Mediterranean Coastal Journey: Spain, France & Italy

You’re on your way to the Mediterranean coast for a journey connecting the Spanish, French, and Italian Rivieras. From chameleonic Barcelona to sun-kissed Nice, and from the splendor of Provence to the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside, embark on a coastal journey combining rich scenery, art, culture, food, and wine.
Hotel Name: H10 Art Gallery

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.
Dinner Included

Visit Area: Barcelona
Barcelona is an enchanting seaside city with boundless culture, fabled architecture and a world-class drinking and dining scene. Barcelona's architectural treasures span 2,000-plus years. Towering temple columns, ancient city walls and subterranean stone corridors provide a window into Roman-era Barcino. Fast forward a thousand years to the Middle Ages by taking a stroll through the shadowy lanes of the Gothic quarter, past tranquil plazas and soaring 14th-century cathedrals. In other parts of town bloom the sculptural masterpieces of Modernisme, a mix of ingenious and whimsical creations by Gaudí and his Catalan architectural contemporaries for which this city is so well known. Barcelona has also long-inspired artists, including the likes of Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró, whose works are in bold display in the city's myriad museums.

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.

Breakfast Included
Hotel Name: Park Hotel San Jorge

Admittance: La Casa Batlló

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.

Breakfast Included
Dinner Included

Visit Area: Parc Guell
Parc Guell is a park located on Carmel Hill in Barcelona, Spain. It is comprised of gardens and other architectural elements. The park was designed between 1900 and 1914, and was officially opened as a public park in 1926. Designed by famous architect Antoni Gaudí, Parc Guell is famous for its intricate stone structures, fascinating buildings and stunning tiling. The focal point of the park in the main terrace, which overlooks the city. This terrace features a long bench in the form of a sea serpent, and the wall of the back of the bench is made up of intricate tile work.

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.

Breakfast Included

Visit Area: Spanish Riviera

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.

Breakfast Included
Hotel Name: Boutique Hotel Cezanne

Admittance: Dali Theatre-Museum

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.

Breakfast Included
Lunch Included

Visit Area: Abbaye de Fontfroide

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.

Breakfast Included
Dinner Included
Hotel Name: Hotel Apollinaire

Visit Area: Aix-en-Provence
The abundant springs that supply the "City of a Thousand Fountains" have given this unofficial capital of the Provence its name. Aix-en-Provence is excellently located between the Mediterranean, the French Riviera, and the Languedoc-Rousillon region. It has been the seat of a University for 600 years and continues to be a center of learning for the study of Law. The city retains a certain distinction due to its cultural life and its handsome 12th and 18th century mansions as well as Roman ruins and its medieval cathedral. Thermal baths, a picturesque fresh produce market and the lively artisanal craft and wares market highlight the city's many attractions.

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.

Breakfast Included

Admittance: Cassis Boat Tour

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.

Breakfast Included
Dinner Included
Hotel Name: Grand Hotel Arenzano

Admittance: Wine Tasting

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.

Breakfast Included

Visit Area: French Riviera
The "Côte d'Azur" is that portion of the Mediterranean coast in southeastern France that extends from Menton in the north to Hyères in the south. The region is dotted with both large cosmopolitan centers like Nice, Antibes, and Cannes and smaller towns and villages lining the coast as well as straddling on precarious peaks and hilltops. The region is renowned for its glitzy towns and beaches where the rich and famous both play and hideout. The Alpilles shield the region from inclement weather giving the area mild temperatures year-round.

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.

Breakfast Included
Hotel Name: Hotel Borgo di Cortefreda, Chianti Countryside

Visit Area: Monaco
At 370 acres or three-quarters of a square mile, the Principality of Monaco is the world's second smallest sovereign state. It sits in a scenic cliff-side location on the Mediterranean completely surrounded by French territory. This fairy tale of a country is headed by the Prince Sovereign, currently, Albert II, son of Rainier III and American actress Grace Kelly. Highlights of a visit include the Oceanographic Museum and the Prince's Palace as well as the Cathedral, the final resting place of the Principality's monarchs.

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.

Breakfast Included
Dinner Included

Visit Area: Portofino
Located in the center of the Italian Riviera, Portofino is a small fishing village turned playground for the rich and famous. The village is situated facing the sea and its small protected harbor. The village’s many colorful buildings boast many small cafes and designer boutiques.

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.

Breakfast Included
Dinner Included

Visit Area: Carrara Marble Quarries

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.

Breakfast Included
Lunch Included
Dinner Included

Visit Area: Florence
Florence is the regional capital of Tuscany and home to countless Renaissance masterpieces. The city developed great wealth during the late Middle Ages and was the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance that produced great artists like Michelangelo, Raphael, Brunelleschi and many others. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with numerous museums, stunning architecture and charming piazzas. The city offers something for everyone from culture, to great food and excellent shopping (like their famous gold or leather).

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

Breakfast Included

Visit Area: Truffle Hunting