Day 1 - Monte-Carlo

Monte-Carlo, Monaco: Perched on one of the Mediterranean's finest stretches, Monte-Carlo is synonymous with luxury. While modern high-rises dominate the skyline, the Belle Époque elegance of yesteryear persists in illustrious institutions like the Hôtel de Paris and the esteemed Louis XV restaurant. The Grimaldi dynasty's storied past permeates the city, with a history of casino opulence dating back to 1856 when roulette first spun here. Monte-Carlo, with its steep cliffs and iconic casino grounds, remains a magnet for the affluent and offers opulent spectacles from glittering yachts to lavish parties.

Day 1 - Cannes

Cannes, France: Benefiting from a splendid year-round climate, Cannes stands as one of Europe’s most cherished destinations. Historically, it served as a mere fishing port until Lord Brougham’s serendipitous visit in 1834 transformed its fate. With the introduction of Le Train Blue and France’s first paid holidays, Cannes blossomed into a haven for the elite. Today, the glamour of its annual film festival rivals that of Hollywood. La Croisette, the famed boulevard, offers a quintessential stroll under palm trees, with luxurious boutiques and grand hotels echoing the French art of leisurely sauntering.

Day 2 - Cannes

Cannes, France: Cannes is pampered with the luxurious year-round climate that has made it one of the most popular resorts in Europe. Its bay served as nothing more than a fishing port until in 1834 an English aristocrat, Lord Brougham, fell in love with the site during an emergency stopover. The city is forever glamorised by its annual film festival, a rival of Hollywood's Academy Awards. Strolling along La Croisette offers a taste of stardom with its chic eateries and grand hotels vying for attention.

Day 3 - Rouen

Rouen, France: Rouen, known for its medieval charm, boasts an impressive array of historical architecture, including the striking Notre-Dame Cathedral, immortalised by Monet in his series of paintings. The city's vibrant past includes serving as the site of Joan of Arc's trial and execution, and its cobbled streets and timber-framed buildings provide a picturesque setting for exploring its rich tapestry of history and culture.

Day 4 - Porto Cervo

Porto Cervo, Italy: Nestled on the northern coast of Sardinia, Porto Cervo is an epitome of luxury with its pristine beaches and vibrant harbours filled with lavish yachts. This purpose-built resort created by Prince Karim Aga Khan IV during the 1960s has become a glamorous retreat, famed for its stunning architecture, upscale boutiques, and scintillating nightlife.

Day 5 - Stromboli

Stromboli, Italy: Dominated by one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Stromboli offers a unique blend of natural majesty and vibrant Italian culture. The island's continuous volcanic activity is a spectacle to behold, particularly from the sea, where frequent eruptions paint the night sky. This dramatic setting complements the island’s unpretentious charm and simple coastal beauty.

Day 6 - Palermo

Palermo, Italy: Once the intellectual hub of southern Europe, Palermo is a city where diverse cultures have coalesced into a distinctive personality. Situated on a crescent bay at Monte Pellegrino's base, it features an array of Arab-Norman architecture and vibrant markets reflecting its multicultural history. Visitors can experience this dynamism in its public squares, street bazaars, and the lively evening passeggiata.

Day 7 - Trapani, Sicily

Trapani, Sicily, Italy: Trapani, essential to Sicily’s west coast, extends below Mount Erice, offering views over the Egadi Islands. Historic salt extraction from the marshes is highlighted in the Museo delle Saline, while Trapani's promontory hosts enchanting vistas. Nearby treasures include the striking town of Erice and the scenic islands, accessible from Trapani’s port by boat.

Day 9 - Ibiza

Ibiza, Spain: Ibiza seamlessly combines hedonistic pleasures with rich history. Its bustling cityscape is a contrast to the serene UNESCO-listed medieval walls of Dalt Vila, from where panoramic views emerge. Amidst the old city's narrow, winding lanes, a vibrant mix of shopping and culinary experiences await the adventurous traveller looking to explore its historical nuances.

Day 10 - Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca, Spain: The city, anchored by its magnificent cathedral, offers a rich tapestry of history from its Moorish roots through its Gothic edifices. The surrounding parks and avenues reflect Palma’s evolution, where modern life inches elegantly alongside historical charm. A stroll through its scenic streets encapsulates Mallorca's allure, with its mix of imposing bastions, lively promenades, and a fusion of cultural histories.