Western Mediterranean Cruise - from Civitavecchia / Rome - 134369

The Italian capital of Rome is also often called "the eternal city", as this buzzing metropolis still has many precious treasures from ancient times, which are known around the world. The most impressive sights include the "Thermae of Caracalla", the emperor's forum, the Colosseum, the Piazza Navona, the Fountain of Neptune and of course St. Peter's Basilica, with the dome designed by Michelangelo.

The largest city in Sicily rises up from the Conca d'Oro bay (Golden Shell Bay), surrounded by glorious orange and citrus groves. It was founded in the 8th century B.C. by the Phoenicians and has been variously ruled by the Romans, the Byzantines, the Arabs, the Normans, the Spanish and the Bourbons, all of whom have left their mark on the city. Parlermo's historic centre is one of the largest in Europe; it has 158 churches, 55 monasteries, more than 400 stately homes and 7 theatres. Tours of the city can be organised depending on the various eras one is most interested in, but the cathedral dating from 1185 and the famous Cappella Palatina are not to be missed. Over the last few years the city has been undergoing a transition and wants a new image, to encourage culturally-interested tourists to visit. The Teatro Massimo, the former monastery of Spasimo, the Albergo delle Povere, Villa Niscemi, the Palazzo Merlo, the Chiesa di San Domenico and many other sights have now re-opened their doors for visitors following extensive restoration work.

Cagliari is the capital of Sardinia and both the largest and the oldest town on the island (evidence from the 8th century B.C.). It was founded by the Phoenicians and lies in the south of the island. Sights include: Caralis fort, dating from the 13th century, the National and Archaeological Museum, "Siamese Cardu", the Roman necropolis of Travixeddu and Bonaria, San Saturino church, which dates from the 5th century A.D., a 14th century cathedral, the elephant tower and the San Pancrazio tower, the Roman amphitheatre and the Botanic Gardens.

Malaga was founded in around 8 B.C. by the seafaring Phoenicians. Today, Malaga is a modern city with an important trading port, an airport and a university. It also has an excellent climate all year round, making it one of the most important holiday destinations on the Iberian peninsula. Sights include: The King's Palace, "Alcazaba", built in the 11th century and featuring an archaeological museum; the city cathedral, built around 1528 with the pretty chapels "Capilla Mayor" and "Capilla del Sagrado Corazón"; various churches; the house in which Pablo Picasso was born; buildings dating from the 18th century - "Casa del Cosulado", "Palacio de la Aduana", "Casa Palacio del Marques de Valdeflores"; the parks "Puerta Oscura", "de Ricasso", "de Pedro Luis Alonso".

The Moroccan port and provincial capital of Tangiers at the western opening of the strait of Gibraltar is the gateway to Africa. The most famous attractions are to be found near the Kasbah in the middle of the bustling old town. Steep streets and alleyways wind around the white walls of the houses, and a labyrinth of large and small shops selling everything you could think of awaits visitors. The Great Socco (Great Souk) is a typical Moroccan square with lots and lots of tea houses and the most important market place at the outskirts of the Medina. To the North-West of the Grand Socco is the huge main gate of the city wall, Bab Fahs. Nearby, are the gardens of the old residence of Mendoubia, once the seat of the Sultan of the international commission, today the seat of the magistrates. The gardens have 800-year-old dragon tree plants as well as 40 old international canons.

Casablanca is a modern city with a few old buildings and some elements of Moroccan culture. It was greatly influenced by French colonialism. The cityscape, consisting initially mainly of wide boulevards and French-inspired townhouses dating from the 30s and 40s, has been supplemented with new high-rise buildings and Neo-Oriental style architecture. Casablanca's attractions include the Hassan II Mosque , the arts and crafts market, "Youtiya" in the new Medina, and the Habbous district. The most important buildings in the Medina are the Jamaa el Kebir and Jamaa ech Chleuh mosques and the Sidi el Kairouani Koubba, the city's first saint.

Funchal is the capital of Madeira and lies at the South coast of the island. The port stretches from a relatively flat area of the coast to high up in the adjacent mountain chain. Funchal is perfect not only for relaxing in one of the floating cafés by the harbour, but also for shopping for delicacies in the market hall, which has a huge assortment of fish, flowers and vegetables. The city centre is also worth seeing: in the old town area is the famous fort. The upper town is dominated by the "Castelo de São de Pico", also known as "Pico Fort". At the foot of the fort lies the English cemetery. Further attractions: the cathedral, the old customs house, the fort "São Tiago", the city park, "Quinta das Cruzes" gardens with an archaeological park.

Portugal's unofficial capital, Porto, is the name-giver for the entire country. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and is known primarily for its famous port wine. Those who enjoy the city atmosphere will love Porto, the second-largest city in the country. The harbour is where the renowned Portuguese fleet was built. Now, there are lots of cafés and bistros here. The houses in the city are packed close together on the steep slopes, often close behind and beside one another, forming really lovely terraces. Sights incude: Praça da Liberdade, Câmara Municipal and the Soares dos Reis National Museum.

The white city by the sea, built on seven hills and framed by the natural harbour of "Rio Tejo" was founded by the Phoenicians in around the 9th-7th century B.C.. Today it is the capital of Portugal and one of the oldest cities in Europe. Lisbon is rich in architectural monuments. The Portuguese capital also has a varied and interesting cultural scene with theatre performances, concerts and exhibitions. "Bairro Alto" (the upper city) is well known for its nightlife. Sights include: Jerónimo's Monastery, Belém Tower, the Monument to the Discoveries, Comércio Square, São Jorge castle, and "Baixa Pombalina".