Rome’s romance, Renaissance and classical relics spin us into the hustle and clamour of Naples. Currents of the Tyrrhenian Sea carry us to Sicily, the ancient medina and Carthaginian ruins of Tunis, and Isola di San Pietro, a tiny Sardinian satellite isle with white sand or pebble spiaggias and pale turquoise waters, a single thread to Spanish seduction in the Balearics and Barcelona.

Compare the giant banyans and hilltop fortress of old Alicante with the simian legions and siege tunnels of Gibraltar’s mighty Rock. Old meets new along palm-lined boulevards in sultry Casablanca before the horizon reveals giant cliffs and volcanic peaks in Tenerife. Lava tubes and lunar landscapes lure us to Lanzarote, then onward in Phoenician footsteps to charming Cadiz.

Follow in the footsteps of artists while sipping Moroccan mint tea in Tangiers, before the White City of Lisbon paints the horizon in a dazzling display. Sail between the Pillars of Hercules on the journey to Málaga, where the almighty Alcazaba holds memories of the Morish conquest, and onward towards Valencia’s age-old frescoes and fiery fiestas.

From picture-perfect Barcelona, framed by Gaudi’s wonders, embark on an Easter-time exploration of ancient echoes in historic Naples’ streets, and admire the bustling culture and processions in lively Valetta. Savour the rich flavours of Siracusa, then revel in Corfu’s captivating shores, Kotor’s fairy-tale charm and Brindisi’s Puglian delights before drifting into Split’s Dalmatian paradise. Whirl through the canals and palazzos of Venice, bathing in the liquid gold of the city’s elegance