Valletta, on Malta's Sciberras Peninsula, is a compact Baroque capital ringed by massive defensive walls. Built by the Knights of St John, it holds grand palaces, churches, and the flower-filled Upper Barrakka Gardens, where noon cannon fire echoes across the harbor. St John's Cathedral hides a lavish gold interior and a Caravaggio. Nearby are Mdina's car-free medieval streets, the Hypogeum and Tarxien, and Fort St Elmo. Malta gained independence in 1964 but still shows strong British ties.

Ringed by turquoise water and a rugged coast, Trapani is western Sicily's revived sailing hub, built on salt and tuna exports and now served by an international airport. Its historic core offers narrow alleys, shops, wine bars, and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. Facing the Egadi Islands, it's famed for sunsets, salt pans and windmills at Riserva Naturale Saline di Trapani e Paceco, pink flamingos, and easy access to Egadi beaches, especially Favignana.

Arrive by sea and Cagliari is instantly striking: a beautiful blend of spires, domes and colour. On Sardinia's south coast, this largest city offers beaches, architecture and Mediterranean food, shaped by Byzantine, Roman and Pisan influences. Start with espresso and San Benedetto market, then explore Castello, Bastione di Saint Remy, the cathedral, and Poetto Beach. End with a Spritz, bottarga pasta and Cannonau wine.

Cartagena, in Murcia, is a historic port shaped by many cultures since its founding by the Carthaginians in 227 BC. Explore Calle Mayor's ruins and modernist architecture, then ride up to Castillo de la Concepción for views over the harbour. See the preserved Roman Theatre, wander the waterfront, enjoy tapas, and watch Semana Santa processions.

Malaga, on Spain's sunny Costa del Sol, blends beaches, history, and art. Visit La Malagueta beach, the old town, Moorish Alcazaba fortress, and the cathedral known as La Manquita. See the Picasso Museum and Pompidou Centre, plus street art in Soho. Nearby, explore Granada's Alhambra, Cordoba's La Mezquita, and Seville's cathedral for Andalucía's Moorish Golden Triangle.

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.