Day 1 - Valletta

Valletta, Malta: Malta's capital, the minicity of Valletta, boasts ornate palaces and museums all defended by massive fortifications of honey-coloured limestone. Its narrow streets are lined with houses featuring overhanging wooden balconies, akin to a window on the world from which people-watchers once looked out. The main entrance is the City Gate, where all bus routes converge, leading to Triq Repubblika (Republic Street), the spine of the city's grid and main shopping thoroughfare. Triq Mercante (Merchant Street) runs parallel and also invites leisurely strolls. Valletta's compactness is its charm, making it perfect for exploration on foot. The City Gate area is undergoing significant redevelopment, including a new Parliament Building and an open-air performance space. The complex, completed in mid-2013, means numerous pedestrian detours and occasional noise or dust. It's recommended to stop by the tourist information office on Merchant Street for helpful maps and brochures before your wanderings.

Day 2 - Siracuse

Siracusa, Sicily, Italy: Siracusa, known in English as Syracuse, is a fascinating city steeped in history. Founded in 734 BC by Corinthian Greek colonists, it quickly rivalled Athens in wealth and power, becoming the West's largest and wealthiest city-state. Despite its history of tyranny, its rulers, such as Dionysius, attracted eminent Greeks like playwrights Aeschylus and Euripides, alongside philosopher Plato. The city outsmarted the Athenians in one of history's greatest military campaigns in 413 BC, prolonging its prosperity until the Romans conquered it two centuries later. Siracusa still boasts remarkable Baroque art and architecture, dramatic Greek and Roman ruins, and a legendary Duomo encapsulating the city's history. The modern city offers lively, Baroque old towns with charming piazzas and excellent seafood spots. Explore either the Parco Archeologico (Archaeological Zone) on the mainland or the island of Ortygia, the original Greek settlement, which is becoming increasingly tourist-friendly. Ortygia is delightful to explore on foot, contrasting the wider avenues of mainland Siracusa. Parco Archeologico is accessible from Viale Teracati, while the nearby Tyche district holds the archaeological museum and San Giovanni's church and catacombs. A 15-minute walk from the train station along Via Francesco Crispi and Corso Umberto leads to Ortygia, or take free electric buses from the bus station nearby.

Day 3 - Porto Empedocle

Porto Empedocle, Italy: This port town, nestled on Sicily's southern coast, is an ideal stepping stone to the nearby Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a mesmerising archaeological complex featuring some of the most well-preserved ancient Greek temples. The town itself offers a laid-back ambiance with a charming seafront and a statue of the fictional detective Inspector Montalbano, as imagined by local author Andrea Camilleri.

Day 4 - Tunis

Tunis, Tunisia: Situated south of the Tunisian capital, Sousse is a city that blends ancient history with modern resort-style living. Its rich cultural heritage is evident through its catacombs and traditional souqs, while expansive sandy beaches provide a scenic backdrop for relaxation. The city's ability to merge its traditions with contemporary flair makes it an enchanting destination for those looking to explore Tunisian culture.

Day 5 - Annaba

Annaba (ex Bone), Algeria: Nestled along Algeria’s northeastern coast, Annaba is a city rich in historical significance and natural beauty. Known for its Roman history as the city of Hippo Regius, it once hosted St. Augustine as bishop. Today, visitors can explore the serene basilica dedicated to him and wander through the lush landscapes of El Kala National Park nearby.

Day 6 - Alger

Alger (Algiers), Algeria: Algiers, the capital and largest city of Algeria, is affectionately known as ‘Algiers the White’ due to its striking white buildings. Its name comes from the Arabic word for ‘the islands,’ relating to the four islands incorporated into the mainland in 1525. Founded in 944 AD, the city was part of the Ottoman Empire and became a hub for Barbary pirates amidst a sea dominated by European influence. Algiers transitioned to a French colony in 1830, achieving independence in 1962 after a protracted struggle. Please note that excursions ashore are strictly regulated; passengers can only disembark on organized tours and must remain with their guide throughout. These excursions require pre-booking at least three weeks prior to sailing and cannot be arranged onboard. Tours are escorted by police to ensure smooth travel. Due to immigration restrictions, passengers must adhere to assigned coaches before sailing, and binoculars are not allowed ashore. Israeli passport holders, or those with Israeli visas, may face entry denial.

Day 7 - Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca, Spain: North of the cathedral on a map of Palma, the cluster of narrow streets around Plaça Santa Eulàlia marks the city's earliest settlement. Further out, a ring of wide boulevards follows the Moors’ fortifications built by the 12th century. Most of these walls were demolished by the late 19th century, with remnants at Ses Voltes near the seafront. A diverted torrent that once ran through the old city follows the moat east of the city walls, while La Rambla and Passeig d'es Born now trace its natural course. A walk along the ramparts at Ses Voltes from the mirador beside the cathedral is a wonderful start to a day in Palma, especially as the early morning sun highlights the grandeur of La Seu. Other highlights include the Almudaina Palace, the Mediterranean’s finest Gothic-style civic building, and the Museu d'Es Baluard. Begin your stroll from Parc de la Mar beneath the cathedral and enjoy the blend of historical and modern architecture.

Day 8 - Valencia

Valencia, Spain: As Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia combines vibrant nightlife, exceptional cuisine, quality museums, and impressive contemporary architecture. Founded by Greeks and fiercely contested through the ages, its history is as notable as its geography, with the River Turia playing a significant role until diverted to prevent devastating floods. Modern Valencia now boasts graceful bridges spanning the rerouted riverbed park and the futuristic Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències by Valencia-native architect Santiago Calatrava. Known for its conservative traditions, Valencia also embraces daring design and modern gastronomy, making it a perennial favourite. The essence of contemporary Spain sits alongside remnants of its storied past, making it a magnetic destination.

Day 9 - Cartagena

Cartagena, Spain: Located on the southeastern coast of Spain in the Region of Murcia, Cartagena is a city enriched by centuries of maritime history. Known originally as Cartago Nova by its Carthaginian founders, it later thrived as a Roman colony and Byzantine trading centre. It has served as Spain's principal Mediterranean naval base since King Philip II's reign, safeguarded by the enduring walls from that era. The recently uncovered Roman Theatre, initially discovered in 1988, is now open to the public, adding to the city's list of historical attractions. While in Cartagena, consider taking a mini-cruise around the historic harbour, with multiple excursions available daily without prior booking—details are available at the port.