Ponta Delgada is the capital of São Miguel, the largest and most populous island of the Azores. Founded in the 15th century, the city is home to elegant architecture and some excellent restaurants, though the main attraction is the tranquility and natural beauty of the surrounding countryside.

Terceira means ‘third’ in Portuguese - this was the third island in the Azores to be discovered, and it’s also the third largest island. The main town, the UNESCO-listed Angra do Heroismo, is the oldest in the archipelago, with some lovely historic buildings lining the cobbled streets.

Funchal, Madeira’s bustling capital, tumbles down a dramatic hillside towards a beautiful sweeping bay. Highlights include colourful markets, wine lodges and the spectacular cable car ride up to the village of Monte, home of the famous toboggan run.

Said to have the world's most perfect climate, cosmopolitan Las Palmas is the capital of Gran Canaria and the largest city in the Canary Islands. The charming old quarter, La Vegueta, is where you'll find the city's most interesting colonial architecture, while beach fans should head for lovely Playa de las Canteras.

In recent years Lanzarote has begun to shake off its mass market reputation and reinvent itself as a more upmarket destination. The extraordinary volcanic landscapes and the works of local artist César Manrique give the island a unique appearance, and the understated capital, Arrecife, is well worth exploring.

Situated on Tenerife’s north eastern shore, the island’s capital is a busy port that serves mostly as a gateway to the popular south west coast and the spectacular volcanic landscapes of the island’s interior.

Fuerteventura is the closest of the Canary Islands to Africa, and this is reflected in the sun-baked landscape. Ships dock at Puerto del Rosario, which has little of interest; instead, take a trip into the mountainous interior, hit the beach or try your hand at windsurfing.

After years of neglect, Tangier is finally being restored to its former glory as a cosmopolitan crossroads between Europe and Africa. The Moroccan government has invested heavily in modern infrastructure, while the spruced up medina shines with a new-found cultural dynamism.