From ancient ruins and atmospheric old quarters to thriving food scenes and sun-drenched beaches, Oceania Cruises Mediterranean cruises offer the perfect combination of old-world beauty and modern charisma. Top sights such as the Vatican Museums in Rome and La Sagrada Família in Barcelona are easily at hand.

Lying on Spain’s radiant Costa Blanca, Alicante exudes a rare beauty. Pristine beaches like San Juan hug the shoreline. Stop for a glass of refreshing sangria in the Old Quarter. Soak up the sun on one of the numerous exquisite beaches lining the Mediterranean haven of Almeria. Marvel at the sumptuous palaces, lush gardens and imposing citadels that are the Alhambra in Granada. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most famous legacies of Moorish rule in Spain. Meander the narrow cobblestone streets of nearby Albaicín, the ancient Arabic quarter, or see a flamenco performance in the whitewashed caves of Sacromonte, originally settled by gypsies.

Soft breezes caress this small volcanic island of Arreceife, just 79 miles off the west coast of Africa. A land of contrasts: you can explore some of the world’s most spectacular caves in the morning and relax on a white sand beach in the afternoon. Next up is Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands. While in port, you’ll notice the Auditorium of Tenerife, an amazing, organic structure that instantly became an icon when completed in 2003. Another modern landmark is the Oscar Domínguez Institute, a contemporary art gallery named after the 20th century surrealist.

The capital of the island, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is a historic and culturally rich city set amidst the splendid scenery of two sparkling bays. Visit museums, historical sites and wondrous monuments on a stroll through the centuries-old Vegueta quarter. See exotic flora and amazing vistas while hiking the island, and then relax on one of the four resplendent beaches or meander the energetic streets of Parque Santa Catalina. Explore the Mendoubia Gardens in Tangier, which contain a fascinating banyan tree that is more than 800 years old. Or experience a more traditional Morocco in Tetouan, a mountain city of grace and culture and the location of the beautiful white royal palace. The Caves of Hercules are nine miles west of Tangier in the Cap Spartel area; it is a place of great beauty and archaeological significance.

Finally end your voyage in Lisbon, Portugal and visit the ornate Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery and stroll the narrow, winding streets of the charming Alfama district. Enjoy marvelous old Sintra, a royal country retreat, and Cascais, a beautiful seaside resort. Explore medieval Obidos or make a pilgrimage to Fatima, where the Virgin Mary appeared repeatedly to three shepherd children in 1917.