Monte Carlo is a glamorous port built for luxury yachts, with some of the world's finest vessels in its harbor. Luxury cars line the winding streets during the Grand Prix, while steep green mountains rise behind the bay. On the cliff stands the Prince's Palace, where the Changing of the Guard draws crowds at 11:55 a.m. Nearby are Monaco Cathedral, with Princess Grace's tomb, the oceanographic museum founded by Prince Albert I, and the Monte Carlo Casino, created by Prince Charles III.

Saint-Tropez is famed for designer shopping, all-night nightlife, and luxe beach clubs like Le Club 55 and Nikki Beach. Made famous by Brigitte Bardot, who still lives here, it also has a quieter side in the hills: narrow cobblestone streets and a 17th-century citadel with stunning port views.

This small town on Corsica's northwest coast is a lively beach resort with a promenade of restaurants, bars, and shops. Above it, a 15th-century Genoese citadel offers great harbor views. See Église Sainte-Marie, the pink church, and Notre Dame de la Serra. A plaque marks the controversial claim that Christopher Columbus was born here. Nearby, boat tours explore the dramatic rock formations of the UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve.

Ajaccio, the sun-drenched capital of Corsica, combines a relaxed Mediterranean harbor with a proud Napoleonic heritage. Stroll the palm-lined waterfront, explore the pastel old town and lively markets, or head into the surrounding hills for sea views and rugged island scenery. Beaches, cafés and island flavors make this a charming stop with an easygoing local rhythm.

Alghero's Old Town blends Italian and Catalan influences into a beautiful, unpretentious centro storico. Gothic and Catalan architecture appears at every turn. Stop for coffee beside 16th-century towers, then stroll the pedestrian Sea Walls from Piazza Sulis to the marina, with great views of Capo Caccia. Visit the marina, relax at Lido di San Giovanni, then enjoy local specialties like sea urchin or lobster and end with a drink in a chic café.

Bonifacio, on Corsica's southern tip, sits in a narrow inlet of towering limestone cliffs. Founded by the Genoese in the 12th century and later French, it still shows strong Italian influence; Napoleon was born here after the transfer. A 15th-century cliff staircase links the Lower Town by the port to the Upper Town and its 9th-century citadel. Nearby Phare de Pertusato offers stunning cliff and Sardinia views.

Portofino, with pastel houses around its harbor, is one of Italy's most photographed spots. Highlights include the 12th-century Church of St. George and medieval Castello Brown, both with harbor views. A scenic hike or boat ride leads to the restored 11th-century abbey at San Fruttuoso. Nearby are Genoa, with museums, palaces, and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Cinque Terre, the UNESCO-listed cliffside villages, about an hour away.

Monte Carlo is a glamorous port built for luxury yachts, with some of the world's finest vessels in its harbor. Luxury cars line the winding streets during the Grand Prix, while steep green mountains rise behind the bay. On the cliff stands the Prince's Palace, where the Changing of the Guard draws crowds at 11:55 a.m. Nearby are Monaco Cathedral, with Princess Grace's tomb, the oceanographic museum founded by Prince Albert I, and the Monte Carlo Casino, created by Prince Charles III.