Adriatic & Western Mediterranean from Rome with Stay, 9 August 2025 (16 nights)

The Taurine Baths - a Roman archaeological site dating back to the 1st century BC - are located around 4km from the urban centre of Civitavecchia. There is a legend that says the baths came to be after a bull scraped at the ground before a fight, and in doing so uncovered a hot water spring.

Aquafelix Waterpark is ideal for a day of fun with your family and friends. It is the largest water park in central Italy, and boasts areas dedicated to both adults and children.

The construction of the Michelangelo Fort began in 1508 and ended in 1537. The structure of the fortress, in true Renaissance style, has the shape of a quadrilateral with a tower in each corner, and the central tower has an octagonal layout. Its creation was ordered by Pope Julius II, to defend the Port of Civitavecchia against pirates and any other hostile encounters.

The Cathedral of San Francesco d'Assisi is the most important church of Civitavecchia. Dating back to the 17th century and completely restored in 1950, it has a Baroque style and stands on the remains of a previous Franciscan church.

Founded by the Phoenicians before being all but destroyed in 1706 by Louis XIV, this once mighty fortress dominates the bay with fantastic views out over the city and coast. Nowadays you’ll find a pleasant stroll in the gardens and a gorgeous waterfall.

Full of artisan shops and charming streets, Nice’s old town district is the perfect place to sample some Socca - a local salad Niçoise speciality made with chickpeas. A wander around the flower market is a must too, with intoxicating smells and dazzling colours.

Named after Belorussian artist Marc Chagall, this art museum boasts his 17 “Biblical Message” paintings, and most of the other works follow this religious theme too. Make sure to follow the audio guide to truly immerse yourself in his works and their tales.

Located in a beautiful 17th-century Genoese villa, the Matisse Museum is a must for all art fans. The highlights are the paintings of Henri Mattisse himself, with which you can follow his life through his works, as well as temporary exhibitions.

Situated in Nice’s old town, La Sainte-Réparate Cathedral was built in the 17th century in a predominantly Baroque style. The ceilings and walls are decorated with gold, marble and a myriad of colourful hues throughout as well as carvings and artworks.

Named after the English holiday makers for whom the French Riviera became a popular destination in the 19th century, this gorgeous seafront boulevard is lined with pretty palm trees and luxury hotels, and is now the place for a pleasant seaside stroll.

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.

The perfect place to take a romantic evening walk or find fantastic hidden gems, Valencia’s Old Town is made up of numerous cultural influences and historic architecture. Here, you’ll find the Central Market, many tapas bars and a number of tourist hotspots.

Dedicated to the science and culture of the world, The City of the Arts and Sciences is home to five main attractions: the Hemisfèric, the Umbracle, the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum, the Oceanográfico and the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía.

Rising above the rooftops of the city’s old town is Valencia’s bell tower. Its striking exterior design has become a famous symbol, while the interior can be explored via 207 steps to the top, where you’ll find a gorgeous bird’s eye view of the landscape.

After diverting the river Turia to prevent flooding, Jardín del Turia was created in the riverbed. It has been developed over many years to become one of the largest urban parks in Spain. Here you’ll find Gulliver kids’ park, Exposition Bridge and Zoo Valencia.

Built between 1482 and 1548, La Lonja de la Seda is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the Valencia Silk Exchange and is now a stunning landmark to explore, with intricate carvings, sculptures and twisting columns.

As the largest aquarium in Europe with over 500 species, the Oceanográfico has no shortage of marine life to discover. With aquariums dedicated to numerous ecosystems as well as a dolphin habitat and an underwater restaurant, the Oceanográfico is a must!

At the heart of Valencia is the cathedral, an iconic landmark showcasing a variety of architectural styles including Baroque, Romanesque and Gothic. Visitors receive an audio guide to discover the history of this stunning cathedral while they explore.

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.

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.

Dating back to the 12th century, Basilica di San Nicola, was originally built to house the remains and relics of St Nicholas (popularly known as Santa Claus), which were stolen around that time from Myra in Turkey. The arrival of the important relics is re-enacted every year in May, when locals arrive to the port by boat with an icon-style painting of the saint. This basilica is an important pilgrimage among Roman Catholics and Orthodox Christians.

Although less famous, many say that Bari Cathedral is actually a more important building than Basilica di San Nicola in Bari. It was built in the 12th-13th centuries, on the site of another cathedral that was destroyed by King William I of Sicily in the mid-12th century. It is dedicated to San Sabino, whose relics were brought to the area in the 9th century and are now stored in the cathedral. Some relics of Saint Columba of Ireland are also kept here.

It’s believed that the original castle structure was built around 1130-1135, by the Norman King Roger II of Sicily, only to be destroyed by William I of Sicily in 1156. Then King Frederick II of Sicily rebuilt it in the 13th century. Today visitors can explore some of the castle, where art exhibitions and events are often held. There is also a permanent collection of plaster cast replicas of 11th to 17th century artefacts.

Known locally as Bari Vecchia, the old part of the city is full of quaint streets and charming architecture. It provides the quintessential Italian atmosphere of narrow roads, children playing football, laundry hanging overhead, and the smells of delicious food being prepared. The streets of Old Bari can lead you to or away from the main square (Piazza Mercantile), where attractions such as the Basilica di San Nicola are located.

The main square of the old town, Piazza Mercantile is a vibrant social hub of eateries and bars and has been since medieval times. In around the 14th century traders came here to sell their wares – although today’s marketplace is not located here – and it quickly became the place to eat, drink, and be merry. There is some important architecture surrounding the square too, such as the 13th Colonna Infame, and the 16th century Palazzo del Sedile (old town hall and clock tower).

Otherwise known as the Colonna Infame – or infamous column – this menacing lion statue and column are situated in one corner of Piazza Mercantile. The lion wears an inscribed collar reading ‘Custos Iusticiae’ – or ‘Keeper of Justice’, and represents law and order, and protection of the city. The lion dates back to around the first century AD, but the column was not installed until the 16th century. It is believed that debtors and other small-time criminals were once tied to the column to be publicly shamed and ridiculed.

As one of the most well-preserved sites of Roman architecture in the world, it’s no wonder this fortress is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Now home to many shops, restaurants and apartments, the palace is a beautiful place to wander, day or night.

Home to breath-taking waterfalls and lush, thriving forest, Krka National Park is a must visit for lovers of the outdoors. Discover over 800 species of plant life, over 200 species of bird and 18 species of bat, as well as the tiny island of Visovac.

The central square of the palace, Peristil Square was once the perfect space for opera theatre and now provides the scenery for a delicious cup of coffee. Towering above is the 57-metre belfry where, once climbing the steps, visitors will find gorgeous views across town.

This excellent example of beautifully-preserved ancient Roman architecture is where you’ll find the bell tower, treasury and even a crypt. Built in the 4th century, it houses many artefacts, sculptures , carvings and murals.

For breath-taking views out across the city, Marjan Park is the place to be. The walk up from Old Town Split is fairly easy, and visitors will find a café as well as the lookout point. From here, you can continue the hike to the Church of St Nicholas, a beautiful, small stone church.

Built in 1100 AD, this beautiful Romanesque bell tower stands at 60 metres tall with sweeping views of the city and mountains. Though this landmark may not be for the faint of heart, climbing the many steps is well worth it to admire the landscape at the top.

A must visit for fans of the hit series, Game of Thrones, Klis Fortress is well worth a visit just for the spectacular views alone. With over two thousand years of history, the ruins are fascinating to explore for all ages and provide fantastic photo opportunities.

Situated in the 19th-century Cosmacendi Palace, the Museum of Ancient Glass houses stunning collections of Roman glassware, from jars and vials to goblets and flasks. Visitors can also purchase their own replicas of these delicate pieces in the souvenir shop.

Built between the 1st century BC and the 3rd century AD, the Roman Forum ruins were the centre of daily life. Most notable is the decorative column once used as a ‘pillar of shame’ to punish criminals, as well as the remains of the Capitolium.

Founded in the 9th century, the unusually-shaped Church of St Donat no longer serves as a church but holds frequent events and concerts because of its excellent acoustics. Visitors can take a look around inside, though it’s impressive structure is best admired from outside.

Founded in 1066, St Mary’s Church is an understated yet stunning piece of architecture in Zadar. The adjoining treasury contains an exhibition of religious art, and is beautifully preserved by nuns of the church.

The most impressive of the walls and gates is the Land Gate, the main entrance into the city, built in 1543. Zadar’s walls and gates meant that the city remained uncaptured, and are now a great way to explore the surroundings on foot.

In Trieste, northern Italy, between Barcola and Grignano lies a castle from the 19th century called Miramare Castle. The Miramare Castle is without a doubt one of Trieste's top attractions because of its breathtaking setting that extends into the Gulf of Trieste. It was the home of the archduke Ferdinand Maximilian Joseph Habsburg-Lorraine and his wife Charlotte of Belgium, and was constructed between 1856 and 1860.

The centre of Trieste is Piazza Unità d'Italia (Unity of Italy Square). At the base of San Giusto Hill, it is a popular plaza that faces the Gulf of Trieste and is regarded as having the largest waterfront in Europe with an area of 12,280 square metres.

A modern art gallery, the Revoltella Museum (or Palazzo Revoltella), was constructed between 1853 and 1858 following the plans of Berlin architect Friedrich Hitzig. The museum displays historical artefacts and furniture that belonged to the museum's founder as well as artistic and cultural treasures that, along with the interior fittings and the palace's architecture, serve as records of the Second Empire's varied taste.