Glittering Cannes is the archetypal Mediterranean resort city discovered by wealthy English nobles who came to the sunny south of France to escape their drafty old castles during the dreary British winters. Cannes' high-flying lifestyle has attracted notables and has been notorious ever since. The stars flock to celebrate the Cannes Film Festival at the colossal Palais des Festivals every year.

It was in the Villa Magni near Lerici that Percy Bysshe Shelley spent his last happy days before sailing his small boat on its stormy fatal voyage on July 8, 1822. Lord Byron, another Lerici literary resident, once swam across what is now called the 'Golfo dei Poeti.' The small fishing villages of San Terenzo, Tellaro, Fiascherino, and Montemarcello are similar to the more famous Cinque Terre.

From his villa in Portoferraio, Napoleon, the exiled Emperor of France, looked out over the waiting ships in the harbor and dreamed of returning to glory. Enjoy a local vineyard tour, and near Portoferraio, discover the remains of an ancient Etruscan civilization.

Sant'Amanza is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the Island of Corsica. Located on its southernmost tip, it is surrounded by limestone cliffs, granite rocks, and scrub, with sands lapped by crystal-clear azure waters. It is a popular location for water sports, including kite surfing.

Bonifacio's almost land-locked harbor is one of the most dramatic, protected harbors. It is a bustling port with excellent seafood restaurants and a modern marina. The ancient citadel town is perched high atop a seemingly impenetrable cliff.

Alghero is the main resort northwest of Sardinia and one of its most beautiful medieval cities. Its bustling historic center is packed with excellent bars and restaurants, making it a great place to hang out. It is also ideally placed for exploring the beaches of nearby Riviera del Corallo. Interestingly, a medieval Catalan is still spoken even though the Iberians left three centuries ago.

The resort of Porticcio is clean and modern, and there are several beaches in the town. A long sandy stretch called the Plage de la Viva is lively, with enough activities that most people are happy to stay put. However, if you feel like venturing away, head south towards Filitosa. This prehistoric site is in a lovely countryside setting and is one of the rare places where prehistoric engraved stones can be seen.

Ajaccio has a justified reputation as a very stylish city. Napoleon Bonaparte was born here in 1769, and as you would expect, the city has many sites relating to him, from his childhood home to seafront statues, museums, and street names. Its immediate surroundings are a paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, trekkers, and climbers. It provides a range of outdoor activities you can enjoy yourself or with professionals.

Monaco is the fabled domain of princes and movie stars. The magnificent Palais du Prince and opulent casinos remind you of an elegant, pre-war era. With more wealth concentrated in one small area than almost any place on earth, this tiny principality retains its gilt-edged allure.

Disembark after breakfast and continue your independent trip back home.