Historic Genoa offers sponge cakes, nutty pesto and creamy gelato, plus the legacy of young Christopher Columbus. Wander UNESCO-listed cobbled streets past Baroque palazzi, through coffee-scented alleyways near Piazza De Ferrari, and explore galleries and museums in grand residences built by the merchants and bankers who made Genoa a mighty Mediterranean port. End the day with a sunset stroll along Corso Italia and aperitivo under a fiery orange sky.

Marseille, France's oldest city, feels youthful: a multicultural port with great museums, galleries, lively squares and bars, plus bouillabaisse. See fountains from Napoleon III's era and city hall from Louis XIV's. Beyond the city, explore the dramatic Calanques coast, and Provence's cypress, lavender, Avignon and Aix-en-Provence, linked to Van Gogh, Cézanne and Peter Mayle. Taste Syrah and the region's terroir, and wander from Marseille's boisterous roots into classic Provence.

Barcelona blends vibrant energy with Catalan tradition: explore the Gothic Quarter and Gaudí's architecture, enjoy tapas and cava in plazas and cafés, relax at the beach, shop along Passeig de Gràcia, and end the night in bohemian bars on La Rambla. A stylish city full of character.

Enjoy the epitome of Spanish charm. Slowly discover Andalusian riches to reveal Picasso's birthplace, the Alhambra in Granada, Mezquita in Cordoba and the Ronda valley. Explore ancient heritage sites, dance the flamenco, dare to hike the Caminito del Rey trail and delve into white villages sprinkled amongst mango groves and avocado orchards. Sip cocktails by day and sangria by night. And as you watch the sun slip down, reflect upon this gateway of delights.

At the crossroads of Europe and Africa, Tangier keeps its bohemian, artistic feel. Watch the scene from Petit Socco, then wander the Kasbah and Grand Socco through color-saturated streets of tiles and painted shutters. Must-visits: Librairie des Colonnes, Café Hafa for sunset mint tea over the Strait of Gibraltar, and El Morocco Club for rooftop drinks or the city's only piano bar.

Step back in time in Cádiz, where cobbled streets, horse-drawn carriages, tapas, and Andalusian horses evoke Spain's soul. Tour sherry wineries in Jerez, then flamenco in Seville. Explore baroque churches, palaces, Gothic cathedrals, aristocratic mansions, and medieval buildings. With three UNESCO World Heritage sites, Cádiz is truly inspiring.

Enjoy Lisbon's rich buzz and strong architectural, cultural, and historical ties. Wander cobbled streets, colourful buildings, the river Sado, and nature. Visit Fatima, hill villages, learn Portuguese cooking, and hear Lisbon blues. Escape to Cascais for quiet beaches. Soak up the light and enjoy petiscos and fado.

Enjoy Lisbon's rich buzz and strong architectural, cultural, and historical ties. Wander cobbled streets, colourful buildings, the river Sado, and nature. Visit Fatima, hill villages, learn Portuguese cooking, and hear Lisbon blues. Escape to Cascais for quiet beaches. Soak up the light and enjoy petiscos and fado.