Canals, Canaries & Colosseum

Venice

Venice is unique, its elegant buildings and
palaces peering over an ancient maze of narrow streets and
labyrinth of canals. Tourists here wake up to the morning calls of
gondoliers before venturing out to lose themselves among the twists
and turns of this famously romantic haven.

The city rests on one of 117 islands
distributed throughout the Venetian lagoon. The aptly named Grand
Canal splits the city, running from the Santa Lucia railway station
past the famous Rialto Bridge to Piazza San Marco, home to the
cathedral of Basilica di San Marco which is adorned with endless
mosaics that sparkle at sunset.

The historic centre is divided into six
quarters: San Marco, Dorsoduro, San Polo, Santa Croce, Cannaregio
and Castello. Countless waterways wind their way through the city.
While some choose to pick their way over the more than 400 bridges,
by far the most popular way to get around is to cruise the
waterways onboard vaporetto boats or iconic gondola.

Known for its inventive cuisine, lavish
spreads of cicheti (Venetian tapas) can be found in bars around the
city while canalside bistros offer spectacular fine dining
experiences. Venice's penchant for outlandish fashion gave the
world eyeglasses, dresses without corsets and platform shoes, and
the annual carnival is renowned for the elaborate masks on
display.

Venice extends beyond its six sestieri to
the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello. These are known for
glass and lace-making respectively, and Torcello is noted for the
magnificent Byzantine Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta resting on
its soil. Trips by boat to the islands provide a pleasant escape
from the busier historic quarters.

Split

The pretty city of Split has a rich
history. Since ancient times, it has served in various guises as
the economic and administrative centre of the beautiful Croatian
Adriatic coastal region, today called Dalmatia.

The city is mainly sprawled on a peninsula
on the eastern part of the island of Ciovo, although it has spread
onto the mainland and encompasses the mouth of the River Cetina.
From the 5th to the 2nd century BC, Greek colonists settled the
mainland and adjacent islands.

Later came the Romans, in particular the
Emperor Diocletian. Being of Dalmatian origin, he elected to build
a huge palace at a spot then called Salona in the year 303 AD. A
town grew around the palace and by the Middle Ages, the city of
Split had begun to develop.

Diocletian's Palace still stands in the
very heart of the old quarter of Split, charming visitors with its
cobbled streets and classical architecture. The greater region is
characterised by lush vegetation and verdant greenery, particularly
Marjan Hill on the west of the peninsula with its ancient
indigenous forest.

The city makes an ideal base from which to
explore the wondrous islands, beautiful locations and historic
villages in central Dalmatia. Split is also world renowned among
seafarers for the quality of its some 44 marinas, drawing yachts
and catamarans from all over Europe and making it a great cruising
destination in the Adriatic.

Argostoli

Argostoli is the capital and main port of the island of Cephalonia, in the Ionian Islands. It is also the administrative centre of the Argostolion municipal unit. The town has a population of 11,366 inhabitants (2011 census) and is the largest settlement on the island. The Argostoli area occupies roughly the central third of the island, and contains a number of important archaeological sites from throughout Cephalonia's history. The town's name is derived from the two Greek words argos (αργός) meaning "white", and stolos (στόλος) meaning "pillar", referring to the white limestone cliffs that surround the town.

Argostoli is located on the east coast of Cephalonia, on the site of an ancient settlement called Krani. The town is built around a natural harbour, and is the only port on the island. The main port area is located to the north of the town centre, and includes a number of quays and jetties. The town centre is located to the south of the port, and includes a number of shops, cafes, restaurants and bars. The town's main square, Plateia Valydon, is located in the centre of town.

Argostoli has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The town is located in a seismically active area, and has been subject to a number of earthquakes over the years.

Argostoli is an important tourist destination, and the town's main street is lined with a number of hotels, restaurants and cafes. The town's museums and archaeological sites are also popular with tourists. Argostoli is served by Cephalonia International Airport, which is located to the south of the town.

Taormina

Taormina is a charming town situated on the east coast of Sicily, Italy. With its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, ancient ruins, and quaint cobblestone streets, Taormina is a popular destination for both locals and international tourists alike.

One of the main attractions in Taormina is the ancient Greek Theatre, which dates back to the 3rd century BC. This well-preserved amphitheater offers stunning panoramic views of the sea and Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano. Throughout the year, the theater plays host to various cultural events, including theater performances, concerts, and film festivals, making it a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.

Strolling through Taormina's historic center is like stepping back in time. The town is known for its medieval buildings, picturesque squares, and elegant shops. Corso Umberto, the main street, is lined with boutique shops, gelaterias, and restaurants serving delicious Sicilian cuisine. In the evenings, the street comes alive with locals and tourists alike, enjoying a leisurely passeggiata or sipping on a refreshing Aperol spritz.

For those seeking a bit of relaxation, Taormina boasts several pristine beaches. The most famous of these is Isola Bella, a small island connected to the mainland by a thin strip of sand. This nature reserve offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while also providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the town.

Nature lovers will be delighted by the proximity of Mount Etna, which towers over Taormina. This active volcano offers a unique opportunity for hiking and exploration, with guided tours available to take visitors to its summit. The experience of standing on the edge of an active volcano and witnessing its power and beauty is truly unforgettable.

In addition to its natural beauty, Taormina is also home to a rich history and cultural heritage. The town was once a popular retreat for artists and writers, including Oscar Wilde and Richard Wagner. Today, visitors can still explore the beautiful gardens of Villa Comunale, which were created by Lady Florence Trevelyan, an English noblewoman who lived in Taormina in the late 19th century.

Food lovers will find themselves in paradise in Taormina, as Sicilian cuisine is renowned for its delicious flavors and fresh ingredients. Be sure to try some local specialties such as arancini, cannoli, and pasta alla Norma. There are also plenty of restaurants offering fresh seafood caught daily from the Mediterranean Sea.

When it comes to accommodation, Taormina offers a range of options to suit all budgets. From luxury hotels with panoramic sea views to boutique B&Bs nestled in quiet corners of the town, there is something to cater to every traveler's needs.

Overall, Taormina is a destination that effortlessly combines natural beauty, captivating history, and a vibrant culture. Whether you are exploring ancient ruins, relaxing on pristine beaches, or indulging in delicious cuisine, Taormina is sure to leave you with lasting memories and a desire to return again and again. It truly is a hidden gem on the Sicilian coast.

Salerno

Salerno, Italy is a small town located in the Campania region of Southern Italy. It is situated on the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and surrounded by beautiful hills and mountains on three sides. Salerno is one of the most picturesque towns in Italy, with a rich history that dates back to the ancient Roman period.

Salerno is an idyllic town that has gained popularity in recent years, thanks to its stunning coastline, lively nightlife scene, and proximity to the Amalfi Coast. The town is known for its charming streets, colorful buildings, and impressive architecture. Many of the buildings in Salerno date back to the Middle Ages and are rich in history and culture.

The town is also famous for its numerous churches, including the Cathedral of San Matteo, which dates back to the 11th century. The cathedral is one of the most beautiful buildings in Salerno and is home to a collection of stunning frescoes and mosaics.

However, Salerno is perhaps most famous for its beautiful seafront. The town boasts a lengthy promenade, which runs along the seafront and offers stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The promenade is lined with cafes, bars, restaurants and shops, making it the perfect place to relax and watch the world go by.

Salerno is also home to a thriving art scene. The town has numerous galleries and museums, including the Pinacoteca Provinciale di Salerno, which showcases works by some of the most famous Italian painters. The town is also famous for its murals, which are dotted throughout the town and depict scenes from Salerno's history and culture.

Salerno is situated on the Amalfi Coast, one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the world. The Amalfi Coast is famous for its stunning scenery, quaint fishing villages, and crystal-clear waters. Visitors to Salerno often use the town as a base for exploring the Amalfi Coast, which is located just a short drive away.

Salerno is also known for its lively nightlife scene. The town has numerous bars, clubs and restaurants, which stay open late into the night. The nightlife in Salerno attracts both locals and tourists and is a great way to experience Italian culture.

In addition to its natural beauty, Salerno is famous for its cuisine. The town is known for its fresh seafood, which is caught daily from the Tyrrhenian Sea. The town also boasts numerous restaurants, which serve traditional Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza and risotto.

Overall, Salerno is an idyllic town that offers visitors the perfect mix of culture, history, scenery and nightlife. The town's proximity to the Amalfi Coast, coupled with its lively atmosphere, make it the perfect destination for a relaxing but unforgettable vacation.

Civitavecchia

Rome is like a living museum, liberally
dotted with fascinating ruins, ancient relics and archaeological
sites. Centuries are peeled back from the Eternal City with each
new vista in this great metropolis of fearsome gladiators and
gorgeous art. Vespas, sports cars and nippy Fiats speed past trendy
sidewalk cafes, bistros and nightclubs, revealing the Rome of
Fellini's La Dolce Vita, while the stark facades of the Stadio
Olimpico reminds visitors of Mussolini's attempts to reinvent the
architecture of the Caesars.

For a taste of the Baroque, visitors need
only climb the famous Spanish Steps, walk through the Piazza Navona
or toss a coin into the beautiful Trevi Fountain. Renaissance
splendour is best revealed in the Vatican Palace, specifically
Michelangelo's efforts on the roof of the Sistine Chapel. From
early Christian Basilicas and the Roman Forum to the Colosseum and
the Pantheon, the sequence of history trails back to the dizzying
heights of the empire.

It may sound like a city of contrasts, but
Rome's timeless magic lies in its ability to blend the old with the
new. Empires have risen and fallen, old gods have been replaced
with the new, but Rome nonetheless remains.

La Spezia

The city of La Spezia is located in Italy's Liguria region and is known for its picturesque setting and harbor. The city is situated on the Gulf of La Spezia, flanked by towering mountains. La Spezia's harbor is a popular gateway to the Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Italy's most popular tourist destinations. The city is also home to a large naval base and shipyard. La Spezia has a long history dating back to Roman times. The city was an important maritime center during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. In more recent history, La Spezia was a key base for the Italian Navy during World War II. Today, La Spezia is a bustling city with a thriving economy and a vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters. La Spezia is also a popular destination for food and wine lovers. The city's restaurants offer a variety of regional and international cuisine. La Spezia is an ideal base for exploring the Liguria region. The city's convenient location and excellent transportation network make it easy to access the region's many attractions.

Marseille

Marseille is France's second largest and
most ancient city. It was founded by the Greeks in 600 BC and was
later conquered by the Romans after becoming a thriving port and
centre for trade. Today it is littered with ancient sites and
artefacts, mostly Roman additions to the original Greek
settlement.

Marseille is down to earth and lacks the
pretentiousness of most other French cities. There are plenty of
attractions to explore, including the colourful harbour and
pedestrianised squares. The city is also divided into
arrondissements in the style of Paris, which makes it relatively
easy to get around on the metro.

The Old Port area is filled with
restaurants, bars, hotels, office blocks and a daily fish market at
the Belgian Quay, giving it a lively and sophisticated air. There
are also a number of decent museums, galleries, theatres and shops
dotted about the city that are worth visiting. Marseille is also
famed for its Opéra: an Art Deco opera house, situated in the heart
of the city, which still hosts performances even though it was all
but destroyed by fire in 1919. La Plaine is a trendy area filled
with cafes, bookstores and fountains, with a bustling market on
Thursdays and Saturdays, while Noailles' bazaar is a multi-ethnic
area filled with Indo-Chinese and Arabic shops.

The outgoing, friendly inhabitants of
Marseille are a cosmopolitan bunch, with diverse backgrounds
including a number of Italian, Spanish and North African
communities. There is far less of the style and image consciousness
evident in the rest of the Cote d'Azur, creating a more North
African flavour and a vibrant atmosphere. Marseilles also acts as a
good base for exploring the nearby natural beauty of the calanques
(or Mediterranean fjords) and some excellent beaches.

Barcelona

The enchanting city of Barcelona is a visual delight, and has an
atmosphere that combines elegance and sophistication with
provincial charm. In exploring its streets you'll discover medieval
romance in its Gothic quarter and the awe-inspiring delights of the
fantastic and sometimes outrageous Art Nouveau architecture of
Gaudi and his contemporaries.

The funicular up to Tibidabo, or the cable car up Montjuic, both
offer breathtaking views over this attractive city. Its skyline is
perhaps most famous for Antoni Gaudi's masterwork, the still
incomplete church of the Sagrada Familia, as well as the city's
huge Gothic cathedral. The artistic legacy of Barcelona is one of
the city's most appealing attributes, with museums containing
extensive collections of the works of Miro and Picasso. Barcelona
is also a shopper's paradise, with the city's flair for style
reflected in its numerous boutiques and markets, open late into the
evenings. As the sun sets, and the city's many bars and restaurants
open, the night truly comes alive. Dinner is served at any time
between nine o'clock and midnight, and the festivities around the
bars and nightclubs carry on well into the early hours of the
morning.

Barcelona is the commercial centre of the popular holiday region
known as the Costa Brava, the northernmost Mediterranean seafront
in Spain, as well as the Costa Dorada to the south. The coast is
dotted with popular resort towns, many retaining their age-old
charm, which can be easily reached from the city.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma capital of the autonomous region of the Balearic Islands is a lively cosmopolitan city in true Spanish tradition its centre forming a bustling maze of shopping centres narrow lanes and restored buildings surrounded by ruined ancient city walls and modern boulevards. Like mainland Spain Mallorca was under Moorish control between the ninth and 13th centuries until the re-conquest by Jaume I of Aragon. The Moorish heritage is still evident as are the remnants of Palma's golden years when it rose to wealth and prominence in the 15th century as the main port of call between Europe and Africa. Later the city set on the beautiful bay Bahia de Palma became the favoured royal retreat for Fernando and Isabel which helped it to become the popular Spanish beach holiday haunt and favourite weekend city break destination of the rich and famous. Despite the invasion of foreign tourists Palma has kept its local flavour particularly in its old quarter which is still lined by cafés and tapas bars. Often the native dialect of Mallorquin is the only language heard in the backstreets a fine Palma de Mallorca trait.Palma de Mallorca boasts a huge variety of restaurants and has plenty to offer tourists. The biggest concentration of restaurants is in the centre of town at El Terreno and around the Paseo Maritimo. For some of Spain's best Basque food head to Koldo Royo. Palma de Mallorca's key activities centre around its nightlife and the town is well known for its foam parties discos bars and nightclubs. In fact some of Spain's biggest nightclubs are in Palma de Mallorca and the city is a great destination for those seeking a party. It is also a good shopping destination and shoppers will particularly enjoy exploring the streets of the old town.Of course the city also has some interesting sightseeing attractions including the beautiful La Seo Cathedral the fortress of Palau de l'Almudaina the unusual Castell de Bellver and some good museums. Unfortunately the city doesn't have good beaches but there are many nearby. Popular excursion destinations include the Aqualand theme park a short drive away from the city which is great fun for the whole family. There are several excellent golf courses around town as well as good hiking trails in the rocky Majorcan hills.

Alicante

Lying on the eastern coast of Spain, the Costa Blanca draws
millions of tourists each year to its turquoise waters and miles of
white, sandy beaches. Alicante is the capital and major city on
this stretch of coast, but it is Benidorm that attracts the most
visitors, and this is the place to go for those looking for a
lively and entertaining holiday with hundreds of bars and all-night
clubs. However there is more to the Costa Blanca than crowded beach
resorts: within the mountainous interior there are a series of
fascinating medieval towns and fortified villages which have been
largely unaffected by modern development.

Alicante is best known as the gateway to the many glittering
resorts in the region, but the city is actually an interesting
urban destination, with history and culture aplenty to offer those
who can be distracted from the beach. Those who have some time in
Alicante should head to the Catedral de san Nicolas from which the
narrow old streets of the historic quarter, El Barrio, radiate
outwards.

The most popular time to visit the Costa Blanca is between May
and October when the weather is guaranteed to be sunny and warm
most of the time. The temperature can get up to 104F (40C) in
August, with the sea at a very comfortable 77F (25C). It is too hot
and crowded for some during this busy summer season and some
visitors holiday in the spring and autumn months, when it is cooler
and there is the chance of light showers. However, many of the bars
and restaurants close outside of the peak tourist season.

Almería

The Spanish province of Almeria is made up of about 200 miles
(322km) of varied, scenic coastline that attracts package tourists
to its developed resorts near the main towns, but also offers
idyllic spots for nature-lovers to explore unspoilt fishing
villages, long, sandy beaches and small, intimate coves which are
popular with nudists.

Enjoying a sunny and mild climate, Almeria lies southeast of the
Iberian Peninsula on the Mediterranean Sea, and still bears the
archaeological evidence of many ancient cultures, from the
Tartessos and Phoenicians, to the Romans and Visigoths, who were
drawn here by the natural beauty, and useful maritime geographic
location. The region retains an African flavour owing to its
proximity to the continent.

Inland, Almeria is rather barren, and boasts Europe's only
desert region around the village of Tabernas, which has been used
as the location for several western movies. In the east, the
lunar-landscaped Cabo de Gata-Nijar nature reserve, with its rugged
coastline, attracts hikers, birders, and scuba divers. Despite the
dry, inhospitable landscape, Almeria has developed a thriving
agricultural industry, and plastic-covered tunnel farms, packed
with fresh produce and flowers are prolific.

Most visitors flock to the holiday resorts to the east and west
of the lively capital city of Almeria, which boasts picturesque
squares, some worthy sights to see, cafes, a ferry port, and
marina. Lovely beaches, marinas, hotels, and sport centres provide
plenty to keep holidaymakers happy in the resort towns of Mojacar
to the east, and Aguadulce, Roquetas de Mar, and Almerimar to the
west of the city.

Gibraltar

Tagged on to the end of Iberia, the intriguing British outpost of Gibraltar is dominated by a sandy peninsula and the stunning 1,400-feet-high limestone Rock. Although small, Gibraltar has always been seen as having great strategic importance on account of its advantageous position where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, just 12 miles from the coast of Africa. Ever popular with British holidaymakers, Gibraltar is very much a home from home, boasting excellent duty-free shopping in many familiar British high street shops. Please note: Gibraltar’s small size and narrow winding roads mean that excursions are operated by 22-seater mini-buses, accompanied by a driver/guide. Local health and safety regulations prohibit the carriage of walking aids and collapsible wheelchairs on these vehicles. If you do wish to bring a mobility aid, we can arrange the Rock Tour by taxi, which has extra space. If this suits your requirements, please advise the Tours and Travel office when you join the ship, as numbers are limited.

Casablanca

Just looking at the city, there's no need to guess where the
port-city of Casablanca, meaning 'white house' in Spanish, got its
name. Made famous by the classic film, starring Humphrey Bogart,
this cosmopolitan, white-walled city is Morocco's largest and most
modern. Casablanca is not oriented towards tourists as much as
Morocco's other large cities, but under the hustle and bustle lies
a unique and charismatic history waiting to be discovered.

Founded by Berber fisherman over two thousand years ago,
Casablanca was used by both the Phoenicians and the Romans as a
port. The Portuguese then took over but after destroying the city
and rebuilding it, they abandoned it in the aftermath of an
earthquake. The city went on to be rebuilt as Daru l-Badya (Arabic
for Casablanca) by a Moroccan sultan, and was then given the name
Casablanca by the Spanish traders who used the port, and it retains
this function today as one of Africa's largest and most important
ports.

As a centre for trade and, consequently, the mixing of cultures,
Casablanca is unlike any other Moroccan city. Many women ditch the
conservative clothing and dress themselves in the latest designer
outfits. The infrastructure is modern and the city sophisticated.
Casablanca is where Morocco's youth move to make something of their
lives and is the centre for international trade and big business.
For a glimpse of its history, downtown is the perfect place to
admire the blend of French colonial architecture and traditional
Moroccan design.

Agadir

The modern city of Agadir is a popular midway point for cruises
heading to the Canary Islands. Completely rebuilt since a
devastating earthquake in 1960, the busy port draws thousands of
tourists with its pretty, sandy beaches and 300 annual days of
sunshine.

Located just south of Marrakech, Agadir is a good starting point
for cultural excursions to more traditional towns such as
Taroudannt. It is also a good base for enjoying the wild landscape
with desert safaris and camel treks. Popular outdoor activities
include bird-watching and hiking in Souss-Massa River National
Park, soaking up the sun on the beach in Taghazout, and jet-skiing
in Agadir Bay. Agadir is also fast becoming Morocco's most popular
coastal resort and is a modern, thriving town with much to see and
do. The primary attractions of Agadir are its lovely beaches, which
are perfect for sunbathing and swimming, as there tends to be
little wind. There are other sights though, including the remains
of a fortress and a small zoo.

There is also a municipal market that has a number of shops
selling popular souvenirs, though travellers won't find quite the
same culture of spirited haggling of other parts of Morocco. There
are also many popular spa and wellness centres offering treatments
and locally made spa products, with those made from the argan tree
particularly popular.

Arrecife, Lanzarote

The most northeasterly of the Canary Islands,
Lanzarote has embraced the tourism boom with a more laidback feel
than its popular sister islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
Nature is still the biggest attraction on this small volcanic
island, which measures only 38 miles (60km) in length and 13 miles
(21km) across at its widest point.

Lanzarote's beaches are varied and dramatic,
including long stretches of golden sand, some good surf spots, and
some rugged, hidden coves. Camels are often used to transport goods
and sometimes tourists on this desert-like island, across the dry
volcanic ash that covers most of the landscape. UNESCO declared the
whole island a Biosphere Reserve in 1993, and visitors exploring
the dozens of enchanting and unique spots on the island will soon
see why.

Lanzarote's capital, Arrecife, is a small town on
the eastern coast, its harbour packed with fishing boats. Although
the town itself has little to offer in the way of sights or
nightlife, it does have a magnificent beach, El Reducto, which has
been granted Blue Flag status by the European Union. A promenade
runs along the beachfront around the San Gines lagoon with its fine
golden sand and placid waters.

Santa Cruz de La Palma

Also known as ‘La Isla Bonita’ (the beautiful island), La Palma is typified by lush forests of pine, laurel and fern which contrast with the rugged splendour of the gigantic Taburiente crater. The island is dotted with attractive villages, which are a delight to discover, and the capital Santa Cruz also makes for an interesting day of exploration. Perched on the edge of the volcanic crater of La Caldereta, Santa Cruz comfortably blends modern architecture with old colonial buildings. Perhaps visit the fascinating Natural History Museum, stroll around the historic quarters and the Plaza de Espana or travel a few miles outside the city to the exquisite Church of Our Lady. If you enjoy shopping, you can find reasonably priced silver jewellery, leather goods and beautifully embroidered clothes, tablecloths and napkins, a speciality of the Canary Islands.

Portimão

Portimao is a beautiful coastal city located in the Algarve region of Portugal. With its stunning beaches, warm climate, and vibrant culture, it is a popular destination for tourists looking for a relaxed and sun-drenched getaway.

Situated along the banks of the Arade River, Portimao is known for its picturesque marina and fishing port. The city has a rich maritime heritage, and its history can be traced back to ancient times, as evidenced by the Roman ruins and artifacts found in the area.

One of the main attractions of Portimao is its stunning beaches. Praia da Rocha is the most well-known beach in the area, boasting golden sand, crystal clear waters, and impressive rock formations. It is a great spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Other nearby beaches include Praia do Vau and Praia do Alvor, both offering equally breathtaking views and a relaxed atmosphere.

In addition to its natural beauty, Portimao also offers a range of cultural and historical attractions for visitors to explore. The Portimao Museum is a must-visit for history buffs, as it showcases the town's maritime past through a collection of artifacts and exhibits. The Fort of Santa Catarina, located at the entrance of the Arade River, is another notable landmark that provides panoramic views of the coastline.

For those looking for some retail therapy, Portimao has no shortage of shopping opportunities. The Aqua Portimao Shopping Centre is the largest mall in the region, offering a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. The city also has a bustling market, where visitors can purchase fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs.

When it comes to dining, Portimao has a vibrant culinary scene that caters to all tastes. The city is renowned for its fresh seafood, and there are numerous seafood restaurants along the waterfront where visitors can sample local delicacies such as grilled sardines, shellfish, and bacalhau (salted cod). There are also plenty of international cuisines available, including Italian, Indian, and Chinese.

Nightlife in Portimao is lively and varied, with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. The main strip in Praia da Rocha is the epicenter of the city's nightlife scene, with a wide selection of bars and clubs that cater to all tastes. From trendy lounges to vibrant nightclubs, there is something for everyone.

For those looking to explore the surrounding area, Portimao is a great base to visit other popular destinations in the Algarve. The historic town of Silves, with its imposing castle and Moorish architecture, is just a short drive away. The picturesque village of Carvoeiro, known for its stunning cliffs and secluded beaches, is also within easy reach.

In conclusion, Portimao is a delightful destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. With its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine, it is an ideal place for a relaxing beach holiday or an adventure-filled escape. Whether you are looking to soak up the sun, immerse yourself in history, or simply enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, Portimao has something for everyone.

Lisbon

Lisbon has somewhat rediscovered itself in recent years,
reclaiming its rightful place as the 'golden city' of southern
Europe. Much of this is due to the officials of Lisbon having
elected to rejuvenate the city during the 1990s. This ongoing focus
on the future has meant making the most of the attractions, both
old and new.

One day can span centuries as visitors move between the
picturesque medieval section of the Alfama district and historic
São Jorge castle to being amazed by the spectacle of the futuristic
Oceanarium of Lisboa.

Infrastructure has also been improved, with additions like the
impressive Vasco da Gama Bridge across the River Tagus, which links
the city's airport to a network of national motorways and has
facilitated access to other parts of Portugal. There is also a new
showcase railway hub, the Gare de Oriente, which is the pride of a
new modern suburb on the east bank of the Tagus, creating an even
better link between Lisbon and the rest of Europe. But if tourists
really want to see the city in style, they must be sure not to miss
a ride on the famous Tram 28, which winds its way through the
oldest parts of the city and gives visitors a feel of the history
and rich culture Lisbon has to offer.