Rome to Malaga

St. Peter's, with its breathtaking Sistine Chapel, newly restored to its former glory- the Spanish Steps, where all Rome passes by- the Colosseum, where gladiators fought to the death, and the Pantheon, considered to be the most perfect architectural statement of the ages.

From his villa in Portoferraio, Napoleon, the exiled Emperor of France, looked out over the waiting ships in the harbour and dreamed of returning to glory. Enjoy a local vineyard tour, and near Portoferraio, discover the remains of an ancient Etruscan civilisation.

It was in the Villa Magni near Lerici that Percy Bysshe Shelley spent his last happy days before sailing his small boat on its stormy fatal voyage on July 8, 1822. Lord Byron, another Lerici literary resident, once swam across what is now called the “Golfo dei Poeti.” The small fishing villages of San Terenzo, Tellaro and Fiascherino and Montemarcello are similar to the more famous Cinque Terre.

Monaco is the fabled domain of princes and movie stars. The magnificent Palais du Prince and opulent casinos remind you of an elegant, pre-war era. With more wealth concentrated in one small area than almost any place on earth, this tiny principality retains its gilt edged allure.

It is said that the most spectacular way to approach the exquisite harbour of St. Tropez is by sea. St. Tropez is a people-watcher's paradise, so you will also want to explore her famous beaches, bistros and bars. The appropriately named Tahiti Plage is where topless sun tanning started, and whether you prefer to take it off or take it all in, there's always plenty to see in St. Tropez.

Each Star Clippers ship offers a traditional and elegant way to see the world. Feel the wind fill the sails and gently carry you from one gorgeous destination to the next. During your time on board, you can choose to relax on a sun lounger or cool off in one of the pools on the top deck, while more adventurous passengers may enjoy the opportunity to climb the rigging or even have a go at steering the ship. Alternatively, you can wander the interior areas of the ship and discover relaxing lounges, a revitalising spa (Royal Clipper only) and a peaceful library.

Gracious Georgian buildings that climb the steep hills backing the Moll Ponent. Mahon's heritage also includes the invention of mayonnaise and the first distillation of gin from juniper berries.

Towering over the harbour, Palma's enormous Gothic cathedral is a powerful symbol of the religious fervour which gripped all of Spain shortly after the defeat of the Moors. Built by Jaume I, its vast open nave and soaring Gothic columns have been added to over the centuries. Behind the Cathedral, a maze of twisting streets leads to designer boutiques and open-air markets.

Ibiza is a place where people hang out because, except for the medieval walls, you could almost think it was the Med's version of Key West. But away from the hustle of town, some lovely beaches await.

The city's naval, maritime and historical museums provide insight into the 2,000 years this city has been a major port. It's now developing into a vibrant tourist attraction. The deep water harbor and walled town were used by Phoenicians, Romans and Moors prior to the Spanish navy. Visit Torres Park and the Castillo de la Concepción for the best views in the city.

The town of Motril is located in the Spanish region of Andalucia on the Costa Tropical. Nestling at the foothills of the Sierra Lujar mountains, the town's coastal strip includes two main beaches - the busy Playa Poniente, and the quieter Playa Granada.

Malaga's fortress palace of the Alcazaba and the Castillo de Gibralfaro are splendid examples of Moorish architecture. But it is in Granada that you can see the most romantic and magnificent expression of the Arabesque style in the glorious Alhambra Palace.