Eastern Mediterranean- Greece, Black Sea, Turkey, Israel, Egypt
Medieval hilltop towns spread out across the undulating countryside where tall, slender cypresses march like sentinels past rolling vineyards. Iconic names like Chianti, Brunello and Vino Nobile are celebrated the world over, but the art and architecture of Tuscany may be the region’s biggest draw. Just a few hours from Livorno, you can visit Florence: the cradle of the Renaissance, beloved by great thinkers like Dante and Galileo, and utterly captivating.
The approach to Menorca reveals white houses clinging to rocks with a historic town rising above one of the world's largest natural harbors, used as a port since the 3rd century BC. King Island floats halfway in, featuring ruins of a 6th-century basilica. The streets of Menorca present an interesting blend of ancient treasures, such as the medieval wall of San Roque Arch and the relics in the Museu de Menorca, and more recent gems, including the grand Georgian homes that remain from the British occupation of the island. The city's rich history is also reflected in its varied cuisine.
Founded in 600 BC, Marseille is the oldest city in France and its third largest metropolitan area. A must-see is the 19th-century basilica, Notre Dame de la Garde, which sits at the highest point in the city. Also worth a visit is the water fountain at Palais Longchamp, built under the reign of Napoleon III. Marseille is considered the birthplace of bouillabaisse, so make time to stop for a bowl of this famous seafood stew in the Old Port.
Founded by Carthaginians circa 220 BC, Cartagena has one of the world's oldest naval bases and a wealth of Roman archaeology. The 1st-century Roman theater was only unearthed a few decades ago, and discoveries are ongoing, including an entire town block dating to Roman times called the Barrio del Foro Romano. Likewise of interest are the Casa de la Fortuna – a house with Roman murals, mosaics and excavated objects – and the Punic Wall Interpretation Center displaying remains of a 3rd century defensive wall.
Perhaps no port of call is better designed to welcome a luxury yacht than Monte Carlo, where some of the most splendid vessels in the world make their home. At this playground for the rich and famous, the only thing more spectacular than the yachts filling the harbor are the luxury cars driving the winding streets that host the annual Grand Prix. Verdant mountains ascend abruptly behind the lavish high-rises lining the bay, and perched on the cliff is the Palace of the Prince, where the Changing of the Guard attracts onlookers each morning at 11:55.
The capital of the Balearic Islands, beautiful Palma is famous for La Seu, the massive Cathedral of Santa Maria overlooking the bay. The adjacent Alumdaina Palace has been a royal residence since the 14th century, and the Gothic-style Bellver Castle houses the city's history museum. The Juan March Foundation Museum boasts a permanent collection of 70 works by the most important Spanish vanguard artists of the 20th century.
Famous worldwide for its annual Cannes Film Festival, this French Riviera resort town attracts the rich and famous to its beaches and sophisticated scene. The Promenade de la Croisette is the place to see and be seen. This broad pedestrian walkway along the beach is lined with designer boutiques, grand hotels and fancy restaurants. So famous is La Croisette, that many miss the other side of Cannes. Tucked up in the hills is Le Suquet, the historic quarter. Wander along its cobblestone streets and enjoy views of the city below.
This postcard-perfect destination, with its pastel-colored houses encircling the port, may be one of the most photographed in all of Italy. If you can take your eyes off the scenery, there is much to explore in and around Portofino. The 12th-century Church of St. George and the medieval Castello Brown both afford spectacular views of the harbor. A long, scenic hike or a short boat ride takes you to the restored 11th-century abbey in San Fruttuoso. Northwest of Portofino lies Genoa, filled with museums, palaces and the grand Cathedral of San Lorenzo.
With growing popularity as a beach resort, this small town on the northwest coast of Corsica is a delight to visit. Walk along the lively beachside promenade where you’ll find restaurants, bars and shops. A 15th-century citadel built by the Genoese takes its place of prominence on the hilltop above the town, affording spectacular views of the harbor below. Visit Église Sainte-Marie, a charming pink church, and Notre Dame de la Serra, a 19th-century chapel. You’ll see a plaque that commemorates the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, but the claim is controversial.
A narrow inlet lined with towering limestone cliffs, the approach to Bonifacio on the French island of Corsica is breathtaking. Napoleon Bonaparte was born here a year after the island transferred to the French from the Genoese, who established the town in the 12th century. Italian influence remains strong to this day. Connected by a staircase built into the cliffs in the 15th century, the town consists of the Lower Town near the port and the Upper Town, where the 9th-century citadel dominates.
