10 Nights Europe, Mediterranean

France's second largest city and largest port offers gorgeous coastline, the Provence sun and cosmopolitan charm. Remnants of its decorated 2,600-year history include a 19th-century basilica and cathedral and the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde church. The city has several museums, including the Archaeology and Fine Arts museums.

This Spanish coastal town is an important Mediterranean port and capital of the Costa del Sol region. Its Moorish past has left its imprint on the historic centre, particularly around La Alcazaba, a fortress that dates back to 1065. The monumental plaza includes the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, which has been converted into a small museum.

The Rock of Gibraltar towers above the surrounding countryside on a narrow peninsula linked to the end of the Iberian Peninsula by a narrow sandy isthmus. Gibraltar offers a wide array of native plant life as well as dolphins in the Bay of Gibraltar and other marine mammals which include the Pilot Whales of the Strait, Killer Whales and even larger species such as Sperm Whales. Gibraltar also has its own unique bird: the Barbary Partridge. Not to be missed is the spectacular migration of several thousand birds in a single day (15 different species), including birds of prey, storks, vultures, songbirds and seabirds. Take the "Official Rock Tour" to enjoy the rich natural history. Other attractions are the Stakis Casino, the landmark sites along the city gates and Walls of Gibraltar built by the Moors, and the village of Catalan Bay.

Almost entirely surrounded by water, this ancient Roman port has a history marked by conquest and destruction. Some of the city's 18th century walls still stand, and its medieval, if not dilapidated charm is evident in its crumbling Moorish structures.

A far cry from the sleepy dive town immortalized in the movie of the same name, Casablanca is a busting, brassy city and one of Africa's largest ports. Portuguese, Arab, Spanish and French influences give the city an allure unlike any other in the world.

The Gateway to Morocco overlooks the Straits of Gibraltar and provides a magnificent view of Spain's southern coast. The Grand Socco is known for its makeshift shops, snake charmers, musicians and storytellers, while the Kasbah features a Moroccan fountain, fragrant herbs and shrubs, and orange and lemon trees.

The capital of Catalonia boasts the bustle of the world's busiest seaport, the medieval romance of its Gothic Quarter, and a feast of Catalan Art Nouveau buildings - including the great creations of Antonio Gaudí. The "Great Enchantress" remains one of the most exhilarating cities in Europe, decorated with the grandeur of Picasso, Miró and Dalí.

A modern and functional city, Savona has been repeatedly rebuilt due to the demolishing it underwent during WWII. Its picturesque old centre is particularly appealing during the summer, when it is taken over by an antique and bric-a-brac market.

France's second largest city and largest port offers gorgeous coastline, the Provence sun and cosmopolitan charm. Remnants of its decorated 2,600-year history include a 19th-century basilica and cathedral and the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde church. The city has several museums, including the Archaeology and Fine Arts museums.