Mediterranean Coastal Journey: Spain, France & Italy

Welcome to the Mediterranean coast. Begin your journey in Barcelona, famed for its exceptional architecture and vibrant culinary scene. As arrival times will vary, there is no scheduled sightseeing today. Spend the day as you wish, exploring the city independently.

Tonight, meet your fellow travelers over a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

This morning, step into the shoes of a local and navigate the metro. Then, explore the ever-changing Catalan capital as it's meant to be — on foot. Stroll along the bustling La Rambla boulevard, famous for its street artists and performers. Wander along the Gothic Quarter's labyrinthine streets and delve into one of Barcelona's lively food markets.

This afternoon, gain a different perspective on Barcelona at Parc Güell (UNESCO). This expansive garden, designed by the legendary Antoni Gaudí, is a feast for the eyes with its colorful mosaics and fantastical architecture. Finally, visit to the surreal and stunning Casa Batlló, locally known as the “house of bones” — another of Gaudí's architectural masterpieces.

Set out for Girona, a medieval town known for its atmospheric Old Quarter.

On arrival, it's your choice! Visit the Museum of Jewish History to uncover the legacy of Girona's Jewish community -OR- head uphill through the old town toward Girona Cathedral to explore the Arab Baths, a serene 12th-century bathhouse built in Romanesque style. Enjoy time for lunch on your own in Girona before heading to the Catalonian coast for a three-night stay at a seaside hotel. Discover the allure of Costa Brava, the perfect place to spend your days relaxing in your sea-view room or exploring secluded coves and beaches.

This evening, relax over dinner at your hotel.

Take in the Spanish coastline during a coastal walk between the charming villages of Calella de Palafrugell and Llafranc. Then, travel inland to the town of Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí. Visit the extraordinary Dalí Theatre-Museum; its eccentric exterior topped with giant eggs and golden statues hints at the imaginative world inside. From dreamlike paintings to whimsical installations, explore works of one of the 20th century's most influential artists.

Later, return to your hotel for a free evening.

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure along the stunning Costa Brava. Relax at your coastal hotel, take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean, or simply unwind on the beach with the sound of the waves as your backdrop. For those eager to explore further, consider an optional excursion to the enchanting medieval town of Besalú, and experience a taste of the region's rich winemaking heritage.

Bid adiós to the Spanish Riviera as you cross into southern France and journey into the heart of Provence. Along the way, visit Fontfroide Abbey, founded almost 10 centuries ago. Explore its tumultuous history during a guided visit that concludes with a paired lunch of its locally produced wine.

Continue your journey to Aix-en-Provence, a charming town in the heart of the Provençal countryside. Known for its elegant boulevards, lively markets, and artistic heritage, Aix offers a perfect introduction to the region's timeless beauty and relaxed pace of life.

Journey to the charming fishing village of Cassis, nestled between the dramatic cliffs of Cap Canaille and the rugged beauty of Calanques National Park. With its colorful waterfront, bobbing boats, and laid-back Mediterranean vibe, Cassis invites you to slow down and soak in its coastal charm. Enjoy a scenic cruise through the Calanques, where towering limestone cliffs and hidden coves create a breathtaking natural landscape. Back in Aix, walk to dinner at a nearby restaurant and savor Provençal cuisine.

Travel to glamorous Cannes and soak up its star-studded atmosphere before setting sail across the Bay of Cannes to the serene island of Saint-Honorat. For over a thousand years, the monks of Lérins Abbey have called this island home. Here, enjoy a tasting of the island's locally produced wine, crafted by the monks themselves. Return to the mainland and continue to Nice for a two-night stay in the heart of the Côte d'Azur.

The day is yours to explore Nice. Perhaps you'll stroll along the lively seafront Promenade des Anglais before finding your favorite café and soaking in the local life or venture up to Castle Hill. Or opt for a journey to St. Paul de Vence, exploring this charming walled medieval village, and then on towards Grasse, where you'll uncover the art of French perfumery in a hands-on workshop led by a master “nez.” No matter how you spend your day, this evening, savor a tasting menu highlighting the delights of the South of France.

Bid au revoir to France this morning as you head to Monaco, the second smallest country in the world. Witness the changing of the guard at the Prince's Palace and step inside the Cathedral of Monaco, the final resting place of Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace. Then, take time to explore the charm and elegance of this tiny yet iconic nation at your own pace.

Take in the coastal views as you cross into Italy during an afternoon-long transfer to Arenzano, a picturesque seaside town on the Ligurian Riviera, offering a blend of coastal charm, historic elegance, and lush natural surroundings. Settle into your hotel for a two-night stay on the Italian Riviera.

Start your day with a peaceful morning in Arenzano — perhaps take a stroll along the seaside promenade. Then, set off on a picturesque drive to the sophisticated town of Santa Margherita Ligure, situated along the stunning Ligurian Coast.

Later this afternoon, board a boat to one of the most glamorous spots on the Italian Riviera — Portofino. Take in its colorful harbor, dotted with fishing boats and yachts set against a backdrop of pastel-colored buildings.

Venture beyond the usual tourist routes to discover one of Italy's most impressive natural landmarks: the marble quarries of Carrara. Embark on an off-road journey through the rugged Apuane Mountains, tracing the paths carved out by quarrymen. Carrara marble has long been revered for its beauty and was famously used by Michelangelo for masterpieces such as the Pietà in St. Peter's Basilica and the iconic David.

Your day continues through Tuscany's gentle hills. After tasting some traditional bites paired with olive oil, arrive for a relaxing stay in the Tuscan countryside.

Today is dedicated to Florence, the “Cradle of the Renaissance”. Join a local expert for a walking tour through the city's heart. Marvel at Ghiberti's gilded “Gates of Paradise” and Brunelleschi's imposing dome at the Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral complex. Stand before the Palazzo Vecchio, a symbol of the Medici dynasty's power, and end your guided walk in the expansive Piazza Santa Croce. Take free time to explore Florence at your own pace before savoring Tuscan specialties for dinner at a local restaurant.

Enjoy a memorable epicurean adventure with a truffle hunt, led by a local expert and trained, truffle-sniffing dogs. Set out on foot through rolling hills and silvery olive groves in search of the elusive tuber-shaped fungi before sampling the results for lunch. Then spend time in San Gimignano, whose slender medieval towers stand tall over the surrounding vineyards. As the sun begins to set, gather with your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner at your hotel.

Say arrivederci to Italy as your journey along the Mediterranean coast comes to an end today.