Spanish and Italian Highlights

Madrid is where ancient and old meet modern and cosmopolitan, where sightseeing, dancing, and shopping go hand in hand.

Spectacular enough to rival the Louvre, this museum is well-known for its revered art collection including best national artists.

Old Madrid offers a range of exploration from small charming residences, to elaborate mansions, to a number of churches.

This must-see museum provides a comprehensive journey of prehistoric, Iberian, Visigothic, Muslim, and Christian cultures.

Housed in an old hospital, this museum holds a most excellent collection of art by 20C Spanish artists.

This magnificent monasterial complex boasts a palace, a church, an ancient library, royal apartments, and many more historic gems.

A memorial dedicated to those who fell during the Spanish Civil War, covering over 3,360 acres of beautiful woodland.

This refreshing park is an oasis within Madrid, with peaceful tree groves, a lake for rowing, and enticing spots for solitude.

Dating to the 2C, this ancient Egyptian temple was sent as a gift from Egypt to Spain and was rebuilt stone by stone in Madrid.

Visit this neighborhood for a day full of cultural exploits, as its streets are lined with some of Madrid's best national museums.

Built in the 17C, this is a relaxing plaza to linger in, with its interesting architecture, cafes, and frequent performances.

Situated amid lovely scenery, this charming city offers diverse architecture, cultural monuments, local cuisine, and rich history.

Segovia has an illustrious past dating to Roman times, only rivaled by the beauty of the landscape surrounding it.

This vast 18C palatial complex is the official residence of Spanish royalty, boasting over 2,000 rooms and remarkable decor.

This 16C monastery contains a wealth of artistic elements, such as its chapels, Ruben-based tapestries, and paintings.

This often overlooked museum should not be missed, as it hosts Goya masterpieces, enamel ware, silverworks, and other artifacts.

This neoclassical palace holds a must-see collection for art enthusiasts, with artwork spanning from the 13C to the present day.

Explore the ins and outs of this lovely Spanish town, making sure to check out the iconic windmills.

Known for its stunning fortified walls, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is full of medieval history as well as superb food.

Located in Madrid's Buen Retiro Park, this 19C glass and iron building is shaped like a Greek cross and is a renowned architectural gem.

Opened in the 18C, Madrid's exceptional Zoo Aquarium features a dolphinarium, giant pandas, and birds of prey.

Housing art and diplomatic memorabilia as well, the armory is best known for its collections of royal weaponry and armor.

This mountain range is rich with lakes, lush vegetation, and wild animals, much of which is preserved in a national reserve.

This 15C Mudejar castle looms over the countryside, featuring excellent architecture, a chapel, and several lovely courtyards.

While Valencia retains a pride and tight connection to its past, it also is extremely modernized in its demeanor and culture.

Begin exploring Old Valencia by having breakfast or lunch in the friendly and bustling Mare de Deu Plaza.

This expansive complex includes an opera hall, an interactive science museum, and the largest aquarium in Europe.

The Valencia beach is popular for its sand, sun, and surf, with some areas offering amenities and others more tranquil.

Housed in a 17C palace, this museum hosts a wealth of medieval artworks, as well as sculptures, archaeological findings, and more.

Book in advance if you want to visit this amazing winery, sampling Spanish wines and enjoying the views of the surrounding vineyards.

Trace the history of this castle by the artifacts left by its former inhabitants, from Romans, to Arabs, to Christians.

Dating to the 13C, this Gothic church as built on the site of a mosque. It is renowned for its unique mixture of architectural styles.

Part of the City of Arts and Sciences, this must-see aquarium, the largest in Europe, is home to more than 500 aquatic species.

This 15C Gothic building was once the heart of Valencia's trade, and now retains ornate exterior and elaborate decor.

Housed in a 15C Baroque palace with lavish exterior, the museum displays over 5,000 ceramic artworks dating as far back as the 13C.

Known for its rich history and amazing old architecture, this remarkable Spanish town hosts annual festivals to celebrate its iconic castle.

Learn about Spanish wine production and sample some delicious wines at this excellent winery. Make sure to book in advance.

If not traveling by train, you should visit this modern early 20C station, with murals throughout complimenting its uniqueness.

Built in the 14C, this Templar fort guarantees a lengthy visit as you explore its ramparts and views of the surroundings.

A beautiful mountain town, Teruel shows off an interesting landscape of Christian, Jewish, and Muslim influences from its past.

A vibrant metropolis set on the Mediterranean Sea, famed for its brilliant architecture, rich culture, and captivating history.

Recognized as the masterpiece of Antoni Gaudi, this incomplete church is an exquisite blend of Gothicism and Art Nouveau.

In the heart of the city center, this historic quarter is full of Gothic architectural gems, as well as artifacts dating to the 4C.

A marvel of landscaping by Antoni Gaudi, this park blends lush gardens with architectural curios, and is full of whimsical statues.

The center remains the heart of Barcelona, combining historic sites and cultural monuments with cafes, shops, and fun activities.

Dating to the 11C, this cliffside monastery boasts Romanesque features and is surrounded by the breathtaking nature of the Cingles de Berti.

A beautiful mountaintop abbey that offers breathtaking views over the whole of Catalonia, and houses a famed image of Black Madonna.

Once the city's infamous Chinatown, today the neighborhood is best known for its nightlife and a myriad of diverse eateries.

Located centrally in the Gothic Quarter, this cultural square is surrounded by some of Barcelona's most grand medieval buildings.

Walk down this major avenue, admiring fantastic architectural gems, browsing the various shops, and enjoying the local cafes.

Established in the 15C, this famous avenue is lively, colorful, and manic, with ever-changing commerce, nature, and celebrations.

Take a guided tour through the salt mines to explore the breathtaking caves and learn about salt mining in the region.

Heavenly visions guided two young shepherds to this cave in the 9C, where they discovered a relic of the Virgin Mary.

This immense square is a nice spot for some shopping, and turns into a nightlife and cuisine hub in the evenings.

Visit the city's marina and discover a bustling area great for eating, drinking, and enjoying the views and happenings.

Housed in a 15C Gothic palace, this superb museum hosts a wealth of historic relics, including wonderful archaeological findings.

Recognized by National Geographic as the world's best city beach, this great shoreline stretches for over 4km and fits all tastes.

The intensity of this mountain's facade has influenced Wagner and other artists, as well those worshiping the Virgin Mary.

This beach town is friendly and fun, with a wealth of Modernist structures, reflecting many artists who frequented here.

Housed in the National Palace, this museum includes excellent collections covering art and artifacts from Roman times to modern.

This flamboyant concert hall displays the best of Catalan culture both inside and out, boasting exquisite ornaments and architecture.

Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Gaudi-designed masterpiece from the early 20C offers a museum and roof-top tour.

This 13C Gothic cathedral is a wonder, featuring an array of decorative elements and allowing access to the roof for great views.

A 12C monastery superbly blending architectures, with a multitude of galleries devoted to Moor, Romanesque, or Gothic influences.

Purchased by Salvador Dali as a gift to his wife Gala, Dali is now buried at the castle.

Full of energy and architectural treasures, Avignon is an excellent base from which to explore Western Provence.

Avignon's historic center is a relaxed and easy place to explore.

Built in the 14C, this palace is the architectural highlight of Avignon.

A famous Avignon landmark, this old bridge extends half way across the river and houses a small church.

This rocky outcrop on the left bank of the Rhone offers exceptional views of the city.

Beautiful nature is evident all around this massif, whether admiring the landscapes or relaxing at the beaches.

Discover the rich fauna and flora of this superb cirque, as well as the magnificent view of the entire area.

The former residence of Cardinal Arnaud, this museum now features Italian paintings, as well as Gothic sculptures.

This museum features works by Avignon painter Joseph Vernet, as well as sculptures and paintings by French and Italian artists.

Youthful and progressive, this town remains charming and provincial with its monuments, facades, and architecture from the past.

This Roman town is known for its splendid architecture and numerous artifacts, which reveal a rich history.

Arles is a fascinating Provencal town in a great location, especially known for its many archaeological treasures.

Stretching across the Gardon River, this is the world's tallest ancient Roman aqueduct, and one of the best preserved in the region.

A famed route taken by Napoleon in 1815 towards the Battle of Waterloo, featuring the natural beauty of the riviera, the Alps, and much more.

A tiny French village, known for its wealth of historic buildings and landmarks, as well as its proximity to untouched natural beauty.

Known for its famous "Promenade des Anglais", this port city boasts a rich cultural life and a profusion of modern artworks.

The Plateau St-Michel offers some beautiful views over Nice and the Bay of Angels, take your time and enjoy this lovely promenade.

Western Europe's largest Eastern Orthodox church was built to honor Nicholas Alexandrovich, Tsarevich of Russia who died in Nice.

Stroll the narrow streets and relax in a cafe terrace, from which you can do some people watching.

Housed in the 17C Villa des Arenes, this museum holds one of the largest collections of Matisse works in the world.

This is a beautiful archipelago with many charming islands, such as Le Levant and Porquerolles.

Cannes is a famous upscale seaside resort town in the Riviera, it offers fantastic beaches, food, and nightlife.

This museum has an amazing collection of modern and contemporary art from some of the most prestigious artists.

Whether public or private, relax and enjoy in one of the large and lovely beaches of Nice.

Wandering through this museum is a wonderful way to discover Asian history and culture.

Housed in a majestic building, this museum offers beautiful collections of 17C to 19C European art.

Admire the superb Cians River as it winds through the natural sculptures it created over the years.

Profuse with fresh greenery and the unique color of red cliffs, this gorge is a must-see in the Var region.

This museum holds the famous Message Biblique series and has the largest collection of work by Chagall.

A famed route taken by Napoleon in 1815 towards the Battle of Waterloo, featuring the natural beauty of the riviera, the Alps, and much more.

While visiting here, be sure to see St. Marguerite Island, a beautiful place covered in eucalyptus and pine.

Once the home of Christopher Columbus, this coastal city is a historic seaport, boasting churches, museums, and medieval remnants.

Explore the vibrantly colorful streets riddling this city center, admiring architectural curios and various landmarks.

Dating to the 16C, this hilltop stronghold is soaked in history and houses the Archaeological Museum of Savona.

Adjacent to the Savona Cathedral, this 15C chapel contains a mausoleum, decorative Rococo elements, and fine 18C murals.

This lovely 15C palace houses a rich Art Museum that contains contemporary artwork, medieval paintings, and a collection of ceramics.

This medieval citadel is among Italy's best-known, rich with history and overlooking a quaint town of the same name.

Comprised of five colorful villages, this Italian town sprawls over terraced rocks along the coast and offers spectacular scenery.

A Roman Catholic cathedral, dating to the 16C, it boasts lovely ornamental elements of Neoclassical and Baroque styles.

Named after a 15C Genoese explorer, this medieval tower is iconic of the city.

Put on your hiking shoes and head out, exploring the wild nature stretching between Camogli and Portofino on this 15km trail.

Home to the world's oldest university, this lively university city boasts a long history, fine art, great cuisine, and rich culture.

Explore Bologna's pretty historic center, where most of the landmarks and the better restaurants are located.

Dating to the 12C-13C period, Bologna's numerous towers represent the city and offer marvelous views from the top.

Situated on a hilltop, this lovely church is home to a significant icon of Virgin Mary, and offers spectacular views over the city.

A 16C palace occupied by the university, featuring a museum boasting collections of anatomy, natural history, geography, and other fields.

Tuscany's capital is full of history, boasting beautiful architecture, great art venues, superb food, and unforgettable atmosphere.

A striking rock formation reaching the height of over 1,000m, boasting a national park and an array of tropical vegetation.

Bologna's tremendous 15C church is the world's largest brick church, featuring Gothic architecture and over 20 unique chapels.

Comprised of several churches, this religious complex dates to the 5C and was built to reflect the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Erected during the Renaissance period, this villa now boasts a superb parkland dotted with fountains, statues, and lovely scenery.

Seamlessly blending Gothic and Moorish architecture, this 19C castle is a world-renowned homeopathic center.

Spanning 70km, only 2 of which are open to the public, this marvelous karst cave system is rich with mesmerizing rock formations.

This 16C boasts exquisite Moorish Revival architecture and breathtaking decor. Be sure to check its opening hours in advance.

Famed worldwide for its romantic canals and gorgeous masks, this thriving city offers its visitors a wealth of cultural attractions.

Venice's famous main square is beautifully designed, lined with gorgeous arcaded buildings, and is a great spot for people-watching.

Boasting superb Italian-Byzantine style, this 11C basilica hosts a wealth of gilded mosaics, elegant frescoes, and other decorations.

Lined with a fascinating array of architectural curios, the Grand Canal is the city's largest water transportation vein.

Set on one of Venice's major arteries, this superb museum hosts an array of modern art, from Cubism, to Expressionist, to Futurism.

Pack up your hiking boots because the wild beauty of the Dolomites awaits your exploration, boasting streams, mountains, and rich fauna.

Once a thriving hub of the Venetian Republic, this lagoon island features several remarkable churches and a few historic sites.

If you allow yourself one touristy act, let it be this - take a ride on a gondola, exploring the city as it should be explored.

Dating to the 15C, this clock town boasts an ornate facade and fine architectural blend, as well as offering tours behind the mechanism.

Wander around the famed City of Canals, exploring the winding streets by foot or a gondola, soaking up the carnivalesque ambiance.

Located on the long sandbar, this beach rests on the Adriatic Sea, and offers wonderful seaside scenery, clear water, and fine sand.

Immortalized in several Shakespearean plays, Verona lures travelers with its culture, rich history, and unforgettable atmosphere.

Dedicated to the life and work of Antonio Canova, a renowned 18C Neoclassical artist, this museum exhibits his sculptures and technique.

Established as part of a monastery in the 12C, this 16C reconstruction retains a notable collection of fine artwork and a beautiful facade.

Featuring a long monastic history, this isle also invites travelers to walk among its gardens, enjoy the views, or visit a cultural event.

Stretching for 11km parallel the shore, this sandbar is a resort of its own, known for its elegant villas and a great beach.

A bridge of white limestone, best known for various legends explaining the etymology of its name, be it prisoners' or lovers' sighs.

A small town with a history dating back to the Romans. Containing a nice medieval center and elaborate Roman ruins

Tuscany's capital is full of history, boasting beautiful architecture, great art venues, superb food, and unforgettable atmosphere.

Succumb to the charms of this historic center, venturing through the streets to discover quaint shops, cafes, and historic sites.

This superb art gallery houses a wealth of Renaissance art, including Michelangelo's world-famous sculpture of David.

An 11C Romanesque church with rich geometrical design, featuring uniquely ornate interior, including mosaics, murals, and frescoes.

A famous museum, exhibiting some of the greatest classical art pieces from major Italian masters. A must visit for art lovers!

One of the best areas to take a scenic drive in Tuscany, this valley offers great views of the countryside at its best.

A top destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Siena is famous for its cuisine, art, museums, and medieval cityscape.

Strewn with 16C-18C sculptures and architectural curios, these lovely gardens are home to a notable Fountain of Neptune.

Florence's largest church is an architectural gem boasting Gothic-Revival architecture, superb decorations, and an exquisite facade.

Admire the superb design, then climb 414 stairs up this beautiful Gothic tower to enjoy the stunning views of Florence awaiting you.

This popular hilltop square offers the best views of the city, and is lauded for its magical atmosphere during sunset.

Erected during the Renaissance period, this villa now boasts a superb parkland dotted with fountains, statues, and lovely scenery.

Dating to the 14C, this hilltop monastery boasts remarkable frescoes, murals, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

The city's Town Hall dates to the 13C and features several lovely courtyards, as well as an array of chambers with historic decor.

Stretching between two palaces, this covered passageway features several notable paintings.

Hemmed with various cultural and historic landmarks, this central square is a great spot for a meet up or for some people-watching.

Formerly a prisonhouse, this 13C building houses an art museum displaying important sculptures and artworks by Renaissance masters.

Only ruins remain of the 13C monasterial complex, but wandering among these offers glimpses of fine Gothic architecture.

This 16C boasts exquisite Moorish Revival architecture and breathtaking decor. Be sure to check its opening hours in advance.

Italy's eternal capital boasts historic sites, ancient ruins, fine architecture, rich culture, superb food, and vibrant nightlife.

Make a wish and toss a coin into this world-famous Baroque fountain, admire its sculptures, then head off to explore the nearby cafes.

This iconic landmark is a triumph of Roman architecture, dating to the 1C and hailed as the largest amphitheater ever built.

Once the political and commercial center of ancient Rome, this archaeological park now houses nicely-preserved ruins.

A very lively neighborhood in the heart of Rome. Great for an evening stroll and a good meal.

Flanked by two gorgeous 16C villas, these elegant gardens boast an intricate design, fountains, sculptures, and a wealth of blossoms.

Dramatically set on an eroding volcanic plateau overlooking the area, this town retains much of its historic architecture and charm.

Set in the Vatican City, these 54 museums house an exquisite art collection dating to the 16C, including the famed Sistine Chapel.

The veritable heart of Rome, this hill is an archaeological park featuring a wealth of remarkable ancient ruins and a museum.

Originally a Roman temple, this famed 2C rotonda is a superbly-preserved cultural monument, as well as a feat of Roman engineering.

Climb up the elegant 18C Spanish Steps to visit the church, or spend your time loafing on the square below, soaking in the ambiance.

The romantic gardens feature medieval ruins, a variety of trees, meadows, exotic plants, and roses that grow over the ruins.

Boasting a fascinating history dating back to the Bronze Age, this town was abandoned during the 18C but retains some interesting remnants.

This magnificent 19C monument commemorates Italy's first king, and features an array of artistic and architectural elements.

This beautiful 20C villa houses an exquisite 17C collection of artwork and historic artefacts, including choice pieces by Caravaggio.

Erected by the Torlonia family in the 18C and occupied by Mussolini in the 20C, this Neoclassical mansion now hosts a small art museum.

Once a wealthy suburb of ancient Rome full of elegant villas and rich gardens, the district is now a great spot for a stroll.

Spanning across a strip of coastal land, including stretch of forest, the park features several types of climates and scenery.

Evacuated by the government and repopulated by artists and artisans decades later, this quaint town on top of a volcano bursts with culture.

Take a walk through the residential Aventine Hill quarter, famed for the Santa Maria Church whose keyhole offers a superb view.

Stroll through the tranquil expanse dotted with fine tombstones, admiring the fruit trees and noting some of the historic relics.

A masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, this awe-inspiring 16C church boasts artwork by Italian masters and exquisite furnishing.

An underground cemetery used from the Greek period onward, now featuring several notable mausoleums and sarcophagi.

Visit the ruins of this once thriving Etruscan metropolis, sacked in the 1C BC, but still retaining remnants of its former grandeur.

Home to historic sites, this national park also offers an array of outdoor activities, including horse riding, biking, and skiing.

A great spot from which to explore the riches of the Amalfi coast, this picturesque town offers lush views and historic buildings.

Enjoy fine veiws of Mount Vesuvius, Island of Capri, and the entire Amalfi coast from various vantage points scattered around town.

Stroll along Sorrento's central streets, lined with quaint shops overflowing with nice souvenirs, ceramics, and local delicacies.

Skirting the Salerno Gulf, this scenic drive will afford you breathtaking views, many options for interesting stops on the way.

While Positano is a small village, little compares with its pastoral beauty, white Moorish houses, and gorgeous turquoise bay.

Many opt to drive, but some choose to hike this incredible scenic road, named for the Roman temples that once stood here.

Connected to Procida by a bridge, the beautiful moon shaped island is a remnant ridge of an ancient volcanic crater.

Italy's third-largest city is a bustling port rich with history, cultural monuments, various attractions, and great food.

Still in use until 1965, the 18C prison jailed several famous prisoners, including a future President of Italy Sandro Pertini.

Carved by a volcanic eruption 35,000 years ago, the valley now boasts unique vegetation, as well as remnants of an ancient mill.

Dotted with historic Greek towns and adjacent to a few marine reserves, this national park offers hiking and diving opportunities.