AN ABUNDANCE OF ITALIAN RICHES AWAITS

Ah, Florence—sublime birthplace of the Renaissance, its historic center full to bursting with elegant squares, imposing palaces, magnificent churches, and museums with such an abundance of riches it could make an art lover weep for joy.

The list of illustrious names connected with this city is mind-boggling: Botticelli, Dante, Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Galileo. Other colorful and fascinating characters were of dubious reputation: Machiavelli, and the religious extremist Savonarola, with his bonfire of the vanities. For many years the city was ruled by the powerful Medici family, patrons of the arts and bankers to the papacy, whose line included six kings and two popes.

A STATE OF GLITZ & GLAMOUR

The tiny principality of Monaco, a sovereign state of just under one square mile, has an outsized resume, boasting some of the planet's most expensive real estate, and the world's most prestigious casino.

Facing the sea, and engulfed on the other three sides by France, it has been the domain of the Grimaldi dynasty since the 14th century, and enjoys the same glamorous reputation as the rest of the Riviera.

THE GLAMOROUS HEART OF THE FRENCH RIVIERA

Saint-Tropez conjures up images of sun-drenched beaches, tanned bodies, and jet setters enjoying martinis on the decks of luxury yachts. Indeed it is a glamorous playground for the wealthy, but anyone can spend an afternoon at a sidewalk café, watching the spectacle unfold. The south of France played a role in the history of modern painting, its clear light inspiring artists, so that even today many live and work here.

For mesmerizing views, head up to the 16th century Citadel. Or stroll the old town, overflowing with restaurants, trendy boutiques, and galleries.

STROLL ALONG THE CANALS OF THIS COLORFUL PORT

France's largest and most important fishing port on the Mediterranean, Sete also attracts pleasure craft, and some of the country's America's Cup entrants. The low town is criss-crossed by scenic canals and bridges, and you can observe the activity of the fishing fleet as it ties up in the center of town. Clams, mussels, and oysters are farmed, and it is hardly possible to find fresher fruits of the sea, a treat much enjoyed by visitors. 

Excursions can be made from Sete to Carcassonne, a perfectly preserved medieval city. With a double row of ramparts and 52 towers, it is everything you expect from a fairy tale castle.

BRILLIANT SUNNY DAYS & DAZZLING NIGHTS

Mountainous Ibiza is known as Isla Blanca, the White Island, perhaps because of the dazzling white walls of the traditional houses and churches that make up the small villages dotting its landscape. Its atmosphere is reminiscent of Greek islands, making it unique among the Balearic Isles, and its rustic beauty attracts artists, as well photo and film shoots.

Once you've explored the sights of the island, be sure to take a nap and rest up for the evening's festivities: Ibiza’s nightlife is legendary, and not to be missed.

CRUISE TO THE LIVELY CITY OF GAUDI

Dynamic Barcelona is all about architecture, from the magnificent medieval buildings of the Gothic Quarter to the Modernist movement typified by the work of Antoni Gaudi. Though his materials were stone and metal, his forms were organic, awash in curves, swirls, and colors. His masterpiece is the amazing Church of the Sagrada Familia, colossal and as yet unfinished, though construction began in 1882.

A contemporary contribution to the scene is Ricardo Bofill's post modernist National Theater of Catalonia, an imaginative combination of classical and modern design, with a greenhouse-like lobby.