Western Mediterranean from Southampton, 12 October 2022 (18 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.

Built between 1722 and 1838, the iconic yellow-domed Cadiz Cathedral is an impressive example of Baroque-neoclassical construction. When taking a look around inside, be sure to check out the wood-carved choir, and listen out for the sound effects in the crypt below.

This free-to-enter monument is a real hidden gem on La Caleta beach. The exterior of this 17th-century fortress is impressive itself, and visitors will find art exhibitions inside as well as craft workshops and concerts.

Filled with swaying palm trees, blooming flora and lush, green fauna, Genovés Park is a brilliant place to escape the faster pace of the city. Boasting plants from all over the world as well as waterfalls and wildlife, people of all ages will love this tranquil garden.

It’s no wonder Playa La Caleta is Cadiz’ most popular beach. Visitors will find everything they need close to the golden sand, including restaurants, bars and flamenco clubs, as well as toilets and showers.

On a small islet at the end of La Caleta beach sits the Castle of San Sebastian. Construction began in 1706 to fortify the bays defence, and in 1985 the structure was declared a cultural landmark. Explore the grounds and discover the long, rich history of this well-preserved fortress.

Visiting Las Ramblas is an absolute must when in Barcelona. Visitors can experience the weird and the wonderful, from the Museu de l’Erotica to the Miró Mural, in between trying a range of authentic tapas bars and cafes before a much needed siesta.

Although the Sagrada Familia is not technically complete, it’s still an impressive sight to behold. Designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, this spectacular Basilica hosts many masses, events and a place to simply marvel at in wonder.

Home of the cultural heritage of Barcelona, the Barcelona City History Museum manages several sites of interest including archaeological sites and historic houses. Visitors will discover the Roman colony, prehistoric Spain, Barcelona’s Jewish community and more.

Comprising of vibrant gardens and beautiful architecture, Park Güell was designed by Antoni Gaudí and officially opened in 1926. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding showcase of Gaudí’s genius design, Park Güell makes a wonderful place to go for a walk.

Another one of Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces, Casa Batllo is a truly eye-catching building to explore. Visitors are able to explore this fantastic showcase of the designer’s work, and even enjoy live music and other events on the roof terrace.

This modernist building was the last residence to be designed by Antoni Gaudí and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the building with an audio guide, and even enjoy rooftop shows on a romantic evening.

One of Barcelona’s oldest beaches, Sant Sebastià Beach features everything you need for a fantastic day in the sun. With indoor and outdoor pools, changing rooms and amenities for lounging, visitors can go for a dip, enjoy an ice cream and find dinner all in one area.

With capacity for over 99,000 people, Camp Nou is the largest stadium in Spain and cathedral to the Catalans’ second religion- the beautiful game! Visitors can catch an exciting game of football here or take a guided or un-guided tour of the grounds.

One for all the family to enjoy, the Aquarium of Genoa is the largest in Italy. It was designed by local architect Renzo Piano, and built in 1992 to mark the 500 year anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ arrival to the New World. Within its more than 70 tanks live around 600 different animal species, and 200 species of plants. You’ll find representations of the Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic, and Caribbean Sea at the aquarium.

Originally called the Strada Maggiore, or Strada Nuova, this street was named after famous general Giuseppe Garibaldi in 1882. Over the 16th and 17th centuries the wealthy nobility of the area set about restoring and reforming existing dated mansions, which resulted in the creation of more than ten fabulous palazzi (palaces). The street became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2006, and today the beautiful buildings act as banks, shops, offices, the Town Hall, and clubs.

The Cattedrale di San Lorenzo was first built in the late 11th century. It houses the ashes of St John the Baptist, the city’s patron saint, which are said to have arrived in Genoa at the end of the First Crusade. Over the years the building has suffered destruction and consequent repair works, which has led to the juxtaposition of varying architectural styles. There is evidence of Romanesque, Gothic, Mannerist, and Byzantine style which makes for a beautiful and intriguing image.

The city’s main square is named after Raffaele de Ferrari, the Duke of Galliera who donated a large sum of money to modernise Genoa in the mid-19th century. There are both modern and historic buildings surrounding the square, and it also boasts a beautiful fountain in the middle which many people enjoy sitting at with a gelato in hand. Piazza de Ferrari is a popular meeting place among tourists and locals alike, and is also frequently used for events.

It is believed that Genoa’s lighthouse dates back to the 12th century. It has long represented Genoa, proudly displaying the city’s coat of arms since the mid-14th century – a feature that can be seen on many ancient nautical maps. The signalling light was once fuelled by fragrant plants such as juniper, heather, and briar root, until (olive) oil lamps were introduced in around 1345. The lighthouse has seen many keepers over the centuries, one of whom was Antonio Columbus – Christopher Columbus’ uncle.

Today, the Palazzo Reale is a spectacular national museum displaying a range of 17th, 18th and 19th century furniture, art, and other artefacts. It was constructed for the Balbi family in 1618, sold to the Durazzo family in 1677, and then became the royal House of Savoy’s property in 1823. Since 1919 the palace has belonged to the state, and has welcomed visitors. The Gilded Hall of Mirrors and collection of 17th century art are particularly special.

Le Strade Nuove is Italian for ‘the new street’, and in Genoa this collectively refers to the magnificent Via Garibaldi, Via Cairoli, and Via Balbi. This area of the city is home to some exquisite mansions, which in 1576 were registered on the Palazzi dei Rolli – a list of palaces. Being on this list meant that when important visitors came to Genoa, the wealthy families who owned the mansions would take turns in hosting them.

Many say that the activity at the historic port of Genoa is what inspired local boy Christopher Columbus in his childhood to go on to undertake discovery voyages – one of which would lead to European settlement in the Americas. Today, a walk around the bustling port can transport you to years gone by, as you imagine the travellers, trade, and business that went on way back when just as it does now. Gaze at historic buildings and busy streets, many of which were revamped in the 1990s by Italian architect Renzo Piano.

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.

The Cathedral of Sorrento, located on the Bishop's Plaza (or piazza del vescovado in Italian), was built on the remains of an ancient Greek temple. Construction began in the 10th century and the church was consecrated in 1113. The neo-Gothic facade dates back to the 20th century.

Marina Grande is the ancient fishing village of Sorrento. It’s been used as a film set for several Italian films in the 1950s, and is now a tourist resort that offers incredible views of the Gulf of Naples, Mount Vesuvius, and the Capo di Sorrento coast.

Piazza Tasso is the main square of Sorrento. It is named after Torquato Tasso, a 16th-century Italian poet who penned the well-known epic poem, 'Jerusalem Delivered", to which a statue is dedicated. Another statue, located in the centre of the square, depicts Antonino da Campagna - the patron saint of the city.

Positano is one of the most fascinating and attractive stretches of the Sorrento peninsula - and indeed the entire Amalfi coast. It is located between Capo Sottile and Punta Germano. One stand out attraction here is the luxurious Roman Villa from the 1st century BC. This is believed to have been built for a freed slave called Posides Claudi Caesari, and can be visited by tourists today.

Found in the heart of Palma, La Seu is a stunning Catalan Gothic style cathedral, with renowned architect Antoni Gaudí contributing to its intricate design. Featuring 61 stained-glass windows, the building flooding with coloured light inside is simply a must.

Built in the 14th century, Bellver Castle is surrounded by lush pine woods and houses an insightful museum of Palma’s municipal history. Visitors will love taking a walk around the moat before admiring the view out over the city and bay from the rooftop.

The quaint, winding cobbled streets of Casco Antiguo are the perfect place to lose yourself in the culture of Palma. Discover gothic bookshops, antique boutiques and must-see tourist sites such as La Seu and Es Baluard Contemporary Art Museum.

Showcasing a wide range of art throughout history, Es Baluard Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art is a must visit to discover the cultural heritage of Mallorca. With works by Picasso, Magritte and more, you’re bound to find your new favourite piece.

One especially for the animal-lovers, a trip to Apes Den is a must to get up close to the only free-roaming primates in Europe. Located at two cable-car stations, these monkeys are inquisitive, playful and curious and will keep you entertained for hours.

1,400 feet above the sea, this is one of the best attractions of Gibraltar and a must visit to spot its fascinating wildlife, such as the Barbary Macaques. Take a walk, admire the views and get up close with nature – but keep an eye on your belongings!

The Great Siege Tunnels are a must visit for history enthusiasts for their vital role played during the Great Siege on Gibraltar by Spain and France. Taking a tour of these impressive tunnels is a great way to get to know the history of this territory.

For the adventurous and determined, the Mediterranean Steps is a challenging hike that rewards you with stunning views at 421 metres above sea level. Admire the many species of flora and fauna, as well as the wildlife, such as Barbary Macaques and Barbary Partridges.

After being linked to numerous myths and legends throughout time, Saint Michael’s Cave is teeming with fascinating history. Found within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, it houses an auditorium for shows, drama, music and spectacular light shows.

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.