Lisbon, Portugal's Atlantic capital, is spread across seven hills. Start in Alfama, with its medieval streets leading to Castelo de São Jorge and sweeping city views. Head to Baixa for shopping, restaurants, and neoclassical architecture. In Belém, see two UNESCO sites: Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery. If time allows, visit nearby Sintra and Cascais, or continue to Fátima, where Virgin Mary apparitions were reported in 1917.

Tangier, the dreamy "White City" where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic, offers a labyrinthine medina, mint tea in Grand Socco, white-sand beaches, and the Caves of Hercules with its Africa-shaped sea window. At night, try Populaire Saveur de Poison for shark and baby squid tagine, or visit the legendary Gran Café de Paris, a literary landmark since 1927 and seen in The Bourne Ultimatum.

Marbella, on Spain's Costa del Sol, is a stylish seaside resort backed by the Sierra Blanca. Its beaches include Playa de Venus and Playa Casablanca, with upscale dining nearby. In the historic Casco Antiguo, Plaza de los Naranjos is a charming square shaded by orange trees and lined with cafés. By the waterfront, Avenida del Mar displays 10 bronze Dalí sculptures, and nearby Puerto Banús is a yacht-filled marina known for luxury shopping.

Founded by Carthaginians circa 220 BC, Cartagena has one of the world's oldest naval bases and rich Roman archaeology. Highlights include the 1st-century Roman theater, Barrio del Foro Romano, Casa de la Fortuna, and the Punic Wall Interpretation Center. The ARQUA Museum displays finds from off Murcia's coast, and Castillo de la Concepción offers panoramic views. Beyond history, Cartagena has coves, beaches, fine dining, and activities for divers, hikers, golfers, and windsurfers.

Valencia blends centuries of architecture: the cathedral began in 1262 and may house the Holy Grail; Plaza del Mercado pairs Mercado Central with the Gothic Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO silk exchange; the City of Arts and Sciences by Santiago Calatrava opened in 2005; nearby are the Lladró Porcelain Museum, a beachfront promenade, and the city where paella was invented.

Barcelona is a walkable global city known for breathtaking architecture, world-class museums, bustling markets, parks, and fashion. Start at Montjuïc Castle for city views, then visit the Joan Miró and National Art Museum. Spend a day in the Gothic Quarter and Museu Picasso. The city is especially famous for Antoni Gaudí's work, from La Sagrada Família to Park Güell. Along La Rambla, you'll find more architecture, designer shopping, and great tapas.