St Augustine is America's oldest city

With the size and uncanny feel of a small Mediterranean town, St Augustine is America's oldest and Florida's most engaging city.

Established by the Spanish in 1565, the town formalized Spain's claim to North America and has been occupied ever since.

It's most prominent feature is the broody Castillo de San Marcos, a late 17th-century colonial fortification and a short walk away, through the old City Gate, from the carefully restored 18th-century Spanish quarter.

St Augustine is a fine place to amble and browse and has a clutch of good beaches a short bus ride from town.