An ancient principality steeped in rich and colorful history, Monaco was bought from the Genoese in 1309 by the Grimaldis, who still rule as the world`s oldest monarchy – presided over today by Prince Albert.

An ancient principality steeped in rich and colorful history, Monaco was bought from the Genoese in 1309 by the Grimaldis, who still rule as the world`s oldest monarchy – presided over today by Prince Albert.

One of nature`s miracles, the Cote d’Azur is blessed with superb natural beauty. This sun-drenched slope stretches some 60 miles westward from the border of the fairy-tale Kingdom of Monaco. And here in glamorous Cannes, where yachts dot the harbor and chic striped sunloungers line the beach, be sure to take some time to explore the designer bars and couture shops of La Croisette.

Often overshadowed by its more bustling Riviera counterparts, Toulon has long been hitting the high notes for travelers looking for a taste of authentic France. The streets are heaving with history; a stroll through the Old Town’s narrow streets and local markets is testament to traditional Provencal life that is very much part of the present day. History enthusiasts can delve into the city’s naval heritage at the Musée National de la Marine, showcasing maritime artifacts and stories, while beach bunnies should wander to the Mourillon for long ribbons of Mediterranean sandy beach. Do not forget to taste the region’s specialty fish soup, at less than 40 miles from Marseille, the bouillabaisse is worth tasting!

Palma de Mallorca, rich in monuments of many ages, was founded by the Romans more than 2,000 years ago. A magnificent rose-colored Gothic cathedral dominates the palm-fringed waterfront of its urban center. Mallorca, known as the “Island of Tranquility,” is the largest and most developed of the Balearic group. Steep mountains, serene valleys and wide plains form its varied landscape. Visit the island`s quaint villages and the monastery where George Sand and Frederic Chopin spent a winter.

Flower power was once as prevalent on this “White Isle” as are today’s glitzy nightclubs, for Ibiza was a hub of hippie culture in the 1960s. But dig deeper and you’ll find a heritage more suitable for an island gem in the Mediterranean. Ibiza Town’s UNESCO-listed Dalt Vita chronicles much of this history, with monuments and architectural vestiges of nearly 1,000 years.

Barcelona is a vibrant city on the northeastern coast of Spain known for its stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Barcelona’s seaside beauty, sprawling beaches, eclectic architecture, world-class tapas and Tempranillo are all reasons to fall in love with the city of Gaudí. Indeed, the treasures here are many and diverse, captivating travelers and experts alike. In fact, nine important sites in the city, seven designed by the famed architect himself, have earned the acclaim of UNESCO.

Barcelona is a vibrant city on the northeastern coast of Spain known for its stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Barcelona’s seaside beauty, sprawling beaches, eclectic architecture, world-class tapas and Tempranillo are all reasons to fall in love with the city of Gaudí. Indeed, the treasures here are many and diverse, captivating travelers and experts alike. In fact, nine important sites in the city, seven designed by the famed architect himself, have earned the acclaim of UNESCO.