Spain

The second largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Menorca boasts more beaches than Majorca, Ibiza and Formentera combined.  What’s more, this ecologically-minded island has managed to remain utterly unspoiled, as UNESCO declared it a Biosphere Reserve in 1993, and it remains protected to this day. Take a stroll in the town of Ciutadella, the island’s former longtime capital, and you’ll find a beautiful historic quarter where the narrow medieval streets invite exploration.

Sitting between two bays on the beautiful La Victoria peninsula, Alcúdia is a charming base for exploring the stunning coastline, mountains and ancient monuments of northeastern Mallorca.

Just 130 miles from Africa, Santa Cruz de Tenerife was founded in 1494, becoming a key port on the trade route between Europe and the Americas. Framed by Baroque churches and historic buildings, charming plazas dot the city, including the central Plaza de España. In contrast, the modern Torres de Santa Cruz are the tallest twin towers in Spain, and the futuristic Auditorio de Tenerife sits majestically on the waterfront. Calle de la Noria bustles with Canarian style and offers shopping, entertainment and cuisine.

The bustling capital of Arrecife is named for the black reefs behind which boats once hid from pirates. The dark, barren hills and vast craters of the island’s spectacular volcanic terrain can be explored by bus or 4x4, on foot or by camel, and nearby Timanfaya National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The island is also renowned for its stellar beaches. Manmade attractions include Castillo de San Gabriel, on a tiny islet facing town, and Castillo de San Jose, home to the contemporary art museum.

Formentera is the smallest of the major Balearic Islands and more off the beaten path than its neighbor Ibiza. This pristine getaway is approachable for everyday folk yet also five-star fabulous. Yachts line up at the port, and it's quite possible to spot a supermodel on one of the exquisite beaches, such Playa de Ses Illetes. A long, thin arc of white sand and shallow turquoise water, the beach has often been named one of the world's best. Formentera has a booming bar and dining scene, from beach clubs with chic little outdoor cafés to Michelin-starred restaurants.

One of Europe's favorite playgrounds, Ibiza boasts more than 100 miles of coastline frosted with exquisite beaches. It's a hub of sun worship, white sand, beach bars and clubs that buzz all night. And there's history too. The fortified Old Town, known as Dalt Vila, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a spectacular example of Renaissance military architecture. Carrer del Calvari leads to Portal Nou, the entrance through the old city walls, and a walk up the hill reveals panoramic views of the city.

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.

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.

With it's tranquil blue waters, 28 miles of beaches and some nine miles of coves, the Bay of Roses has been ranked one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Tempted by this harbor, the Greeks came in the 5th century BC to set up a commercial village. Various settlement remains can still be seen, including the monastery of Santa Maria. Other top sights include the 16th-century Castell de la Trinitat and the Dolmen de la Creu d’en Cobertella, the largest megalithic monument in Catalonia.

Nestled in a lush valley of fruit trees and olive groves between the mountains and the sea, Sóller is an elegant and arty Mallorcan treasure that blends the quaint and contemporary. Visitors may stroll on picturesque cobbled streets and sun worship in the cafés of Plaça de la Constitució or deeply explore the nature and history that makes the Balearic Islands famous. The Church of Sant Bartomeu is a major attraction, one of many historic churches in the valley. Linking Sóller to its port is the Tranvía de Sóller, one of only two first-generation tramways to survive in Spain.