Madrid & the Costa del Sol

Hit the ruins. The birthplace of emperors Trajan and Hadrian, Italica still flaunts the third-largest Roman amphitheater in the world and amazing ancient mosaics, many still being uncovered by archaeologists, ranging from simple geometric patterns to elaborate scenes of Neptune and the seasons.

The birthplace of emperors Trajan and Hadrian, Italica still flaunts the third-largest Roman amphitheater in the world and amazing ancient mosaics, many still being uncovered by archaeologists. Wander through the millennia-old streets and villas to see mosaics ranging from simple geometric patterns to elaborate scenes of Neptune and the seasons.

Tour Europe's smallest capital, a port city once the entrance point for exotic wares from the far-flung corners of Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Now the city has a new vibrancy, with the opening of a new railway hub and the contrast of brash new modern buildings and restored medieval façades. Get lost in the Alfama, a maze of streets where houses are so close together, you can spread your arms and touch buildings on both sides of the street. Stroll the cobblestone pedestrian malls and Lisbon's main street, the Avenida da Liberdade. Get your portrait done by one of the sidewalk artists. See the new bridge, Ponte Vasco da Gama (built for Expo '98), which spans the Tagus river. Shop for handcrafts. Lisbon remains one of the best places to buy hand-made goods from around the world-embroidery, ceramics, silver, and tiles.

Portugal's version of the Blues. Fado means "fate" or "destiny," and Fado songs generally tell the tale of lost love or glory. Head to a Fado house in the Bairro Alto and see the singers swathed in black, accompanied by 12-stringed guitars, crooning their hearts out.