Day 1 - Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca, Spain: North of the cathedral (La Seu) on Palma's map, lies Plaça Santa Eulàlia, the earliest settlement amid tiny streets. Outside, a ring of boulevards traces Moorish fortifications from the 12th century. The bastions jutted at regular intervals, with remnants visible at Ses Voltes near the seafront. Previously, a torrent ran through old Palma, diverted in the 17th century to a moat. Today, La Rambla and Passeig d'es Born follow the ancient streambed, hosting the evening paseo. Visitors can park near Parc de la Mar and explore the Almudaina Palace, Joan Miró's mural, and a sunrise walk at Ses Voltes for views of La Seu. Further, explore Carrer de la Boteria and Plaça de la Llotja, renowned as the Mediterranean’s finest Gothic civic structure, and nearby the Museu d'Es Baluard.

Day 3 - Marseille

Marseille, France: Designated a European Capital of Culture in 2013, Marseille underwent a profound transformation, creating new arts centres and refurbishing its port. This led to vibrant neighbourhoods attracting tourists. As France's second-largest city, it remains as cosmopolitan as when the Phoenicians arrived in 600 BC. Gyptis, a local chieftain's daughter, chose Greek commander Protis, resulting in the founding of Massalia. The city thrived for 500 years until Caesar's siege in 49 BC. Under Louis XIV, in 1666, port expansion began. The city rebounded after a plague in 1720, as industries flourished. With the Suez Canal's 1869 opening, Marseille boomed, integrating a multicultural populace.

Day 4 - Cannes

Cannes, France: The luxurious climate has transformed Cannes into a major European resort. Initially a fishing port, English Lord Brougham's love for the site in 1834 began its transformation into a fashionable retreat. The arrival of the Le Train Bleu and the 1936 introduction of paid holidays established Cannes as a hub for the wealthy. Cannes, famed for its film festival, invites visitors to saunter along La Croisette, a promenade lined with chic venues and grand hotels like the Carlton. This setting, with palm trees and boutiques, captures the Côte d'Azur's essence.

Day 5 - Calvi

Calvi, Corsica, France: Calvi, a slice of the Riviera, served Genoa by supplying products, retaining loyalty long after Corsica sought independence. Claimed as Christopher Columbus’s birthplace, Calvi endured Corsican nationalist attacks during the 18th century. Today, tourists flock to its sandy beaches, citadel, and lively nightlife.

Day 6 - Portofino

Portofino, Italy: Famous and romantic, Portofino has a storied history of domination by the Genoese, French, English, Spanish, and pirates. By the mid-1800s, affluent British tourists visited its lush harbours. Today, the rich anchor in summer, enjoying an evening after day-trippers leave. Visitors can explore the harbour, castle, shops, and cliffside views to Santa Margherita. For budget-conscious travellers, nearby Camogli offers a convenient base.

Day 7 - Livorno

Livorno, Italy: A gritty city rich in history, Livorno transitioned from Pisa and Genoa's holding to Florence's acquisition in 1421. Cosimo I’s harbour construction in 1571 and Ferdinando I’s free-city status made it a sanctuary for religious refugees. The Quattro Mori monument commemorates this. Despite war bombings and contemporary architecture, Livorno boasts outdoor markets, and nearby American military presence influences its offerings. Local markets and a stop for a vibrant meal are recommended.

Day 8 - Portoferraio

Portoferraio, Italy: Elba, resembling lush Corsica, attracts visitors with its verdant landscape, thanks to underground springs. Its combination of semitropical vegetation and mountainous scenery secures its status as a unique Mediterranean destination, drawing explorers during warm months. A car enhances travel, but buses also connect towns.

Day 9 - Porto Santo Stefano

Porto Santo Stefano, Italy: Porto Santo Stefano, a scenic Italian seaside town on the Monte Argentario, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and thriving fishing industry. Its harbour, filled with both fishing and pleasure boats, offers picturesque views. The town's charming streets lead to Fortezza Spagnola, a restored fort offering panoramic vistas and a taste of its historical tapestry.

Day 10 - Civitavecchia

Civitavecchia, Italy: As the gateway to Italy's vibrant capital, Civitavecchia nods to Rome's rich history. Over 2,500 years, figures from emperors to artists left marks, with ancient ruins, ornate churches, and Vatican treasures in abundance. Experience Rome’s charm by relaxing at a caffè in Campo de' Fiori or strolling its lovely piazzas.