Mediterranean Island Mosaic

In this enchanting city the past and present intersect in perfect harmony. Casually intermingled among ancient ruins and majestic cathedrals are the trappings of a modern metropolis: Skyscrapers,cafes, boutiques selling designer footwear. But of course what you seek first in the heart of Rome is its breathtaking history.  A good place to begin is the Vatican, with its Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. Works by Bernini, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Raphael are just a few of those on display, any one of which is worth hours of contemplation. Then the ancient ruins-Colosseum, Forum, Circus Maximus. And of course the Trevi Fountain for the obligatory coins promising your return to the Eternal City.

Bonifacio, located on the southern tip of Corsica, is renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs and medieval citadel. The town's ancient fortifications and narrow, cobbled streets offer a glimpse into its rich history. Bonifacio's picturesque marina is filled with colorful yachts and cafes, providing stunning views of the Mediterranean. Notable sites include the King of Aragon's Staircase, carved into the cliffside, the Old Town, and Sartene, an ancient hillside community dating back to the 16th century.

Pine-scented forests and miles of sandy beach await your arrival on the tranquil island of Elba. Enjoy a glass of local Moscato with the fresh catch of the day before pondering your next move. Perhaps you'll visit the nearby countryside with its small fishing villages and dramatic mountain passes. Or see the calming beauty of Tuscan Archipelago National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.  Or maybe you'll decide to walk to the nearest beach and dip your toes into the warm Mediterranean.

Stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites beckon you. Select an optional excursion to Pisa, known for its bell tower with its unintended tilt.  Tour the beautiful city of Florence, or the historic San Gimegnano. Or step back into Tuscany's rustic tradition to visit the charming villages of Cinque Terre (Five Lands) by boat.

With its golden ochre and terracotta buildings, designer shops, and chic cafés, Portofino represents the height of Italian artistry and sophistication. Sip a cappuccino along the fabled marina or enjoy a day of shopping in one of the town's tempting little boutiques. As you look out over the harbor from the famous Hotel Splendido, it's hard not to admire the sleek, streamlined beauty of your Windstar ship.

Nestled along Italy's northwest coast, Genoa is brimming with rich maritime history, vibrant culture, and architectural elegance. It is famous for its many examples of medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, and Gothic architecture as well as its multiple luxurious palaces.  From its stunning medieval old town to its vibrant contemporary art scene, Genoa offers a captivating blend of the past and the present, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its enchanting atmosphere and explore its diverse cultural offerings. As the birthplace of pesto, Genoa has an active food scene and is home to many food markets worth exploring.

Glide into port in one of Europe's most exclusive harbors. Mingle with other privileged yachtsmen or step ashore and start walking. The glittering Grand Casino, legendary for its exotic setting on screen and off, is a must see, as is the royal family's palace and the tomb of Philadelphia-born Princess Grace in the Cathedral.

With its flower-lined streets, flourishing markets, and interesting museums (the Musée Chagall and Musée Matisse are highlights), Nice is a charming introduction to the spirit of the Riviera. Pull up a chaise bleu on the wide sunny Promenade des Anglais and watch the world sail by. Or stop for bouillabaisse, a specialty of the area, in a local restaurant.

France's oldest city was named the 2013 European Capital of Culture by the European Union. Head in to the old heart of the city for a bowl of the city's signature bouillabaisse, or drive into the Provençal countryside for a look at the timeless landscapes that inspired Cézanne and other greats.

When daydreamers long for "the south of France," this is what they imagine. Set on the brilliant blue of the Mediterranean and flanked on three sides by the Pyrenees foothills, this beautiful harbor is home to the prestigious vineyards of Banyuls. Taste the wine, along with the wonderful seafood.   (Whether you're in Port-Vendres or Collioure, you'll experience the beauty of the south of France - the brilliant blue of the Mediterranean, the Pyrenees foothills, the prestigious vineyards and a beautiful harbor.

The old meets the new in this sunny Catalan metropolis, where narrow alleyways contrast with grand boulevards, trendy cuisine meets homemade tapas, and everywhere you're greeted by the warm, welcoming smiles of the fashionable locals. Don't miss UNESCO sites like the mind-boggling architecture of Antoni Gaudí or La Sagrada Familia Cathedral, with its eight decorative spires soaring hundreds of feet into the sky.