Italy & Northern Mediterranean Coast

Your journey begins on your overnight flight.

Arrive in historic Rome. This evening, meet your fellow travelers and learn about the exciting days ahead, then relax over a tasty Italian dinner. (D)

Join us on a full-day sightseeing tour as you uncover the highlights of Eternal City. You’ll see outside views of the Roman Forum, once a marketplace and center of daily Roman life, the Piazza Navona, and the renowned Spanish Steps, as well as the fabled Trevi Fountain. (B)

This morning is yours to enjoy however you please. After lunch on your own, you will be transferred to Civitavecchia for embarkation. (B, D)

The Tuscan city of Florence is considered the cradle of the Renaissance, renowned for its culture, art, and historical monuments. Take a walking tour to uncover some of the city’s many treasures including Santa Croce, Piazza del Duomo and Michelangelo’s David. (B, L, D)

Explore Naples, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, whose sprawling historic city center is UNESCO-listed for its wealth of outstanding monuments such as the Castel Nuovo. And don’t forget to have a slice or two of Neapolitan pizza! (B, L, D)

Spend the day in Messina, one of the most popular cities on the breathtaking island of Sicily. Explore famous sites like the Piazza del Duomo, the city’s historic center, and the Messina Cathedral. The cathedral’s bell tower holds the world’s largest astronomical clock. When the clock strikes noon, you can enjoy an elaborate automaton where brass lions, roosters, and local heroes mounted on moving mechanisms tell a gripping story that’s entertained visitors for nearly a century. (B, L, D)

The active volcano of Mt Etna looms over the ancient port city of Catania. Uncover the town’s layered past on a guided tour of its squares, cathedrals and historic sites. Pause to experience its atmospheric open-air markets and savor a meal at one of its many cafes. (B, L, D)

This lush Greek isle in the Ionian Sea is straight out of a picture postcard. Think dramatic blue waters, rocky crags jutting into the sea, and quaint hillside villages. Discover secluded coves and sunny beaches, and savor delightful Greek food at the many cafes overlooking the sea. (B, L, D)

The picturesque town of Kotor is nestled amid rugged mountains and the Adriatic Sea. Surrounded by 65-foot high walls, the city has a history that dates back to the ninth century. Stroll the labyrinth of cobbled streets with cozy cafes and craft shops of this UNESCO-listed destination. (B, L, D)

Dubbed “the pearl of the Adriatic” by the poet, Lord Byron, this Croatian city exudes romantic charm. From the gleaming stone buildings of the ninth century Old Town to the historic Rector’s Palace and the Franciscan Monastery which houses a church, monastery and a pharmacy museum, among others, there’s lots to discover here. (B, L, D)

Split is perched on the Adriatic Coast has a rich past, and the Diocletian’s Palace is the best place to learn more about the town’s history. Enclosed within four ornate gates, this colossal Roman complex is more than just an erstwhile palace: it’s also where the past and present meet in this seaside town. Stroll along the meandering alleys lined with cafes, shops and bars and soak up its infectious energy. (B, L, D)

This port city in Slovenia boasts a colourful history, and a walk around the Old Town is the best way to get insights into Koper’s past. See Venetian-inspired monuments, shop for handicrafts, and enjoy fine wine and local cuisine. (B, L, D)

Disembark in Trieste and transfer to Venice. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Venice, now a World Heritage Site, built on an archipelago of 117 islands in a lagoon. Formed by 177 canals and connected by 409 bridges, Venice is truly unique. Note that there are no motorcars or trucks in the city. Transfer by boat to St. Mark’s Square where you’ll begin your walking tour to see the lavish Doge’s Palace, (entrance not included) and the fabled Bridge of Sighs as well as the Rialto Bridge, Venice’s oldest, spanning the Grand Canal.

This afternoon you are free to wander through the labyrinth of canals and alleyways, lined with boutiques and souvenir shops, or perhaps relax and “people watch” over an espresso or tasty Italian gelato. By the end of the day you’ll be truly inspired by the history and romance of this wonderful city. (B)

The largest lake in Italy, Lake Garda is known for its sparkling waters. Framed by the Dolomites, this scenic lake in northern Italy is flanked by quaint fishing villages connected by walking trails. (B, D)

Today we head through the lush northern Italian landscape to Verona. A city best known as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, it also offers wonderful examples of Medieval and Renaissance art and architecture. Our walking tour includes the Duomo (cathedral), Piazza delle Erbe with the famous Torre dei Lamberti (high tower), and of course the house of Juliet, with its famous balcony. Continue west to Milan, capital of the region of Lombardy. Your panoramic sightseeing tour highlights will include Piazza del Duomo, the main central square surrounded by several important buildings such as Milan’s Gothic cathedral and the Royal Palace of Milan. You’ll also have a chance to see La Scala Opera House, and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an impressive and ornate indoor shopping arcade built in 1865. (B)

Spend the day relaxing in Milan and taking in the sights of this fashionable city. (B, D)