Monte Carlo offers old-world glitz and modern luxury in tiny Monaco: superyachts, champagne bars, high-end shops, casinos, opera, and palatial hotels. Famous for low taxes and the Formula One Grand Prix through its tight streets, it's a playground of the rich and famous. Don't miss the Royal Palace, the cathedral where Grace Kelly married in 1956, the old town, and the historic fortress.

Built around a sheltered bay beneath Mount Faron, Toulon is a major naval port, industrial city, and base of the French navy's Mediterranean fleet. Napoleon first rose to fame here in the 1793 siege. In WWII, the French fleet was scuttled to avoid capture, and the city was liberated in 1944. Old Toulon's pedestrian streets, waterfront Avenue de la République, and Naval Museum are main sights, though many visitors use the city as a base for the Riviera and hinterland.

Portofino is an exclusive, glamorous town on the Italian Riviera, set on a protected peninsula. Its harbour fills with yachts, while pastel waterfronts, stone streets, and terrace bars create an elegant atmosphere. Surrounded by green hills, vineyards, and olive groves, it's best enjoyed by boat or from the Piazzetta with aperitivo. Highlights include Ligurian wine, focaccia con il formaggio, San Giorgio, and the white lighthouse at the tip of the headland.

Livorno, a historic port and beachy gateway to Tuscany, offers sunset views from Terrazza Mascagni, canals in "Little Venice," markets, fortresses and waterfront charm. From there, explore Tuscany's vineyards and Bolgheri wineries, Prato's textile heritage, Pisa's tower, and Florence's art-filled wonders: Michelangelo's David, the Duomo, and Piazzale Michelangelo.

Porto Santo Stefano, on Monte Argentario in southern Tuscany, is a secluded seaside escape once favored by Rome's elite. Linked to the coast by two sandy strips, it has a lively waterfront, luxury yachts, beaches, wild hikes, and fresh seafood. Visit Piazza dei Rioni, note WWII damage, and see the star-shaped Spanish fort, which guards the harbor and offers terracotta-roof views. Nearby coves, olive groves, and trips to Giglio and Giannutri add to its appeal.

Sorrento's sun-faded facades spill from green hills to the Bay of Naples, making it a great base for the Amalfi Coast and Capri. Yet the town itself has rustic charm: Piazza Tasso, Corso Italia, San Francesco's cloisters, and small beaches and harbours. Nearby, Vesuvius and Pompeii recall ancient destruction and the frozen casts of its victims. Finish with Neapolitan pizza, local wines like Taurasi and Lacryma Christi, and limoncello.

Rome is one of the world's most thrilling cities, with unmatched history around every corner. Its streets mix ancient ruins with lively cafés, piazzas, and restaurants serving pasta and pizza. Highlights include the Roman Forum, Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Vatican City, and the Spanish Steps. Best explored on foot, gelato or espresso in hand, Rome offers a powerful blend of grandeur, beauty, and everyday life.