Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is steeped in history at every corner. Visit Jeronimos Monastery, the final resting place of Vasco de Gama, and explore the ancient walls of Sao Jorge Castle, dating back to the 2nd century B.C.E. This city blends Baroque and Neoclassical architecture with a lively, modern atmosphere. Enjoy its dynamic culture by exploring restaurants, shops, and rooftop bars. Ride a tuk-tuk through narrow streets to discover hidden gems and experience the city as locals do.

Portimao, located on Portugal’s Algarve coast, blends historic landmarks with a modern vibe. Explore the prehistoric Megalithic Monuments of Alcalar, and relax at Praia da Rocha, a perfect beach destination. Nearby, visit Praia dos Três Castelos, known for its striking limestone formations. In the city, the medieval Fort of Santa Catarina stands in contrast to its urban surroundings, inviting you to walk its ancient paths and discover its history.

Cadiz, the province and city, is located on Spain’s southwestern edge and achieved its greatest fame during the era of the Catholic kings, as it became the headquarters for Spain’s exploration fleet and treasure ships. With the only inland port in Spain and lying farther from the coastline than other port cities, Seville offers over 2,000 years of history for the curious mind. Set out toward Donana National Park, Spain’s largest protected oasis and UNESCO World Heritage Site. From Lawrence of Arabia to the Star Wars franchise, Seville’s Plaza de España has played a role in film history.

A Moroccan port in the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier has acted as the connection between Europe and North Africa since Phoenician times. It’s also a less-traveled port, so it offers a more authentic feel to city life in Morocco. Wander the medina to lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets leading to the Grand Socco marketplace. The Kasbah Museum, the old sultan’s palace restored to its former glory, contains a dazzling array of detailed maps, mesmerizing courtyards, and signature Moorish architecture. Explore the Caves of Hercules, near Cap Spartel just outside of Tangier city limits.

While Motril is often a gateway to the iconic city of Granada and Alhambra Palace — an outstanding example of Moorish architecture — this small Spanish town in the Andalusia region holds a charm all its own. Local parks, historic sites, and independent restaurants make it easy to immerse yourself in an authentic, Spanish experience. Known as the lungs of the city, the Pueblos de America Park contains lush scenery with an abundance of picturesque shrubs, palms, and a variety of tree species. In the town center, find the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Head. Surrounded by tropical palm trees and impeccable garden space, the church offers a stunning view, including ornate decorations within its walls. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, stop at a local eatery for a helping of San Juan casserole, made with pumpkin, or tapas of shrimp, espichás, and sardines. In Granada, discover more cultural history at the Albayzín, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the city’s historical Arab quarter.

Along the south of Spain on the Mediterranean coast sits Cartagena, founded in 227 BCE and inhabited for more than two millennia. From the 2,000-year-old Roman theater to the ARQUA Marine Archaeology Museum, it’s a place rife with stories for the curious mind to dive into. Driving down dirt roads about 30 minutes outside of Cartagena, you find yourself at the tip of Cape Tiñoso, where the impressive Batería de Castillitos resides. Bring yourself back to the present with shopping, bars, cafes, and restaurants on Calle Mayor. While Cartagena only has one beach, Cala Cortina, it’s an oasis jewel located within a tiny cove.

Dalt Vila, also known as Ibiza Town, is one of the Balearic’s most picturesque cities and a fabulous place to wander around. It’s home to an old port and historic city ramparts and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island of Ibiza has some of the most beautiful and well-known beaches in the Mediterranean, including Ses Figueretes and Playa D’en Bossa. Wherever you choose to swim or sunbathe, you will find inviting clear blue waters and golden sands lined with beach bars. For a more relaxing excursion, head toward S’Espalmador, a small, uninhabited island between Ibiza and Formentera.

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.