14D13N Mediterranean Flavors (6840)

Check into your hotel. Tonight, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers.

Not only is Madrid the capital of Spain, but because it is situated 2,180 feet above sea level, the Spaniards rightly say it's the nearest thing to Heaven. On the included guided city tour, discover the main sights and end the tour with a walk in the Barrio de La Latina and stop in one of the many bars to taste the famous tapas. Consider an optional trip to Toledo. The splendid setting of this old walled city was made famous in El Greco's painting and, even now, it's like a great open-air museum of Spanish history and art

Travel southeast to Cuenca, perched high above the precipices of the Jucar and Huecar Rivers, famous for its "hanging houses" that are suspended over the ravine. On to Valencia, Spain's third-largest city, for a guided sightseeing tour.

Today, visit Peniscola Castle in Castellon, built by the Knights Templar in the 14th century. The promontory on which the castle and town are located is a fine reminder of medieval times. Continue your journey through orange groves and seaside resorts past Tarragona to Catalonia's lively and beautiful capital, Barcelona.

Sightseeing with a Local Guide includes a drive around Montjuic to see the Olympic Stadium and a great panoramic view of the port and city. Continue to the city centre of Plaza Catalunya and to Paseo de Gracia to admire the greatness and eccentricity of Gaudi's architectural masterpieces in the Houses Batllo and Mila and the Sagrada Familia (entrance fees not included). Spend the afternoon at leisure

Leave Spain today and cross the border into France to visit Collioure. This picturesque village is nestled in an idyllic place on the rocky Mediterranean coastline and is sheltered by the Pyrenees. Painters such as Matisse, Derain and Picasso, have drawn inspiration for their paintings from these stunning views. Carry on to the oldest city in France, Marseille

Capital of Provence, Marseille was founded by the Greeks in 600 BC. See the city's bustling ancient heart-the picturesque Vieux Port (old port), where elegant markets and handsome townhouses surround the boat-filled harbor. Then, head for the hilltop Basilica Notre Dame de La Garde, affording stunning views of the city. Follow the coastal route toward Cassis, a small fishing port lined with cafes and restaurants, and stop to explore the town before reaching Nice. Later, why not join the optional Monte Carlo by Night excursion?

Start the day with a visit to a perfume workshop in Eze. Continue to Nice, and spend time at leisure to do as you please! Dabble in the Mediterranean Sea, stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais, or join our optional excursion to the artists' town of St. Paul de Vence.

Enjoy the wonderful coastal scenery along the French and Italian Rivieras as you travel toward the Cinque Terre. Take the train in Levanto and stop in some of the most enchanting villages of the spectacular Cinque Terre region, where the beauty of rugged cliffs and romantic fishing villages once inspired Lord Byron. There are several breathtaking trails carved into the rocks connecting the villages, affording dramatic sea views.

Travel through the agricultural areas of culinary excellence in the Po plains to reach the romantic city of Verona to visit the city Centre at leisure. Continue to the Venice area.

Venice is a city of unparalleled beauty and a feast of wonderful sights. Your included orientation starts with a boat ride to St. Mark's Square and is followed by time at leisure and a chance to watch Venetian glassblowers create their delicate objects as they did centuries ago. Don't miss out on the optional gondola trip, gliding along the picturesque canals with a local troubadour to serenade you.

Cross the Po Delta and head into the verdant Apennines to medieval Assisi. Enclosed by ramparts, little has changed since the Middle Ages. This is the town of the deeply mystical and poetic St. Francis. Visit the Upper and Lower Basilicas with the beautiful frescoes by Giotto, then head for Rome.

The "Eternal City" is steeped in history, vibrantly alive, exciting, and absolutely unique! Start the included introduction to Rome's landmarks from St Peter's Square with a Local Guide. Enjoy a drive along the iconic landmarks of the city: the Tiber River, the Caius Cestius Pyramid, the Aurelian Walls and the Caracalla Baths, and complete the experience with a walk back in time from the Circus Maximus to the Arch of Constantine and to the fascinating Colosseum, symbol of the Roman Empire. Don't miss out on the opportunity to visit the treasures of the Vatican museum and the Sistine Chapel on our optional excursion.

Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning.