Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain with three million inhabitants, a dominating port in northern Mediterranean with one of the most renowned and important universities in the world. The city is a very rich commercial centre, where industrial operations crucial to the Spanish economy take place. In fact, Catalans have always considered their region unique compared with the other Spanish regions and we can find its roots in the power exercised by Barcelona for four hundred years at least on Spanish monarchy and on European commercial events.

A crossroads of trades and cultures, Marseille is the oldest city in France. The varied social make up of the city is reflected in the vibrant musical and artistic scene.

Above the port of Savona, the Priamar Fortress greets every departure and arrival of the Costa ships sailing in the Mediterranean. Genoa and its aquarium are nearby. The port of Savona, which you can explore during your cruise in Italy, is one of the prettiest of the Italian Riviera. The lovely climate, summers that are never to hot, mild winters and the exceptional beauty of the sea near the town makes Savona an excellent base to set out to explore Liguria. Savona is notable for the Priamar Fortress, which has dominated the town since the 16th century, and also for its historic centre where you can visit Savona Cathedral. A stop in Savona can also be an opportunity to visit the nearby city of Genoa and its narrow, picturesque streets, known as “caruggi”.

On the Mediterranean and surrounded by fertile countryside, Valencia has an old and modern heart. The traditions of Spain survive in a modern district of cutting-edge museums.

Funchal is the capital of the Madeira archipelago in Portugal. On a cruise with Costa you will dock at its unique port, formed from a natural bay that protects ships. It owes its name to the fennel plants found in the surrounding areas. The port of Funchal is the International Maritime Station of Madeira. The city is nestled in the mountains and has an atmosphere of tranquillity. Take advantage of the park for a brief visit to the Monte Palace tropical garden, a real paradise on Earth where vegetation and stone decorations create a wonderful harmony. If you want to get to know the locals and buy souvenirs, take a hike to the city market, the Mercado dos Lavradores, and finally, take the cable car to enjoy the amazing view of the city.

Lisbon is a city of decadent charm that we can discover among lifts and slopes and small restaurants where they serve salt cod in every variant. The capital of Portugal is a concentration of the Portuguese lifestyle. Upon arrival at the port of Lisbon, you’ll start your stay enjoying delicious local cuisine. You won’t have any difficulty finding a restaurant on the river bank where you can have a glass of Vinho Verde and taste some sweet rice treats. Whatever you’re looking for, from strong emotions to calm, the city can satisfy you. You can also bask on its beaches or visit the historic buildings of the city of seven hills. Then jump on the tram and head to the art galleries and museums of the second oldest capital in Europe.

Travel through the streets of the port, where Christopher Columbus left for America, and visit this beautiful town and its surroundings. Make a stop in Cadiz, an Andalusian town that gives its name to the region it is capital of and the gulf on whose heights it stands proud. Its buildings are characterised by influences, in chronological order, of the Carthaginians, Romans, Moors and the Christians. The port of Cadiz was the departure point of the expedition that led to the discovery of America. Here you can admire the charming seafront promenade and the 3 km bridge that crosses the bay. Don’t miss the chance to taste “tapas de chorizo” or see a flamenco show.

Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain with three million inhabitants, a dominating port in northern Mediterranean with one of the most renowned and important universities in the world. The city is a very rich commercial centre, where industrial operations crucial to the Spanish economy take place. In fact, Catalans have always considered their region unique compared with the other Spanish regions and we can find its roots in the power exercised by Barcelona for four hundred years at least on Spanish monarchy and on European commercial events.