14-Night Barcelona To Venice

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.

Situated along Spain's Costa Brava in the Giron province, you find the town of Palamós. Once a fishing village and manufacturer of cork, today it is a hidden gem for explorers seeking destinations less traveled. Discover beautiful beaches like La Fosca, Platja del Castell, La Cala S'Alguer, Cala Estreta and many more, with opportunities for both sunbathing and water sports. The Old Town center is filled with Gothic and Baroque architecture, Roman Catholic churches and hidden side streets that invite you to wander and find a low-key adventure. Sample the town's famous "Gamba de Palamós," red prawns, a local specialty served in restaurants like Can Blau and La Gamba.

Amid France's famed Côte d'Azur stands the charming little town of Sanary-sur-Mer. It's also one of eight communes in the renowned Bandol wine region. Its picturesque harbor creates that image by strategically docking traditional blue and white fishing boats, known as pointus, and heritage vessels. Stroll around the harbor heading east to find a church dedicated to the town's namesake, Saint Nazaire, a 19th-century Byzantine-style construct. For explorers seeking aquatic excursions, Portissol beach is the place to go. The crescent-shaped shore offers access to an "underwater trail" where divers and snorkelers can jump in and discover the beauty that lies beneath the surface.

One of the smallest sovereign states in the world - second only to the Vatican City - the Principality of Monaco is sure to mesmerize you. The most recognized building in Monte Carlo is Place du Casino. Try your luck at this opulent and iconic gaming house, a favorite spot of James Bond movies and real-life celebrities. Another icon is the Prince's Palace, which you can enter for a glimpse at the Throne Room, with ceiling frescoes painted by Orazio de Ferrari depicting the surrender of Alexander the Great. Every day at five minutes before noon, the white-uniformed guards perform the changing of the guard with the pomp and circumstance you would expect in Monaco.

The sea along the Italian Riviera is particularly peaceful, as it gently laps the shore. Snuggled in the Ligurian Coast is the village of Portofino, named after dolphins, Portus Delphini, that frolicked in these waters. The Piazza Martiri Dell'Olivetta is the main square of Portofino at the town's center. Take a stroll along the row of beautiful multicolored buildings and a number of chic cafes and restaurants. Along the way, grab yourself an Italian gelato or sit down and enjoy a pesto dish before continuing your leisure walk toward the harbor. Not far from the coast, you will find beautiful hidden islands, such as San Fruttuoso and Santa Margherita.

From the grandeur of the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the charming canals of La Venezia Nuova (New Venice), which date back to the Medici era, the Italian city of Florence contains much to explore. The port city of Livorno's colorful building facades rises above the canal waters as a sight to behold. The long and storied history of Lucca call out to curious explorers seeking a mentally stimulating adventure. Cathedrals, art, culture, food, these iconic Italian cities have it all, and Livorno acts as the hub to make your way to each.

Experience la dolce vita on the Emerald Coast in Sardinia. Often regarded as the Italian Saint-Tropez, Porto Cervo is known for its luxury boutiques, exquisite restaurants and beautiful marina filled with sleek yachts. Begin your exploration at the Waterfront Costa Smeralda, the glamorous heart of the village, and the Porto Cervo Marina, which hosts some of the most important world regattas. For an unforgettable panorama, take a drive along Cugnana Gulf and the enchanting bay of Cala di Volpe. Take a dip in glorious beaches like Cala Granu or Romazzino, both boasting crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. After a refreshing swim, satiate your appetite with exquisite Sardinian cuisine.

In a crescent-shaped coastline on the west end of Sicily you will find the Italian city of Trapani. From many of its landmarks and historic sites, you can discover views of the surrounding Aegean Islands and Tyrrhenian Sea. Ligny Tower, located on the west coast overlooking the Sicilian Channel, stands as a proud symbol of the city. When it's time for a lunch break, stop at a local restaurant and order the red prawns of Mazara del Vallo, known as ammaru russu in Sicilian. Trapani also lies beneath Mount Erice, the gateway to the archaeological site of Selinunte.

The small town of La Goulette contains all the charm and splendor of Tunisia's rich cultures and history away from the crowds of a major city. The Lake of Tunis draws you in with its glistening waters and ancient ties to the Roman Empire. Venturing north outside of the town, find your way to the ruins of Carthage, a historical city built over 3,000 years ago. Head into the capital city of Tunis to explore its magnificent highlights, such as the renowned medina and UNESCO-listed old town. Take a stroll along the picturesque promenade of the nearby Berges Du Lac II. Stop at a local cafe to taste the flavors of Tunisia, such as the popular harissa, a rich and spicy paste made from hot chili peppers and garlic.

The capital of Malta, Valletta, is a treasure trove of architecture and art. The sight of this fortress city immediately astounds the senses. For the pop culture aficionado, Valletta’s scenery served as the backdrop for the Streets of Flea Bottom in HBO’s hit series Game of Thrones. Along the Grand Harbor travelers can capture spectacular views of the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea. As you walk along its limestone streets gazing at the colorful apartments, it is easy to get lost in wanderlust.

The Mediterranean Island Gozo is one of 21 that make up the archipelago nation of Malta. But it's perhaps best known as Calypso's Isle, as described in Homer's The Odyssey. With scenes of fishing villages, serene bays and verdant landscapes among rolling hills with small farms, it offers a quaint backdrop for a quieter adventure. But Gozo also offers ancient ruins and historic landmarks like the ?gantija Temples, one of the island's UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a Neolithic limestone structure. Near the port of Mgarr is a popular beach for snorkeling and a secluded day of relaxation, Mgarr ix-Xini.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trogir has a history dating far back with successive inhabiting from Greeks, Romans, Hungarians and Venetians, making for a rich and diverse cultural influence. Its position close to the Dalmatian coast means it's a prime spot to search for beaches just on the outskirts. Become transported to a time that feels like a story out of a fairytale with a visit to the Land Gate, the main entrance to the city. Take a leisurely stroll through the local farmers' market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables and locally sourced olive oil.

The iconic image of Venice shows a city with no roads, only canals, because it's built on over 100 small islands in a lagoon amid the Adriatic Sea. In the heart of the city close to Piazza San Marco you will find the Bridge of Sighs, an architectural jewel amid so many historical wonders. Venetian cuisine is renowned throughout Italy for its high-quality seafood. Positioned within a lagoon, local chefs and restaurants have the advantage of fresh-caught fish directly from the source and bringing it straight to their tables.

The iconic image of Venice shows a city with no roads, only canals, because it's built on over 100 small islands in a lagoon amid the Adriatic Sea. In the heart of the city close to Piazza San Marco you will find the Bridge of Sighs, an architectural jewel amid so many historical wonders. Venetian cuisine is renowned throughout Italy for its high-quality seafood. Positioned within a lagoon, local chefs and restaurants have the advantage of fresh-caught fish directly from the source and bringing it straight to their tables.