France, Italy and Adriatic

The old port of Alghero has a distinctive Catalan feel that shines through in its old fortifications, most notably in the colourful dome and dominant gothic bell tower of the Church of San Francisco.
The legacy of ‘Little Barcelona’ extends to its culinary delights too. Paella features prominently among the charming bars and restaurants you’ll find in the maze of charming cobbled streets.

This island famed as Napoleon’s birthplace is a perfect summer resort. Explore its fine sandy beaches and deep forests of pine and chestnut, which cover more than half the landscape.

This Sicilian harbour has much to offer in the way of history and beauty. Its museum is noteworthy for its Renaissance masterworks. Nearby, the fashionable resort of Taormina awaits on an optional excursion.

Napoli, as it’s known to Italians, has a little bit of everything – ancient churches and universities, stunning parks, and wonderful restaurants. The Duomo is perhaps one of the most beautiful ancient cathedrals in the world. Take time to explore the Palazzo Reale, a palace built at the turn of the 12th century. Or visit the Museo Archeologico Nazionale to see one of the most comprehensive collections of Greco-Roman artefacts anywhere, including an abundance of mosaics from the buried city of Pompei.

Take a veritable journey through time as you stroll past the Colosseum, custodian of almost 2000 years of history, to the elegant streets of Rome which are home to the top names in fashion.

An authentic, rugged and definitely non-touristy Greek island community, Cephalonia’s unspoilt and timeless allure is a wonderful setting for a true love story – including Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.
The largest of the Ionian islands, Cephalonia is home to just 30,000 residents, living mainly in the coastal towns and resorts. Others live much as they have done for centuries, in remote mountain villages.

Corfu boasts some of the most stunning scenery in the Greek Isles. Drive along the coastline and through the mountainous interior to see the Achilleon Palace built by the Empress Elizabeth, join in an island celebration and feast, or explore the winding streets of Old Town.

Nestled deep in an atmospheric and secluded bay, the fortified city of Kotor in Montenegro is steeped in history. Characterized by winding streets and squares its magic and attraction are undeniable.
Kotor’s ninth-century walls blend into the mountainside by day, but then bathe in light when night falls. Within these dramatic walls lies a town of mazes of walkways and irresistible charm.

Ever visited a 14th century pharmacy? Things have changed a little since then, but it’s well worth a look during your visit to a Franciscan monastery. Don’t froget to stroll along the promenade and medieval city walls.

A little slice of eternal Italy that sits between Slovenia and the Adriatic Coast. Trieste is a charming destination which has been furnished decorously by grandeur and royalty through the centuries.
The heart of the medieval old city and its neo-classical Austrian quarter offer great expressions of this seaport’s colourful past. The food is divine, the culture vibrant, and ambience quite unique.

Zadar is a historic place, with Roman ruins and medieval churches to explore. Meanwhile, the cosmopolitan cafés and restaurants are great places to relax and enjoy the town’s distinct ambience.

A vast third-century compound, The Palace of Diocletianis is Split’s main attraction. Its fortresslike complex houses an arched entrance court, temples, mausoleums, statues and even Egyptian Sphinxes.
Gorge on an emperor’s banquet of delicious local fish and cheeses on Dalmatia’s coast – it’s a fitting feast after exploring the white Roman palace.

For more than 250 years, this was the last stronghold of the Knights of Malta. An optional excursion reveals the Grand Master’s Palace, doubtless one of the Mediterranean’s finest treasures.

Stretch your legs on a palm-lined seafront promenade where stylish shops boast their wares and bar clientele settle back in their chairs with a hard few hours of people-watching ahead. Blissful!