Lisbon, Portugal's capital, is a beautiful city of seven hills, fado, pastel houses and azulejo tiles. Wander Alfama's steep cobbled streets, visit the Azulejo Museum, then head to São Jorge Castle or Miradouro da Graça for sweeping views over red rooftops, the Tagus and the suspension bridge. See Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, and take a trip to nearby Sintra and Pena Palace. Finish with ginjinha and a pastel de nata.

Madeira is a lush, colorful island of dramatic cliffs, fertile mountains and sunny beaches. In Funchal, the laid-back capital, cobblestone old-town streets, painted doors, whitewashed buildings and iron balconies echo Lisbon. Taste Madeira wine, see Corpo Santo Chapel, and enjoy Parque de Santa Catarina, Madeira Botanical Garden, Palheiro Garden, and the views from Cap Girão, where cliffs drop to the blue sea.

Join Silversea Cruises on an exciting journey which includes more than one surprise! Explore Santa Cruz de la Palma and unravel the mystery of the Canary Islands.

Though smaller, quieter, and less attractive than Las Palmas, Santa Cruz has elegant monuments. Since La Laguna was the island's capital until 1837, few city-center buildings are older than that. At busy Plaza de España, pedestrian streets lead north and west of the port to the striking auditorium and maritime park. A highlight is the ramblas, steep tree-lined boulevards running from the north end of the city to the sea.

Cape Verde, 300 miles off West Africa, has ten islands and five islets, mostly volcanic, divided into windward and leeward groups. Colonized by the Portuguese in the 15th century, they first settled Santiago and founded Cidade Velha, a center of the slave trade. Praia, on Santiago, is the capital; Mindelo is the prettiest town and has the deep-water port Porto Grande. Official language: Portuguese; national language: Crioulo.

Gustavia, St Barthelemy's capital, is a chic Caribbean harbor town of red roofs, yachts, boutiques, bars, and French flair. From the lighthouse, you can gaze over waters loved by celebrities and divers. The island was first named by Columbus in 1493, later a Swedish colony, and returned to France in 1878; its heritage remains at Fort Karl above Shell Beach. Nearby are shell-strewn shores, turquoise waters, and quiet gems like Colombier Beach-ideal for a sunset rum cocktail.

Colourful colonial streets, Spanish forts and a lively Caribbean atmosphere make San Juan a captivating cruise stop. Wander the pastel-hued lanes of Old San Juan, savour local flavours and rum, or head beyond the city for golden beaches and lush rainforest scenery. With its blend of history, music and sunshine, this vibrant port offers an unforgettable island welcome.