Italian Shores & Greek Isles

26 Apr 27
Departure: 08:00 PM

Many passengers use Civitavecchia as a stepping stone to the ancient wonders of Rome, which are a mere hour or so away by train or road. But with its pretty piazzas, strollable seafront promenade, and bustling open-air markets, the historic fishing port is a destination unto itself. Highlights include the impressive 16th-century Forte Michelangelo, built to defend the harbor from pirate raids; the mineral-rich Ficoncella Thermal Baths, beloved by locals and visitors alike; and the beautiful Baroque architecture of Cattedrale di San Francesco and Santa Maria dell'Orazione. Don't leave without sampling the fresh, local seafood, preferably washed down with a glass of crisp Frascati.

27 Apr 27
08:00 AM - 06:00 PM

The largest jewel in the necklace of Pontine Islands, off the coast of Lazio in Italy, is a more authentic choice for vacationers from Rome and Naples – Pontius Pilate was among the first to spend his summers here. Easy on the eye with its brightly painted buildings clinging to the soaring cliffs, Ponza's steep cobbled lanes swell with visitors in the height of summer – it's a place to experience a vacation Italian-style. To some extent, this island is all about the sea that laps its shores – lounge around on the sands, swim in the blue waters and natural pools of the Med, rent a boat and discover coves that aren't accessible on foot or circumnavigate the neighboring islands, Palmarola and Zannone. But there is also history – real and rumoured – to unearth. This is said to be the lair of the sorceress Cerce; it was certainly a fiefdom of the Romans. The network of tunnels they dug at the Grotte di Pilato and their ancient cistern on Via Dragonara are among the remnants that still exist from those times.

28 Apr 27
07:00 AM - 06:00 PM

There's far more to this lively port city than its location as a gateway to the Amalfi Coast. The Centro Storico – one of the region's best-preserved medieval centers – is an atmospheric maze of cobbled streets and alleys, dotted with trattorias offering authentic Neapolitan cuisine to a mostly local clientele. The city's Duomo has breathtakingly ornate interiors, rich with intricate mosaics and vivid frescos, while up above the city, the 6th-century Castello di Arechi offers spectacular views across the rooftops to the Gulf beyond. Quite why Salerno remains under the radar is a mystery.

29 Apr 27
09:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Siracusa or Syracuse, Sicily, Italy has a plethora of winding alleys, gracious piazzas and glorious architecture represent a timeline of several millennia. Founded in 734 BC by the Greeks, the city was a major influencer in the spread of Judaism and Christianity and brims with world-class examples of Greek, Roman and Baroque architecture awash with Italian character. The entire city of Siracusa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

30 Apr 27 - At Sea

01 May 27
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Known as the `Flower of the Levant,` Zakynthos offers breathtaking natural beauty. Often referred to as Zante, the Greek island situated in the Ionian Sea, off the western coast of mainland Greece, and is part of the Ionian Islands group, which are world renown for their stunning natural beauty, with turquoise waters, scenic beaches, and a lush interior landscape. The island's famous beach Navagio, with its iconic shipwreck and turquoise waters, is a must-visit, as are the enchanting Blue Caves, where you can immerse yourself (quite literally) in the island's maritime beauty with snorkeling and diving adventures. Wander through Zakynthos Town's charming streets, stopping off at Solomos Square, named after Greece's national poet Dionysios Solomos, and the Byzantine Museum to explore the island's artistic and historical treasures. When you've worked up a sufficient hunger, find a table at a taverna to try savory Greek cuisine such as moussaka and souvlaki. Don't miss out on local specialties like `skordostoumbi,` a garlic-infused pasta dish, or `bourekia,` delectable pastries filled with cheese or meat, and `ladotyri,` a unique cheese matured in olive oil. Local wines such as Verdea and Avgoustiatis, perfect for wine enthusiasts.

02 May 27
08:00 AM - 06:00 PM

03 May 27
08:00 AM - 06:00 PM

04 May 27
Arrival: 07:00 AM

Experience the vibrant and historic port of Piraeus, Athens gateway to the Aegean islands and beyond, and find a rich maritime heritage, a bustling local culture, and access to the wonders of Athens. Venture through Greece's largest port city, Piraeus, as you make your way to the cradle of Western culture and the birthplace of democracy. Athens, among the world's oldest cities with a history spanning 3,400 years, has long been the location of myth and muse, and its ancient heritage is still an incredible source of inspiration. Here, the Acropolis crowns the city as home to the Parthenon and other legendary temples and monuments.