Islands and Icons - Nice to Venice

Nice rises from the pebbled coast to lush hills, yet the heart of the city is located between the old port city and the Aeroport de Côte d’Azur. To take it all in, enjoy a jaunt on the Promenade des Anglais along the Mediterranean Sea. The Old Port, located in Vieux Nice (Old Nice), is a colorful and busy place, with various markets. There discover an ensemble of narrow streets, colorful architecture, and picturesque piazzas. Stretch out on Nice’s recognizable blue lounge chairs on one of its iconic beaches. Some of these private beaches, like the Blue Beach or the Castel Beach, are among the most glamorous beaches on the French Riviera.

The lagoon-like harbor of Porto Vecchio holds a charming ambience that invites you to stroll through its maze of alleys, shops, bars and restaurants. From the Bastion de France to Porte Genoese, the town’s original gate, the past remains a prevalent influence on the city’s personality. Venturing about a half-hour drive outside of town, discover the natural beauty of Ospedale, the first mountain village sitting 900 meters above sea level. Your exploration of Porto Vecchio is only complete with some time spent at the shores of Pinarello, Santa Giulia, Palombaggia and Cala Rossa for Mediterranean blue seas and sunny adventures.

Civitavecchia acts as the main terminal for all cruises heading into Rome or the less-crowded, nearby Tarquinia. From there a shuttle bus takes you to the Service Center of Largo della Pace where you can embark on adventures through the Eternal City. Rome maintains its position in the world as a powerful influence in religion, politics, and art, as it is well known as the site for intellectual and artistic achievements past. From the iconic Roman Coliseum aboveground to the mysterious catacombs of the Capuchin Crypt below ground, the capital of Italy beckons the adventurous to discover its many secrets and stories. The city holds a certain cosmopolitan feel as well with countless rooftop bars that are a prime location for an evening sunset. For explorations further off the beaten path, Tarquinia offers historic treasures such as the Monterozzi Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an authentic, Italian small-town feel.

The small town of Amalfi lies amid the famous coast, renowned for its exquisite beauty. From the roses of Villa Rufolo to the Mediterranean scenes from a bird’s-eye view, it’s easy to see how this little village gained a reputation as a picture-perfect destination. Along the Amalfi Coast, life may give you lemons, but it is far from sour as the Path of Lemons takes you through the famous groves from where Italy’s famed limoncello derives. As you wander through Amalfi’s grand architecture and historical constructs, you will find your way to Ravello. Ravello’s winding streets and staircases are perfect for travelers who prefer the wanderlust route of getting lost in a city.

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore.

Standing on a settlement dating back to the fourth century BCE and close to the archaeological site of Nikopolis, founded in 31 BCE, the Greek town of Igoumenitsa holds a rich history. Delve into that history at the Archaeological Museum of Igoumenitsa with a permanent exhibition displaying relics ranging from the Middle Paleolithic to Ottoman rule. Drepano and Makrigialos beaches are the more popular spots for a day in the sun, complete with sunbeds and concessions nearby, but for a more secluded adventure, find your way to Korfu Beach, a pebbled shore isolated from modern conveniences. Stop at a local, family-owned taverna for fresh seafood or the catch of the day. Nearby, you can visit the famous Meteora and its monastery atop a cliff.

Along the Adriatic coast of Montenegro lies the fortified town of Kotor, known for its medieval old town with winding streets and historic squares, as well as its many Romanesque churches and Maritime Museum. For unbelievable views of the Bay of Kotor, hike to the top of San Giovanni Fortress. Stroll through the many vendors, taking in the sounds, scents and colors as they call out their daily specials, produce and homemade goods. Swim the stunning azure waters of the bay with a boat tour to the Blue Cave.

The port town of Hvar shares its name with the Croatian island, renowned as a prime summer destination for yachting. Considered the crown jewel of Croatia’s Dalmatian islands, Hvar has cultivated a reputation as rich in history, culture, literature and natural monuments. Drink in the stunning landscapes as Hvar is covered in vast fields of ancient olive trees, lavender and vineyards. Within its bounds you will find the oldest town in the entirety of Croatia, Stari Grad, established by the ancient Greeks. For a picture-perfect seaside locale, head over to Dubovica Beach along the Adriatic Sea.

The iconic image of Venice shows a city with no roads, only canals, because it’s built on over 100 small islands in a lagoon amid the Adriatic Sea. In the heart of the city close to Piazza San Marco you will find the Bridge of Sighs, an architectural jewel amid so many historical wonders. Venetian cuisine is renowned throughout Italy for its high-quality seafood. Positioned within a lagoon, local chefs and restaurants have the advantage of fresh-caught fish directly from the source and bringing it straight to their tables.

Leaving the ship today.