Ajaccio, France (Corsica)  
Ajaccio is the capital of Corsica and is perhaps most famous for being the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, the notorious French general and emperor. The citadel, cathedral, and Napoleon's childhood home, which now serves as a museum, are among the city's chief sites of interest. Be sure to bring a camera, as the vista overlooking Ajaccio Gulf is particularly remarkable.

  Alexandria, Egypt  
Egypt's largest seaport and the second largest city in the country, Alexandria is also a splendid Mediterranean resort. Famous in ancient times as the home of the world's largest library and a lighthouse that was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, traces of the city's impressive heritage can still be seen at the Roman Amphitheater, Pompey's Pillar, and the Citadel of Qaitibay. For a change of pace, visit the lovely, oasis-like gardens of Montaza or stroll Maamoura Beach with its gorgeous stretches of sand and azure waters.

  Ancona, Italy  
Situated in the Marche region of central Italy on the Adriatic Sea, Ancona was originally founded from Syracuse as a Greek colony. The city's chief attractions include the grand marble Arch of Trajan, St. Ciriaco Cathedral, the Episcopal Palace, and the Lazzeretto, a massive pentagonal military structure that now serves as showcase for cultural exhibits.

  Bari, Italy  
The second largest city in southern Italy, this port has played a key role in commerce dating back to the Middle Ages. Many of the city's most important buildings, including Saint Nicholas Church, the Cathedral and the huge Norman-Suevian castle were constructed during the Byzantine period. While visiting Bari, enjoy the rich fish specialties such as dentex with olives or anchovies and octopus, long time local favorites.

  Barcelona, Spain  
History, culture, cuisine, and modernism all come together in Barcelona. Few destinations in Europe compare to the dynamism of this city, from its bustling port area to its elaborate architecture, narrow stone streets, and fairytale parks. See Gaudi's masterpiece, the unparalleled Sagrada Familia Church or visit the Picasso Museum, housing one of the world's most extensive collections of the artist's work.

  Casablanca, Morocco  
The heart of modern Morocco, Casablanca is the commercial capital of the country. The city also boasts the Hassan II Mosque, the second largest mosque in the world. With a 689 foot tall minaret and an massive interior glass floor that allows worshipers to offer praise atop the Atlantic, the mosque is truly a marvel of religious architecture. To experience the best of Casablanca, be sure to visit the Corniche Seaside, Mohamed V Square, the Habous Quarter and Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral.

  Catania, Italy  
An Ancient, Medieval and then finally Baroque city, often assailed by natural catastrophes and just as often rebuilt, Catania is a treasure for travelers particularly interested in Roman and Baroque architecture. Ancient ruins and immaculately maintained historical churches stand side by side. For a more modern sense of the city, stroll the narrow alleyways and have lunch at a delightful streetside cafe. Filled with palaces, mansions, boutiques, and gorgeous urban parks, the city offers countless ways to enjoy your free time here.

  Civitavecchia/Rome, Italy  
The heart of Western civilization, Rome, the Eternal City, provides an unparalleled opportunity to discover some of the most significant historical and cultural sites in the world. From the Roman Forum where the likes of Julius Caesar and Seneca once spoke to the Coliseum, the Pantheon, and Vatican City, thousands of years of history exist side by side with chic, contemporary culture.

  Funchal, Portugal (Madeira Islands)  
The capital and largest city of Portugal's Madeira Islands, Funchal rests in a natural amphitheater that surrounds the harbor. Over a dozen museums range in focus from sacred art to Christopher Columbus to electricity. Check out the Wine Museum or visit one of the wine estates, famous for their aged Madeira wines, and discover the living history of the region firsthand. For a more active side of island life, try golfing, snorkeling and scuba diving, or even world-class sea fishing.

  Genoa, Italy  
From the ancient port, which ushered in the Genoa's first golden age, to the signature Medieval Gates, to the Christopher Columbus monument, Genoa is a rich in interesting sights. See La Lanterna, the oldest working lighthouse in the world or visit the Aquarium of Genoa, one of Europe's largest. For those interested in an excursion, nearby Portofino has some of the most attractive resorts on the Ligurian Coast.

  Gibraltar  
A protectorate of the United Kingdom, Gibraltar has a legend that so long as the as the Barbary Apes remain, the British will rule Gibraltar, a tradition that has held for 350 years. Ride to the top of the Rock for great views over the Strait of Gibraltar and on a clear day you can even see Africa.

  Ibiza, Spain  
Known internationally for its vibrant nightlife, the island of Ibiza also offers gorgeous beaches, secluded bays, and a sun-drenched landscape dotted with fig and olive trees. Third largest of the Balearic Islands, Ibiza draws many artists and photographers who come for the stunning scenery, while numerous clubs and restaurants bring in a multitude of European tourists, especially Britons.

  Livorno, Italy  
The third largest port on the western coast of Italy, Livorno's history as a porto Franco, or free port, led to its development as a cosmopolitan city during the Renaissance. Today, the city's Medici Port district remains intact, reminiscent of Venice, with canals, bridges, and tangled streets crowded with noblemen's houses. Sites of note include the Monument of the Four Turks, the Piazza della Repubblica, and a museum dedicated to the famous opera composer Pietro Mascagni.

  Malaga, Spain  
The city of Malaga is a thriving agricultural market for the fruit and wine industries with a history dating back to the Phoenicians, Arabs, Carthagenians and Visigoths. It is the main access point to Granada as well as the magnificent Alhambra Palace, the fortified medieval royal complex that is a masterpiece of Moorish Art.

  Marseille, France  
With a history dating back more than 2,600 years, Marseille has grown enormously from its humble trading roots. Since becoming the first Greek port in Western Europe (circa 600 B.C.), with a population of 1000, Marseille has become France's second-largest city and the leading commercial port on the Mediterranean. Overflowing with beautiful architecture, opulent theaters, fine restaurants and an active nightlife, Marseille is among the most chic hotspots on France's southern coast.

  Monte Carlo, Monaco  
A tiny Principality, Monaco receives much more of the international limelight than might be expected. The main draw is the Grand Casino, where you can peer into the enchanting Salon Rose to see its nymph-adorned ceiling. Also not to be missed are the Palace, Cathedral, Rock of Monaco and the harbor, where the yachts of many of the world's elite are moored.

  Naples, Italy  
Capital of Italy's Campania region, Naples' history stretches back to the 7th century B.C., when it was founded as a Greek colony. The city's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and among the most prominent landmarks are the majestic Castel dell'Ovo and the Castel Nouvo. Naples also boasts an incredible 448 historical churches. Below the city, a vast network of subterranean reservoirs that were hewed from the soft tufo stone in ancient Roman times is accessible from the Via dei Tribunali in the center of of the city.

  Olbia, Italy (Sardinia)  
Serving as the main connection between Sardinia and mainland Italy, Olbia has a long history of transportation. Ruins from Phoenician, Carthaginian, and Roman settlement are found here, and according to tradition, the city was originally founded by Greeks. Today, the former cathedral of San Simplicio, a grand Romanesque structure, is among the city's most prominent landmarks.

  Palermo, Italy (Sicily)  
Capital of the autonomous region of Sicily, Palermo is famed for its colorful history. A running joke among historians is that it is the “most conquered” city in the world, a distinction that has left Palermo with wide array of interesting influences. From architecture to cuisine, the city represents the fascinating culmination of its complex past.

  Palma de Mallorca, Spain (Balearic Islands)  
The capital of Spain's Balearic Islands, Palma de Mallorca is the vacation destination of Spanish royalty. Visit the Castell de Bellver, housing an archaeological and classical sculpture museum, or stroll through the historic center of the city. See La Seu, the city's cathedral, with a vaulted nave only slightly lower than St. Peter's Basilica, or visit the Arab Bath, the only remaining building in Palma that dates to the era of Arab settlement. For art lovers, the Museum of Contemporary Art is a must-see, displaying the works Pablo Picasso, Juan Gris, Joan Miró, and Salvador Dalí.

  Salerno, Italy  
One of the most active ports of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the city of Salerno sits on the Amalfi Coast in the Campania Region. Home to Europe's oldest medical school, the Schola Medica Salernitana, Salerno has a long scholastic history and today hosts the University of Salerno. Other interesting sights include the cathedral, St. George's Church, and the Arechi Castle, a massive structure with a commanding view over the town.

  Tangier, Morocco  
This ancient Phoenician town, later colonized by the Carthaginians in the early 5th century B.C., is today one of Morocco's most popular coastal retreats. Located at the western entrance of the Strait of Gibraltar on the North African coast, Tangier opens the door onto Morocco. It was the real model for the famous Humphrey Bogart film Casablanca, and highly popular among Beat Generation writers such as Jack Kerouac, William S. Burroughs and Tennessee Williams, who frequented the city. Today Tangier still maintains its cosmopolitan flair and is a favorite destination among European travelers.

  Taormina, Italy  
Situated on the eastern coast of Sicily, the hillside town of Taormina is one of the island's main resort areas. The well preserved Teatro Greco, or Greek Theater, is one of the town's principal attractions, offering stunning views of the coast as well as Mount Etna. Taormina is also renowned for its restaurants, swordfish being one of the local specialties.

  Tenerife, Spain (Canary Islands)  
The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife is a major vacation hotspot, especially for British travelers. While undeniably cosmopolitan, the island is remarkable for maintaining a close-knit, cozy atmosphere, despite its enormous popularity. Tenerife's principal landmark is the astounding El Teide, a massive, snow-capped volcanic mountain that dominates the island. Visit the exquisite Centro de Las Orquídeas, or Orchid Center, and El Loro Park, featuring the largest collection of parrots in the world. Also not to be missed are the intriguing Güímar Pyramids.

  Tunis, Tunisia  
From the port of La Goulette, set off and explore Tunis, the capital of Tunisia. For a sensory experience unlike any other, navigate the city's medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where close-packed souks offer silver, perfumes, spices, and carpets amid a clamorous, vibrant atmosphere. At the edge of the Sahara, explore the ruins of Phoenician Carthage, the once mighty rival of the Roman Republic.

  Valencia, Spain  
Known as the "Garden City," Valencia is the third-largest city in Spain. Its City Gates, City Hall, and Cathedral are all impressive architectural feats, and the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences complex, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is equally compelling.

  Valletta, Malta  
Thick sandstone walls fortify Valletta, defending the old stone streets and glorious architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Grandmaster's Palace, St. John's Cathedral, and Manoel Theater are among the city's most prominent landmarks. On the far side of the island, see Medina, the Silent City, where no cars are permitted, preserving a serene atmosphere.

  Venice, Italy  
Built upon 122 small islands in the Adriatic, just off the eastern Italian coast, the city of Venice features canals rather than roads, creating Europe's largest car-free zone. One of the world's major destinations for tourists, the city draws travelers to such notable sites as the Bridge of Sighs and Saint Mark's Square. But the city offers more than just places to see – it invites participation in events such as the spectacular Carnival of Venice.