Holland America Line Mediterranean: 45 nights from New York with Volendam
Oct 7, 2025

Ponta Delgada

Lisbon

Perched on steep slopes overlooking the Tagus River, Lisbon offers all the pleasures you'd expect from Portugal's main attraction.

The capital of Portugal, Lisbon (in Portuguese Lisboa) has experienced a great rebirth in recent years, with a lively and flourishing contemporary culture. Perched on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon is one of the rare European cities that face the ocean and use water as an element that defines the city. Lisbon enchants travelers with its white limestone buildings, intimate alleys and an ancient charm that makes it a popular destination all year round.

Cartagena

Carthage is a city with more than 2000 years of history. It was founded by the Carthaginian General Asdrubale in the years 227 B.C. and today is one of the most visited touristic cities in Spain.

If you visit its beautiful city center and monuments, you will immerse yourself in this unique atmosphere. The port of Cartagena, on the Mediterranean Costa Cálida, has been valued since the time of the Carthaginians. Thank to its strategic location along the Murcia coast, the city has been a meltingpot of different cultures and traces of their artistic heritage are still visible. Cartagena offers its visitors many activities, both cultural and leisure. Don't miss the ancient Roman theater with its thousand-year history and a huge site of archaeological excavations. You can also go trekking and diving, enjoy the excellent local cuisine, and visit churches and important museums. A holiday aboard a cruise offers the opportunity to visit this beautiful city and partecipate in one of these unique activities.

Carthage offers the tourists many activities, both cultural and for leisure. You cannot miss out the old Roman theatre with its thousand-year-old history and a huge archeological site. It is possible to practice trekking and immersions, taste excellent food of the local cuisine and visit Churchse and important Museums.

 

Valencia

Welcome to Valencia, it’s the Mediterranean gem where history, culture and nature merge into stunning beauty and harmony. This magnificent city is located on Spain’s eastern coast, captivating with its vibrant streets, amazing festivals and rich historical heritage, making you want to buy a vacation house.

Valencia is renowned for its magnificent architectural landmarks, with the iconic Cathedral of the Holy Spirit standing out as a symbol of the city. One of Valencia's most famous symbols is "La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias" (The City of Arts and Sciences) - a modern complex of architectural masterpieces designed by the great architect Santiago Calatrava. This complex includes museums, an aquarium, cinemas, an opera house and much more.

Valencia is a true paradise for food lovers. As the birthplace of paella, here you can savor the best examples of Spanish cuisine, fresh seafood and flavorful tapas. You should also try horchata, a traditional drink made from almonds, sugar and water.

Additionally, the city is famous for its celebrations and festivals, such as the renowned Las Fallas Festival. During this event, enormous cardboard and wooden figures are erected throughout the city and then burned in a festive bonfire. This festival attracts thousands of tourists from around the world.

Valencia is also a perfect starting point for Mediterranean cruises. Aboard a cruise liner, you can enjoy luxurious amenities and entertainment while traveling to the most beautiful places in the Mediterranean.

 

Valencia: Spain's Vibrant Gateway to the Mediterranean

Set sail from Valencia, Spain's third-largest city, a dynamic port where ancient traditions meet futuristic marvels. With its stunning City of Arts and Sciences, historic Old Town, and beautiful urban beaches, Valencia offers a captivating and diverse starting point for your Mediterranean cruise. Before embarking, savor its world-famous paella, explore the central market, and immerse yourself in its vibrant street life. Valencia provides a perfect blend of culture, innovation, and sun-drenched charm, making it an ideal gateway for your Spanish and Mediterranean adventures.

Mediterranean Dreams Set Sail from Valencia

Cruises departing from Valencia open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean. Whether you dream of discovering the sun-kissed coasts of the Balearic Islands, the historical richness of Italy, the romantic allure of France, or the exotic shores of North Africa, Valencia serves as an excellent launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the lively streets of Spain to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days filled with relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments. Each voyage from Valencia promises breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion, leaving you with cherished memories.

Barcelona

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is a jewel enclosed between sea and mountains, an en plein air museum to be discovered. Catalonia is an autonomous region whose indipendence has long been a subject of debate and is still a topic that divides opinion in the country. The region has its own language, culture and history, most visible in its Roman ruins, Gothic cathedral and modernist buildings. The city of Barcelona is the emblem of this unique culture. Barcelona is the most cosmopolitan city in Spain and one of the most busiest port in the Mediterranean. In summer, the beautiful beaches of this city are a magnet for beach lovers. Beautiful beaches are not the only the reason why Barcelon is one of the most loved destionations for tourists. 

The city is a symbol of the the artistic, culinary and cultural avant-garde: visit the Sagrada Familia and the other visionary architectural works of Antoni Gaudi, La Pedrera, Casa Batlllò or Park Guell. For sports lovers, a visit to Camp Nou is not to be missed, while for art lovers here is the Picasso Museum, the Caixa Forum, the MNAC or the Miró Museum. If you want to taste the local cuisine, restaurants and bars are the right choice. They are always crowded as the sea in summer. An holiday aboard a cruise offers the opportunity to visit this beautiful city and immerse yourself in this unique atmosphere.

Civitavecchia

The port town of Civitavecchia is about an hour away from the Italian capital and is where ships will dock before bringing lucky holidaymakers into the city of Rome. It is an important port for cruise ships and ferries, connecting to Corsica, Sardinia and Barcelona. Civitavecchia is a town in the heart of Lazio. It is a small, sleepy town that overlooks the sea from behind the busy and chaotic commercial port.

Spreading out along the coast, the town is situated between the Mignon river to the north and the Marangone river to the south.
Civitavecchia is a port town in the heart of Italy, in the province of Rome, 80 kilometres northwest of the capital.

It is shrouded in art and history, and is rich in bays and coves with sandy and rocky beaches. Today the town is the departure point for many cruises and journeys around the Mediterranean. It is an excellent tourist destination where you can simply enjoy 'la dolce vita' or visit the amazing historical monuments. On a level with the majestic ancient capital, in terms of its monuments, gardens, villas and works of art, it also gives you easy access to the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Terme della Ficoncella, and the Etruscan ruins.

Civitavecchia will guarantee you an original and enchanting experience.

Naples

Set sail from Naples for a holiday in Mediterranean with a cruise from Naples. The port of Naples offers cruises that depart from April to November at extremely convenient prices. Discover all the itineraries and companies sailing from Naples.
A jewel set between a dormant volcano and the steaming Campi Flegrei, Naples is an eclectic metropolitan city, always active and full of contradictions. The romantic Naples, distant two hours in the south of Rome, is one of the largest and most beautiful art cities in the Mediterranean. In addition to its beautiful scenery, the city owes its well-deserved fame to the beautiful historic centre, which was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1995.
Naples is rich in monuments and squares, for example the large and famous Piazza del Plebiscito. Do not miss the residential district of Posillipo or the characteristic small streets of the historic center. Naples is an ideal starting point for many excursions to discover Amalfi coast: visit Sorrento, Capri and Ischia, and you will be faschinated by the beauty of these lands! If you are history and archaeology lover you should visit Pompeii and Herculaneum, two great archaeological sites of worldwide importance preserved thanks to the ancient and devastating eruption of Vesuvius, the volcano on whose slopes the city of Campania was founded.

Not to be missed is a visit to the Reggia di Caserta, just a few kilometres away from Naples, where you will find yourself immersed in a magical atmosphere full of luxury, opulence and wealth. Handicrafts typical of the city are nativity scenes, which are very important all year round. The main street full of specialised workshops is Via San Gregorio Armeno, which can be reached by walking along the famous Spaccanapoli to an open space full of characteristic nativity scenes.

Before embarking on a cruise from Naples, soak up the city atmosphere without missing the Porta Nolana Market, where you will find fresh fish, seasonal fruit and vegetables, as well as all kinds of clothing, bags and furnishings. For art lovers there is the Capodimonte Museum and the unmissable Cloister of Santa Chiara, while for the more daring we recommend a visit to the Catacombs of San Gennaro and Underground Naples, a parallel city carved out of the tuff and full of mystery.

Naples: Your Historic Gateway to the Southern Mediterranean

Set sail from Naples, Italy's vibrant and historic city, nestled against the stunning backdrop of Mount Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Naples offers a rich tapestry of art, history, and culinary delights. Before embarking, explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, savor authentic Neapolitan pizza, or wander through the charming Spaccanapoli district. Naples provides a captivating and culturally immersive starting point for your Mediterranean cruise.

Mediterranean Treasures Await from Naples

Cruises departing from Naples open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean. Whether you dream of discovering the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast, the picturesque Greek Islands, the historical richness of Sicily, or the charming ports of the French Riviera, Naples serves as an ideal launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the lively streets of Southern Italy to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days filled with relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments. Each voyage from Naples promises breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion, leaving you with cherished memories.

Heraklion

Heraklion is the capital of Cray. It is the largest port and economic center of the island and the third largest city in Greece. This city hosts the archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Church and has religious buildings of great interest.

Heraklion is located in the center of the northern coast of the Greek Islands. With more than 100,00 inhabitants, the city is the capital of Crete, a Venetian fortress during the Middle Ages. The ancient city, with its squares and wide cobbled streets, balconies with wonderful view on the sea, mantains numerous fortifications. In particular there are important and magnificent monuments such as the Church of Agia Ekaterini, dated back to 1555, where the Museum of Sacred Art is hosted. The Archaeological Museum, home to ceramic sculptures, jewellery and frescoes on the Minoan culture. The Historical Museum, home to the only exhibited work of the painter Domenico Theotokopoulos (The Greek), and where you can have a view of Mount Sinai. The Cathedral of St Mena, the patron saint of the city, built between 1862 and 1895 is one of the largest buildings in the area.

Heraklion has an important port and a considerable center for the coastal trade of oil, soap, wine and hides. It has ferry boats and ships with regular itineraries to the islands of Santorini, Ios, Paros, Mykonos, Rhodes, Karpathos and Syros. There are also several daily ferry bgoats to Piraeus, south-west of Athens. The Venetian fortress, still in perfect condition, protects the entrance to the port.

The large combination of reality and mythology, tradition and modernity, make Herklion a cosmopolitan center and one of the most important tourist destination in the Mediterranean. Great beaches, lively nightlife, sunny people, excellent cuisine and the strange "interplay" between the old and the new, guarantees to tourists an unforgettable holiday.

Heraklion is located in the center of the northern coast of the Greek island. With more than 100,000 inhabitants, the locality is the capital and largest city of Crete, a Venetian stronghold during the Middle Ages.
The ancient city, between squares and wide cobbled streets, balconies overlooking the sea, preserves numerous fortifications. Particular importance and beauty are its magnificent monuments such as: the church of Agia Ekaterini, dating back to 1555, is where the museum of Sacred Art is housed. The Archaeological Museum, home to ceramic sculptures, jewelry, and frescoes on Minoan culture. The Historical Museum, home to the only work on display by the painter Domenico Theotokopoulos (El Greco), and where it is possible to have a view of Mount Sinai. The Cathedral of Saint Mena, patron saint of the city, built between 1862 and 1895, is one of the largest buildings in the area.
Heraklion has an important port and a considerable center for the coastal trade of oil, soap, wine, and hides. It has ferries and boats with regular routes to the islands of Santorini, Ios, Paros, Mykonos, Rhodes, Karpathos, and Syros. There are also several daily ferries to Piraeus, southwest of Athens. The Venetian fortress, still in perfect condition, protects the entrance to the port.
The great combination of reality and mythology, tradition and modernity, make Heraklion a cosmopolitan center and one of the most important tourist destinations in the Mediterranean. Large beaches, intense nightlife, sunny people, excellent cuisine, and the strange "game" between the old and the new, assures tourists an unforgettable vacation.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a port city on the Mediterranean Sea, in northern Egypt, founded in 331 BC by Alexander the Great and which also served as the backdrop to the stormy love story between Anthony and Cleopatra.

Nicknamed the Pearl of the Mediterranean, it is most famous in ancient times as the location of the Pharos, the great lighthouse, considered one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, for the Temple of Serapis, the Serapion, which was part of the legendary library of Alexandria, as a seat of learning and, once, the largest and most prosperous city in the world. Today, Alexandria offers fascinating aspects of its proud Greek past, as well as interesting mosques, the Corniche's string of casinos, some charming gardens and hotels both modern and traditional, which conquers with the charm of a unique mix of history and modernity, an atmosphere more similar to Magna Graecia than to the Middle East.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a port city on the Mediterranean Sea, in northern Egypt, founded in 331 BC by Alexander the Great and which also served as the backdrop to the stormy love story between Anthony and Cleopatra.

Nicknamed the Pearl of the Mediterranean, it is most famous in ancient times as the location of the Pharos, the great lighthouse, considered one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, for the Temple of Serapis, the Serapion, which was part of the legendary library of Alexandria, as a seat of learning and, once, the largest and most prosperous city in the world. Today, Alexandria offers fascinating aspects of its proud Greek past, as well as interesting mosques, the Corniche's string of casinos, some charming gardens and hotels both modern and traditional, which conquers with the charm of a unique mix of history and modernity, an atmosphere more similar to Magna Graecia than to the Middle East.

Santorini

Santorini is a small circular archipelago of volcanic islands located in the southern Aegean Sea, about 200 km southeast of mainland Greece.

Santorini is located in the southern part of the Cyclades.Its special geological configuration gives a spectacular, wild and unique beauty, becoming one of the main tourist destinations in Europe.
The current crescent shape of Santorini is a consequence of the enormous volcanic explosion that destroyed much of the island causing the formation of the caldera present on the territory, inside which form a series of wonderful small islands.
The island is a sanctuary of peace and calm, an idyllic corner where tourists from all over the world enjoy a few moments of pleasant relaxation. However, the quiet Santorini is, at the same time, one of the most suggestive and festive places in Greece. The square in the center of Fira and the beaches of Kamari, Perivolos and Perissa are the most lively and fashionable places.
The volcanic beaches of Santorini are not the best known in Greece, but they stand out for their diversity, their unique charm and the unique colors of the sand and stones. Santorini offers a spectacular view of the city, eclectic cuisine, enchanting art galleries, a very fun nightlife and excellent wines.

Kusadasi

Kusadasi is one of the main tourist centers of Turkey and offers an excellent environment for an unforgettable holiday.

Located on the west coast of Turkey, 90km south of Izmir, Kusadasi, is reputed to be one of the most beautiful cities in the Aegean Sea, as it is close to important historical sites including Ephesus, Didima, Priene, Miletus and is ideal for tourists. Numerous beaches of fine sand with warm and clear waters, offer a peaceful atmosphere, allow a great variety of services in the water and on the beach. Windsurfing, water skiing, sailing, and beach volleyball are just some of the choices for lovers of dynamism. After the sun during the day, the city awaits superb sunsets. As the sun sets, the attractive cafes and restaurants across the palm-lined avenues fill with sounds and voices. It is a great pleasure to watch the comings and goings of boats and ships accompanied by the panoramic view of the sunset.

Istanbul

An incredible city, huge, vibrant like few others in the world. Where two continents meet, culture and diversity thrive in a unique architectural setting. Istanbul is hot,and we aren’t talking about the weather. These days there are more restaurants,bars,galleries and clubs around the city than Ottoman mosques(which is not a small feat).

 

The international fashion and design press has talked about Istanbul to the point of exhaustion; the sense of age that fell over the city once the Ottoman empire disappeared, has been replaced by a sense of energy and innovation not seen since the times of Suleiman the Magnificent.

Istanbul

An incredible city, huge, vibrant like few others in the world. Where two continents meet, culture and diversity thrive in a unique architectural setting. Istanbul is hot,and we aren’t talking about the weather. These days there are more restaurants,bars,galleries and clubs around the city than Ottoman mosques(which is not a small feat).

 

The international fashion and design press has talked about Istanbul to the point of exhaustion; the sense of age that fell over the city once the Ottoman empire disappeared, has been replaced by a sense of energy and innovation not seen since the times of Suleiman the Magnificent.

Athens

For many, Athens is a city lived two thousand five hundred years ago. Symbol is the mighty Acropolis which dominates almost every view and itinerary of every visitor, crowned by the iconic Parthenon, stands above the city, watching the sprawling modern metropolis in evolution.

Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city where antiquity and modernity, history and contemporary culture blend in a unique way. Everyone knows that the name of the city derives from the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom and justice. However, few people actually know the legend behind this event. According to myth, Athena and Poseidon, the God of the seas, vied for the right to name the city. Poseidon, to impress the inhabitants, gave them water, while Athena gave them an olive branch.

At first the choice fell on Poseidon, since the citizens considered water the most precious gift. When, once they tasted the water, they discovered that it was salty and not drinkable, they changed their minds and recognized Athena as their patron. One of the most famous historical sites in the city is the Acropolis, a majestic hill topped by ancient Doric temples, including the Parthenon, built in 477 BC. and the Erechtheion, built between 421 and 406 BC. Climbing the Acropolis, tourists can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and the Aegean Sea. However, Athens is not only history, but also a lively cultural capital. In the Plaka district, located at the foot of the Acropolis, it is possible to stroll through the welcoming streets, visit the traditional Greek taverns and enjoy the authentic atmosphere.

Then there are the numerous cultural activities offered by the numerous museums, galleries and theaters present in the city. Athens is an important port for cruise ships that offer trips to the Mediterranean and beyond. Cruises from Athens allow guests to explore the rich cultural heritage of Greece, including the islands of Crete, Santorini and Mykonos, where you can admire the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea and a coast of white houses.

In addition to the Greek islands, cruises from Athens also offer the opportunity to visit other exciting Mediterranean destinations, including historic cities in Italy, Croatia and Turkey. Athens is therefore not only the historical and cultural center of Greece, but also an important starting point for cruises in the Mediterranean, which offers guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the great history and splendid landscapes of this unique region.

Many still think of Athens as an ancient city that thrived two and a half thousand years ago. Its symbol is the mighty Acropolis, which dominates almost every view and the itinerary of every visitor, and it is crowned by the iconic Parthenon, which rises above the city, overlooking the sprawling and evolving modern metropolis.

Perhaps the most significant change is in the historical centre, which is almost unrecognisable since cars have been banned. This has liberated the area with the most significant archaeological sites, creating the longest, and undoubtedly one of the most splendid, pedestrianised zones in Europe. This huge archaeological park has brought past and present together, returning the cultural and social life of the city to the area around the ancient monuments and surrounding neighbourhoods.

Athens remains a city of contradictions; it is both frustrating and seductive. It is the oldest city in Europe, yet still in a state of transition. It is one of the safest and most vibrant European cities - an intoxicating mix of grunge and grace with an undeniably urban soul.

Valletta

Malta is one the smallest States in the Mediterranean. Few European countries have such a concentration of history, architecture and, beautiful beaches in such a small area. Malta is one of the most concentrated areas of historical interest anywhere in the world, for this reason it was called La Valletta when Unesco awarded it the title of World Heritage Site. The city is therefore the ideal city for art lovers and it is renowned for its massive fortifications and architectural excellence.

One of the most concentrated areas of historical interest elements in the world, so La Valletta was described when Unesco awarded it the title of world heritage site, the city is therefore a guarantee for art lovers and certainly renowned for its massive fortifications and architectural excellence.

Tunis

Arab hospitality awaits you in exotic Tunis, on the coast of North Africa; a unique city, rich in historical-archaeological finds recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site.

Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, actually consists of three cities: the modern capital of the Tunisian Republic, with its wide streets, skyscrapers, and bustling cafes; the Arab Medina (Old City), dating back to the Middle Ages, an exciting labyrinth full of secrets, narrow streets, small shops, large mosques, and palaces, and finally Carthage, the ancient Phoenician-Roman center located 18 km from the city. Visit the Baths of Antonius and the Bardo Museum, which is not only the most important museum in Tunisia but also one of the oldest in the Arab world, where you can admire ancient artifacts, statues, and the richest collection of Roman mosaics in the world. A day at the fishing village of Sidi Bou Said includes the opportunity to look around a typical house converted into a museum. A holiday in Tunis is not complete without trying the Medina - the typical market. Bargain well and you will be sure to take home a nice souvenir of your vacation here.

Cagliari

There are many cruises embarking from the port of Cagliari in the West Mediterranean. From this city you can easily reach the Balearic Islands and the southern coasts of France and Spain. Cruises from Cagliari offer favourable prices and the city is an ideal starting point for visiting Sardinia. Straddling a long bay between enchanting blue waters and sun-drenched fields, Cagliari is a true emerald green waiting to be discovered. The city rises on and around the hill of the historic district of Castello, and spreads over the surrounding 9 limestone hills.

Cagliari is the regional capital of Sardinia and is called Casteddu in the local dialect. Its territory is one of the most interesting places to visit on the island, full of pure Mediterranean essence expressed in every corner, in every bite of its delicious cuisine and in its history of colonisation. The international port of Cagliari is very busy due to both the traffic and the passengers, especially in the summer months when the crowd of tourists remarkably increases. The best time to visit this city is spring, when the weather is not yet too hot and the average temperatures is 20°C. Discover cruises that depart from Cagliari on Taoticket and let our travel agents recommend you to find the best departure for you.

If your ship calls at Cagliari do not miss the Poetto beach, the most famous city beach where you can enjoy fresh drinks accompanied by traditional fish dishes. Local cuisine is very varied thanks to various influences received from other places like those from Liguria and even from distant Catalonia.

Cagliari: Sardinia's Enchanting Cruise Gateway

Begin your captivating Mediterranean cruise from Cagliari, the historical capital of Sardinia. Perched on seven hills overlooking the sparkling sea, Cagliari offers a blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Before you set sail, explore the medieval Castello district, stroll along Poetto Beach, and savor the island's unique cuisine. Cagliari provides a picturesque and culturally rich starting point for an unforgettable voyage through the azure waters of the Mediterranean.

Mediterranean Dreams Set Sail from Cagliari

Cruises departing from Cagliari open up a world of discovery across the Mediterranean, from the sun-drenched coasts of Italy and Spain to the exotic shores of North Africa. Whether you dream of ancient ruins, bustling souks, or pristine beaches, Cagliari serves as an ideal launchpad for diverse itineraries. Enjoy the seamless transition from Sardinia's charming capital to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready to explore new horizons and create lasting memories. Each journey from Cagliari promises relaxation, adventure, and the allure of the Mediterranean sea.

Gibraltar

Gibraltar is a unique place for the curious traveler. Getting lost exploring the ancient caves and galleries, there's always something new to discover!

Gibraltar, colloquially known as The Rock (or simply 'Gib'), is a British Overseas Territory, stationed at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea. It is bordered to the north by Spain and the inhabitants of Gibraltar are loyal British citizens while being bilingual. Inside the rock is an absolute labyrinth with secret internal roads and tunnels four times more than those on the surface. The military presence and security in this otherwise deserted strategic area is strong but almost invisible.

Cadiz

Cadiz is a port city with wide boulevards, squares and gardens with an atmosphere rich in history

Cadiz is an elegant city offering buildings dated back to XVIII and XIX Centuries. The City has a long and charming history: discover its monuments, the museums and all the amazing places where you can taste good food and have a drink. What makes Cadiz special it’s the people that are open, have a great culture and are independent. The majority of them enjoy life and the company of their friends in the many bars and squares of the city.

New York

New York is an incredibly diverse and active place, which consists of an intricate mosaic of neighbourhoods, each has its own character and history, yet they merge together seamlessly.

New York is an urban island full of unparalleled art and architecture, lively ethnic neighbourhoods, thousands of shops and some of the best restaurants in the world. The main attractions are grouped in Midtown Manhattan, not far from the cruise port.

Drift down the Hudson River and discover unforgettable attractions, such as the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. In the city that never sleeps there is no end of things to do, from the lights of Broadway and Times Square to world-class museums, shopping and a plethora of places to eat.