Begin in Lisbon, the handsome capital city that launched many Portuguese expeditions during the 15th and 16th centuries. Wrought iron balconies, tiled walls and ornate stonework are hallmarks of Portimão’s old quarter.

Cruising along Spain’s southern coast, the Andrea stops in Cadiz, allowing for a full-day excursion to the beautiful Andalusian city of Seville, and in Motril, from where you can head inland to Granada and the stunning 13th-century Moorish citadel, Alhambra. The smallest of the inhabited Balearic Islands, Formentera is accessible only by boat. The 35-square-mile island has craggy cliffs, numerous beaches and secluded bays, all offering incredible views. Cagliari, Sardinia provides a delightful summer island resort atmosphere in an historic setting.

Lovely coastlines and crystal-clear waters define the Egadi Islands, a mini-archipelago off the northwest coast of Sicily. Marettimo is a tiny hamlet of white houses nestled at the foot of a great limestone mountain. Levanzo is known for the Grotta del Genovese, where wall etchings of fish and animals are 6,000 years old. On the eastern side of Sicily, explore the archaeological district in Syracuse before heading to Gallipoli on Italy’s mainland. Here, travel into the walled city of Lecce, a treasure chest of Baroque architectural monuments that rivals Florence.

Across the Adriatic, towering mountains and the irregularly shaped shoreline create spectacular views as the Andrea cruises into Montenegro’s Gulf of Kotor. The fortified medieval city of Kotor is a preview for what lies ahead: the breathtaking walled town of Dubrovnik. Designated a UN World Heritage Site, its promenades, alleys and walls are a delight to walk.

Within walking distance from the ship, Split’s palace of the Emperor Diocletian can be easily explored: its imperial apartment as well as the octagonal mausoleum, converted in the Middle Ages to a cathedral. Conclude your cruise in magnificent Venice, beautifully situated on 117 islands in the azure northern waters of the Adriatic.