Italy, France And Spain

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.

Better known as Frances main naval base than as a cruise port, Toulon has unexpected charm and is all the better for not being a major tourist destination as you can wander through the cobbled streets of its delightful old town untroubled by crowds. Look out for the superb maritime and art museums, the magnificent Romanesque cathedral and Le Marche, where fresh flowers, fruit and vegetables are bought to market every day. Ship buffs also have the bonus of watching the comings and goings of the French warships around the harbour. The best view of the old town and the harbour is from Mont Faron which overlooks both - take the funicular up from Boulevard Amiral Vence.

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.

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.