Western Mediterranean

Set within a beautiful natural bay, Villefranche is a step back in time. The charm and romance of its old town lies in the colourful buildings and peaceful pace of life. The public gardens of the Citadelle, art museums and cafes cast a laid-back spell, while the Riviera's grand names of Nice, Antibes, Cannes and Monte Carlo are all within easy reach.

Tours are from Civitavecchia. 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!

Sail into the beautiful Bay of Naples with its spectacular views of Capri and Ischia islands. This delightful city - Napoli to the Italians - has something for everyone, from ancient churches and universities, stunning parks, to scrumptious restaurants. A visit to the Museo Archeologico Nazionale to see an abundance of mosaics from the buried city of Pompeii is a must.

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.

Delve into the Picasso Museum or Miró Foundation. Explore the genius of Gaudí too, as you survey the city from Parc Güell, witness the extraordinary Casa Mila and Casa Batlló, and marvel at his unfinished masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia. After all that sight-seeing a shady spot in one of Barcelona's numerous cafés provides the perfect vantage point for watching the colourful street performers on Las Ramblas.

Here on the French Riviera, Cannes is known for its beaches, chic boutiques and elegant nightspots around La Croisette promenade. It was a sleepy harbour until 1834, when Lord Brougham stayed here on his travels to Italy and began its transformation into a fashionable resort. It’s now home to the famous film festival and the immortalised handprints of A-list movie stars.

Tours are from Livorno. Allow yourself to be awed by one of Tuscany's Renaissance treasures, Florence. With red tiled roofs and magnificent architecture, this is the romantic capital of Italy. Marvel at the mosaic façade and stained glass of the Duomo and soak up the charming atmosphere of Santa Croce Square, with its colourful frescoes, shops, and quaint cafés, and stroll across the bustling 14th century Ponte Vecchio Bridge. Explore the splendours of charming Pisa, and witness the iconic Leaning Tower, the quirky star of the show! The Tower began tilting during the construction in the 12th century and each year leaned a bit more! Support was added in 1810 and the tower has been in the same position ever since.

Ajaccio offers the chance to retrace the renowned footsteps of Napoleon Bonaparte. Visiting the house where he was born, brimming with Bonaparte family documents and portraits, you can ponder the journey that made him one of Europe's most feared and notorious leaders. Admire Tino Rossi harbour - a postcard scene of pastel façades, brightly painted fishing boats and rustling palms - named after the local tenor and film star.

An ancient city, Valencia is an exhilarating mix of history, art and intellectual activity. Brave the 200 steps to the summit of the amphitheatre and you'll be rewarded with a scene of orange rooftops and blue-domed churches. Valencia's rich Hispanic culture is visible everywhere in art and architecture reflecting Roman, Visigoth, Moorish, and Aragonese traditions.

Delve into the Picasso Museum or Miró Foundation. Explore the genius of Gaudí too, as you survey the city from Parc Güell, witness the extraordinary Casa Mila and Casa Batlló, and marvel at his unfinished masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia. After all that sight-seeing a shady spot in one of Barcelona's numerous cafés provides the perfect vantage point for watching the colourful street performers on Las Ramblas.