10 nights. Spain, Italy, France

Day 1

lisbon, portugal

Departure: 16:00

Lisbon is known as the city of seven hills due to its location, the city spreads across steep hillsides that overlook the River Tagus. Romantic and cosmopolitan, the city presents its typical red roofs to the visitors that want to get to know its every inch. Lisbon surprises with its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. The Portuguese capital offers lots of museums, libraries, a massive port, churches and palaces and stunning views of the River Tagus. Lisbon was once considered a poor and chaotic city. Currently it has experienced a resurgence in the style of the 14th and 15th centuries, when it was part of that vast empire stretching from Brazil to India. The reason for this was the World Expo held in 1998, a new bridge over the Tagus was built and the city's underground network was remodelled. The resurgence of the city then continued to host several matches during Euro 2004, also held there the MTV Europe Music Awards in 2005. Many of its most beautiful buildings date from the 14th and 15th centuries, especially the ones located in the Belem district. There are also many buildings from the 18th century, which are located mostly in the Baixa area of central Lisbon and were reconstructed almost completely after a devastating earthquake that hit the town in 1755. The historic centre of the city, standing on The Seven Hills, presents steep streets and picturesque alleys. On the west side of the city, there is Monsanto Forest Park, Lisbon’s lung, with an area of 10 km and one of the largest in Europe. The capital’s majestic port has 3 docks commonly used for several cruises and it is, currently, the busiest port on the European Atlantic coast. Lisbon is a city with centuries of history and with an ambitious attitude, marrying the historic with the modern, the traditional with the cutting edge. Strolling through the old quarters one can hear the traditional Fado sung and played in small restaurants in town. In the hilltop district of Bairro Alto, dozens of restaurants and bars line the narrow streets, with jazz, reggae, electronica filling the air and revellers partying until dawn. Nightclubs scattered all over town make fine use of old spaces, whether on riverside docks or tucked away in 18th-century mansions. Lisbon presents itself to the world as a cosmopolitan and lively city, with alternatives for every taste, especially in the summer months when its many bars, terraces and restaurants are crammed with people.

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Day 3

alicante, spain

Arrival: 08:00 - Departure: 17:00

Here’s an English (Ireland) translation, with subtle adjustments for Irish English vocabulary, phrasing, and tone: Located on the ever-popular Costa Blanca, tourists keep flocking to Alicante, probably because it’s managed to stay so untouched by their presence. A beautiful and well-laid-out city, Alicante is a real surprise along the southern coast. Beyond the polished pedestrian walkways, you’ll find the bustling streets of the old town, nestled at the foot of an impressive castle. With its drawbridges, moats, tunnels, and secret passageways, the Castillo de Santa Barbara isn’t just any old castle – it’s one of the largest medieval fortresses in Spain, and it offers stunning views over the city and the coastline. The Cathedral of San Nicolas de Bari is a fine example of the austere Renaissance architecture you’ll find in Spain, and it boasts a lovely cloister with intricately carved doors. Alicante is also known for having some of the best nightlife in the region. El Puerto and El Barrio are among the liveliest spots in the city once evening falls, but the Esplanada is more popular during the summer, as are the kiosks along Postiguet and San Juan beaches. With its gorgeous sandy beaches, long waterfront, and mild, pleasant climate, this city truly has a Mediterranean feel.

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Day 4

mahon,menorca,spain

Arrival: 09:00 - Departure: 16:00

Discover the mesmerising beauty of Mahon, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the picturesque island of Menorca, Spain. With its quaint charm, rich history, and vibrant culture, Mahon is the perfect getaway for those seeking a unique travel experience. Begin your journey in the historic city centre, where you can explore charming narrow streets filled with antique buildings and vibrant local markets. Immerse yourself in the city’s fascinating history by visiting the Church of Santa Maria, known for its breathtaking organ with more than 3,000 pipes. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Museum of Menorca, where you can get a glimpse into the island's past from prehistoric times to the present. Mahon is also home to one of the largest natural harbours in the world, an impressive sight to behold. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, where you can enjoy the captivating views of yachts bobbing in the turquoise waters against the backdrop of pastel-coloured buildings. The harbour is dotted with a wide array of bars and restaurants, offering you the chance to sample traditional Menorcan cuisine. Delight your senses with a plate of 'caldereta de llagosta', a delicious local lobster stew, as you soak in the breathtaking views. For nature enthusiasts, a trip to the S'Albufera des Grau Natural Park is a must. Home to diverse flora and fauna, the park offers numerous trails for hiking and bird watching. Also, don't forget to visit the stunning beaches of Menorca, such as the serene Cala Mesquida or the picturesque Cala Mitjana, both offering crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. In the evening, enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Mahon. Visit the Cova d'en Xoroi, a unique bar set in a natural cave overlooking the sea, where you can sip on a refreshing cocktail while watching the sunset. From its rich history and culture to its stunning natural beauty, Mahon, Menorca offers a captivating travel experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Mahon is a destination that has something for everyone.

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Day 5

olbia, sardinia

Arrival: 10:00 - Departure: 18:00

Olbia is a city of 58,066 inhabitants in northeastern Sardinia (Italy), in the Gallura sub-region. Called Olbia in the Roman age, Civita in the Middle Ages and Terranova Pausania before the 1940s, Olbia was again the official name of the city during the period of Fascism. Olbia has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate with very mild winters, warm springs and autumns and hot summers. You can't miss visiting the Oschiri, a beautiful village of 4000 people.

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Day 6

genoa, italy

Arrival: 09:00 - Departure: 19:00

Genova is a city of contrasts: it's a city of art as well as an industrial city. It has glass skyscrapers and medieval towers, business centres and unspoiled historic sites. Genoa is one of Italy’s most important ports that now accommodates Europe’s largest aquarium and the largest maritime history museum in the Mediterranean. Strolling down its narrow, twisting lanes, known as caruggi, visitors will discover architectural gems, some excellent museums and art galleries. Porta Soprana, the best known gate in the ancient Genoa city walls, gives way to the Piazza de Ferrari, with its Palace of the Doges and the Opera House. Along the Strade Nuove, a stunning avenue listed as a World Heritage Site, is where we find the Palazzi dei Rolli, a roster of aristocratic homes that are a reminder of the city’s imperial past. Genoa is an elusive and secretive city, it will take you to great bars, share its cuisine and give you a glimpse of culture, but it’ll have to get to know you first.

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Day 7

provence(marseille), france

Arrival: 09:00 - Departure: 17:00

Marseille is the second largest city in France, the biggest Mediterranean port and the economic hub of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Marseille is set in a beautiful location, nestled between rugged limestone hills and a sweeping bay, and is rich with history, which wasn’t always pleasant. Marseille is a popular holiday destination, as it has 300 days of sunshine a year. Today Marseille still retains traces of its tumultuous past, this ancient city is today very active and attractive. It has a powerful charm which encourages visitors, to wander through its old districts around le Vieux Port, in the gardens with the ancient ruins or the gardens of Longchamp Palace and, of course, on the esplanade of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Cathedral, which overlooks the entire city Marseille is atmospheric and charming and a real must.

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Day 9

malaga, spain

Arrival: 08:00 - Departure: 19:00

Malaga, the birthplace of Picasso, radiates art from every brick. Considered one of the oldest cities in Spain and Europe, this cosmopolitan port is vibrantly modern yet it clings to its vast historic past. The palm-lined Paseo el Parque will lead you beneath Alcazaba, a Moorish palace whose fortified walls enclose fragrant gardens and an archaeological museum. The towering Gibralfaro Castle crowns a nearby hill, with outstanding views of the sprawling city below. Also worth a visit is the Picasso Museum that, aside from an impressive artistic heritage, offers educational activities and cultural events. Málaga deserves a good night visit: don't miss a good stroll along the harbour where traditional fried fish is washed down with cold beer at chiringuitos (beach bars) and enjoy the illuminated Alcazaba, which watches over the city from Mount Gibralfaro.

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Day 10

cadiz - spain

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 17:00

Cádiz is situated in the south of Spain, in the region of Andalusia. Its coastline is part of the Costa de la Luz (Coast of Light) and boasts numerous golden sandy beaches, ranging from beaches in urban areas to vast, virtually untouched stretches of sand. In the interior, the popular White Villages Route comes highly recommended. It hosts three festivals of International Tourist Interest: the prestigious Carnival of Cadiz, the unique horse racing events on the beach at Sanlúcar de Barrameda, and the elegant Horse Fair in Jerez de la Frontera. Part of the province also falls within the Doñana National Park, and there are also another five nature reserves in Cadiz's exceptional natural environment. Cádiz is also renowned for its delicious cuisine, particularly its “pescaíto frito” (perfectly-fried platters of assorted fresh fish) and shellfish, ideally paired with the wines found on the Wine and Brandy routes in the Marco de Jerez region.

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Day 11

lisbon, portugal

Arrival: 08:00

Lisbon is known as the city of seven hills due to its location, the city spreads across steep hillsides that overlook the River Tagus. Romantic and cosmopolitan, the city presents its typical red roofs to the visitors that want to get to know its every inch. Lisbon surprises with its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. The Portuguese capital offers lots of museums, libraries, a massive port, churches and palaces and stunning views of the River Tagus. Lisbon was once considered a poor and chaotic city. Currently it has experienced a resurgence in the style of the 14th and 15th centuries, when it was part of that vast empire stretching from Brazil to India. The reason for this was the World Expo held in 1998, a new bridge over the Tagus was built and the city's underground network was remodelled. The resurgence of the city then continued to host several matches during Euro 2004, also held there the MTV Europe Music Awards in 2005. Many of its most beautiful buildings date from the 14th and 15th centuries, especially the ones located in the Belem district. There are also many buildings from the 18th century, which are located mostly in the Baixa area of central Lisbon and were reconstructed almost completely after a devastating earthquake that hit the town in 1755. The historic centre of the city, standing on The Seven Hills, presents steep streets and picturesque alleys. On the west side of the city, there is Monsanto Forest Park, Lisbon’s lung, with an area of 10 km and one of the largest in Europe. The capital’s majestic port has 3 docks commonly used for several cruises and it is, currently, the busiest port on the European Atlantic coast. Lisbon is a city with centuries of history and with an ambitious attitude, marrying the historic with the modern, the traditional with the cutting edge. Strolling through the old quarters one can hear the traditional Fado sung and played in small restaurants in town. In the hilltop district of Bairro Alto, dozens of restaurants and bars line the narrow streets, with jazz, reggae, electronica filling the air and revellers partying until dawn. Nightclubs scattered all over town make fine use of old spaces, whether on riverside docks or tucked away in 18th-century mansions. Lisbon presents itself to the world as a cosmopolitan and lively city, with alternatives for every taste, especially in the summer months when its many bars, terraces and restaurants are crammed with people.

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10 nights. Spain, Italy, France

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