Culture & Coastline of Italy

One of Europe’s oldest cities, Cadiz is well-known for the golden dome atop the cathedral, which gleams in the pleasant April sunshine. You will be perfectly placed to wander through the narrow streets of the old town or ascend the 173 steps of the former watchtower, Torre Tavira, for outstanding views across the city. There will be opportunities for you to witness a traditional Flamenco show in its place of origin and dine at authentic tapas bars, offering delectable small plates like fried anchovies, garlic prawns, and shrimp fritters, accompanied by local wines or the famously sweet and nutty-tasting Jerez sherry.

The charming city of La Spezia, located on the Ligurain coast of Italy, offers a colourful blend of maritime heritage, natural beauty and culture. Known for its strategic maritime importance, the naval base here was reconstructed after it was decimated in World War Two, and still produces naval warships for the Italian Navy. The tranquil bay in La Spezia is known as the “Gulf of Poets”, and has inspired many writers and poets, including Lord Byron and Mary Shelley. The city is also gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cinque Terre, with its beautifully coloured villages perched on rugged cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

The coastal port of Civitavecchia is gateway to the Eternal City of Rome, so named because ancient Romans believed that no matter what happened to the world, the city would go on forever. Alongside the many inviting trattoria in Rome, there are many deeply historical structures, including the imposing Colosseum, Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. From Rome, the holy Vatican City is easily accessible and is home to His Holiness, the Pope.

Olbia is a lively city that promises a charming combination of history and modern-day life, with opportunities to explore the striking Basilica of San Simplico, renowned for being one of the most important religious monuments in Sardinia and decorated with frescoes that date back to the 15 th century. Nearby Costa Smeralda offers white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, with numerous restaurants offering traditional Sardinian dishes like Su Porcheddu (roast suckling pig), Culurgiones (delicious filled pasta), or sea urchins. Meanwhile, the impressive Tombs of Giants at Nuraghe La Prisgiona, a megalithic monument said to commemorate Nuragic civilisations offers an intriguing insight into the island’s heritage.

Located on Sardinia’s sun-kissed north-west coast, Alghero is a captivating destination where Italian charm meets Spanish flair. Known affectionately as “Little Barcelona” for its unique Catalan heritage, this walled city enchants visitors with cobbled streets, medieval watchtowers and striking Gothic architecture. You can stroll through the old town’s narrow lanes lined with Artisan shops offering delicate coral jewellery, a tradition the city is renowned for, or wander the golden stone ramparts for sweeping views across the Bay of Alghero. Close by are the dramatic cliffs of Capo Caccia, home to Neptune’s Grotto, a sea cave filled with stalactites, stalagmites and an underground lake.

Located on the east coast of Menorca, Mahón is the largest city on the island and has a maze of narrow streets lined with Georgian architecture, including buildings with sash windows and balconies. The city has a sheltered harbour, full of islets and coves, which are home to the protected Mediterranean pillow coral.

Matosinhos is a delightful city to explore, where a stroll along the promenade offers a laidback atmosphere and a lovely beach located just outside the town. Venture further afield to Porto, and you’ll be offered opportunities to explore the narrow, cobbled streets and colourful houses of Ribeira, or perhaps take a boat trip along the Douro River to witness scenic landscapes of terraced vineyards and traditional wine estates known as quintas. Meanwhile, the city is well known for its production of Port wine, which can be sampled at one of the many wine cellars, or for enjoying Porto’s signature dish, Francesinha, a mouth-watering hearty sandwich of meat covered with melted cheese and a hot, thick sauce in an authentic Portuguese restaurant.