Adriatic to French Riviera

Trieste, located in the northeastern corner of Italy, is a city that beautifully blends Italian, Slavic, and Central European influences, making it one of the most culturally rich destinations in the country. Situated along the Adriatic Sea, the city boasts a stunning waterfront, with the iconic Piazza Unità d'Italia, one of the largest European squares facing the sea, at its heart. Trieste’s historic center is filled with neoclassical and Austrian imperial architecture, such as the Cathedral of San Giusto and the imposing Castello di Miramare, which sits perched above the sea offering breathtaking views. Trieste's café culture is deeply rooted in its history as a major port city and visitors can enjoy a coffee at one of the many charming and historic cafés.

Trieste’s position near the border with Slovenia and Croatia adds to its multicultural vibe, with the city being a melting pot of languages and traditions. For outdoor enthusiasts, Trieste provides plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring natural reserves, such as the Karst Plateau, known for its unique landscapes and caves.

Ravenna, a jewel of northern Italy, is a city steeped in history, art, and culture. Known as the "City of Mosaics," Ravenna boasts eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it a paradise for history enthusiasts and art lovers. Once the capital of the Western Roman Empire and later a key center of Byzantine rule, Ravenna offers visitors the chance to explore stunning monuments that reveal its fascinating past.

The city's most famous attractions are its breathtaking mosaics, which adorn the walls of its ancient churches and mausoleums. The Basilica of San Vitale is a must-see, with intricate mosaics that depict biblical scenes in vivid colors and shimmering gold. Nearby, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia attracts visitors with its starry mosaic ceiling.

Ravenna is not just about its ancient treasures. The city’s culinary traditions are deeply rooted in the Emilia-Romagna region, famous for fresh pasta, piadina flatbread, and hearty meat dishes.

Ravenna is located near the Adriatic coast, offering easy access to serene beaches and the Po Delta, a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve. This area is perfect for birdwatching, cycling, or simply relaxing and enjoying the landscapes.

Dubrovnik, often hailed as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is a city where history and stunning natural beauty converge. Enclosed within its ancient city walls, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll find a captivating blend of medieval architecture and vibrant culture. The city's Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets, lined with baroque churches, Renaissance buildings, and charming squares. A stroll along the Stradun, Dubrovnik’s main street, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich past and lively present.

A must-see for visitors is the City Walls, which stretch over 2 kilometers and provide panoramic views of the shimmering Adriatic Sea and terracotta rooftops below. Walking the walls is an unforgettable experience, allowing you to marvel at the impressive fortifications and catch glimpses of Dubrovnik’s scenic coastline source. The walls also featured prominently in the popular TV series "Game of Thrones," further boosting Dubrovnik’s allure as a filming location for fans of the show.

Dubrovnik’s natural beauty extends beyond its historic walls. The city is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Banje Beach, located just a short walk from the Old Town, offers stunning views of the city walls and is perfect for a refreshing swim or sunbathing. For a more secluded experience, take a boat trip to the nearby Lokrum Island, a serene retreat with botanical gardens, rocky coves, and a historic monastery.

Fun fact: Dubrovnik's Old Town was used as a stand-in for King’s Landing in "Game of Thrones," making it a popular destination for fans of the series. The city's well-preserved medieval ambiance and striking scenery have earned it accolades as one of the most photogenic locations in the world.

Malta is a Mediterranean island located between Sicily and North Africa that has been shaped by various civilizations. Its capital, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with grand palaces and centuries-old fortifications that tell the story of Malta’s strategic importance throughout history.

Beyond its historical sites, Malta boasts incredible natural beauty. The Blue Grotto, a series of sea caves along the island’s southern coast, is famous for its crystal-clear waters and glowing blue reflections. Meanwhile, the island of Gozo offers a more peaceful experience with its rural landscapes, scenic cliffs, and the iconic Inland Sea at Dwejra.

Maltese culture is a mix of Mediterranean influences, reflected in its language, traditions, and food. The local cuisine features a blend of Italian, Arabic, and British flavors, with specialties such as pastizzi (flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas), rabbit stew, and ftira (a traditional Maltese bread).

The island’s warm climate makes it a year-round destination for outdoor activities, including hiking along dramatic coastal cliffs, exploring ancient temples like Ħaġar Qim, or taking a boat ride in the colorful fishing village of Marsaxlokk.

Nestled along the cliffs of the Gulf of Naples, Sorrento will charm you with its picturesque scenery and breathtaking coastal views. Three hours south of metropolitan Rome, Sorrento provides easy access to many of Italy’s most beloved destinations, including Naples, Pompeii, Amalfi, and Capri. Swim near the piers of Sorrento’s Marina Grande, stroll the delightfully Mediterranean Piazza Tasso, nibble on lemony gelato and fresh seafood, or travel north to the Parco Regionale dei Monti Lattari to hike the peninsula’s stunningly verdant mountainside. Sparkling Sorrento awaits!

Valencia, located on the Balearic coastline of eastern Spain, is a Mediterranean haven replete with stunning art, striking architecture, immersive museums, and inviting beaches.

The heart of Valencia is the perfect place to explore the best that the city has to offer. In the city center, you’ll find a variety of Valencia’s famous landmarks and architectural masterpieces, including La Seu de València (the magnificent Valencia Cathedral), La Lonja de la Seda (the preserved Medieval building which once facilitated the city’s trade), and Las Torres de Quart (Gothic towers used to fortify Valencia’s defenses). Valencia’s three most popular plazas, Plaza del Ayuntamiento, Plaza de la Virgen, and Plaza de la Reina, offer direct access to many of these monuments, as well as wonderful shopping and dining opportunities. Be sure to stop at the expansive Mercat Central, decorated in vivid mosaic tiles and brimming with fresh produce and Spanish delicacies.

Valencia’s premier attraction, the Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, is a massive museum complex built along the lush Jardín del Túria. This testament to the arts and sciences comprises the Oceanogràfic, an enormous aquarium famous for its dolphins, the Museu de les Ciències, an interactive science museum, the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia, an opera house, and the Hemisfèric, a 3-D movie theater.

Soak up the sun and gaze at the glittering Balearic Sea along the shores of Valencia at Platja de l’Arbre del Gos, Playa de Pinedo, Playa de las Arenas, or Playa de la Malvarrosa. With a string of restaurants lining the coast, you’ll have ample opportunity to sample delectable paella, fideuà, arròs a banda, and sugary bunyols.

Step foot in Valencia for a uniquely gorgeous Spanish adventure!

Saint-Tropez, located on the glamorous French Riviera, epitomizes luxury and allure. Once a quaint fishing village, this iconic destination has evolved into a playground for celebrities and discerning travelers. Visitors are greeted by the picturesque Old Port, lined with elegant yachts and vibrant cafés where you can savor the Mediterranean ambiance. The colorful façades and narrow streets of the old town, particularly around Place des Lices, offer a charming backdrop for leisurely strolls and lively markets.

The town is also famed for its stunning beaches, such as Pampelonne Beach, a five-kilometer stretch of golden sand embraced by crystal-clear waters. Whether lounging under a parasol at the exclusive Club 55 or enjoying a casual beachside meal, the seaside experiences in Saint-Tropez are nothing short of luxurious. The nearby Parc de la Moutte offers a tranquil retreat with its lush gardens and panoramic views over the Bay of Saint-Tropez.

Art and culture flourish in Saint-Tropez, with the Annonciade Museum showcasing works by post-Impressionist artists who were inspired by the town's light and landscape. The Citadel of Saint-Tropez, perched on a hill, provides historical insight and sweeping views of the Mediterranean. The annual Saint-Tropez Polo Club matches and the vibrant nightlife, including famed venues like Les Caves du Roy, further enhance the town’s reputation as a hotspot for those seeking both relaxation and excitement.

Fun fact: Saint-Tropez is not only known for its beaches but also for its legendary "Tropezienne" tart, a sweet brioche filled with a light cream, which has become a local delicacy. This treat was popularized by the famous French actress Brigitte Bardot in the 1950s, adding a touch of star-studded history to the town’s culinary scene.

Surround yourself with luxury in beautiful Monte Carlo, one of Monaco’s four quartiers and a jewel on the Mediterranean. Located just off the southern coast of France, Monte Carlo beckons you with glittering pebble beaches, old-world charm, and stunning architecture. Visit the iconic Casino de Monte Carlo, a paragon of the beaux-arts architectural style, to try your hand at blackjack, craps, or roulette, or tour the Palais Princier de Monaco, the twelfth-century palace where Monaco’s royal family resides. If you visit in May, be sure to attend an exhilarating Formula One race during the Monaco Grand Prix. From lavish French cuisine, to designer shopping along the Boulevard des Moulins, to exquisite botanical gardens, Monte Carlo has plenty of extravagant activities to capture your attention!