Mediterranean And Morocco Discovery

Portugal's capital spreads its ancient sites on seven steep hillsides that overlook the Tagus River. Feast your eyes on St. George's Castle which overlooks the city atop the highest hill, or the countless balconies ablaze with geraniums and wrought iron lamps that light up the medieval Alfama quarter. Wonder up to the Bairro Alto where you may hear the sorrowful fado singers ring out from cafés.

Built around a natural harbour, the main city and cruise port on Spain's Costa Blanca, Alicante, is also a top beach resort in its own right. It has a sophisticated Mediterranean feel with its restored old town adding to its charm and the attraction of its sandy beaches. When choosing a stretch of sand in Alicante, but the white-sand, blueflag El Postiguet is a good place to start. Its proximity to the Old Quarter adds to the charm – stretch your legs on the palm-lined promenade, guided by its pretty, wavy patchwork of marble tiles.

Allow yourself to be awed by one of Tuscany’s Renaissance treasures, Florence. With red tiled roofs, tiny shops and magnificent architecture, this is the romantic capital of Italy. Marvel at the mosaic façade and stained glass of the Duomo, gaze up at the tilting bell tower of Pisa and soak up the sight of the beautiful gold and silver workshops huddled together over the River Arno.

A visit to Rome is an unforgettable experience. Explore the legends of the ages: the Vatican and Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Catacombs. Stroll down the Via Veneto or sip cappuccino in the Piazza di Spagna. Italy's 'Eternal City' is eternally fascinating. Throw a few coins in the Trevi Fountain and you may be back again!

Arriving in Mallorca's capital, Palma, you'll find a vibrant city of boutiques, cafés and markets in medieval lanes, all under the watchful gaze of its immense and photogenic gothic sandstone cathedral. Beyond Palma, the island's gorgeous coast shelters beautiful coves, calm harbours and the lavish villas of the rich and famous.

Welcome to cosmopolitan Casa, a name synonymous with North African mystique. Explore its busy bazaar in search of leather, ceramic and wooden souvenirs then wind down the scenic Corniche promenade which arcs along the coast. It leads to the stunning Hassan II Mosque, rising in smooth marble from a rocky outcrop crowned by a majestic 210-metre minaret.

Situated just across the narrow Strait of Gibraltar from Europe, Tangier has long comprised a hybrid culture that is nearly as European as it is African. Standing atop Cap Spartel, one can gaze down on the place where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean. The “Hollywood” district where the foreign embassies have traditionally been located reflects the European influence.

An important fishing and commercial port, Vigo's shaded squares and cobbled streets make for a delightful amble around this old fishing town. First settled by Celts circa 600 BC, the Celtic legacy lingers on in Galicia's old legends and in the bagpipes played on festive occasions. Seafood is definitely on the menu here in one of the plentiful restaurants in the harbour.

Southampton, the UK’s top cruise port, is a vibrant waterfront city blending rich maritime heritage with modern charm. Discover the Titanic legacy at the Sea City Museum, explore the Cultural Quarter, or stroll through the medieval Old Town. Beyond the city, explore the beauty of The New Forest, Stonehenge, and the Isle of Wight. With a thriving craft beer and food scene, Southampton offers endless delights to explore!