Day 1 - Sunday - Sep 1, 2024
Valletta, Malta |
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Depart: 6:00 pm |
The capital of Malta, Valletta, is a treasure trove of architecture and art. The sight of this fortress city immediately astounds the senses. For the pop culture aficionado, Valletta's scenery served as the backdrop for the streets of Flea Bottom in HBO's hit series Game of Thrones. Along the Grand Harbor travelers can capture spectacular views of the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea. As you walk along its limestone streets gazing at the colorful apartments, it is easy to get lost in wanderlust.
Day 2 - Monday - Sep 2, 2024
Siracusa, Italy |
Arrive: 8:00 am |
Depart: 11:00 pm |
Syracuse holds many wonders for the venturesome traveler seeking something far from the ordinary. From archaeological parks to World War II battlefield remnants to the Plemmirio Nature Reserve, the vast and diverse environment contains any level of challenge for the explorer at heart. It holds 2,700 years of history with influence from other cultures like Spanish, Greek, Norman, and Arabic, which have made a mark on the local cuisine. It is also a gateway to various small villages that are perfect for a leisurely stroll through local history. Among the most notable is Noto, the "Baroque Capital" of the world. This UNESCO-protected city holds all the charms of small-town living on the island.
Day 3 - Tuesday - Sep 3, 2024
Giardini Naxos, Italy |
Arrive: 8:00 am |
Depart: 8:00 pm |
The journey from Giardini Naxos on through Taormina holds a diverse landscape that includes white, sandy beaches calling out to you to come and play. Taormina holds a treasure trove, whether it's the Palazzo Corvaja or Duomo di San Nicola, of ancient atmospheres that entice you to venture deep. As you wander the grounds of the Ancient Greek Theater built directly into the mountains, standing amid such ruins transports you back to ancient live theater. The surrounding peaks of Mount Etna provide an exhilarating environment. Its various foothills and pathways make it the perfect site for hiking.
Day 4 - Wednesday - Sep 4, 2024
Lipari, Italy |
Arrive: 8:00 am |
Depart: 11:00 pm |
Off the coast of Sicily you find the volcanic Aeolian Islands, the largest of which is Lipari. But not to worry, as the island's last eruption took place over 1,000 years ago and the only signs of volcanic activity today are fumaroles and thermal springs. From a place in ancient Greek mythology to UNESCO World Heritage status, the Aeolian Islands and Lipari hold a rich and intriguing history. Seek the ultimate views with an invigorating hike through Monte Rosa. Archaeological excavations within the citadel tell a story dating as far back as the Neolithic era.
Day 5 - Thursday - Sep 5, 2024
Catch sight of the impressive Stromboli volcano off the northern coast of Sicily. As you sail around it, keep in mind the three small villages along its coasts - San Bartolo, San Vincenzo, and Ginostra. It's surprising to imagine there's a small population living under one of the most active volcanoes of Italy. Take in its awe-inspiring peak as you witness the land that features in the end of the famous book by Jules Verne, Journey to the Center of the Earth.
Day 6 - Friday - Sep 6, 2024
Amalfi, Italy |
Arrive: 8:00 am |
Depart: 5:00 pm |
The small town of Amalfi lies amidst the famous coast, renowned for its exquisite beauty. From the roses of Villa Rufolo to the Mediterranean scenes from a bird's-eye view, it's easy to see how this little village gained a reputation as a picture-perfect destination. Its vantage point upon the cliffs, facing the deep blue of the Salerno Gulf in the Tyrrhenian Sea, makes it the ideal backdrop for that brag-worthy shot to show your friends, new and old. Along the Amalfi Coast, life may give you lemons, but it is far from sour. The Path of Lemons, a relatively easy climb from Maiori to Minori, takes you through the famous groves. Delicious scents of citrus drift through the air as you pass through the groves cultivated by Amalfi families for generations. Here you can discover the source of Italy's famed limoncello before you take a shot of the liqueur at a local restaurant. As you wander through Amalfi's grand architecture and historical buildings, you will find your way to Ravello. Known as the City of Music, travelers from all around the world come to the small Italian town for the Ravello Festival, a series of musical events with strong ties to composer Richard Wagner. Ravello's winding streets and staircases are perfect for travelers who prefer the wanderlust route of getting lost in a city. It's a great way to stumble upon a local restaurant for authentic cuisine that cannot be found anywhere else. It is a truly immersive experience of life in small-town Italy.
Positano, Italy |
Arrive: 7:00 pm |
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Day 7 - Saturday - Sep 7, 2024
Positano, Italy |
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Depart: 4:00 pm |
The vertical town of Positano sits on a cliff along the renowned Amalfi Coast. Every adventurer agrees that a view of the horizon from atop the village is a sight to behold. The colors of the houses along the coast mixed with the majestic shades of a sunrise or sunset paint an unparalleled picture that must be seen in person to appreciate its full beauty. Amid the labyrinthine staircases and walkways you may find a local ceramics shop where their wares make the perfect memento to take home. While it may be a small town, Positano is anything but boring with a thriving nightlife in hot spots like Music On The Rocks, a night club on cliff's edge that takes its name literally.
Capri, Italy |
Arrive: 6:00 pm |
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Day 8 - Sunday - Sep 8, 2024
Capri, Italy |
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Depart: 4:00 pm |
The island of Capri is the gem of the Bay of Naples. In Capri, you can marvel at the whitewashed homes and villas, fragrant lemon trees, and flower-filled courtyards. From the water, be sure to visit the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto), which is only accessible by boat. Once inside the cave, you can marvel at the water's sapphire color, which is caused by the light refraction from the hidden opening in the rock. Also from the water, see the Arco Naturale on the east coast of the island. Dating from the Paleolithic age, the limestone arch is the remains of a collapsed grotto.
Day 9 - Monday - Sep 9, 2024
Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy |
Arrive: 6:00 am |
Depart: 6:00 pm |
Civitavecchia acts as the main terminal for all cruises heading into Rome or the less-crowded, nearby Tarquinia. From there a shuttle bus takes you to the Service Center of Largo della Pace where you can embark on adventures through the Eternal City. Rome maintains its position in the world as a powerful influence in religion, politics, and art, as it is well known as the site for intellectual and artistic achievements. From the iconic Roman Coliseum aboveground to the mysterious catacombs of the Capuchin Crypt below ground, the capital of Italy beckons the adventurous to discover its many secrets and stories. The city holds a certain cosmopolitan feel as well with countless rooftop bars that are a prime location for an evening sunset. For explorations further off the beaten path, Tarquinia offers historic treasures such as the Monterozzi Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an authentic, Italian small-town feel.
Day 10 - Tuesday - Sep 10, 2024
Portoferraio, Italy |
Arrive: 8:00 am |
Depart: 10:00 pm |
The largest city on the Italian island of Elba, Portoferraio stands on the edge of the harbor at the top of a hill. Once home to Napoleon, you can visit the two villas he dwelled in during his time spent in exile on Elba, Villa San Martino and Villa dei Mulini, the second of which was turned into a national museum. Located along the sea, the city has its share of remarkable beaches, whether you prefer sandy shores or a stony oceanfront. Hike the path to Castello del Volterraio, a charming castle perfect for explorers looking for more of a challenging adventure.
Day 11 - Wednesday - Sep 11, 2024
Livorno, Italy |
Arrive: 8:00 am |
Depart: 10:00 pm |
From the grandeur of the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the charming canals of La Venezia Nuova (New Venice), which date back to the Medici era, to the Italian city of Florence there is much to explore. The port city of Livorno's colorful building facades rise above the canal waters as a sight to behold. The long and storied history of Lucca call out to curious explorers seeking a mentally stimulating adventure. Cathedrals, art, culture, food, these iconic Italian cities have it all, and Livorno acts as the hub to make your way to each.
Day 12 - Thursday - Sep 12, 2024
Portovenere, Italy |
Arrive: 8:00 am |
Depart: 10:00 pm |
Referred to as Cinque Terre's "sixth town", Porto Venere overlooks the Gulf of La Spezia along the Ligurian coast, providing much of what its five counterparts do - seaside scenes, rustic cuisine, and stunning coastlines - with a fraction of the crowds. Seek out hidden gems like Byron's Grotto, a secluded cave named after the literary figure who frequented the area. Nearby lies the famous Cinque Terre, comprised of five small towns, hence its name. The region lies within the bounds of a national park and what's considered the Italian Riviera, giving it a magical aura.
Day 13 - Friday - Sep 13, 2024
Portofino, Italy |
Arrive: 8:00 am |
Depart: 11:59 pm |
The sea along the Italian Riviera is particularly peaceful, as it gently laps the shore. Snuggled in the Ligurian Coast is the village of Portofino, named after dolphins, Portus Delphini, that frolicked in these waters. The Piazza Martiri dell'Olivetta is the main square of Portofino at the town's center. Take a stroll along the row of beautiful multicolored buildings and a number of chic cafes and restaurants. Along the way, grab yourself an Italian gelato or sit down and enjoy a pesto dish before continuing your leisure walk toward the harbor. Not far from the coast, you will find beautiful hidden spots, such as San Fruttuoso and Santa Margherita.
Day 14 - Saturday - Sep 14, 2024
Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore.
Day 15 - Sunday - Sep 15, 2024
Monte Carlo, Monaco |
Arrive: 8:00 am |
Depart: 6:00 pm |
One of the smallest sovereign states in the world - second only to the Vatican City - the Principality of Monaco is sure to mesmerize you. The most recognized building in Monte Carlo is Place du Casino. Try your luck at this opulent and iconic gaming house, a favorite spot of James Bond movies and real-life celebrities. Another icon is the Prince's Palace, which you can enter for a glimpse at the Throne Room, with ceiling frescoes painted by Orazio de Ferrari depicting Alexander the Great. Every day at five minutes before noon, the white-uniformed guards perform the changing of the guard with the pomp and circumstance you would expect in Monaco.
Day 16 - Monday - Sep 16, 2024
Nice, France |
Arrive: 8:00 am |
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Nice rises from the pebbled coast to lush hills, yet the heart of the city is located between the old port city and the Aeroport de Cote d'Azur. To take it all in, enjoy a jaunt on the Promenade des Anglais along the Mediterranean Sea. The Old Port, located in Vieux Nice (Old Nice), is a colorful and busy place, with various markets. There discover an ensemble of narrow streets, colorful architecture, and picturesque piazzas. Stretch out on Nice's recognizable blue lounge chairs on one of its iconic beaches. Some of these private beaches, like the Blue Beach or the Castel Beach, are among the most glamorous beaches on the French Riviera.