Toast to Toulon - Barcelona to Rome (Civitavecchia)

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 Gaudi, whose Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Park Guell and Casa Mila 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.

Mallorca, also known as Majorca, is a wind-swept island with steep jagged cliffs and olive groves more than a thousand years old. Mallorca is an island of contrasts. To the south is a busy tourist area with hotels, bars, restaurants, shopping and dazzling night life. To the north are rocky valleys, sleepy villages shrouded in bougainvillea, and breathtaking views. Palma is dominated by the breathtaking Gothic Cathedral, located high above the waterfront on the site of a former mosque.

Explore bustling Toulon, with its fleets of naval ships, yachts and colorful fishing boats. Take the cable car to the top of Mount Faron and enjoy the amazing birds eye view of Toulon and the turquoise harbor. Learn about the town's maritime history at the Musee de la Marine and about the Allied landing in Toulon at the Musee Memorial du Debarquement. Discover the maze of open-air markets and fountains in Old Town with its ancient cathedral, fragrant scents of herbs and olive oil, its restaurants, cafes and intimate boutiques. Take home designer fashions, fine jewelry, French perfumes and other Provencal mementos. Herbs de Provence, lavender, fine olive oil, and ceramics are popular.

Nestled between Nice and Monaco, this low-key gem of the Cote d'Azur is one of the most picturesque medieval villages in France. Its charming Old Town cascades down from dense green hills like joyfully colored bougainvillea to a deep-blue harbor. Wander past cobbled stairways, film-set-perfect houses and potted flowers, every detail a delight. Discover the murals painted by writer, artist and film director Jean Cocteau on the walls of the 14th-century Chapelle St. Pierre. Visit the art gallery and museums of the 16th-century Citadelle St. Elme, taking in works by Picasso, Miro, Hartung and others. Or simply enjoy a superb meal at a harborside bistro in one of the prettiest places on earth.

Picturesquely situated in a narrow cove, this tiny port owes its popularity to its beautiful setting, agreeable climate and lush and luxuriant vegetation. The town crowded around its small harbor is considered to be among the most beautiful Mediterranean ports. It has long been known as an exclusive gathering place for the wealthy, artists and actors with an ever-growing number of waterfront restaurants, cafes, and tourist hot-spots. Historic sites not to miss include to the Chiesa di San Giorgio, built on the site of a sanctuary Roman soldiers dedicated to the Persian god Mithra; and Castello Brown, with its lush garden and panoramic views of the town and harbor below.

Livorno, located in the center of Tuscany, is the gateway to the glory of Renaissance Florence and Pisa. From the 13th to 16th centuries, this era of creative freedom encouraged the genius of Dante, Donatello, Michelangelo, Giotto, Botticelli, da Vinci, and Machiavelli to create some of the world's most noted masterpieces. Elegant Florence offers the Galleria dell'Accademia, with its iconic masterpiece, Michelangelo's David. The Uffizi is home to the most renowned art gallery in Italy, with representative works by the titan's of Renaissance art. Join us for an excursion to Pisa, and tour the city's beautiful and historic Campo dei Miracoli. Nearby Siena captures the spirit of Medieval Italy and Lucca offers the memorable chance to bicycle through the fragrant Tuscan countryside.

Perched on a coastal promontory in southern Tuscany, Piombino blends ancient history with seaside charm. Just beyond the town, the Archeological Park of Baratti and Populina reveals the ruins of a once-thriving Etruscan city. In town, a stroll through the medieval gateway leads to Piazza Bovio, offering sweeping views of the Tuscan Archipelago. Piombino is also the gateway to Elba, where visitors can sunbathe on pristine beaches or explore Napoleons island retreat.

Tucked along the Costa Smeralda, this once-modest fishing village has blossomed into a treasure of modern shops, seafood restaurants and ancient Nuragic relics. Go for a stroll along the scenic promenade with views of the harbor for your chance to witness the enchanting Siren's Song, a bronze work that emerges from the sea twice a day, accompanied by music. Discover Golfo Aranci's history with a visit to the ruins of Pozzo Sacro di Milis. You can also unwind on pristine white-sand beaches with shallow turquoise waters.

Whether enjoying the street performers at the Spanish Steps and people-watching over a fine glass of wine in colorful Trastevere, or taking in the historical and architectural glory that is Rome, visitors are spoiled for choice in this truly Eternal City. St. Peter's Basilica is a full-day outing, featuring the Sistine Chapel and panoramic city vistas for those willing to climb to the top of the dome. Other landmarks not to miss include the renowned Trevi Fountain, the Coliseum, and Aventine Hill, which provides you with a grand view of the imposing remains of the Imperial Palaces and the Circus Maximus, of Ben Hur fame.