One of Europe's most visually stunning cities, Barcelona balances the medieval intimacy of its Gothic Quarter with the grace and distinction of the wide boulevards in the Moderniste Eixample. It was the home of architect Antoni Gaudí, whose Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Park Güell and Casa Milà are the most profound statements of Modernisme. View the splendid works at the Picasso Museum and the Miro Foundation, or discover Barcelona's passionate ambiance at a flamenco show.

Experience Costa Brava and understand why Salvador Dalí and others have long been inspired by its beaches and coves. Spend a day in the warm sand of La Fosca or learning about the history of this fishing village in Museu de la Pesca or simply taking in the Mediterranean air while walking down the promenade. Just an hour north of the city, you can visit the extraordinary Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres. The museum holds works done from his adolescence to the last years of his life.

Spend a glorious day in the Provençal countryside; see magnificent Carcassonne with its towers, turrets, half-timbered houses and superb nave of the 11th century Basilica de Saint-Nazaire, beautiful hilltop Les Baux or Arles, where Van Gogh found so much inspiration. Or explore fortified Aigues Mortes in the heart of the Petite Camargue surrounded by ponds, marshes and saltpans.

Between Nice and Monaco, this low-key Côte d'Azur gem is one of France's most picturesque medieval villages. Its Old Town spills from green hills to a deep-blue harbor, with cobbled lanes, film-set houses, and flowers at every turn. See Jean Cocteau's murals in the 14th-century Chapelle St. Pierre, then the galleries and museums of the 16th-century Citadelle St. Elme, with works by Picasso, Miró, Hartung, and more. Or simply dine by the harbor and enjoy the view.

Tiny but packed with fun, Monte Carlo blends history, beauty, entertainment, and leisure. Monaco's wealthiest district, it's known as the international capital of luxury, with celebrity sightings, casinos, and nightlife. Yet its old-world charm remains in art and architecture: palaces, cathedrals, and museums in a historic old town. Don't miss the daily changing of the guard and the public areas of the Palais du Prince, home to the royal family and once to Grace Kelly.

Picturesquely set in a narrow cove, this tiny port is famed for its beautiful setting, mild climate, and lush vegetation. Crowded around a small harbor, it is among the most beautiful Mediterranean ports and a longtime haunt of the wealthy, artists, and actors. Don't miss Chiesa di San Giorgio and Castello Brown with its garden and harbor views.

Leave town to discover five stunning, colorful cliffside towns on the coast. Hike the trail linking them or take a boat tour to see them from the water. Go ashore to explore a picturesque town and its castle, or visit Porto Venere, a colorful harbor town with breathtaking views and the Church of San Pietro. Once a playground and inspiration for poets from Dante to Byron and Shelley.

Livorno in Tuscany is a gateway to Florence and Pisa. From the 13th to 16th centuries, Renaissance freedom inspired Dante, Donatello, Michelangelo, Giotto, Botticelli, da Vinci, and Machiavelli. In Florence, see the Galleria dell'Accademia and Michelangelo's David, plus the Uffizi, Italy's famed art gallery. Visit Pisa's Campo dei Miracoli, Siena's medieval charm, and Lucca, where you can bike through the Tuscan countryside.

Along Costa Smeralda, this once-modest fishing village is now known for modern shops, seafood restaurants, and ancient Nuragic relics. Stroll the scenic harbor promenade to see the Siren's Song, a bronze sculpture that rises from the sea twice daily with music. Explore the ruins of Pozzo Sacro di Milis, or relax on pristine white-sand beaches with shallow turquoise waters.

Rome offers endless choices: enjoy street performers at the Spanish Steps, wine and people-watching in colorful Trastevere, or the city's rich history and architecture. St. Peter's Basilica is a full-day visit, with the Sistine Chapel and panoramic views from the dome. Don't miss the Trevi Fountain, the Colosseum, and Aventine Hill, which overlooks the Imperial Palaces ruins and the Circus Maximus.