From Palma de Mallorca to Malaga

Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the Balearic Islands, has numerous highlights on offer. Take a look at the majestic La Seu cathedral and stroll through the charming old town with its narrow lanes and historic buildings. Visit Bellver Castle with its panoramic views over the city. Or relax on idyllic beaches such as Playa de Palma or Cala Major. Take a walk along the Passeig des Born promenade and discover the lively shopping street Avenida Jaume III. An insider tip is Santa Catalina neighbourhood with its trendy cafes, bars and restaurants, where you can enjoy the local cuisine and nightlife.

The Catalan capital Barcelona, Spain’s second-largest city after Madrid, boasts a unique blend of history, culture and modern life. At its centre is the Plaza de Cataluna, from where Roman ruins, the medieval old town and famous modern architecture including Antoni Gaudí’s Casa Mila and Casa Batllo can be reached on foot. The Sagrada Familia, Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece, has been drawing visitors under its spell since 1882. One of the most famous streets in the city is Las Ramblas, an avenue stretching 1.3 km (0.8 mi.) from the port into the city centre and forming the heart of Barcelona with its flower sellers, newspaper kiosks, street musicians and cafes.

Valencia impresses with its age-old buildings and modern architecture. The heart of the old town is the Plaza de la Reina with its magnificent cathedral, with a bell tower offering fantastic views over the city. It’s well worth taking a walk around the Mercado Central, where local specialities await culinary enthusiasts. Futuristic charm comes from the Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciencies, an impressive complex of buildings and parkland designed by Santiago Calatrava and Felix Candela and incorporating an opera, science museum and aquarium.

At the southern end of the Iberian Peninsula, the striking rock of Gibraltar greets all seafarers from afar. Right at the foot of the monolithic limestone rock lies a fascinating piece of Great Britain: Gibraltar. Red telephone boxes, teatime and double-decker buses give the city its typical English charm. The lighthouse in the south offers breathtaking views across the sea to Africa. The free-roaming Barbary macaques, which can be found here, are unique in Europe – according to legend, Gibraltar will remain British as long as they are there. But be careful, as it’s better not to feed the cheeky animals. Gibraltar combines history, nature and British flair, offering visitors a unique experience.

A unique blend of magnificent palaces, historic monasteries and picturesque narrow streets greets visitors to the Portuguese capital. Lisbon has a magical charm of times gone by and surprises in store at every corner. The medieval Castelo de Sao Jorge stands guard over the city, while the Alfama district with its narrow winding streets and staircases offers an authentic insight into the old Lisbon. Don’t miss a trip on the famous Tram 28, which winds its way up and down the hills. Cafes, shops and street sellers make the city centre a lively place to be. With its many lifts and trams, the city’s steep hills are easy to explore and its many sights can be reached on foot.

The copper-red cliffs along the Algarve coast, which rise up almost vertically from the deep-blue sea, make Portimao a real highlight. The charming old town and the marina are perfect for relaxed walks, while the Praia da Rocha – an endless, golden shimmering beach – invites you to enjoy soaking up some rays of sun. Numerous other bays, dune islands and crystal-clear water are perfect for beach days at your own leisure, which will quickly make you forget the everyday.

The white buildings of Cadiz appear on the horizon, while the golden domes of the cathedral reflect the bright blue sky. The screeches of seagulls and the sound of the waves are carried on the wind. Cadiz, with its history dating back over 3,000 years, was once a lively trading centre. Today, the city retains its pride in its majestic palaces, the Miradores, which offer a breathtaking view over the endless sea. And as you approach the long sandy beach, you almost expect Halle Berry to emerge from the waves – as she did in the famous James Bond scene filmed here.

Start your discovery tour in Malaga with a visit to the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress with breathtaking views. Immerse yourself in the world of art and visit the Picasso Museum. Wander down Calle Marques de Larios, a lively shopping street, and enjoy the Mediterranean flair. Relax on the beaches of the Costa del Sol or stroll through the charming harbour of Malaga.