Western Mediterranean

The Must-sees of the trip

1. GenoaGenoa is a historic harbour city in the north-west of Italy, on the Ligurian Sea. It is the capital of the Liguria region and one of the largest harbour cities in Italy. Genoa is famous for its rich history, medieval architecture, maritime tradition and vibrant culture. In the Middle Ages it played a central role as a maritime power and trading centre and today it is an important transport hub as well as a fascinating tourist destination. The historic centre of Genoa, one of the largest in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, old palaces, churches and piazzas. The Via Garibaldi, lined with magnificent palaces such as the Palazzo Ducale, is particularly worth seeing. The harbour of Genoa is one of the most important commercial and cruise ports in Italy and includes the Porto Antico (Old Harbour), which was redesigned by Renzo Piano. It is home to the Genoa Aquarium, the Museo del Mare and many restaurants and shops.
2. MarseilleMarseille is the second largest city in France and the largest city on the country’s Mediterranean coast. It is located in the south in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region and looks back on a history of more than 2,600 years. The city is known for its multicultural atmosphere, its port-based economy and its importance as one of the most important cultural and economic centres of the Mediterranean. A striking feature of Marseille is the Vieux-Port (Old Port), which forms the heart of the city and is an important historical and cultural centre. The harbour was already an important trading port in the Middle Ages and in antiquity and is now a lively place with restaurants, cafés and markets. From the harbour, visitors can enjoy a magnificent view of the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and the Château d’If. The latter is an impressive church on a hill that offers a panoramic view over the city and the sea and is very popular among pilgrims and tourists.
3. BarcelonaBarcelona is the capital of the Catalan region in Spain and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Famous for its architectural diversity, vibrant culture, beaches and creative atmosphere, the city attracts millions of tourists every year. An iconic landmark of the city is the Sagrada Família, the masterpiece of architect Antoni Gaudí, which has been under construction since 1882 and is characterised by its impressive architecture and detailed facades. Another important work by Gaudí is Park Güell, a public park with colourful mosaics, whimsical sculptures and fantastic views of the city. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a favourite place for walks and photography. The famous La Rambla, a lively street that runs from Plaza de Cataluña to Port Vell, is also a highlight of the city. It is lined with street artists, cafés, flower stalls and markets, including the Mercat de la Boqueria, a colourful market with fresh food and local specialities.