Norway To Italy Grand Voyage Cruise

Day 1 - Oslo

Arrive: Mon 12 August 2024 / Depart: Mon 12 August 2024 at 18:00

Norway's capital is an intriguing blend of historic and contemporary – its striking new Opera House playing counterpoint to the charming old Damstredet, a narrow, well-preserved street of brightly painted and carved wooden houses. Norwegians are justly proud of their maritime heritage, dating back to the 9th century, when Viking long ships with distinctive curved bows left colonies in their wake across northern Europe, and later sailed on to Greenland and America almost 500 years before Columbus. Some of these intriguing craft can be found amidst the parks of the Bygdøy Peninsula, along with other historic vessels, including Amundsen’s polar ship Fram, and Heyerdahl’s raft, Kon Tiki.

Day 2 - At Sea

Day 3 - Edinburgh, UK

Arrive: Wed 14 August 2024 at 10:15

If ever there were a town made for walking, it would be Scotland's capital. Renowned as one of Europe?s most attractive cities, Edinburgh's Old Town and New Town are a Marvelous mixture of elegant streets, charming squares and quaint alleyways. Of course, the city?s most distinctive landmark is Edinburgh Castle, set high up on a craggy cliff in the center of the city. A must-see.

Day 4 - Edinburgh, UK

Depart: Thu 15 August 2024 at 18:00

If ever there were a town made for walking, it would be Scotland's capital. Renowned as one of Europe?s most attractive cities, Edinburgh's Old Town and New Town are a Marvelous mixture of elegant streets, charming squares and quaint alleyways. Of course, the city?s most distinctive landmark is Edinburgh Castle, set high up on a craggy cliff in the center of the city. A must-see.

Day 5 - Aberdeen, UK

Arrive: Fri 16 August 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Fri 16 August 2024 at 22:00

Where the rivers Dee and Don meet the North Sea, you’ll find the harbor city of Aberdeen. Remote and northerly, Scotland’s third largest city is a surprising gem with distinctive architecture and a cosmopolitan feel. Encompassing a veritable wonderland of urban delights and pastoral pursuits, Aberdeen stands apart from other Scottish cities. You won’t hear Gaelic around these parts, as this bright sunny port more closely resembles a typical English city.

Day 6 - Inverness

Arrive: Sat 17 August 2024 at 07:30 / Depart: Sat 17 August 2024 at 22:00

This charming, historic seaport on the banks of the River Ness has many quiet pleasures to offer. Take a delightful walking tour along the river banks and explore the local galleries, cafes and famous Floral hall. You'll also want to visit Cawdor Castle, of Macbeth fame. Loch Ness is the largest body of fresh water in Britain over 22 miles long , a mile and half wide and 750 feet deep. It's is also the home of Nessie,the Loch Ness Monster. Need we say more.

Day 7 - Kirkwall

Arrive: Sun 18 August 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Sun 18 August 2024 at 20:00

The 70 islands of Orkney are low lying, a pleasing, gently rolling panorama of fertile fields, heather cloaked moors, and lakes. The red sandstone walls of the imposing St. Magnus Cathedral dominate Kirkwall, the main town, capital, and hub for roads linking east and west. In summer whales and dolphins sport in coastal waters, and tens of thousands of breeding seabirds congregate on sharp seaside cliffs. The early arrival of mankind on this scene can be investigated at Skara Brae, an amazingly well preserved Neolithic village that was inhabited and already abandoned more than 5,000 years ago.

Day 8 - Stornoway (Isle Lewis)

Arrive: Mon 19 August 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Mon 19 August 2024 at 20:00

Founded by the Vikings in the early 9th century, Stornoway is located on the scenic Isle of Lewis, the most northerly of Scotland’s Hebrides islands. Visiting Lewis is like taking a step back in time, where ancient stone circles stand on the same land as modern day Stornoway, Gaelic is spoken alongside English, and during the summer months, “local people can still be seen cutting the peats, and in the winter the distinctive dry smell of the peat fires drifts in the wind.” With its spectacular cliffs, moorlands and fresh-water lochs, the region is home to a diverse wildlife habitat of eagles, deer, otters and numerous species of indigenous birds, while Lewis’ several rivers have significant runs of salmon and sea trout, which make for great fishing. There are also beautiful remote beaches like Tolsta, Bostadh and Traigh Chuil, adventure boat trips for regular sightings of seals, porpoises and dolphins, and historical attractions such as the impressive Lews Castle, the Whale Bone Arch and Latta Mill’s Stornoway.

Day 9 - Oban, Scotland, UK

Arrive: Tue 20 August 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 20 August 2024 at 18:00

The "Gateway to the Isles," Oban is a busy working port with houses clinging to steep hillsides guarding a gentle bay. Climb McCaig's Tower, learn glass blowing from the masters at Caithness Glass, watch traditional kilt making at Geoffrey Ltd. and sample fine malt whiskey at Oban Distillery.

Day 10 - Douglas

Arrive: Wed 21 August 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Wed 21 August 2024 at 20:00

The tiny Isle of Man has quite a lot to offer for its size. Douglas’ lovely sea front is lined with picturesque hotels and restaurants, and can be traversed by horse-drawn trams as it has been since 1876. There’s a medieval fortress in Castletown; a ruined castle on the Isle of St. Patrick where tales of Vikings, monks, and a ghost dog abound; and the village of Cregneash, where people live in thatched cottages, speak the native Manx language, and practice traditional trades and crafts. Front gardens on residential streets are a standout – awash in color and scent.

Day 11 - Liverpool

Arrive: Thu 22 August 2024 at 07:30 / Depart: Thu 22 August 2024 at 19:00

A UNESCO World Heritage City, Liverpool combines a unique mix of contemporary and classic architecture, world-class events and attractions, and an unrivalled musical heritage. Its Premiership football, Rugby League club, championship golf and Aintree Racecourse make Liverpool a mecca for sports lovers, while the city’s many exclusive independent boutiques, high street stores and unique gift shops also make it one of the leading retail destinations in England. Meander along the famed waterfront, explore the compact city center by foot, or visit one of the many museums and galleries, including the Museum of Liverpool and the Walker Art Gallery. Of course no visit to Liverpool is complete without taking your own magical mystery tour and paying homage to the world’s most famous Liverpudlians, The Beatles, at such iconic sites as Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields.

Day 12 - Dublin

Arrive: Fri 23 August 2024 at 06:00

Dublin offers a wealth of historic sites dating back to a 1000-year-old Viking village, and as one might expect of the Irish, there is a tale to be told about every one. St. Patrick’s Cathedral is said to have been erected on the site where the saint himself converted pagans in 450 AD. From Dublin Castle the crown jewels were stolen in 1907; an unsolved mystery left to the fictional Sherlock Holmes to decipher. Some pubs, great sources of stories, are almost as old – you can sample a Guinness and the latest lore at The Brazen head, serving up drink and daydreams for 800 years. Then for a contrast, ride to a stunning view of contemporary Dublin atop a brand new observation wheel.

Day 13 - Dublin

Depart: Sat 24 August 2024 at 22:00

Dublin offers a wealth of historic sites dating back to a 1000-year-old Viking village, and as one might expect of the Irish, there is a tale to be told about every one. St. Patrick’s Cathedral is said to have been erected on the site where the saint himself converted pagans in 450 AD. From Dublin Castle the crown jewels were stolen in 1907; an unsolved mystery left to the fictional Sherlock Holmes to decipher. Some pubs, great sources of stories, are almost as old – you can sample a Guinness and the latest lore at The Brazen head, serving up drink and daydreams for 800 years. Then for a contrast, ride to a stunning view of contemporary Dublin atop a brand new observation wheel.

Day 14 - Belfast

Arrive: Sun 25 August 2024 at 08:00

Belfast in the early 20th century had the largest and most productive shipyard in the world, gaining global renown with the launch of the RMS Titanic. Located on the slipways where she was built is a stunning new museum, opened in time for the 100th anniversary of Titanic’s only voyage and tragic demise. Today the city and riverfront are undergoing a 21st century transformation, but many exuberant Victorian and Edwardian buildings still sport the carved heads of kings and queens. As you explore the city, keep an eye out for “the murals.” These somewhat troubling freelance works appearing on building walls provide insight into the period known simply as “The Troubles."

Day 15 - Belfast

Depart: Mon 26 August 2024 at 20:00

Belfast in the early 20th century had the largest and most productive shipyard in the world, gaining global renown with the launch of the RMS Titanic. Located on the slipways where she was built is a stunning new museum, opened in time for the 100th anniversary of Titanic’s only voyage and tragic demise. Today the city and riverfront are undergoing a 21st century transformation, but many exuberant Victorian and Edwardian buildings still sport the carved heads of kings and queens. As you explore the city, keep an eye out for “the murals.” These somewhat troubling freelance works appearing on building walls provide insight into the period known simply as “The Troubles."

Day 16 - Londonderry

Arrive: Tue 27 August 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 27 August 2024 at 20:00

Northern Ireland’s second largest city, Derry’s ancient walls hide a saga of strength and struggle. One of the oldest inhabited places in the whole of Ireland, this picturesque town has witnessed some of history’s most prominent events. After undergoing a renaissance in recent years, today Derry is an emerging cosmopolitan city where youth culture meets some of the country’s oldest and best preserved monuments. Complete with quaint restaurants, hearty pubs, and fantastic independent shops, Derry’s small size is perfect to explore on foot. Or, take a quick ride with one of the city’s many friendly taxi drivers to learn about some local haunts.

Day 17 - Killybegs

Arrive: Wed 28 August 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Wed 28 August 2024 at 18:00

With world-class golf, striking promontories jutting into the ocean, and an unmistakable, roguish spark, Donegal offers a glance at a forgotten Ireland. It’s a land far away from tourist hot spots, where the sun shines brilliantly over mountain passes, historic castles, and charming coastal pubs. Your journey to Donegal begins in Killybegs, a charming fishing village that is also Ireland’s largest fishing port. From here, make your way to the banks of the River Eske, where Donegal Town sits in the shadow of the Blue Stack Mountains (part of the famous Hills of Donegal). Travel back in time at Donegal Castle, explore the Gothic ruins of the Franciscan Abbey, and stroll through The Diamond—Donegal’s city center—where you can shop for authentic Donegal tweed garments and Aran knitwear, then enjoy a meal (and the best views of Donegal Bay) at Dom’s Pier One.

Day 18 - Galway

Arrive: Thu 29 August 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Thu 29 August 2024 at 20:00

With its brightly colored shops, excellent bars and restaurants, and traditional Irish music sessions, Galway may be one of Ireland’s most enchanting cities. It’s certainly one of the country’s liveliest, with an average of 122 festivals and events every year. That’s not to dismiss Galway’s storied history. Dating back to 1124, the city has survived everything from Norman invaders and Cromwellian conquests to the Irish Potato Famines of 1845-1852. This juxtaposition of historic and contemporary is on full display at the Eyre Square Centre, where the city’s medieval walls can be found on the inside of this popular shopping destination.

Day 19 - Foynes

Arrive: Fri 30 August 2024 at 07:00 / Depart: Fri 30 August 2024 at 20:00

Sail down the stunning River Shannon to the heart of the Emerald Isle. Home to a significant first in aviation history, Foynes is your gateway to discover the castles, cliffs, and cities of western Ireland. During WWII, the port of Foynes was alive with wartime activity and intrigue, as it was the first airport in Europe to welcome seaplanes making transatlantic flights. Visit the Flying Boat Museum to tour a replica of the “Yankee Clipper” and relive the golden age of aviation.

Day 20 - Bantry, County Cork

Arrive: Sat 31 August 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Sat 31 August 2024 at 18:00

Day 21 - Cobh

Arrive: Sun 01 September 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Sun 01 September 2024 at 22:00

Day 22 - At Sea

Day 23 - Southampton

Arrive: Tue 03 September 2024 at 06:00 / Depart: Tue 03 September 2024

Muse on voyages past as you sail in or out of Southampton, long a maritime center, its yards turning out warships for king and country from the Hundred Years War in the 14-15th centuries, to two world wars in the 20th. It was the departure point for the Mayflower in 1620. The charms of London are not far away, but pray tarry in the south to explore other wonders, including Bath, with its natural hot springs and stunning architecture and the mysterious megaliths of Stonehenge, or venture all the way west to Lands End, and the wild moorlands and pirate haunts of Cornwall.

Day 24 - At Sea

Day 25 - Bordeaux

Arrive: Thu 05 September 2024 at 10:30

Bordeaux’s fortunes have long been tied to viticulture, beginning with an expansion of the wine trade with England in the 14th century. As a result it is a handsome and cohesive city of uniform classical and neoclassical style, with monumental buildings and many fine mansions financed by the almighty grape. The nearby countryside is alive with wine chateaux sporting impressive appellations such as Pauillac, Sauternes, Margaux, and Saint-Emilion. A visit is an excellent opportunity to learn more about wine production and appreciation, which of course requires a considerable amount of tasting to accomplish.

Day 26 - Bordeaux

Depart: Fri 06 September 2024 at 19:45

Bordeaux’s fortunes have long been tied to viticulture, beginning with an expansion of the wine trade with England in the 14th century. As a result it is a handsome and cohesive city of uniform classical and neoclassical style, with monumental buildings and many fine mansions financed by the almighty grape. The nearby countryside is alive with wine chateaux sporting impressive appellations such as Pauillac, Sauternes, Margaux, and Saint-Emilion. A visit is an excellent opportunity to learn more about wine production and appreciation, which of course requires a considerable amount of tasting to accomplish.

Day 27 - Bilbao

Arrive: Sat 07 September 2024 at 13:00 / Depart: Sat 07 September 2024 at 23:00

If Bilbao wasn't always a household name, it was transformed with the opening of Frank Gehry's groundbreaking Guggenheim Museum in 1997. Located in the heart of the Basque Country, Bilbao became an instant media darling and tourist mecca. And that was just the beginning of an exciting phase of development in infrastructure and cultural activity, which combined with the Basque love of food, wine, and laughter, solidified the city's place in the annals of tourism.

Day 28 - Gijon

Arrive: Sun 08 September 2024 at 09:00 / Depart: Sun 08 September 2024 at 18:00

On the Bay of Biscay, in the self-governing community of Asturias, lies the northern city of Gijón. This region is known for its verdant hills; the greenest perhaps in all of Spain. The contrast against the bay is stunning; however, the main attraction is the fishing village of Cimadevilla, meaning 'top of the village.' Step back in time as you stroll its tiny streets with renovated buildings in every imaginable hue.

Day 29 - La Coruna, Spain

Arrive: Mon 09 September 2024 at 07:30 / Depart: Mon 09 September 2024 at 17:00

Located on Spain's northwest Atlantic coast, this ancient city is a pleasing blend of the old and new. It is the site of the oldest Roman lighthouse in the world and the early training ground of the young Picasso. In addition to its collection of Romanesque streets, squares and medieval churches, La Coruna's dazzling beaches and lively nightlife have made it a favorite vacation destination.

Day 30 - Leixoes, Portugal

Arrive: Tue 10 September 2024 at 09:00 / Depart: Tue 10 September 2024 at 17:00

At the mouth of the Rio Douro lies the city of Porto, known mostly for its port wine trade. With origins dating back to the 5th century, there is plenty to see in this town that was named European Capital of Culture in 2001. Stroll the Ribeira neighborhood along the river, explore the Cathedral area, or tour the port lodges of Vila Nova de Gaia across the river.

Day 31 - Lisbon

Arrive: Wed 11 September 2024 at 07:00 / Depart: Wed 11 September 2024 at 17:00

Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world. Its magnificent harbor made it a logical trading port as far back as the Phoenicians, as well as a departure point for 15th century voyages sponsored by Prince Henry the Navigator, patron of Portuguese explorers. The city is rich in architecture, from Romanesque and Gothic to Post Modern, and criss-crossed by monument-studded grand boulevards. Today it is seeking a place on the world stage by hosting, in addition to its own active cultural calendar, film festivals, art, fashion, and design shows, book fairs, marathons, and rock concerts.

Day 32 - Portimao

Arrive: Thu 12 September 2024 at 07:30 / Depart: Thu 12 September 2024 at 18:00

The breathtaking scenery of Portugal’s southernmost region has long made the Algarve region a magnet for those seeking winter sun. And Portimão is a perfect example: golden sandy beaches beneath dramatic cliffs, the aroma of fresh sardines on the grill and some of the best golf courses in Europe - what could be better? This, maybe: the fabulous Autodromo Algarve Racing School, better known as the Poritmao Circuit puts you behind the wheel of a professional F1 racecar on a F1 track, pretty hard to beat.

Day 33 - Cadiz

Arrive: Fri 13 September 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Fri 13 September 2024 at 22:00

The heart of Cadiz is its old town, cloistered within a bastion ringed by the sea. Here tiny cobblestone streets lead into beckoning café-filled squares, where you can sip while appreciating the Moorish architecture. Or visit Seville, where the locals are devoted to bullfighting, flamenco, and fiesta. Food too, it appears, as Seville is credited with the invention of tapas. Join in with the locals as they graze from bar to bar, making an entire meal out of the experience. The city also has a rich history evident in its old quarters and landmarks – an immense lavishly ornamented cathedral, and the Alcazar palace, exquisitely decorated in Moorish style.

Day 34 - Seville

Arrive: Sat 14 September 2024 at 13:00

The charming old quarter in Cadiz makes it easy to see why the small town is frequented by Spaniards on holiday. Its intriguing ancient streets, delightful plazas and flower-filled balconies make exploring a must. Along the way, restore your energy at any of the mouth-watering tapas bars offering some of the country's finest seafood and typical Andalucian cuisine.

Day 35 - Seville

The charming old quarter in Cadiz makes it easy to see why the small town is frequented by Spaniards on holiday. Its intriguing ancient streets, delightful plazas and flower-filled balconies make exploring a must. Along the way, restore your energy at any of the mouth-watering tapas bars offering some of the country's finest seafood and typical Andalucian cuisine.

Day 36 - Seville

Depart: Mon 16 September 2024 at 13:00

The charming old quarter in Cadiz makes it easy to see why the small town is frequented by Spaniards on holiday. Its intriguing ancient streets, delightful plazas and flower-filled balconies make exploring a must. Along the way, restore your energy at any of the mouth-watering tapas bars offering some of the country's finest seafood and typical Andalucian cuisine.

Day 37 - Gibraltar

Arrive: Tue 17 September 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 17 September 2024 at 22:00

The towering Rock of Gibraltar is a sight to behold. Overlooking the mouth of the Mediterranean Sea from a height of 1,400 ft, it is a natural fortress, in a strategic position to control all naval traffic between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic. Only three miles long and a mile wide, this peninsula attached to the Spanish mainland juts out into the Strait of Gibraltar, which separates continental Europe from North Africa, a distance of only 14 miles. One feature most unusual for Europe is the troupes of semi-wild and curiously tailless Barbary macaques that have taken up residence on The Rock’s upper reaches.

Day 38 - Malaga

Arrive: Wed 18 September 2024 at 06:30 / Depart: Wed 18 September 2024 at 18:00

Málaga is the lively capital of the Costa del Sol, famed for its beaches and mild climate, and gateway to Andalusia, with its Moorish architectural heritage. The city’s Alcazaba is a fine example, an 11th century citadel sitting in majestic splendor overlooking the African coast. It contains three magnificent palaces and graceful gardens with ornate fountains. In addition to their rich cultural heritage, Malagueños are also very proud of their most famous citizens – Picasso, for whom there is a museum commemorating his birth here, and actor Antonio Banderas, so far without a monument.

Day 39 - Cartagena, Spain

Arrive: Thu 19 September 2024 at 09:00 / Depart: Thu 19 September 2024 at 18:00

Strategically located along historic sailing routes, Cartagena has been colonized by a veritable who’s who of Mediterranean superpowers over the millennia, resulting in a rich and multi-layered cultural heritage, and a history both glorious and turbulent. From atop a hill, Concepción Castle served as a fortress for Carthaginians, Romans, Visigoths, Arabs, and Castilians. The 13th century Old Cathedral stands on the remains of a Roman Theater just discovered in 1987. More recent architectural contributions include modernist designs of public buildings and private dwellings by pupils of the famous architect Antoni Gaudi.

Day 40 - Valencia

Arrive: Fri 20 September 2024 at 07:30 / Depart: Fri 20 September 2024 at 18:00

One of the country's biggest and bustling cities was defended against the Moors by the legendary Spaniard "El Cid." Work up an appetite taking in la Calle de Los Caballeros and La Lonja, Valencia's old stock-exchange building of 1483, and reward your curiosities with a Paella Valenciana, Spain's most famous contribution to the world's tables.

Day 41 - Barcelona

Arrive: Sat 21 September 2024 at 07:00 / Depart: Sat 21 September 2024

Dynamic Barcelona is all about architecture, from the magnificent medieval buildings of the Gothic Quarter to the Modernist movement typified by the work of Antoni Gaudi. Though his materials were stone and metal, his forms were organic, awash in curves, swirls, and colors. His masterpiece is the amazing Church of the Sagrada Familia, colossal and as yet unfinished, though construction began in 1882. A contemporary contribution to the scene is Ricardo Bofill's post modernist National Theater of Catalonia, an imaginative combination of classical and modern design, with a greenhouse-like lobby.

Day 42 - Port Vendres

Arrive: Sun 22 September 2024 at 07:30 / Depart: Sun 22 September 2024 at 18:00

When you travel to Port-Vendres, be prepared for your imagination to kick into over-drive. Charming red roofs and stone buildings will invite romantic notions about how life once was in this important commercial port. As the key to many ancient routes, Port-Vendres has been welcoming travellers for hundreds of years. The tradition goes back to when the Romans named it Portus Veneris after Venus, the goddess of love, and her temple offered good fortune to mariners.

Day 43 - Sete, France

Arrive: Mon 23 September 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Mon 23 September 2024 at 18:00

France's largest and most important fishing port on the Mediterranean, Sete also attracts pleasure craft, and some of the country's America's Cup entrants. The low town is criss-crossed by scenic canals and bridges, and you can observe the activity of the fishing fleet as it ties up in the center of town. Clams, mussels, and oysters are farmed, and it is hardly possible to find fresher fruits of the sea, a treat much enjoyed by visitors. Excursions can be made from Sete to Carcassonne, a perfectly preserved medieval city. With a double row of ramparts and 52 towers, it is everything you expect from a fairy tale castle.

Day 44 - Marseille

Arrive: Tue 24 September 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 24 September 2024 at 22:00

Marseille, a port city in southern France, has been a crossroads of immigration and trade since its founding by the Greeks circa 600 B.C. At its heart is the Vieux-Port (Old Port), where fishmongers sell their catch along the boat-lined quay. Basilique Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde is a Romanesque-Byzantine church. Modern landmarks include Le Corbusier’s influential Cité Radieuse complex and Zaha Hadid’s CMA CGM Tower.

Day 45 - St. Tropez, France

Arrive: Wed 25 September 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Wed 25 September 2024 at 22:00

Saint-Tropez conjures up images of sun-drenched beaches, tanned bodies, and jet setters enjoying martinis on the decks of luxury yachts. Indeed it is a glamorous playground for the wealthy, but anyone can spend an afternoon at a sidewalk café, watching the spectacle unfold. The south of France played a role in the history of modern painting, its clear light inspiring artists, so that even today many live and work here. For mesmerizing views, head up to the 16th century Citadel. Or stroll the old town, overflowing with restaurants, trendy boutiques, and galleries.

Day 46 - Ajaccio

Arrive: Thu 26 September 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Thu 26 September 2024 at 18:00

Nestled on the southwest side of the French island of Corsica, the seaside capital of Ajaccio is best known as the birthplace of famed French emperor Napolean Bonaparte. Yet there's a lot more to this charming Mediterranean city than its Napoleonic heritage. Stroll along cobblestone streets and colorful alleys to explore countless cafes and shops. Take in the Palais Fesch: From Botticelli to Bellini, it houses France's largest collection of Italian paintings outside the Louvre. Venture at sunset to the Iles Sanguinaires (Blood Islands), named so to describe the color of the islands when the sun hits the rocks, or sample local delicacies such as figatellu and other charcuterie and cheeses among scenic mountains and beautiful beaches.

Day 47 - Cannes

Arrive: Fri 27 September 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Fri 27 September 2024 at 16:00

It is hard to believe that this glamorous haunt of the glitterati was once a sleepy fishing village, but traces of its past do remain. The old harbor of St Pierre still shelters a flotilla of fishing boats alongside the luxurious super yachts, and Le Suquet, the heart of the old town, is still is a cobbled maze of picturesque lanes. It’s a bit of a climb, but earns you the opportunity to engage in one of the most important and longstanding pastimes of the Riviera – people watching from a sidewalk café. If uphill is not your direction of choice, head the other way, for a stroll along Le Croisette, the seaside promenade so fashionable that it is now sometimes referred to as the “catwalk by the sea.”

Day 47 - Nice (Villefranche)

Arrive: Fri 27 September 2024

Nice, Queen of the Riviera, is imbued with the joie de vivre that epitomizes this fabled coastline. Perhaps it is that famous light and color that has long attracted artists, that makes one feel so alive, makes a stroll down the wide seaside Promenade des Anglais so exhilarating. The old town is a warren of meandering lanes edged by tall houses, and small, alluring shops. A treasure trove of archaeological and fine art museums is not to be ignored, nor is the famous flower market, awash in the heady scent and glowing hues of blossoms, and amazing displays of produce.

Day 48 - Nice (Villefranche)

Depart: Sat 28 September 2024 at 18:00

Nice, Queen of the Riviera, is imbued with the joie de vivre that epitomizes this fabled coastline. Perhaps it is that famous light and color that has long attracted artists, that makes one feel so alive, makes a stroll down the wide seaside Promenade des Anglais so exhilarating. The old town is a warren of meandering lanes edged by tall houses, and small, alluring shops. A treasure trove of archaeological and fine art museums is not to be ignored, nor is the famous flower market, awash in the heady scent and glowing hues of blossoms, and amazing displays of produce.

Day 49 - Santa Margherita

Arrive: Sun 29 September 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Sun 29 September 2024 at 18:00

Santa Margherita is much more than your mother-in-law’s preferred brand of Pinot Grigio. This charming resort community is the perfect place to indulge in some well-deserved relaxation. Nevertheless, you’ll still want to bring your walking shoes, since there’s a gorgeous walking district where you can see glamorous old hotels and dramatic forts overlooking the sea. Don’t miss Castello di Santa Margherita, a castle built in 1550 by the Republic of Genoa as a defense against pirate attacks. The main city square, Piazza Mazzini, is lined with colorful palaces just begging to be Instagrammed.

Day 50 - Florence/Pisa

Arrive: Mon 30 September 2024 at 07:30

Ah, Florence—sublime birthplace of the Renaissance, its historic center full to bursting with elegant squares, imposing palaces, magnificent churches, and museums with such an abundance of riches it could make an art lover weep for joy. The list of illustrious names connected with this city is mind-boggling: Botticelli, Dante, Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Galileo. Other colorful and fascinating characters were of dubious reputation: Machiavelli, and the religious extremist Savonarola, with his bonfire of the vanities. For many years the city was ruled by the powerful Medici family, patrons of the arts and bankers to the papacy, whose line included six kings and two popes.

Day 51 - Florence/Pisa

Depart: Tue 01 October 2024 at 18:00

Ah, Florence—sublime birthplace of the Renaissance, its historic center full to bursting with elegant squares, imposing palaces, magnificent churches, and museums with such an abundance of riches it could make an art lover weep for joy. The list of illustrious names connected with this city is mind-boggling: Botticelli, Dante, Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Galileo. Other colorful and fascinating characters were of dubious reputation: Machiavelli, and the religious extremist Savonarola, with his bonfire of the vanities. For many years the city was ruled by the powerful Medici family, patrons of the arts and bankers to the papacy, whose line included six kings and two popes.

Day 52 - Portoferraio (Elba Isl.)

Arrive: Wed 02 October 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Wed 02 October 2024 at 20:00

Portoferraio is a town and comune in the province of Livorno, on the edge of the eponymous harbour of the island of Elba. It is the island's largest city. Because of its terrain, many of its buildings are situated on the slopes of a tiny hill bordered on three sides by the sea.

Day 53 - Rome

Arrive: Thu 03 October 2024 at 07:30 / Depart: Thu 03 October 2024 at 19:00

Your gateway to the Eternal City, Civitavecchia has served as Rome's seaport since the 13th century. The port has a long and venerable history. The emperor Trajan built a pleasure villa near the modern city, while Bernini and Michelangelo designed the harbor fortifications. Yet the Eternal City eternally beckons. The ancient capital of the Western World and the center of Christianity for nearly 2,000 years, Rome provides an inexhaustible feast. Visit the ruins of the Forum, view the splendors of the Sistine Chapel, or climb the Spanish Steps, once the heart of Rome's Bohemian Quarter. Rome has been a magnet luring the world's greatest artists, architects, and philosophers since the days of the Caesars.

Day 54 - Sorrento

Arrive: Fri 04 October 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Fri 04 October 2024 at 22:00

A warming sun and gentle sea breezes have been attracting visitors to this fair spot for two millennia. Its reputation as a playground of the ancient rich and famous resulted in the building of lavish villas and palaces, an emperor relocated to the Isle of Capri nearby, and over the centuries it has been a haven for artists and artisans, writers and poets, politicians and philosophers, and all manner of aristocrats. You will be a welcome addition. The massive eruption of nearby Vesuvius in 79 AD caused considerable damage, but the resulting volcanic ash is responsible for Sorrento’s modern day fertility, thriving olive orchards, and excellent wine.

Day 55 - Amalfi, Italy

Arrive: Sat 05 October 2024 at 07:30 / Depart: Sat 05 October 2024 at 17:00

Renowned for its sheer cliffs and striking beauty, the town of Amalfi on the Gulf of Salerno is known for its photographic splendor and its close proximity to Sorrento, Positano and Isle of Capri. This enviable area of Italy also produces the most beautiful handmade paper. For a most interesting afternoon, take a tour the Museo della Carta, the paper museum, and take home the most beautiful souvenirs. Amalfi is also the burial place of Saint Andrew; the town's cathedral is named in his honor.

Day 56 - Catania, Sicily

Arrive: Sun 06 October 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Sun 06 October 2024 at 17:00

Between the Mediterranean Sea and Mount Etna lies the beautiful city of Catania, where it’s “if it ain’t Baroque don’t fix it” architecture has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. Along with flamboyantly designed buildings, Catania is home to many ancient sites, like the Odeon and Amphitheatre—unearthed from under Mount Etna’s lava that covered the city at least seven times. These ruins can be viewed in the archaeological park, in the compact (AKA great for walking) city center.

Day 57 - Taranto

Arrive: Mon 07 October 2024 at 09:00 / Depart: Mon 07 October 2024 at 18:00

Taranto is a coastal city in southern Italy. It lies between the Mar Grande (Big Sea) and Mar Piccolo (Little Sea) bodies of water. Bridges link the mainland to the old town, on a small island. This is home to the 15th-century Aragonese Castle, the Spartan Museum of Taranto, and San Cataldo Basilica, with a baroque facade. The MArTA Archaeological Museum has a collection of artifacts from prehistory to the Middle Ages.

Day 58 - Kotor

Arrive: Tue 08 October 2024 at 13:00 / Depart: Tue 08 October 2024 at 22:00

Kotor’s beautiful bay has long attracted passing ships that stopped to trade, plunder, or conquer, and merchants, pirates, and soldiers of numerous empires have walked this maze of cobblestone streets before you. One of Europe’s best-preserved cities of medieval or Renaissance vintage, its walls were constructed right into the steep slopes of the mountain behind it, providing protection and making it an amazing sight on approach from the sea. Venetian ramparts enclose a rich history, with churches of varying styles, and a Romanesque cathedral built on the foundations of an earlier church, and a still earlier Roman temple.

Day 59 - At Sea

Day 60 - Venice, Italy

Arrive: Thu 10 October 2024 at 07:00 / Depart: Thu 10 October 2024

One of the world's most beautiful cities also happens to be one of its most unusual. Venice is actually made up of over 120 islands in the Adriatic Sea. Because the city is connected by canals instead of streets, a good way to see Venice is on a romantic gondola ride. The epicenter of the city is St. Mark's Square, where you'll find the 900-year-old Basilica of St. Mark