7-Day Mediterranean from Venice (trieste) to Barcelona (tarragona): Rome, Malta & Salerno

You could start a discussion about Venice by praising its restaurants, wine bars, marble churches or blown glass. But you probably won't. You'll likely start with the fact that Venice is built on water. It is a place where people either float slowly down palace-lined man-made waterways or stroll down narrow alleyways. There's no more extraordinary place to find yourself, or lose yourself. Be sure to stay in Venice before your next European cruise.

The history of Salerno is as rich and vibrant as its surrounding landscapes. The site of ancient settlements (Neolithic mummy remains discovered here), Salerno has been home to vast empires and was the site of Medieval Europe's first medical school. A trip to Salerno makes it easy to understand why countless people have been drawn to its location along the Gulf of Salerno. Nestled between the mountains and the sea at the southeastern point of the famed Amalfi Coast, Salerno boasts sun-drenched beaches, nature reserves and parks, historic sites and delicious local cuisine.

Endless adventures await in Rome. With two and a half thousand years of history, art and culture, it is no wonder Rome is one of the most visited cities on the planet. Gaze at the masterpieces of the Vatican or walk into the past with visits to ancient relics, historic monuments and legendary museums. Or people-watch while sipping on an espresso in a quaint cafe.

A port town dating back to the 5th century BC, Tarragona teems with history. Lose yourself in Roman ruins, including an amphitheater overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Take a stroll in the medieval town centre to explore an enormous Gothic and Romanesque cathedral and other splendid structures. Or head to nearby Reus for your fill of early 20th-century modernist architecture. Feel like getting your adrenaline pumping? Head to PortAventura, a massive amusement park filled with thrilling rides and exciting shows. And when you're hungry, you have plenty of delicious options, including lots of fresh seafood. Take your pick from any number of small bars, restaurants and cafés in the city centre featuring inventive fare from the sea.