A Journey of Catalan Coasts & Mediterranean Serenity - Explora II

Journey overview

Begin in Barcelona before Valencia’s vibrant blend of historic charm and modern creativity unfolds. Palma de Mallorca offers sunlit elegance, while Palamós reveals Catalonia’s quieter coastal character. A day at sea creates space to savour the Mediterranean’s gentle rhythm before arriving in Marseille, where Provençal culture, maritime heritage and dynamic southern energy provide a compelling finale to this refined coastal voyage.

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Itinerary

Day 1, Barcelona, Spain

Breathe in the cultural heart of Catalan; an elegant blend of high energy and undisturbed tradition. Muse over the origins of captivating Gaudi architecture within the enchanting labyrinth that is the Gothic Quarter. Savour the flavours of fresh tapas and crisp cava in breezy plazas, tranquil terraces and coveted cafés, or glide down to a shimmering beach club to unwind. Imagine a visit to peaceful Passeig de Gracia, where modernist buildings merge to showcase iconic global labels. And, as dusk falls, prepare for urban action and swing by the lively bohemian bars to fiesta on the leafy stretch of La Rambla. If you’re serious about style, this colourful city provides plenty to celebrate.

Day 2, Valencia, Spain

Steeped in tradition, inundated in head-spinning architecture and drenched in history spanning more than 2,000 years, Valencia leaves you breathless. The labyrinthine streets of Ciutat Vella thread between cobbled plazas where flaming festivals erupt throughout the year. Spectacular frescoes, Gothic towers and intricately carved stonework make the city’s religious buildings some of the most awe-inspiring in the world, while secular strongholds like La Lonja — the UNESCO-listed Silk Exchange — echo its history as a commercial powerhouse. At the heart of it all, the Mercado Central, an Art Nouveau temple of gastronomy where generations of traders have fed the city under the iconic black and white roof for 100 years.

Day 3, Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Leave craggy coastlines behind and venture to the heartland of the biggest Balearic. Where endless authentic charm, history and nature await. Celebrate at Spain’s oldest winery, shop chic Palma boutiques and marvel at blossoming UNESCO-limestone mountains aboard a vintage train. Experience a tranquil monastery, art at a historic hacienda and tons of protected wildlife. Delve into nature at reserves, feast on wood-fired paella at lively hangouts, pilgrimage to historic churches and tour old-world Mallorcan villages. And as for sapphire seas that frame spotless beaches - Mallorca is truly an immense Balearic beauty.

Day 4, Palamós (Girona), Spain

Endowed with an abundance of culinary and artistic riches, Girona is Catalonia unedited. Rising from Palamós to the medieval villages of Empordà and the foothills of the Pyrenees, the province reveals itself during languorous lunches in shaded squares and tastings in hilltop vineyards. Weave between epicurean experiences and colourful riverside houses in Girona, delve into the world and works of Salvador Dalí in Figueres and explore the dramatic cliffs, secluded calas and crystal-clear waters of the lesser-travelled Costa Brava.

Day 5, Time at Sea

With more time to reflect, rejuvenate, and embrace the Ocean State of Mind, days at sea with Explora Journeys invite moments of unhurried exploration. Against a backdrop of endless blue, indulge in a varied programme of wellness, dining and entertainment, enriching the mind and indulging the senses, designed to satisfy even the most curious of minds. These moments at sea offer a rare chance to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones. With so many onboard experiences, each day at sea is unique and memorable.

Day 6, Marseille, France

Lounging under a Provençal sun, Marseille is the oldest city in France yet seemingly grows younger each day. A multi-cultural melting pot with top-notch museums, galleries, smart squares and hip port-side bars, where you can tuck into a bowl of bouillabaisse, its famous fish stew. Meander past fountains built under the reign of Napoleon III and city hall erected during Louis XIV. Fall in love with the Calanques cliffs for a bit of French coastline drama, or wind through cypress trees and lavender fields to Avignon and Aix-en-Provence, famously once home to Van Gogh, Cézanne, and author Peter Mayle. Chase light, ripening Syrah grapes and drink in the nuances of terroir. From Marseille’s boisterous roots to its French coastline drama and nearby classic Provence, wander at will and fall in love with it all.