Piraeus (Athens) - Palma de Mallorca Sunny autumn days in the Mediterranean

Piraeus, the port of Athens, is an important hub for those travelling by sea. In Athens itself, there are many fascinating sights that are not to be missed. These include the famous Acropolis and the Parthenon temple, the National Archaeological Museum, the Ancient Agora, Temple of Zeus and the modern Plaka neighbourhood with its picturesque narrow streets and tavernas. Other highlights include Syntagma Square with its impressive parliament building and the Kolonaki neighbourhood with its elegant shops and cafes.

Surrounded by a ring of bastions, the fortified city of Valletta extends along the north-eastern coast of Malta between the two largest natural harbours in the Mediterranean. The imposing fortifications make Valletta one of the best-protected cities in the world. The historical centre boasts magnificent architecture, including the Grand Master’s Palace, which occupies an entire city block. The city’s unique character is reflected in its many historic sites and hidden cafes, inviting visitors to discover it at their leisure.

Crossing the Ponte Santa Lucia and Ponte Nuevo bridges, you’ll reach the historic heart of Syracuse, a city in south-eastern Sicily that was once one of the most powerful commercial centres of the ancient world. The centrally located Neapolis archaeological park includes the Roman amphitheatre, the Teatro Greco and the Orecchio di Dionisio, a limestone cave shaped like a human ear. The impressive cathedral of Santa Maria delle Colonne was built on the site of several temples dedicated to the goddess Athena. Thanks to this fascinating blend of ancient and baroque elements, Syracuse has earned UNESCO World Heritage status.

Known as the port of Rome, the coastal city of Civitavecchia is the starting point for discovery tours of the region. From here, you can go on excursions to Tuscany, Ostia, and of course the Eternal City itself. Rome is enchanting with its impressive cultural treasures and remnants of the Roman Empire: the Pantheon, the Roman Forum and the Colosseum being just some of the highlights. St Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world, was built over 500 years ago on the burial site of the apostle St Peter. With a capacity for 20,000 people and its dome designed by Michelangelo, St Peter’s Basilica is an impressive landmark that brings the history of Rome to life.

The capital city of the Tuscan province of Livorno bears the same name and offers a fascinating mix of historic heritage and lively harbour atmosphere. The old port, Porto Mediceo, is guarded by the impressive Fortezza Vecchia, a fort built in 1520 by the Medici in the Renaissance style. With its many canals and bridges, the charming old town is reminiscent of the lagoon city of Venice, which is why the area also goes by the name of Venezia Nuova. Its picturesque, maritime charm makes Livorno a wonderful place to discover Tuscany in a very special way.

The azure waters of the Baie des Anges and the mild climate made Nice a popular destination as early as the 19th century. The Russian royal family also spent the winter months here: even today, the chic hotels, well-kept gardens and Orthodox church are a reminder of this glamorous past. Castle Hill, the oldest part of the city, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the bay, while the lively old town, known as “Babazouk”, invites you to enjoy and explore. With its spacious boulevards, gardens and wonderful location on the Cote d’Azur, Nice combines historic charm with a Mediterranean way of life.

Marseille, France’s oldest city, combines European and African influences to create a unique experience. The charm of Provence and modern architecture pervades the diverse cityscape. The Port Moderne is the symbol of new Marseille and is home to architectural highlights such as the futuristic Zaha Hadid tower. The Old Port, the vibrant heart of the city, is where you can discover the living history of Marseille: Villa Méditerranée and the MuCEM – the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations – offer interesting insights. Those who prefer to take advantage of extensive shopping opportunities can enjoy a stroll along the boulevards with their many boutiques and cafes.

Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the Balearic Islands, has numerous highlights on offer. Take a look at the majestic La Seu cathedral and stroll through the charming old town with its narrow lanes and historic buildings. Visit Bellver Castle with its panoramic views over the city. Or relax on idyllic beaches such as Playa de Palma or Cala Major. Take a walk along the Passeig des Born promenade and discover the lively shopping street Avenida Jaume III. An insider tip is Santa Catalina neighbourhood with its trendy cafes, bars and restaurants, where you can enjoy the local cuisine and nightlife.