An overview of the best Mediterranean sights to help you plan your visit, whether you're traveling by cruise ship, car, or train.

Combining in-depth information with high quality maps and photographs, this guide describes major cultural, architectural and historical sites and includes commissioned walks and drives. An extensive travel planner details practicalities, including where to find the best tavernas and the finest gold jewellery

The Mediterranean country of Spain ranks No. 2 in world destinations, and its vibrancy and passion are brought alive in the colorful, comprehensive National Geographic Traveler: Spain. Sumptuous pictures complement detailed city maps, practical travel tips, and everything from where to find the best tapas to Spanish history and culture.

From Old Athens to the city's modern suburbs, from Crete to the Dodecanese and Ionian islands, National Geographic Traveler: Athens & the Island guides you to the better-and lesser-known sights of this Mediterranean hotspot.

These information-packed guides offer savvy advice and the in-depth information that sophisticated travelers demand. Each guide features: Detailed background and site descriptions; mapped walking and driving tours; full-service sidebars with fascinating vignettes on history, culture, and contemporary life; a 60-page directory of visitor information, including notable hotels and restaurants, entertainment, and shopping; and foldout end flaps, printed with maps and quick reference information, that serve as handy bookmarks.

The relaunched National Geographic Traveler guidebooks are in tune with the growing trend toward experiential travel, providing more insider tips and expert advice for a more authentic, cultural experience of each destination. These books serve discerning, curious travelers and supply information and interpretation not available on the Internet. In response to the interests of today's traveler, the acclaimed National Geographic Traveler series includes exciting new editorial features, a contemporary redesign, and inviting new covers.

"Hawaii-born journalist Thelma Chang updated and wrote new features for the 2009 edition."--Page 7.