4 Nights Europe, Mediterranean

This Spanish coastal town is an important Mediterranean port and capital of the Costa del Sol region. Its Moorish past has left its imprint on the historic centre, particularly around La Alcazaba, a fortress that dates back to 1065. The monumental plaza includes the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, which has been converted into a small museum.

Alicante's exceptional location between the mountains and the sea provides the city with a special kind of enrapturing beauty. Located in Spain's Valencia region, it is a lively town guarded by a 16th century fortress.

The city of Palma is located on the southern side of Mallorca, the largest the Spanish Balearic islands. Though it has its fair share of cultural attractions, Mallorca's predominant crowd-pullers are the Serra de Tramuntana mountains range and the sun-splashed beaches.

France's second largest city and largest port offers gorgeous coastline, the Provence sun and cosmopolitan charm. Remnants of its decorated 2,600-year history include a 19th-century basilica and cathedral and the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde church. The city has several museums, including the Archaeology and Fine Arts museums.

The capital of Catalonia boasts the bustle of the world's busiest seaport, the medieval romance of its Gothic Quarter, and a feast of Catalan Art Nouveau buildings - including the great creations of Antonio Gaudí. The "Great Enchantress" remains one of the most exhilarating cities in Europe, decorated with the grandeur of Picasso, Miró and Dalí.