16-Day Transatlantic from Barcelona to Orlando: France & Spain

The capital of Catalonia, and one of its provinces, Barcelona, is a place of palpable history, where you can lose yourself strolling down the medieval streets of the Barri Gotic. It's a city designed to delight the senses: visit other-worldly Modernista churches like Gaudi's La Sagrada Familia, or treat yourself at a street side cafe to Patatas Bravas or a Passion Fruit Mojito. Explore more of Barcelona on a European cruise!

Marseille, a port city in southern France, has been a crossroads of immigration and trade since its founding by the Greeks circa 600 B.C. At its heart is the Vieux-Port (Old Port), where fishmongers sell their catch along the boat-lined quay. Basilique Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde is a Romanesque-Byzantine church. Modern landmarks include Le Corbusier’s influential Cité Radieuse complex and Zaha Hadid’s CMA CGM Tower.

On the one hand, this city, founded by the Romans some 2,100 years ago, is replete with (literally) wall-to-wall history and architectural splendor. You can journey back in time and wander the mazes of alleyways and cobblestone paths that surround the Gothic cathedral. On the other hand, Palma is bustling with life, showcasing the island's best restaurants, shops, nightlife and a vibrant art scene. Explore more of Palma on a European cruise!

Along the Mediterranean coast of Spain lies a seaport that traces its history back to the Roman Empire. Today manicured promenades lined with palm trees lead you to ancient ruins surviving marvelously between modern-day buildings. This is an urban explorer's paradise. But whether you choose to marvel at archaeological discoveries at the museum of the Roman Theatre or stroll the picturesque Paseo Alfonso XII, you will eventually get hungry. At which point, you'll have delicious options in every direction of this historic port.

Motril is a magnificent Spanish gem on the Mediterranean coast. The relaxing sands of Playa de Torrenueva are a great place to spend a sunny day. For some inland exploring, head to the Cueva Del Capitan for a fantastic nature hike. There's also plenty of history waiting to be experienced in the city. Stop by the Santuario de Nuestra Señora de la Cabeza to see a 17th-century church surrounded by incredible panoramic views. Then head to the Pre-industrial Sugar Cane Museum to learn all about the region's staple crop.

Over the centuries, this northern Moroccan coastal city has attracted many famed artists and writers. Tangier was once home to The Rolling Stones, and the great beat writers such as William S. Burroughs, Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac resided here. At the mouth of the Mediterranean, this modern city boasts narrow streets lined with cafes, and the medina as its not-too-miss quarter.

The third largest of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria offers a continent of contrasts. There’s the elegant capital, Làs Palmas, where Columbus once called en route to the New World; lovely beaches and the Sahara-like sand dunes of Maspalomas; and, inland, a volcanic landscape of valleys, gorges and mountains rising to 6,000 feet.

This is the place to shuttle from one exciting port to the next. Visit nearby Kennedy Space Centre for a day of inspiring and educational exhibits. Amuse yourself at any one of the world-class theme parks. Or spend the day watching for alligators from an airboat.