Coasts of the Med All Inclusive

Savona’s located on the shores of the Ligurian Sea, at the very top of Italy’s boot. Yachts and cruise liners bob in the narrow harbour, which juggles traditional architecture with modern waterside apartments. The city itself boasts a bumper crop of historic landmarks, from the 16th-century Priamar Fortress to the stunning Sistine Chapel – a frescoed mausoleum with a famous namesake in Vatican City. Its biggest claim-to-fame, though, is that it was once home to explorer Christopher Columbus. Do your own exploring beyond the city limits, and you can drive to big-hitters like Genoa and Turin in an hour or two, respectively.
The Torre Leon Pancaldo – which translates simply as ‘Tower’ – is a Medieval stone structure set on Savona’s harbourside. It’s named after local navigator Leon Pancaldo, who accompanied Ferdinand Magellan on the first voyage around the world in 1519. These days, the tower’s considered to be the symbol of the city.
Flit along the coastline to Genoa, and you can visit the largest aquarium in Italy – the Acquario di Genoa. It was built to mark 500 years since Columbus discovered the new world, and the building’s designed to look like a ship that’s poised to head out to sea. Gentoo penguins, bottlenose dolphins, and manatees are among the animals you can see.
If you want to ramp up the culture, Savona’s a gateway to one of northern Italy’s most cosmopolitan cities – Turin. Among its classy shopping scene and arty cafés, you’ll find the Mole Antonelliana. This huge spired building stretches more than 500 feet into the air, and it’s home to the country’s National Museum of Cinema.

There’s no better way to arrive in Calvi than by cruise ship. As you pull into the iconic harbour, you’ll be greeted by its towering citadel. Beneath the soaring peaks of the Monte Cinto, this 15th-century outpost keeps watch over the whole town. Look beyond it, and you’ll discover a stylish holiday playground that’s a magnet for the yacht-owning super-rich. Cue designer boutiques, trendy seafood restaurants, and a four-mile stretch of glistening white sand.

• Calvi’s citadel is just as impressive on the inside as it is on the outside. Step through its walls to discover narrow cobbled passages, 13th-century houses and the famous Saint Jean-Baptiste Cathedral.
• Nose around the former home of Calvi’s number one celebrity, Christopher Columbus. The building was almost completely destroyed by Nelson’s troops back in 1794, but the ruins are well worth checking out. Among them you’ll find a statue of the great explorer.
• Make the tough climb – or take the easy option and drive – to the hilltop Notre Dame de la Serra. Then sit back and relax in the chapel, while you listen to the violinist and admire the views.

Whether it is basking in the Mediterranean sunshine or being cooled by the famous Mistral wind France’s second largest city and the capital of the Provence- Côte d’Azur region, is always a fascinating place to visit and a wonderful place for a leisurely lunch.

As France’s most important port, Marseille boasts connections with Africa, Italy and Spain. The strong mistral wind blows away all traces of pollution and provides a clarity of air so pure that many famous artists have been attracted to the city: Cézanne; Braque; Derain; Dufy and Marquet.

The 1992 Summer Olympics revealed to the world what Europeans and seasoned travelers already knew – Barcelona is one of the world’s greatest treasures. Vibrant and earthy, commercial and cultural, this city of two million residents is the capital of Spain’s autonomous region of Catalonia. Stroll along the wide, tree-lined promenades of Las Ramblas and marvel at the spires of Gaudi’s Basilica La Sagrada Familia. Or visit the former Olympic Ring on the hill of Montjuic – also home to world-class parks, fountains and museums. Barcelona, which nurtured such artistic giants as Picasso, Dali, Miro and Casals, is definitely a traveler’s paradise.

Transfer to airport for your return flight or alternative stay on this island for a realxing time by the pool or beach for 3, 4 or 7 nights.