Nov. 9: Venice Italy. One-night stay in a
luxury hotel in Venice includes breakfast, transfers
from airport to hotel and hotel to the ship.
Nov. 10 and 11: Embark Venice, Italy. This renowned “City of Canals” was built on an archipelago of more than 100 islands formed by about 150 canals. Ancient cobblestone streets lined with tiny ceramic and glass workshops and tempting cafes wind their way between fabulous palazzos and vast town squares along the banks of the canals. Art lovers should make sure not to miss the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, home to Tintoretto’s finest works; or, for more modern tastes, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, showcasing masterpieces of 20th-century art currents and the avant-garde movements.
Nov. 12: Split, Croatia. Split is the largest Croatian city on the Adriatic coast. Split achieved fame when the Roman emperor Diocletian, noted for his persecution of early Christians, had his retirement palace built here. The spectacular stone edifice and its grounds and cellars are a major highlight of any city tour.
Nov. 13: Dubrovnik, Croatia. Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik was founded in the 7th century by a group of refugees from Epidaurum (today’s Cavtat). It is known worldwide for its unique marble-paved squares, tall houses, steep cobbled streets and fountains. UNESCO named the Old City a World Heritage Site, and Dubrovnik’s beautiful historic sites have been restored to their former glory.
Nov. 14: Cruise the Adriatic Sea.
Nov. 15: Valletta, Malta. Malta’s major port and capital, the entire city of Valletta was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. The centerpiece is the impressive 19th century Mosta Dome, visible from anywhere on the island, with its inlaid marble floor and the gilded, carved stone flowers set around the interior dome. For a tranquil afternoon, stroll the San Anton Palace Gardens. Or, for spectacular vistas, take a day tour to Dingli Cliffs, which offer striking views of the sea and rugged coastline.
Nov. 16: Tunis, Tunisia (subject to change). Travel across millennia as you visit the ruins of ancient Carthage and Tunis’s opulent, historic medina with its winding alleys and souks. Visit the superb Bardo Museum with its spectacular Roman mosaics or the lovely whitewashed village of Sidi Bou Saïd perched on a cliff above the sea, a charming spot of cobbled streets, flower-filled courtyards and ornate window grills painted deep blue. Enjoy looking for interesting jewelry, caftans, inlaid boxes and ornate trinkets. Try some local spicy dishes, usually with lamb, and sweet desserts.
Nov. 17: Cruise the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Nov. 18: Florence/Pisa, Italy. Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance. From the 13th to 16th centuries, this era of creative freedom encouraged the genius of Dante, Donatello, Michelangelo, Giotto, Botticelli, daVinci, and Machiavelli to create some of the world’s most noted masterpieces. Elegant Florence offers the Galleria dell’Accademia, with its iconic masterpiece, Michelangelo’s David. The Uffizi is home to the most renowned art gallery in Italy, with representative works by the titan’s of Renaissance art. Join us for an excursion to Pisa, and tour the city’s beautiful and historic Campo dei Miracoli.
Nov. 19: Monte Carlo, Monaco. Tiny, but packed with fun, Monte Carlo offers a wonderful combination of history, beauty, entertainment and leisure. The wealthiest spot in Monaco, Monte Carlo is an enchanting place, known as the international capital of luxury and for its celebrity sightings, casinos and nightlife. Yet the old world shines through in its art and architecture. Palaces, cathedrals and museums dot this small municipality in an old town full of rich history. Be sure to catch the once-daily changing of the guard, then tour the public areas at the Palais du Prince, home to the royal family.
Nov. 20: Disembark Rome, Italy. Whether enjoying the street performers at the Spanish Steps and people-watching over a fine glass of wine in colorful Trastevere, or taking in the historical and architectural glory that is Rome, visitors have so many choices in this truly Eternal City. St. Peter’s Basilica is a full-day outing, featuring the Sistine Chapel and panoramic city vistas for those willing to climb to the top of the dome. Other landmarks not to miss include the renowned Trevi Fountain, the Coliseum, and Aventine Hill.