Jewels of Arabia

Jewels of Arabia

Tours Starts: Rome, Italy

Tours Ends: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Day 1

Depart to Italy

Overnight in flight

Day 2

Arrive in Rome, Italy

If you purchased airline tickets from YMT, a representative will welcome you at the airport and transport you to the hotel. This evening, enjoy an included 3-course welcome dinner. (D)

Hotel Roma Citta or similar

Day 3

Rome City Tour and Embarkation (5:00 PM)

After breakfast, enjoy a morning panoramic and walking tour of Italy’s legendary capital city and the seat of the Holy Roman Empire. There is history wherever you look in Rome, not to mention world-class shopping, outstanding food, and a vibrant culture. Then embark on the Norwegian Spirit for your cruise. (B)

Day 4

At Sea

Day 5

Piraeus (Athens), Greece (10:00 AM – 8:00 PM)

The cradle of civilization and the oldest city in Europe, Athens is home to the Acropolis and some of the most important architectural structures and archaeological finds in the Western world. This magnificent city is also distinctly modern and full of extraordinary art, culture, cuisine and shopping.

Day 6

Kusadasi, Turkey (9:00 AM – 6:00 PM)

Take a journey into the past in richly historic Ephesus, now known as Kusadasi. An important city to the Ancient Greeks, Ephesus was built, destroyed, and rebuilt again through the course of its tumultuous history. It still boasts bountiful ruins and archaeological excavation sites, and was home to the famed Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. During your day at leisure here, perhaps visit the Roman Library of Celsus, the Gate of Augustus, the Tomb of John the Apostle, or the Basilica of St. John.

Day 7

Rhodes, Greece (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

The remarkable walled city of this Greek island just off the coast of Turkey is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Discover the old fortified city on your own— perhaps visit the acropolis of Lindos, and see where the Colossus of Rhode once stood.

Day 8

Limassol, Cyprus (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

A strategic garrison for Richard the Lionhearted during the Third Crusade, Limassol is home to many archaeological sites, as well as plentiful contemporary boutiques

Days 9 - 11

Haifa, Israel (8:00 AM Day 9 – 11:00 AM Day 11)

Considered one of the most picturesque regions in the Middle East, Israel’s third largest city is built on the northern slopes of Mount Carmel. Its spectacular Bahá'í Gardens are the largest hanging gardens in the world, and many visitors are also drawn to the Cave of Elijah. The boutiques on Massada Street and the artists village of Ein Hod featuring hand-blown glass and other one-of-a-kind pieces of art are not to be missed. Haifa is also close to holy sites like Galilee, Nazareth, and Jerusalem that you might decide to visit during your 2-night stay.

Day 12

Suez Canal, Egypt

Days 13 & 14

Safaga, Egypt (7:00 AM – 7:00 PM next day)

Safaga’s black-sand beaches are the perfect place to relax under the desert sun. Guests who wish to experience the splendor of ancient Egypt can choose to visit nearby Luxor and see the Karnak Temple Complex and the 3,400-year-old Colossi of Memnon statues.

Day 15

Aqaba, Jordan (6:00 AM – 8:00 PM)

Jordan’s only coastal city and one of its most popular tourist destinations, Aqaba enjoys year-round sun! In the city you'll find the 13th- century Aqaba Fortess, the archaeological museum, the Ayla ruins, and plenty of delicious traditional food. Be sure to save some time to stop at magnificent Petra, the world-famous ancient city carved out of stone, nearby.

Days 16 - 20

At Sea

Day 21

Muscat, Oman (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

This port capital sits on the Gulf of Oman surrounded by mountains and desert. With an ancient history it mixes high-rises and upscale shopping malls with clifftop landmarks such as the twin 16th-century Portuguese forts, Al Jalali and Mirani that loom over Muscat Harbor. Exquisite local silver jewelry, exotic spices and handicrafts abound in the markets

Day 22

Khasab, Oman (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

Discover the Norway of Arabia. Its many beautiful fjord-like inlets and stark landscapes are singularly striking, and the clear, calm waters are home to famously curious dolphins. Perhaps visit Khasab Castle to learn about the history of the area and local traditions.

Day 23

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

Noted as the world’s richest city, Abu Dhabi boasts a wealth of culture, history and adventure. From the emirate’s old souks, the ancient bazaars perfect for sipping fragrant Arabic coffee, to the rush and roar of the brightly colored supercars driven by the city’s youngest billionaires, Abu Dhabi is a vibrant feast for the senses. Perhaps choose to visit the local merchants to get deals on handicrafts, artwork, even spices and dried fruit for the cook back home.

Day 24

Disembarkation and City Tour in Dubai (9:00 AM)

Disembark this morning in Dubai, and then enjoy a panoramic city tour of this fascinating blending of traditional Arab culture and modern western culture. Highlights include the Dubai museum, the Abra water taxi crossing, and the Burj Khalifa—which you will see from the Sky Level Observation deck on the 148th floor. At a height of 2,722 feet, the futuristic tower is the tallest building in the world. The evening is at leisure.

JW Marriott Marquis, Dubai or similar

Day 25

Depart for Home (B)

Please note that this is a proposed itinerary; the actual itinerary may vary due to season, special events, or weather. Because our tour arrangements are often made a year or more in advance, YMT Vacations reserves the right to alter the itinerary. Itinerary changes are made to improve your vacation experience, as well as respond to any unforeseen circumstances that mandate alterations. By their nature, all tours vacations involve a certain level of physical activity. While YMT tours have been designed with our guests in mind and are not physically demanding, this tour does include walking and periods of standing during the sightseeing visits. You will also encounter steps and some uneven ground along the way, particularly at older, historical sights.