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.

Cannes, on the French Riviera, is world-famous for its annual film festival and draws the rich and famous to its beaches and stylish scene. The Promenade de la Croisette, lined with designer boutiques, grand hotels, and restaurants, is the place to see and be seen. In the hills lies Le Suquet, the historic quarter, with cobblestone streets and city views. Nearby are Monte Carlo's casinos and Grasse, birthplace of the French perfume industry.

Take the cable car to Mont Faron for 360° views over Toulon, then stroll La Rade waterfront, where brasseries and bistros serve mussels and fries or ratatouille with Provence rosé. Toulon's harbor, one of the Mediterranean's best natural anchorages, has long been a French Navy base, told in the Musée National de la Marine on the docks. Explore the Old Town's lanes and Toulon Cathedral, then head inland to Provence's medieval villages and vineyards, or east to the French Riviera and Saint-Tropez.

Only small ships and yachts can enter Sète's harbor, helping preserve the charm of this French port. Birthplace of Paul Valéry and Georges Brassens, it has a rich artistic heritage, reflected in its museums. Its colorful canals include the northeastern entrance to the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO site linking the Mediterranean and Atlantic. Nearby UNESCO highlights include Arles, inspired Van Gogh, Carcassonne, and Montpellier, known for its historic center and Antigone district by Ricardo Bofill.

Menorca rises above one of the world's largest natural harbors, used as a port since the 3rd century BC. Nearby King Island holds ruins of a 6th-century basilica. In town, ancient sights like the medieval San Roque Arch and the Museu de Menorca sit beside Georgian houses from the British era. Its cuisine includes Menorcan cheese, and the island claims to be the birthplace of mayonnaise. Hiking or biking the Cami de Cavalls reveals the scenery, and megalithic monuments invite exploration.

Palma, capital of the Balearic Islands, is known for La Seu, the Cathedral of Santa Maria over the bay, the nearby Almudaina Palace, and Bellver Castle, which houses the city museum. The Juan March Foundation Museum has 70 works by major 20th-century Spanish avant-garde artists. Mallorca also offers beaches, shopping on Jaime III and Passeig del Born, and sights like the monastery where George Sand and Chopin stayed and Cuevas del Drach.

Palma, capital of the Balearic Islands, is known for La Seu, the Cathedral of Santa Maria over the bay, the nearby Almudaina Palace, and Bellver Castle, which houses the city museum. The Juan March Foundation Museum has 70 works by major 20th-century Spanish avant-garde artists. Mallorca also offers beaches, shopping on Jaime III and Passeig del Born, and sights like the monastery where George Sand and Chopin stayed and Cuevas del Drach.

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.