The capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, Barcelona, lives up to its reputation as a center of grand architecture and inspiring art. Antoni Gaudi’s Park Guell displays architecture as art, making for a whimsical and colorful stroll through Barcelona. Stretching from La Rambla to Via Laietana you will find the Gothic Quarter, the city’s historic center with intricate medieval buildings and streets turned into modern bars, clubs, and restaurants. A short way up La Rambla you’ll come across La Boqueria, one of Europe’s largest and most famous food markets, filled with fruits, pastries, and many tasty samples of local fare.

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore

In a crescent-shaped coastline on the west end of Sicily you will find the Italian city of Trapani. From many of its landmarks and historic sites, you can discover views of the surrounding Aegean Islands and Tyrrhenian Sea. Ligny Tower, located on the west coast overlooking the Sicilian Channel, stands as a proud symbol of the city. When it’s time for a lunch break, stop at a local restaurant and order the red prawns of Mazara del Vallo, known as ammaru russu in Sicilian. Trapani also lies beneath Mount Erice, the gateway to the archaeological site of Selinunte.

The capital of Malta, Valletta, is a treasure trove of architecture and art. The sight of this fortress city immediately astounds the senses. For the pop culture aficionado, Valletta’s scenery served as the backdrop for the Streets of Flea Bottom in HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones. Along the Grand Harbor travelers can capture spectacular views of the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea. As you walk along its limestone streets gazing at the colorful apartments, it is easy to get lost in wanderlust.

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore

Along the Adriatic coast of Montenegro lies the fortified town of Kotor, known for its medieval old town with winding streets and historic squares, as well as its many Romanesque churches and Maritime Museum. For unbelievable views of the Bay of Kotor, hike to the top of San Giovanni Fortress. Stroll through the many vendors, taking in the sounds, scents, and colors as they call out their daily specials, produce, and homemade goods. Swim the stunning azure waters of the bay with a boat tour to the Blue Cave.
 

The port town of Hvar shares its name with the Croatian island, renowned as a prime summer destination for yachting. Considered the crown jewel of Croatia’s Dalmatian islands, Hvar has cultivated a reputation as rich in history, culture, literature and natural monuments. Drink in the stunning landscapes as Hvar is covered in vast fields of ancient olive trees, lavender, and vineyards. Within its bounds, you will find the oldest town in the entirety of Croatia, Stari Grad, established by the ancient Greeks. For a picture-perfect seaside locale, head over to Dubovica Beach along the Adriatic Sea.

The iconic image of Venice shows a city with no roads, only canals, because it’s built on over 100 small islands in a lagoon amid the Adriatic Sea. In the heart of the city close to Piazza San Marco you will find the Bridge of Sighs, an architectural jewel amid so many historical wonders. Venetian cuisine is renowned throughout Italy for its high-quality seafood. Positioned within a lagoon, local chefs and restaurants have the advantage of fresh-caught fish directly from the source and bringing it straight to their tables.

Sitting on Italy’s Adriatic coast, Ancona’s harbor invites you to explore a scene of turquoise waters and sprawling, verdant hills. Founded by Greek settlers around 387 BCE, its old town, Roman arches, Romanesque churches, archaeological artifacts and Renaissance palazzi remind you of the city’s longstanding history. Towering above the town from Monte Guasco sits the Cattedrale di San Ciriaco, an 11th-century structure with prominent marble lions on its facade that creates an iconic image. Minutes away from the city center, a panoramic staircase leads down to the stunning stretch of Passetto Beach. Take the panoramic elevator for a breathtaking view and explore the caves carved into the rocks over 100 years ago. Nature lovers take pleasure in a walk along the promontory of Conero Regional Park, a leisurely path ideal for birdwatching and beautiful views of the Riviera.

Along the Adriatic Sea in southern Croatia lies Dubrovnik (Old Town), a city well-known for its 16th-century Old Town. Filled with enchanting historic sites and containing a sense of stories past, the Croatian city has rightly earned its place among the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Delve into the fantastical side of the city as you tour the streets that have become part of cinematic history. Take a break from the historic for a relaxing beach day with a quick ferry ride to the nearby Lokrum Island. Delve deep into the local culture with wine and delectable platters of meat and cheese.

Established as a Greek colony and having been under Byzantine and Roman rule, the city of Durres (Tirana) has known a long and ancient history. A Roman amphitheater built in the second century by Emperor Trajan has been partially unearthed and stands as a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The architecture of the city’s castle and the archaeological museum remind visitors of its ancient past. Wineries and vineyards such as Abaia and Duka bring you back to the present with selections of Merlot, Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Albanian varietals known as white and black Shesh. From this port city, you can make your way to Albania’s capital, Tiran, where you can find fascinating highlights like BUNK’ART, former anti-nuclear bunkers made into art and history centers.
 

Upon arriving in Parga, the first sights that greet you are colorful houses on a lush mountain, a white church and a Venetian castle, complete with an antique canon on its walls. Like most other Greek isles and towns, it’s a destination made for beach hopping, sunbathing and aquatic adventures. Make a trek to Acheron River, a stunning scene out of Greek mythology, as it stands as one of the five rivers that legend says leads to the gates of Hades. Explore the Castle of Anthoussa on the hill between Parga and Agia. Various small villages surround Parga, letting you explore the rich history and culture further.

A gem of the Calabrian region, the town of Crotone has existed since about 710 BCE, formerly settled by the Greeks, offering a rich history that reaches deep. The 16th-century medieval cathedral of Charles V’s castle rises above the sea, inviting you and your fellow explorers to discover the stories it holds. Ancient ruins, including the column of a temple dedicated to Hera Lacinia from the fifth century BCE, beckon your curiosity at Capo Colonna Archaeological Park. Take a moment to savor the moment with newfound friends as you sip on Calibria’s signature Ciro red wine, one of the oldest named wines with a history that spans thousands of years, at a local restaurant. Enjoy it with a sample of Calibria’s famous bread, Cutro, made with locally grown durum and soft wheat, and a helping of traditional pasta and sausage dishes like fileja ‘nduja.

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore
 

Civitavecchia (Rome) acts as the main terminal for all cruises heading into Rome or the less-crowded, nearby Tarquinia. From there a shuttle bus takes you to the Service Center of Largo della Pace where you can embark on adventures through the Eternal City. Rome maintains its position in the world as a powerful influence in religion, politics, and art, as it is well known as the site for intellectual and artistic achievements past. From the iconic Roman Coliseum aboveground to the mysterious catacombs of the Capuchin Crypt below ground, the capital of Italy beckons the adventurous to discover its many secrets and stories. The city holds a certain cosmopolitan feel as well with countless rooftop bars that are a prime location for an evening sunset. For explorations further off the beaten path, Tarquinia offers historic treasures such as the Monterozzi Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an authentic, Italian small-town feel.