Western Mediterranean Cruise

In Cadiz you enter another world of different cultures brought together. La Giralda the beautiful Gothic cathedral, is in Sevilles historic Jewish quarter Santa Cruz which also has the whitewashed houses and exquisitely coloured bougainvillea that everyone associates with this lovely city. Try walking the narrow lanes to find hidden gems along way before stopping for some locally made wine and tapas.

The Catalan capital is one of Spain’s favourite cities. Visit Antoni Gaudi’s inspiring La Sagrada Familia with its ornate spires, explore aromatic food markets full of locally grown cured meats and vegetables or head to the beautiful beaches within walking distance of the city centre. Why not explore the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, which offers a stunning view over the city and houses Spain’s largest collection of Catalan art?

The tiny Principality of Monaco has a fairy-tale palace, millionaire ambiance and movie star good looks. Monte Carlo surrounded by yachts bobbing in La Condamine harbour is the jewel in the crown. Sip a Monaco cocktail of grenadine, lemonade and while you soak up the sheer ambiance of the place. Visit the Prince's Palace, the Oceanographic Museum or the ‘must see’ when in Monte Carlo the Grand Casino.

Surrounded by coastal villages and rural countryside, La Spezia is a busy, bustling city. It offers good-value restaurants and some renowned museums. The colourful fishing villages of Cinque Terre are easily accessible by train, and you can walk along the coast path that connects them to enjoy a stunning view of the sea.

Corsica is an island of rocky outcroppings and sandy beaches, with secret trails that lead inland over fields and through lazy villages. In Ajaccio, visit Napoleon Bonaparte's house, containing original furniture of Corsica's most famous son. Buy a wedge of tangy cheese at the market, and in the mountains, delight in the scent of sun-warmed thyme.

Cartagena is a city of contrasts between the old and new, between poverty and wealth, between legend and reality. The 17th century walled Old Town, and fortress are stunning World Heritage Sites, offering an insight into the old legends of this city. The colourful restored Spanish buildings line the streets of Old Town, with areas of immense poverty and round the corner, areas of extreme wealth. This city is one that will surprise and sadden you, intrigue and amaze you.

They say the Rock of Gibraltar crouches over the sea Sphinx-like facing Africa. Many countries have fought for control of this passage between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, resulting in a vibrant cultural melting pot. Narrow steep lanes are busy with English tourists, veiled Moroccan women in caftans, and Spanish residents. Stroll below the white cliffs among a profusion of palm, pine, and cypress. Go below to Gibraltar’s caves, or up above to see the Rock’s Barbary apes.