HOT - Epic Mediterranean from Southampton, 13 April 2023 (19 nights)

Dedicated to the tragedy of the Titanic, SeaCity Museum excellently portrays the aftermath through interactive exhibits. Featuring a 1:25 scale model of the ship, visitors learn about life onboard as well as the disaster that deeply affected Southampton in 1912.

Home to over 20 aircraft that were integral to the war effort, Solent Sky Museum is dedicated to the history of the RAF. Southampton itself played a large role in producing Supermarine Spitfires, which you’ll learn all about here.

If you’re looking to escape the busy port city, the New Forest National Park is just a short distance away with native New Forest ponies and lush heathland. Visitors can also catch events, activities and workshops throughout the year.

As Southampton’s most important historic building, this restored home holds over 800 years of history after having numerous owners. Now a museum, it showcases many artefacts once belonging to past residents of Southampton, as well as a Tudor House Café.

Since opening in 1939, this free art gallery has showcased exhibitions of sculptures, photography and traditional paintings. Thanks to an ever-changing programme of activities, you’ll find something here that the whole family will enjoy.

Though this aquarium may be small, it features numerous rooms dedicated to the marine life in the Atlantic Ocean. Most notable is the Nautilus, a room submerged in the sea for optimal viewing of sharks, rays, octopus and many species of fish.

Dedicated to the science of human beings, Domus boasts more than 150 interactive features to educate and entertain visitors. Discover numerous exhibitions covering genetics, evolution and modern medicine, as well as the Open Laboratory space.

One of the most popular beaches in the city, Riazor beach stretches along the promenade with restaurants, bars and cafés in close proximity. You’ll find both golden sand and rockier areas, as well as calm water and waves perfect for surfing.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009, the Tower of Hercules once served as a lighthouse and landmark for La Coruna harbour. Visitors can explore the basement and venture up 234 steps to the balcony to admire the vast views.

Built in 1665 to protect the city from British attacks, Castro Fortress is now a flourishing tourist attraction with lush gardens to explore and breath-taking views after an active walk to the top. The castle itself is free to explore, making it especially well worth a stop.

Just a short ferry ride from Vigo are the trio of islands boasting some of the best, pristine beaches. Nature lovers will adore the untouched setting where you can hike the popular Monte Faro route, swim in the crystal clear sea, sunbathe and relax in paradise.

Close to Castro Fortress is Parque del Monte Castro. While many years ago the area was once filled with soldiers on parade, you’ll now find picturesque gardens and terraces, as well as a children’s playground.

Vigo’s most popular beach for families and kids, Samil is not just a place to sunbathe and swim! With pools, basketball courts, a skating rink, eateries and parks, there is always a buzz around this beach. Close to the centre, it is easily accessible and spacious.

The building was initially designed as a jail and courthouse, though is now home to numerous exhibition halls, showcasing a variety of mediums from sculpture, architecture, film, design, fashion and more. Visitors are also able to book a stay at the museum itself!

This new-generation theatre provides an immersive journey through the history and culture of Malta, featuring 3D films, moving seats, water and air blasts and even leg ticklers. Fun for all ages, Malta 5D is the most unique way to discover Malta!

Tucked away on a quiet street, the Manoel Theatre is a hidden gem of fascinating history and beautiful architecture. Whether you’re taking a tour of the theatre or enjoying a musical performance, visitors will fall in love with its elegance and grandeur.

St John’s Co-Cathedral is considered one of the best examples of traditional Baroque architecture in Europe and features memorials dedicated to knights covering the floor and ceiling as well as the stunning Caravaggio’s painting.

Built between the 16th and 18th centuries, the Grandmaster’s Palace is an iconic piece of Maltese heritage, housing the President’s office and a museum where visitors can enjoy an audio guide to get to know the history behind the impressive armoury.

Covering the history and mythology of Malta, the National Museum of Archaeology is a must visit for those looking to discover ancient artefacts. This highly informative museum is where you’ll find the renowned Sleeping Lady, Venus of Malta and more.

At the end of a busy day of exploring, the Upper Barrakka Gardens are just what you need to wind down and relax in the capital. Offering unrivalled views of the city, these gardens date back to 1661 and are home to beautiful statues and plaques.

The Cathedral of Messina was consecrated in 1197 and stands in the Piazza del Duomo. Its peculiarity is the different architectural styles that distinguish it: in fact, Romanesque, Norman, Gothic, Neo-Gothic and Baroque elements coexist.

The Astronomical Clock of Messina is an integral part of the city's Cathedral. It was built in 1933 at the behest of Archbishop Angelo Paino during the restoration of the bell tower and is freely inspired by the one in Strasbourg.

The Piazza del Duomo is one of the central points of Messina: here you can admire the Duomo, the Astronomical Clock and the Statue of the Immaculate Conception, a white marble sculpture created by the sculptor Giuseppe Buceti between 1757 and 1758.

The Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani rises between via Cesare Battisti and via Garibaldi on the remains of a pagan temple. The beginning of the construction dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries and boasts a clear Byzantine style with Arab-Norman influences.

The Regional Museum of Messina was established in 1806 and since then illustrates the figurative art of Messina from the 12th to the 18th century. You can admire the Resurrection of Lazarus, a famous painting by Caravaggio, and several works by Antonello da Messina.

Dating back to the 11th century, the historic Salerno Duomo was beautifully restored in the 1930s. Constructed in a Neapolitan Baroque/Rococo style, this picturesque cathedral features a bell tower (that dates to the 12th century), beautiful artwork in the interior and a Byzantine bronze door.

The Arechi Castle is a prominent mediaeval fortress that overlooks the city and the Gulf of Salerno from a height of 300 metres. The reason it is called Arechi is because the Lombard Duke Arechi II has historically been linked to the building of this fortress.

The Promenade Trieste, Salerno's most picturesque location, has become known as a popular landmark in the city. Locals and tourists alike love this 2km long promenade, due to the variety of shops, bars and restaurants that line it. The perfect place to unwind with a tantalising drink, spending time along the Promenade Trieste is a wonderful activity to enjoy during your stop there.

Found in the heart of Rome, Vatican City is the smallest independent state in Europe at just 0.44km² with a population of 1,000 people. It acts as headquarters to the Roman Catholic Church and is home to The Apostolic Palace - the Pope’s residence –the Vatican Museums, St Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel.

Within Vatican City is one of the biggest churches in the world; St. Peter’s Basilica. Accommodating up to 20,000 people, this is where the Pope delivers services. Its 136 metre high dome was designed by Michelangelo, and was completed in 1614.

The colosseum was opened in 80 A.D. with 100 days of exciting games. It was mostly used for gladiatorial combat and fights with animals until around the 6th century when it began to fall into disrepair. It was then used to store building materials until the 18th century, when the papacy decided it should be preserved. As it stands now, however, more than two-thirds of the structure has been destroyed.

Known the world-over for its elaborate, 15th century artwork courtesy of Michelangelo, Botticelli, Luca, and Perugino, the Sistine Chapel is where new Popes are elected and ordained. It is located within Vatican City, inside The Apostolic Palace.

This Michelangelo sculpture is located inside St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. It depicts the body of Jesus after he has been crucified, being held by the Virgin Mary. The statue was originally commissioned by Jean de Billheres – a French cardinal – as a memorial for his tomb.

This is one of the most iconic buildings in Rome. There are myths surrounding the building of the original Pantheon, but the structure we see today was built in 120 A.D. by Emperor Hadrian. It was created as a Pagan temple to “honour all Gods” – which is the translation of “Pantheon”. In the year 609 it was converted to a Christian church, although it is still widely known as the Pantheon.

This popular public square is located where the (now fallen) Stadium of Domitian once stood, in 86 A.D. Since then it has been developed into a social gathering spot, adorned by three magnificent fountains that were commissioned in the 16 and 17th centuries. These are Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, Fontana del Moro, and Fontana del Nettuno.

Pointe de la Parata is where you’ll find the perfect spot to watch the sunset, as well as the Tower of Parata, a ruined Genoese tower built in the 1550’s. A walking route will take you to the best viewpoints as well as the clear, blue sea where you can take a dip.

Situated in the heart of Ajaccio, the Fesch Museum is dedicated to fine arts, particularly Early Italian and Renaissance pieces. With one of France’s largest collections of Italian works, the Fesch Museum is a must visit for art-enthusiasts.

The home in which the great and controversial leader, Napoléon, was born, Maison Bonaparte is must visit in Ajaccio. Now preserved as a museum dedicated to memorabilia of the family, this house provides great insight into one of the biggest names in history.

Found in Ajaccio’s town hall is an ornate gallery showcasing paintings, sculptures, medals and other memorabilia connected to Napoleon and donated by the Bonaparte family. Most notable is the full-length portrait of Napoleon himself.

Officially the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption of Ajaccio, this Baroque-style church was where Napoleon was baptised in 1771. While the exterior is modest and subtle, visitors will find rich, grand décor within including a stunning organ.

Combining both prehistoric and modern finds, the Archaeological Museum of Alicante boasts five separate galleries housing numerous audio and visual exhibits. Visitors will find artefacts from Iberian cultures, plus the Roman and Middle Ages.

The oldest active church in Alicante, the Basilica of Santa Maria is in a Valencian Gothic style and a must for any architecture enthusiast. The main entrance is an impressive Baroque sculpture, while the interior includes a golden 18th-century Rococo style main altar.

The Old Town of Alicante has many staircases and winding streets, perfect for a bit of exercise, but also to bring you to the heart of the city. Live like a true local and discover some of the finest tapas bars, vibrant cottages and quirky antique art shops.

Alicante’s main beach is hugely popular for its close proximity to the city’s promenade and ample facilities. On this sand beach you’ll find many facilities including toilets, showers and snack bars, while the water is great for swimming and paddle boating.

At the heart of Alicante is the city’s most iconic landmark, Santa Bárbara Castle. You can make the journey 160 meters up on foot, by elevator or by car and bus to discover more about the ancient castle, and admire the sweeping views of the marina.

One of the oldest and most vibrant districts of Lisbon, Alfama is the place to be for artisan eateries, quirky boutiques and Fado bars. It’s best explored on foot or by the tram to experience as many of the attractions and highlights as possible.

One of the most visited sites in Lisbon, the Jerónimos Monastery was completed in the seventeenth century. In 1983 UNESCO declared it as a World Heritage Site and it’s certainly a must visit to admire the beautiful architecture both inside and out.

Here visitors will discover over 450 different species of marine life, including sharks, rays, penguins and otters. Cruisers of all ages will love following the route around the central aquarium to learn about the major ecosystems of the ocean.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, Torre de Belém was built to protect Lisbon from attackers from the sea. Despite its role, the fort was decorated with lavish carvings and details, which are best viewed from the banks of the Rio Tejo.

Tram 28 is the classic Lisbon mode of transportation – rattling around the narrow streets in a bright yellow tram that dates back to the 1930’s. Hop on and take one of the best tours of Lisbon, passing highlights and attractions along the way.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural landscape, Sintra is a romantic destination to escape to for the day. Featuring enchanting palaces and rolling hills, this town is easily accessible from Lisbon via a regular train service.

Established in 200 BC, Castelo de Sao Jorge is one of the biggest highlights of Lisbon. Get to know the city’s unique and fascinating history, explore the imposing walls, wander the shady gardens and admire the vast views from the Observation Terrace.

Dedicated to the tragedy of the Titanic, SeaCity Museum excellently portrays the aftermath through interactive exhibits. Featuring a 1:25 scale model of the ship, visitors learn about life onboard as well as the disaster that deeply affected Southampton in 1912.

Home to over 20 aircraft that were integral to the war effort, Solent Sky Museum is dedicated to the history of the RAF. Southampton itself played a large role in producing Supermarine Spitfires, which you’ll learn all about here.

If you’re looking to escape the busy port city, the New Forest National Park is just a short distance away with native New Forest ponies and lush heathland. Visitors can also catch events, activities and workshops throughout the year.

As Southampton’s most important historic building, this restored home holds over 800 years of history after having numerous owners. Now a museum, it showcases many artefacts once belonging to past residents of Southampton, as well as a Tudor House Café.

Since opening in 1939, this free art gallery has showcased exhibitions of sculptures, photography and traditional paintings. Thanks to an ever-changing programme of activities, you’ll find something here that the whole family will enjoy.