FROM PALMA DE MALLORCA TO LISBON

The Spanish town of Palamos on the Costa is particularly renowned for its fishing. This is also reflected in the local cuisine: the local restaurants offer exquisite fish dishes and seafood. The Faro de Palamos lighthouse provides a wonderful view over the town and the sea. On your shore visit, discover the traces of Palamos’ ancient history with historical landmarks and the unique natural beauty of the region. Follow the traces of the city’s historic past, including the Castle of Palamos, built in the 14th century and now home to a museum. 

A place that was once bathed in Roman glory and now oozes Mediterranean charm – Tarragona brings together the past and the present. The ancient amphitheatre rises up above the sea and tells a story of times long past, while the narrow streets of the old town tell of life in Catalonia. Here the voices of the people mix with the sound of the waves crashing against the cliffs. Tarragona is a piece of earth where the past and present come together in perfect harmony and the warmth of the Mediterranean permeates everything.

Valencia impresses with its age-old buildings and modern architecture. The heart of the old town is the Plaza de la Reina with its impressive cathedral, with a bell tower offering fantastic views over the city. It’s well worth taking a walk through 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.

Andalusia’s second largest city exudes the scent of orange groves and the heat of the sun, which shines over the Bay of Malaga. The majestic Montes de Malaga mountain range is just a few miles north of the city, whereas the 130 m (426 ft) high Gibralfaro rises up in the city centre: from the walls of the Castillo de Gibralfaro, you can see Malaga in all its beauty – with the old town dominated by the elegant towers of the cathedral, one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. Beneath the castle are the romantic gardens of the Moorish Alcazaba fortress, a great place to while away some time. Wine lovers will appreciate the fertile soils of the Vega, which produce wines like Pedro Ximenez. Malaga is a feast for all the senses.

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.

When you visit Lisbon, there are so many things to see and do. Start with a visit to the historic Alfama district, where you can stroll around the narrow streets and experience the authentic charm of the city. Take a walk along the banks of the Tagus River and enjoy the breathtaking view of the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge. Visit the impressive Monastery of Jeronimos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the splendid Manueline architecture. A visit to Belem Tower, a symbol of Portuguese voyages of discovery, is an absolute must. If you want to experience the real Lisbon, take the historic tram line 28 and travel through the city’s narrow streets. Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the Bairro Alto district, famous for its bars and restaurants, and enjoy the lively nightlife. Don’t forget to try the famous Pasteis de Nata, delicious Portuguese sweet tarts. If you have time, take an excursion to Cascais, a charming coastal resort near Lisbon, which impresses with its beautiful beaches and picturesque scenery. Lisbon has so much to offer that you are sure to have an unforgettable time in this fascinating city.