Lisbon to Barcelona

Legend states that Ulysses founded Lisbon, calling it Olisipo. Others claim that the name is Phoenician, but all agree it’s one of Europe’s most fascinating destinations. On All Saints’ Day in 1755 a devastating earthquake destroyed much of the city. The Baixa (Lower City) was rebuilt on neo-classical lines that still form the heart of the city. The elegant ‘City of Explorers’overlooks the River Tagus, and offers a number of distinctive neighborhoods to discover. Tour the Alfama, where the winding streets still retain much of their Moorish atmosphere. Stroll to Bairro Alto and hear the melodious sounds of Portugal’s Fado music. Nearby excursions transport you to the lavish 18th-century palace of Queluz and Sintra’s Royal Palace.

Cádiz, Andalusia's world-renowned capital, has undergone major restoration in recent years. Palm trees, gracious squares, flower-filled parks, ubiquitous red-tile roofed buildings, and bustling street markets make this a most delightful port. The old town, on the tip of the peninsula, is buzzing with beautiful, lively plazas. To get there, you pass through the new town, an elegant metropolis with excellent beaches. Cádiz is also a good starting point for a day trip to nearby Seville, where you can visit the Alcazar, a beautiful medieval Islamic palace showcasing a unique fusion of Christian and Moorish architecture surrounded by lovely gardens; majestic Seville Cathedral (Catedral de Sevilla); and Giralda Tower, offering excellent photo opportunities.

It is thought that John Lennon penned the lyrics of “Strawberry Fields Forever” while in Almería. The southeastern Spanish city is also the location where the award-winning, “Lawrence of Arabia,” was filmed. However, the city’s greatest claim to fame is The Alcazaba, a massive fort that dominates the landscape and offers amazing views. The cathedral and the Almeria Museum also compete for your attention. Whether you travel east to the quiet Cabo de Gata-Nijar coast or to the west toward the Roquetas de Mar, Almeria delivers an unforgettable experience.

Ibiza is often called the "White Island" due to its abundance of whitewashed houses. Part of the Balearic Islands, it is covered with limestone hills and topped by lush pine forests. Winding lanes take visitors through cobbled streets to admire the stunning views across the bay or to a blissful calm amidst the action. Designer shops, fine restaurants, neighboring beaches and a thriving nightlife add to the excitement Ibiza has become world famous for.

Whether enjoying the street performers at the Spanish Steps and people-watching over a fine glass of wine in colorful Trastevere, or taking in the historical and architectural glory that is Rome, visitors are spoiled for choice in this truly Eternal City. St. Peter’s Basilica is a full-day outing, featuring the Sistine Chapel and panoramic city vistas for those willing to climb to the top of the dome. Other landmarks not to miss include the renowned Trevi Fountain, the Coliseum, and Aventine Hill, which provides you with a grand view of the imposing remains of the Imperial Palaces and the Circus Maximus, of Ben Hur fame.

Whether enjoying the street performers at the Spanish Steps and people-watching over a fine glass of wine in colorful Trastevere, or taking in the historical and architectural glory that is Rome, visitors are spoiled for choice in this truly Eternal City. St. Peter’s Basilica is a full-day outing, featuring the Sistine Chapel and panoramic city vistas for those willing to climb to the top of the dome. Other landmarks not to miss include the renowned Trevi Fountain, the Coliseum, and Aventine Hill, which provides you with a grand view of the imposing remains of the Imperial Palaces and the Circus Maximus, of Ben Hur fame.

Livorno, located in the center of Tuscany, is the gateway to the glory of Renaissance Florence and Pisa. From the 13th to 16th centuries, this era of creative freedom encouraged the genius of Dante, Donatello, Michelangelo, Giotto, Botticelli, da Vinci, and Machiavelli to create some of the world’s most noted masterpieces. Elegant Florence offers the Galleria dell'Accademia, with its iconic masterpiece, Michelangelo’s David. The Uffizi is home to the most renowned art gallery in Italy, with representative works by the titan’s of Renaissance art. Join us for an excursion to Pisa, and tour the city's beautiful and historic Campo dei Miracoli. Nearby Siena captures the spirit of Medieval Italy and Lucca offers the memorable chance to bicycle through the fragrant Tuscan countryside.

Explore bustling Toulon, with its fleets of naval ships, yachts and colorful fishing boats. Take the cable car to the top of Mount Faron and enjoy the amazing birds eye view of Toulon and the turquoise harbor. Learn about the town’s maritime history at the Museé de la Marine and about the Allied landing in Toulon at the Museé Memorial du Debarquement. Discover the maze of open-air markets and fountains in Old Town with its ancient cathedral, fragrant scents of herbs and olive oil, its restaurants, cafés and intimate boutiques. Take home designer fashions, fine jewelry, French perfumes and other Provencal mementos. Herbs de Provence, lavender, fine olive oil, and ceramics are popular.

One of Europe’s most visually stunning cities, Barcelona balances the medieval intimacy of its Gothic Quarter with the grace and distinction of the wide boulevards in the Moderniste Eixample. It was the home of architect Antoni Gaudí, whose Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Park Güell and Casa Milà are the most profound statements of Modernisme. View the splendid works at the Picasso Museum and the Miro Foundation, or discover Barcelona’s passionate ambiance at a flamenco show.