exploring the sights and stories of Europe’s most fascinating historic cities, Marcus Tanner guides listeners through the rich heritage of Croatia’s second largest city In our series exploring the sights and stories of Europe’s most fascinating, enduring and historic destinations, travel journalist Paul Bloomfield is joined by author Marcus Tanner for a journey to Split. Together they explore the city’s Roman pomp and how medieval empires tussled to control it, before considering its turbulent 20th century. Along the way, Marcus introduces some of the figures who played important roles in the development of Split, suggesting top places to visit.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Delve into the origins, conflicts, and wealth of York, from its Roman foundations to Viking heritage. Explore its historical significance in the Roman Empire and the cultural fusion between Anglo-Saxon and Scandinavian influences. Learn about the events after the Battle of Hastings, the industrialization of York, and the prominent historical sights including York Minster and Clifford's Tower.

Travel journalist Paul Bloomfield and author/journalist Barry Hatton take us on a journey through Lisbon's tumultuous past, from earthquakes to revolutions. They discuss the city's cultural blend, the devastating earthquake of 1755, the rebuilding process, Salazar's rise to power, and must-visit historical sites like St. George's Castle.

In our series exploring the sights and stories of Europe’s most fascinating historic cities, Russell Shorto explores the Dutch capital famed as a centre for trade, art and pleasures of the fleshIn episode four of our series exploring the sights and stories of Europe’s most fascinating, enduring and historic destinations, travel journalist Paul Bloomfield is joined by author and journalist Russell Shorto for a jaunt around Amsterdam. Together they highlight the lesser-known stories of the Dutch capital, from its marshy foundations to its medieval mercantile pomp and subsequent trading golden age. Along the way Russell introduces some of key characters who influenced the city’s ups and downs, and offers up some offbeat places to visit and key travel tips for insights into its heritage.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Delve into Dublin's conflict and cultural prosperity, from settlement and invasion to its fight for independence. Discover the city's multilayered nature, growth as a major city in the British Empire, social and economic conditions, and the fight for Irish independence. Explore Dublin's transformation from a tourist capital to a hub for big businesses. Get travel tips for experiencing Dublin's coastal beauty like a local.

In our series exploring the sights and stories of Europe’s most fascinating historic cities, Thomas Lorman guides us through the ancient, turbulent history of the twin cities straddling the DanubeIn episode two of our series exploring the sights and stories of Europe’s most fascinating, enduring and historic destinations, travel journalist Paul Bloomfield is joined by historian Dr Thomas Lorman for a journey to Budapest. Together they delve into the wide-reaching past of the Hungarian capital, unearthing how it came to have such a prominent place at the heart of central Europe – from ancient origins and its imperial pomp to the more austere recent past. Along the way, they meet some of the characters who influenced the city’s evolution and discover lesser-known places to visit for insights into its heritage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices