Lisbon to Civitavecchia

A glorious mosaic of beauty, freedom and authenticity, Portugal’s capital is a stirring artwork of a city. Known for the seven hills it spreads across, and its stirring fado music, Lisbon is a pastel-coloured blend of houses and beautiful tile artworks - and this creative city strikes a perfect harmony between natural and manmade beauty. Stroll along Alfama's steep, cobbled streets as you explore one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods - where each house and door could be its own photograph. Look for the decorative tiles, with the distinctive blues and whites of Azulejo ceramics, and visit the dedicated museum to learn more. Afterwards, wind up to São Jorge Castle, where views out across Lisbon’s red rooftops unravel. Just one of many majestic viewpoints, you can also seek out Miradouro da Graça for perhaps Lisbon's finest panorama, with the copper-coloured suspension bridge stretching over sparkling water beyond the sea of buildings. The elegant Tower of Belém rises in the Tagus estuary and is a historic defender of these shores. The grand, carved cloisters of Jerónimos Monastery spread out close by, and there's another UNESCO recognised location close by at Sintra, where a colourful town is set amid thick gardens and towering mountains - capped by the royal Pena Palace. Later, relax and take a quick break to drink Ginjinha, a cherry liqueur made from chocolate cups instead of coffee. Lisboetas have a sweet tooth, and the famous Pastel de Nata's crumbling pastry and caramelised-custard topping is the essential accompaniment to any coffee stop.

Sprawl out and relax across thick wedges of glorious, golden sands, in Portugal’s sun-worshipping paradise. Portimão is a beachy heaven and a perfect encapsulation of the Algarve’s Atlantic appeals, offering easy access to the wonderful Praia da Rocha. Head straight for the long and wide expanse of this famous beach, where you can kick back and enjoy soft, honey-coloured sands and gentle waves rolling ashore. A spectacular and spacious sandy expanse – located at the point where the Arade River unloads into the Atlantic – relax, or wander the wooden boardwalk to a string of neighbouring beaches, as you explore among dramatic, tank-like rock formations. Taste juicy hauls of sardines, cooked over open fires, with glasses of wine pressed from the vineyards nearby - as you lavish under the sunshine of the Algarve’s prime holiday region. Surrounded by offbeat fishing villages, stunning coastline and quaintly tiled old towns, there is a rich medley of life, culture and flavours to indulge in. Attractive mosaics pattern the scenic Ribeirinha promenade, breathing new life into Portimão’s rugged old docks and creating a charming riverside stroll that leads to the showpiece beach. Elsewhere, the arches and sea-eroded limestone stacks of the monumental Ponta da Piedade coastline are close by, or you can make for Silves, a historical former capital of the Kingdom of the Algarve, crowned with a soaring sandy castle. The Moorish trading outpost of Lagos is also within reach, where you can visit a coastline dotted with gaping sea caves.

More than a hundred watchtowers gaze out across the waves surrounding this ancient Andalusian city. Sprinkled with evocative cobbled side streets, you’ll explore 3,000 years’ worth of history, while stumbling across palm-tree lined plazas of shaded coffee sippers. Cadiz claims the mantle of Western Europe’s oldest city, and every piece of architecture - and every wrong turn - offers a chance to discover fascinating new tales. Founded by the Phoenicians in 1100BC, Christopher Columbus used the city as a base for his exploratory, map-defining voyages of 1493 and 1502. The port grew in importance and wealth as Cadiz’s strategic location close to Africa’s northern tip helped it blossom into a centre for New World trade. Catedral de Cádiz, is a display of the city’s wealth and importance, looming spectacularly over the Atlantic’s waves, with cawing seagulls sweeping between its twin bell towers. Inside, treasures from the city’s trading exploits in the West Indies and beyond - which helped fuel the growth of this historically prosperous city – are on display. Enveloped by ocean on almost every side, Cadiz has something of an island feel, and you can cool off from southern Spain’s unrelenting sunshine on the sweeping golden sand beach of Playa Victoria. The two towers of the new El Puente de la Constitución de 1812 mark a contemporary landmark in this most ancient of cities, in the form of a spectacular new road bridge. Torre Tavira, meanwhile, is the most famous of Cadiz’s army of watchtowers, and the highest point in the city. Reach the top for a view of the ocean fringing the city’s expanse, and to learn about the towers - constructed so trading merchants could survey the harbour from their lavish homes. The Central Market is a chaotic place of bartering, where flashing knives dissect fresh fish. Stop in at the orbiting bars to enjoy tapas, freshly prepared with the market’s produce.

Bathing in the sunshine coast’s stunning subtropical climate, and laying out endless spectacular beaches, it’s no surprise that Malaga is one of Spain’s most popular cities. The already impressive cultural appeal of this holiday city has skyrocketed over recent years, and with a storied old town and Moorish fortifications, Malaga has a lot to offer. Nearby, you can recline on the renowned beaches of the Costa del Sol, or venture inland to discover the Moorish treasures of Granada and Cordoba. La Malagueta beach is Malaga’s spacious urban beach, perfect for a sunbathe and a dip in the warm water, before enjoying seaside cocktails or seafood tapas in the restaurants nearby. Malaga and the Costa del Sol may be best known for glorious weather and beaches, but Malaga can now stake a genuine claim as an artistic powerhouse too. Visit the renowned Picasso museum – housed in the artist’s birthplace – before exploring the freshly opened outpost of the Pompidou Centre. The art also spills out onto the streets in the colourful Soho district – splashed with vibrant street paintings. Known as La Manquita – or the one-armed woman – the city’s cathedral rises over the historic old town. Its huge bell tower stands tall, but an accompanying second tower was never completed - hence the nickname. The Alcazaba fortress palace looms over the waterfront and forms a spectacularly preserved remnant from the era when the Moors controlled the Andalucía region. Discover more of the Arabic influence by visiting Granada’s Alhambra palace, or Cordoba’s La Mezquita mosque. Together with Seville’s converted cathedral, the cities form Andalucía’s Golden Triangle of Moorish wonders.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

The bustling resort of Alicante serves not only as the port for Madrid, but is also one of the loveliest vacation spots along Spain’s sunny Costa Blanca. The latter is primarily due to the pleasant climate. Various civilizations have flourished along these shores. Early records indicate that the city dates back to a Carthaginian settlement established in 325 BC. These settlers were followed by the Romans, who equally found the area inviting. Then the Moors ruled this region for five centuries and named the city Al-Akant. Today’s name probably stems from this origin. The city’s occupation by Roman and Moorish forces accounts for a notable and varied heritage. In fact, much of this cultural impact is still apparent today in numerous buildings, names and the cuisine. Much of the city’s economy is based on tourism and agriculture. Wine, raisins, and other products from the surrounding areas find their way into the cargo holds of ships bound for worldwide destinations. Sun-worshippers arrive in droves to enjoy the guaranteed sunshine. Long stretches of beach add to the attraction and lend it to sports and leisure activities. Old and new Alicante meet near the city center, with the newest sections featuring modern hotels, top restaurants, and exclusive shops. The older sections offer such interesting sites as the Castillo Santa Barbara, the Church of Santa Maria, San Nicolas Cathedral, and several fine museums. The Museum of 20th Century Art displays works by Picasso, Dali, and Tàpies. Alicante is a fine city to wander, making a stop now and then for a refreshing beverage at an open-air café. Pier Information Your ship will dock at either Estacion Maritima or Pier 14, approximately one half mile from town. Taxis are generally not available on the pier, unless requested in advance. Shopping Leather shoes, perfumed soap, nougat, and regional fragrances are all nice mementos. Shop at Corte Ingles Department Store and in shops located around the Town Hall. The local currency is the euro. Cuisine Casual dining can be found in rustic eateries in the Old Town. Spanish cuisine is delicious, but can be spicy. Try the tapas served traditionally in local bars. These snacks consist of olives, nuts, and small pieces of sausage, and taste especially good with a glass of local wine. Other Sites Old Quarter The town’s Old Quarter features a labyrinth of winding streets. The character of old Spain is very much in evidence here. Church of Santa Maria The façade of the 14th-century church is a swirl of Baroque decoration. The Castle of Santa Barbara This castle dominates Alicante from atop the 620-foot-high Benacantil Hill. From here, one can enjoy views of the city and the Mediterranean. The top can be reached by car or via an elevator.

Spain's third largest city basks in a self-assured glow of its very own - not least because of the glorious sunshine that illuminates striking architecture and sweeping beaches. In this city of contrasts, you can discover the Holy Grail in the confines of the cathedral, before heading out to the City of Arts and Sciences' sci-fi vision of architectural ambition. The city crackles with energy all year round, but reaches a cacophonous fever pitch during Las Fallas festival - which welcomes spring with an almighty bang, and a riotous celebration of flame, firework and fiesta. A glorious belt of green parkway also snakes through the city, having flourished in the former river bed left behind when the Turia was redirected to spare the city from history's devastating floods. Perfect for cycling, it winds towards Valencia's contemporary showpiece, an unapologetically futuristic complex of structures - which rise like gleaming white rib cages from the shimmering pools surrounding them.The food is no less thrilling, with experimentation complementing rich tradition. Jewelled with succulent ingredients from the surrounding fields - you may be surprised that Valencia's famous paella contains rabbit and chicken meat rather than seafood. Do your self a favour, while also impressing the locals, by scraping off the 'socarrat' - the prized crunchy crust that sweetens as it forms at the bottom of the pan.

A rugged Mediterranean gem, arising out of the rich blue haze, Mallorca is a Spanish island of cuisine, culture, and sun-gorged beaches. Palma de Mallorca is the island's dominating capital, and a sand-coloured mirage of glorious buildings and living history. Conquered and liberated countless times over the years, since its Bronze Age founding, the city is your gateway to ceaseless Mediterranean beauty, buzzy markets, and intense flavours. Cafes and bars wait close to the sweeping coastline, where you can enjoy strong espressos to kick start the day, or splashes of red Majorcan wines to round it off. Bicycles trundle up and down the promenade, which invites you to wander in the morning sunshine beside the waves. Dominated by the indefatigable form of Santa María cathedral, which looms over the city and coastline, Palma de Mallorca is drenched in history and culture. The labyrinth of the old town is a cobbled haven, which bustles with dripping ice creams and sun-lashed squares. Settle to try the island’s superb cuisine, and savour local ingredients with an exceptional depth of flavour. Something about the sunshine here makes tomatoes extra sharp and delicious, while the seafood is consistently juicy and plump. The creation of the mighty cathedral, Le Seu, began in 1229 and was eventually concluded in 1601. A perfect encapsulation of Palma de Mallorca’s blend of the historic and the contemporary, even Gaudi lent his hand to it, and the interior features a spectacular modernist take on the New Testament from artist Miquel Barcelo, which is painted across the chapel’s walls. The splendid Royal Palace of La Almudaina fortress stands nearby, a left-behind Moorish footprint of square towers and Arabic archways that now serves as an official summer residence for the King of Spain.

The capital of Menorca is a bashful member of Balearic Islands which wait off of the sunny Spanish coast. With atmospheric old towns tiny fishing villages and unspoiled beach coves this is one of the group’s lesser-known and explored gems – and all the richer for it. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve there are wetlands and rolling sand dunes with diverse wildlife to explore - and 220 different birds soar and wade within. The designation helped to halt the threat of overdevelopment and with gloriously clear waters and leisurely boating trips to enjoy Porto Mahon welcomes you to a wonderfully preserved and characterful island. The island’s capital spills around the Med’s largest natural harbour which sprawls out for three miles. The majestic organ that fills the interior of Santa Maria church with over 3 000 pipes is a sight to see and can produce a wonderful gut-vibrating noise. Filled with pottery and cake shops there’s an artsy laid back and creative atmosphere to Porto Mahon’s streets. Swing a golf club and crack drives through the salty sea air of Porto Mahon or rumble along the paved bike paths that ring the island exploring between wildflower sprinkled fields and stone walls. Or head straight for the many beaches and turquoise seas which are blotched with dark blue patches. When it’s time for a sit down in the shade order up a refreshing pomada - gin and lemonade – before settling on your sandy nook of choice to watch the setting sun sinking into the warm of the waves of the Mediterranean.

Encircled by dramatic medieval walls, which rise abruptly from deep-blue waters, Alghero’s defences shelter one of Sardinia’s largest and most spectacular old towns. Uneven cobbled streets, rich history and a fiery Catalan flare provide a real depth of character, and the Coral Riviera’s pristine beaches, which stretch out nearby, help to make Alghero a real highlight of Sardinia. Alghero has changed hands numerous times over its tempestuous history, but it’s the Catalan influence that you’ll feel most acutely, as you explore. It was the Catalans who upgraded the defensive ramparts of the ‘Sardinian Barcelonetta’ into the spectacular, imposing fortress we see today, enclosing the old town’s evocative knot of narrow streets and rose-gold-coloured masonry. Wander the streets at your leisure, enjoying the cooling shade of the tight, cobblestone streets with lemon-gelato in hand, or enjoying fresh tuna steak at the bustling La Boqueria market. Alghero Cathedral is hidden amid the labyrinth of narrow streets, but it’s the distinctive Baroque-dome of Chiesa di San Michele that you’ll immediately notice peeking ostentatiously over the terracotta roofs of the old town, flaunting its rainbow-coloured patterning. Plush restaurants revel in Alghero’s historical collision of cultures and produce delicious fare like plump clams tangled in tagliatelle, and succulent porcetto pork – slowly roasted to perfection in smoky wood ovens. Wash it down with mirto, a crushed berry liqueur, or sample the fruits of local vineyards, with a platter of Sardinia’s renowned pecorino sheep’s cheese. The city dominates Sardinia’s Coral Riviera – so named because of the red coral found here that’s been used for jewellery since Roman times. Lie back and listen to the waves washing ashore at Spiaggia di Maria Pia beach, breathing in the smell of pine-needles on the breeze.

All roads lead to Rome, and with good reason - this city is one of the world’s most thrilling, offering unmatched history along every street. An evocative, inspiring and utterly artistic capital of unrivalled cultural impact, Rome is a city of back-to-back landmarks, which will take you on an exhilarating journey through the ages. This may be one of the world’s oldest cities, but it’s well and truly lived in. The ruins are punctuated with murmuring cafes, and the outdoor seating of restaurants sprawls out across piazzas, enticing you to sample tangles of creamy pasta and crispy pizzas. Rome’s incredible Roman Forum is littered with the ruins of its ancient administrations, which have stood firm for 2,000 years, since the times when the area was the centre of the Western world. Few sites are more simultaneously beautiful and haunting than that of the storied Colosseum, which looms deep into Rome’s rich blue sky. Take a tour to learn details of the grisly goings-on within. The best way to experience Rome is to wander its streets, gelato in hand. There is a lot to see here - whether it’s the domed spectacle of the Pantheon, or the elaborate flowing waters and artistry of the Trevi Fountain. Vatican City is an astonishing, colossal display of Catholic grandeur, while the Spanish Steps – crowned by the Trinità dei Monti church – offer a beautiful spot to gather and soak up the lively atmosphere of this humming city. With so much on the to-do list, you’ll relish the breaks you take, enjoying simple pleasures like a strong espresso, or fresh pasta with tomato sauce and ripped basil.