Lisbon, Portugal's capital, is a beautiful city of seven hills, fado, pastel houses and azulejo tiles. Wander Alfama's steep cobbled streets, visit the Azulejo Museum, then head to São Jorge Castle or Miradouro da Graça for sweeping views over red rooftops, the Tagus and the suspension bridge. See Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, and take a trip to nearby Sintra and Pena Palace. Finish with ginjinha and a pastel de nata.

Porto is a steep, atmospheric Portuguese city of cobbled streets, stacked buildings, azulejo tiles, and strong wine culture. Explore historic Ribeira on the Douro, wander alleys lined with cafes, try pastel de nata, cross the Ponte de Dom Luis I, and visit Porto Cathedral for views and cloisters. Eat Francesinha or bacalhau, then head to the Douro Valley for vineyards and local wines.

Vigo, in Galicia on Spain's Portuguese border, is one of the country's most underrated destinations. Often seen as an industrial fishing port, it charms visitors with seafood, scenery, and warm welcomes. Founded in Roman times, it still has Romanesque churches and traces of its medieval past. The old town and fishermen's quarter are worth exploring, as are nearby Tui and the Velansa Fortress. Mount Castro offers superb views over Vigo and the bay.

Cádiz, Western Europe's oldest city, holds 3,000 years of history in cobbled streets and shaded plazas. Founded by Phoenicians c.1100 BC and later used by Columbus, it grew rich from New World trade. See the cathedral, with its twin towers, and Torre Tavira, the city's best watchtower. Relax on Playa Victoria, cross the modern Constitución de 1812 bridge, and sample tapas at the lively central market.

Set sail to Morocco's most notorious modern city, Casablanca. Reveal with Silversea Cruises the diverse cultures that gathered in this melting pot to create a very vast choice of entertainment all while keeping Morocco's authentic culture.

Tangier, on Morocco's north coast by the Strait of Gibraltar, is a lively blend of cultures and a historic Phoenician trading town. Explore the bustling Medina, where hawkers, spices, dried fruit, and fabrics fill the narrow alleys; try fresh orange juice or mint tea. Nearby are the Caves of Hercules, and inland the Rif Mountains lead to blue-washed Chefchaouen, a stunning hillside town.

Malaga, on Spain's sunny Costa del Sol, blends beaches, history, and art. Visit La Malagueta beach, the old town, Moorish Alcazaba fortress, and the cathedral known as La Manquita. See the Picasso Museum and Pompidou Centre, plus street art in Soho. Nearby, explore Granada's Alhambra, Cordoba's La Mezquita, and Seville's cathedral for Andalucía's Moorish Golden Triangle.

Portimão is a beachy paradise in Portugal's Algarve, with easy access to Praia da Rocha: a long, wide beach of soft golden sand, gentle waves, and dramatic rock formations. Stroll the boardwalk to nearby beaches, feast on sardines and local wine, and enjoy the sun-drenched coast, fishing villages, and tiled old towns. The Ribeirinha promenade leads to the beach, while Ponta da Piedade, Silves, and Lagos are all nearby.

Lisbon, Portugal's capital, is a beautiful city of seven hills, fado, pastel houses and azulejo tiles. Wander Alfama's steep cobbled streets, visit the Azulejo Museum, then head to São Jorge Castle or Miradouro da Graça for sweeping views over red rooftops, the Tagus and the suspension bridge. See Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, and take a trip to nearby Sintra and Pena Palace. Finish with ginjinha and a pastel de nata.