Star Collector: Grand Mediterranean

Here in this privileged setting you'll discover two UNESCO World Heritage Site beaches of tantalizing beauty; San Cristóbal de La Laguna; and the island's symbol, Teide National Park. Wide avenues, exotic landscapes, and striking examples of modernist architecture complete one of the world's most popular destinations.

Nature is the star on this small volcanic island. Enjoy the afternoon on the beach or follow the island's famous wine trail, tasting as you go. This, the most northerly of the Canary Islands, welcomes you with laid-back hospitality and genuine warmth. This region of petrified lava makes up the National Park of Timanfaya and its Mountains of Fire, where visions of a lifeless, prehistoric earth, with enormous craters of an incandescent red color, can be seen on a bus or even a camel tour.  This unique atmosphere has made it a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of the most impressive natural parks in all of Spain.

Considered one of Portugal's main tourist attractions and home of world-famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, Funchal is known for its style and beauty.  Visit Cabo Girao, the highest sea cliff in Europe or take a trip to the Pica da Torre for an incredible view of Camara de Lobos, a delightful fishing village. With a long history of Madeira winemaking, there'll be time here for a little wine tasting, a meal at one of the many 5-star restaurants, sightseeing to 15th century Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, shopping the bargains to be found here, or experiencing the vibrant night life.

Considered one of Portugal's main tourist attractions and home of world-famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, Funchal is known for its style and beauty.  Visit Cabo Girao, the highest sea cliff in Europe or take a trip to the Pica da Torre for an incredible view of Camara de Lobos, a delightful fishing village. With a long history of Madeira winemaking, there'll be time here for a little wine tasting, a meal at one of the many 5-star restaurants, sightseeing to 15th century Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, shopping the bargains to be found here, or experiencing the vibrant night life.

PORTO SANTO, MADEIRA

Santa Cruz de Palma has a distinct Caribbean feel with its colorful houses and relaxed, casual feel. Walk along the cobblestone streets of this charming port that once was a connecting port on the route to the Americas. Learn about the town's history at the Island Museum of La Palma located in a 16th century monastery and the Naval Museum housed in a full-sized reproduction of the Santa Maria. And see some of the 15 large telescopes along the ridge of Caldera del Taburieint National Park.

Though you won't find canaries here you will find people who can whistle like them. Whistled speech helped shepherds communicate across the steep ravines and in the lush cloud forest of Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Columbus paused here on all three voyages so you're in good company as you explore historic San Sebastián, but with all the natural beauty around, you'll find your gaze drawn inexorably up the terraced hillsides and across to views of Mount Teide.

Here in this privileged setting you'll discover two UNESCO World Heritage Site beaches of tantalizing beauty; San Cristóbal de La Laguna; and the island's symbol, Teide National Park. Wide avenues, exotic landscapes, and striking examples of modernist architecture complete one of the world's most popular destinations.

Magnificent scenery surrounds you in the capital of Gran Canaria. Two lovely bays and their beautiful beaches frame the city. The Vegueta District, the older quarter of the town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its historical and cultural treasures, dating back to the city's founding in 1478.

Edged by the mighty Sahara, lush parks, and beautiful, sandy beaches, Agadir brings you the best of all worlds. Shop for exotic jewelry and rugs in Souk Elhad and test your haggling talents. Or try your luck on a surfboard. Slow down and enjoy the view from the site of the old Kasbah, where a panorama of bay, port, and town stretch before you.

The siren call of Morocco is irresistible. Amid the whitewashed alleyways and stunning ocean views, make time for an optional excursion to the medina of Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Explore the souks and medinas in the footsteps of Sir Winston Churchill and Yves St. Laurent, who both called this extraordinary blend of east and west their home.

The siren call of Morocco is irresistible. Amid the whitewashed alleyways and stunning ocean views, make time for an optional excursion to the medina of Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Explore the souks and medinas in the footsteps of Sir Winston Churchill and Yves St. Laurent, who both called this extraordinary blend of east and west their home.

Fascinating Tangier is a traveler's delight with beautiful vistas, lovely unspoiled beaches, intriguing history and friendly people. Separated from Spain by only 20 miles across the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier is considered by many to be the gateway to Africa. With its cosmopolitan mix of African and European influences, there are many interesting sites in Tangier.  The two UNESCO sites of the Medina (the old-walled city) a bustling place, and the Kasbah which offers beautiful views and fine Moroccan art, and the Place de France in the heart of the new city is an entertaining place to sip mint tea and enjoy the view.

Cádiz is the most southern province of the Iberian Peninsula. It is extremely rich in natural beauty and some of the most important Natural Parks of Spain and Europe are found here including Sierra de Grazalema and los Alcornocales. Both are rich in flora and fauna, including species under threat of extinction. Many birds find their resting and feeding place here just after or before making the jump from or to Africa.

Here, on the shores of Costa del Sol, the Andalusian spirit thrives. Be sure to include an optional visit to see the brilliant and comprehensive collection of Picasso's work at Museo Picasso Málaga, a tribute to this artistic genius in the city of his birth. Or you may choose to opt for a visit to the beautiful village of Mijas, where picturesque Andalusian country life creates some of the world's best wines.

Here, on the shores of Costa del Sol, the Andalusian spirit thrives. Be sure to include an optional visit to see the brilliant and comprehensive collection of Picasso's work at Museo Picasso Málaga, a tribute to this artistic genius in the city of his birth. Or you may choose to opt for a visit to the beautiful village of Mijas, where picturesque Andalusian country life creates some of the world's best wines.

Fascinating Tangier is a traveler's delight with beautiful vistas, lovely unspoiled beaches, intriguing history and friendly people. Separated from Spain by only 20 miles across the Strait of Gibraltar, Tangier is considered by many to be the gateway to Africa. With its cosmopolitan mix of African and European influences, there are many interesting sites in Tangier.  The two UNESCO sites of the Medina (the old-walled city) a bustling place, and the Kasbah which offers beautiful views and fine Moroccan art, and the Place de France in the heart of the new city is an entertaining place to sip mint tea and enjoy the view.

The walled town of Cartagena is a popular seaport with a large naval shipyard. The seashore offers a wide range of activities from windsurfing to good snorkeling to sailing. From Cartagena you can easily explore the ancient city of Murcia, the coastal resorts of Mazarrón, Cala Cortina, and Cabo de Palos or a little further north, the world famous resort of Mar Menor.

This captivating city is best when savored slowly. Although Valencia's religious architecture is remarkable, and the Lonja, one of Europe's most elegant buildings is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, take time for an optional experience - paella. You'll learn the local secrets of this gastronomic masterpiece as you cook it, eat it, and toast it with the region's perfectly matched local wines.Want insider advice on where to find the tastiest restaurants, most unique local markets, authentic culinary shops, and hidden watering holes? Check out Valencia's Local Dining Tip Curated by Saveur on our blog.

Mallorca is steep, green, and fringed with enticing coves and more than 200 lush beaches. But all that natural beauty is just the beginning. Stroll along the tree-shaded Paseo de Born in search of tapas. Shop for a Siurell; a traditional red, green, and white clay whistle dating back to the time of the Moors. Watch the street performers on the piazza around the church, or cross the island to beautiful Sóller. Not to be missed is the cultural landscape of the Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The beautiful, sunny port city of Tarragona has lovely beaches, a spectacular cathedral, and Spain's second most important Roman ruins of Tarraco, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are many other ruins around Tarragona as well including an amphitheater by the sea. Also known as the city of human towers, Tarragona originated this deep-rooted tradition that has been recognized by UNESCO on their Intangible Cultural Heritage List. The city lives and breathes this tower building spirit which requires the commitment and bravery of many people.

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.

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.

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.

Known for its amazing seafood, modern harbor, Renaissance-era architecture and lovely Tuscany countryside, Livorno is the gateway to both Florence and Pisa, not to mention the numerous wineries full of delicious wines to tempt your palate. Stroll the waterside promenade or take a canal ride in the Venezia Nuova quarter.

Known for its amazing seafood, modern harbor, Renaissance-era architecture and lovely Tuscany countryside, Livorno is the gateway to both Florence and Pisa, not to mention the numerous wineries full of delicious wines to tempt your palate. Stroll the waterside promenade or take a canal ride in the Venezia Nuova quarter.

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.

Less than two hours from Rome, the port city of Naples was founded by the Greeks, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is unlike any other city in Italy.  It is a busy, bustling place where mini-operettas take place on street corners, Vespas scoot across the pedestrian piazzas, the small narrow streets are hanging thick with laundry and graffiti is everywhere. But Naples is full of archaeological treasures that are among the most impressive in the world, including breathtaking frescoes and sculptures. Its beautiful palaces, castles and churches make Rome look provincial. And the food in Naples is among the best you'll find in Italy, serving decadent pizza, pasta, coffee, and seafood dishes you'll never forget.

Less than two hours from Rome, the port city of Naples was founded by the Greeks, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is unlike any other city in Italy.  It is a busy, bustling place where mini-operettas take place on street corners, Vespas scoot across the pedestrian piazzas, the small narrow streets are hanging thick with laundry and graffiti is everywhere. But Naples is full of archaeological treasures that are among the most impressive in the world, including breathtaking frescoes and sculptures. Its beautiful palaces, castles and churches make Rome look provincial. And the food in Naples is among the best you'll find in Italy, serving decadent pizza, pasta, coffee, and seafood dishes you'll never forget.

The cobblestone streets of Messina, Sicily, are the perfect launching point for an optional visit to nearby Taormina. Stroll along flower-filled streets in search of a delightful lunch or an artist's palette of colorful gelati. The ancient Greek Theater is an ideal place to sit back and admire shimmering waters below and Mount Etna, languidly smoking in the distance.

Reggio Calabria is a small ship exclusive port located at the tip of Italy's "boot". Known for its stunning seaside promenade, Lungomare Falcomata, it offers beautiful views of Sicily across the Strait of Messina. Key attractions include the National Archaeological Museum, home to the famous Riace Bronzes, and the Aragonese Castle. Additionally, Reggio Calabria is renowned for its rich culinary scene and features specialties such as 'nduja'.  This unique soft, spreadable, and spicy sausage is made with a blend of local chili peppers. Traditionally, nduja is served on crispy bread and fresh pasta.

While larger ships must pass by, we anchor right beyond the famous walled city so you can admire its beauty with every glance. Tender ashore and step right into Old Town, a UNESCO site where no cars are allowed, just eons of history. Capture the exhilarating views on your camera - and in your memory. End your day at the Buza Café (if you can find it) watching bold divers leap off the cliffs into the crystalline sea.

While larger ships must pass by, we anchor right beyond the famous walled city so you can admire its beauty with every glance. Tender ashore and step right into Old Town, a UNESCO site where no cars are allowed, just eons of history. Capture the exhilarating views on your camera - and in your memory. End your day at the Buza Café (if you can find it) watching bold divers leap off the cliffs into the crystalline sea.

Something here will capture your heart. A Roman amphitheater, 9th century churches, and museums packed with Byzantine-era artworks crowd the peninsula that tidily contains the Old Town. It's a tempting way to spend the day for sure. While away the day listening to Zadar's giant Sea Organ, a haunting musical improv performed by the surging Adriatic or share a bench with a sun-drunk cat as you bite into a truffle.

Something here will capture your heart. A Roman amphitheater, 9th century churches, and museums packed with Byzantine-era artworks crowd the peninsula that tidily contains the Old Town. It's a tempting way to spend the day for sure. While away the day listening to Zadar's giant Sea Organ, a haunting musical improv performed by the surging Adriatic or share a bench with a sun-drunk cat as you bite into a truffle.

No other sea approach in the Adriatic raises goose bumps like Venice, a small ship exclusive where the entire city and its lagoon are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On your luxurious home-away-from home, you arrive already equipped with a sense of what it's like to live in the city that's neither land nor water. Add your own sigh to the Bridge of Sighs, sip a spritz al bitter as you plot your agenda, and let the water taxis do your navigating unless you don't mind getting lost. Not such a bad prospect, with serendipitous discoveries around every corner.

No other sea approach in the Adriatic raises goose bumps like Venice, a small ship exclusive where the entire city and its lagoon are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On your luxurious home-away-from home, you arrive already equipped with a sense of what it's like to live in the city that's neither land nor water. Add your own sigh to the Bridge of Sighs, sip a spritz al bitter as you plot your agenda, and let the water taxis do your navigating unless you don't mind getting lost. Not such a bad prospect, with serendipitous discoveries around every corner.

Trieste, Italy, is a fascinating crossroads where Italian, Slavic, and Austrian influences meet. Overlooking the Adriatic, it charms with grand Habsburg architecture, the bustling Piazza Unità d’Italia, and the historic Caffè San Marco. Stroll the elegant waterfront, visit Miramare Castle’s cliffside gardens, and savor the city’s famous coffee culture and fresh seafood.

Ravenna is connected to the Adriatic Sea by the Candiano Canal. It is known for its colorful mosaics adorning many of its building. There are many well-preserved late Roman and Byzantine structures with eight buildings comprising the Early Christian Monuments of Ravenna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the heart of the Riviera, with the longest tradition of tourism in Croatia, dating back to 1844, Opatija is an elegant seaside resort town of classic beauty.  Known as the "Old Dame," Opatija presents 7.5 miles of illuminated coastal promenade, known as Lungomare, manicured beaches, fountains, magnificent villas and hotels, charming old buildings and modern comforts.  Along the Lungomare Walk are many impressive villas of Belle Epoque architecture, monuments and statues honoring local heroes, as well as the stunning beauty of strolling by the sea.

One of Croatia's oldest coastal cities and a small ship exclusive, Šibenik offers a perfect blend of medieval history and seaside beauty. Stroll through stone streets to discover St. James Cathedral, quaint cafes, and views of the Dalmatian coastline.

While larger ships must pass by, we anchor right beyond the famous walled city so you can admire its beauty with every glance. Tender ashore and step right into Old Town, a UNESCO site where no cars are allowed, just eons of history. Capture the exhilarating views on your camera - and in your memory. End your day at the Buza Café (if you can find it) watching bold divers leap off the cliffs into the crystalline sea.

Situated on a tiny piece of land jutting into the sea and considered to be the most beautiful of Slovenia's coastal towns, Piran is full of medieval architecture, narrow streets, and compact houses.  A walk to the beautiful oval-shaped main square will greet you with a statue of Giuseppe Tartini, composer and virtuoso violinist, and the most famous man of Piran.  Around the square are attractions like Venetian House, and a delightful Gothic-Venetian structure, The Sergei Masera Maritime Museum and the Church of St. George with its gorgeous view over the city and the harbor from the bell tower. Take a tour to the nearby Skocjan Caves National Park, a UNESCO site.

No other sea approach in the Adriatic raises goose bumps like Venice, a small ship exclusive where the entire city and its lagoon are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On your luxurious home-away-from home, you arrive already equipped with a sense of what it's like to live in the city that's neither land nor water. Add your own sigh to the Bridge of Sighs, sip a spritz al bitter as you plot your agenda, and let the water taxis do your navigating unless you don't mind getting lost. Not such a bad prospect, with serendipitous discoveries around every corner.