Day 1 - Dover

Dover, England: Known as the gateway to England, Dover welcomes millions of visitors annually in its role as the ferry capital of the world and the second busiest cruise port in the UK. This region, known as White Cliffs Country, boasts a rich heritage. Within the town's iconic castle walls, over 2,000 years of history await exploration, while the town’s museum houses the Dover Bronze Age Boat, the world’s oldest known seagoing vessel. The cliffs, a welcome sight for today's cross-channel travellers, also served as the control centre for the Dunkirk evacuation in 1940.

Day 4 - Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal: Nestled on seven hills beside the River Tagus, Lisbon has served as Portugal's capital since the 13th century. Renowned for its majestic architecture, ancient wooden trams, Moorish features, and an impressive twenty centuries of history, the city offers a unique blend of culture. Rebuilt after devastating 18th-century earthquakes by the Marques de Pombal, Lisbon now boasts elegant boulevards and a grand riverfront square, Praça do Comércio. Modern and historical districts blend seamlessly, offering excellent shopping, rich culture, and sightseeing in the terraced Old Town.

Day 7 - Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca, Spain: Located north of the cathedral on a map of Palma, a small jumble of streets around the Plaça Santa Eulàlia marks the city's earliest settlement. Further out, wide boulevards trace the fortifications built by the Moors in the 12th century. The few remaining walls can be seen at Ses Voltes along the seafront. Major streets like La Rambla follow the natural course of an old torrent. Noteworthy sites include the Almudaina Palace and the massive, golden cathedral. The city offers a stunning blend of old and new, with promenades perfect for morning strolls.

Day 9 - Livorno

Livorno, Italy: Livorno, a robust city with a storied past, alternated between Pisane and Genoan control in the Middle Ages. Florence secured the city in 1421, seeking sea access, with the harbour's construction beginning in 1571 under Cosimo I. Jam-packed with history, it became a sanctuary for those escaping religious persecution. Although much of its architecture was lost in WWII, Livorno remains a significant port today, perfect for exploring a vibrant open-air marketplace and enjoying local Tuscan cuisine.

Day 10 - Civitavecchia

Civitavecchia, Italy: Italy's vibrant capital evoking its past powerfully, with a history spanning over 2,500 years. From archaeological remnants of ancient Rome to art-stuffed churches and treasures of Vatican City, Civitavecchia offers a compelling trip through time. Equally, it's a charming place to experience the Italian art of idleness—"il dolce far niente"—where memorable moments may include leisurely caffè stops or wandering through engaging piazzas.

Day 11 - Sorrento

Sorrento, Italy: Though often a gateway to visit Pompeii, Capri, and Amalfi, Sorrento itself is captivating, with fair-minded and warm locals. It sits atop a cliff over the bay; its historic charm is evidenced by the fragrant orange and lemon trees, and the quaint lanes lined with balconied buildings. Visit the central piazza named after local poet Torquato Tasso or explore the bustling stalls and music spots in the medieval stone-arch-rich historic sector.

Day 12 - Olbia

Olbia, Italy: Amid Sardinia's bustling resorts, Olbia stands as a lively seaport and hub for ferries to the mainland. A gem in the historic core is the simple granite basilica of San Simplicio, dating back to the 11th century. This church, part of the great Pisan building expansion, adds a medieval charm to the modern town, with fascinating recycled Roman columns and a starkly tranquil interior.

Day 14 - Cartagena

Cartagena, Spain: With a sheltered bay that has drawn mariners for centuries, the city was founded by Carthaginians in 223BC and later flourished as a Roman colony and Byzantine trading centre. Its strategic naval significance continued through King Philip II's reign. Rich in history, recent years have unveiled impressive relics like a well-preserved Roman Theatre. Whether exploring its past or enjoying a scenic harbour cruise, Cartagena offers historical intrigue and Mediterranean allure.

Day 15 - Gibraltar

Gibraltar, Gibraltar: This British outpost is famed for its strategic importance at the meeting of the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. The iconic Rock of Gibraltar, towering over a narrow peninsula, offers surrounding views just 12 miles from Africa. Popular with British travellers, Gibraltar boasts superb duty-free shopping. Note: Due to narrow roads, tours use small mini-buses, although private taxis can accommodate mobility aids for a bespoke tour of the Rock.

Day 19 - Portsmouth

Portsmouth, England: Nestled predominantly on Portsea Island, this city lacks settlement in the Domesday Book of 1086 but burgeoned into a major naval base post-1194 charter. It houses the world’s oldest dry dock and celebrated vessels including HMS Victory. History buffs will enjoy visiting Charles Dickens's birthplace, and the City Museum showcasing Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Dominated by the Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth remains a key British naval hub with a rich maritime past.