Mediterranean: Italy, Greece & Croatia

Endless adventures await in Rome. With two and a half thousand years of history, art and culture, it is no wonder Rome is one of the most visited cities on the planet. Gaze at the masterpieces of the Vatican or walk into the past with visits to ancient relics, historic monuments and legendary museums. Or people-watch whilst sipping on an espresso in a quaint cafe.

The history of Salerno is as rich and vibrant as its surrounding landscapes. The site of ancient settlements (Neolithic mummy remains discovered here), Salerno has been home to vast empires and was the site of Medieval Europe’s first medical school.

The ancient port city of Catania is situated in the shadow of the famous active volcano, Mount Etna, which dominates the landscape and is intertwined with the town’s history. Steeped in a storied past, Catania’s squares, cathedrals and other historic sites are a must-visit on a guided tour, as are its open-air markets and friendly cafes that offer a taste of modern life in the region. You can also journey outside Catania to explore the surrounding lava fields and unique rock formations or hike, bike or go off-roading on one of the trails crisscrossing the volcano for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

One of the lushest of the Greek Isles, Corfu is rimmed in dramatic blue waters and topped with tranquil hillside villages. A collection of quaint cafes in the town of Corfu feels very continental, but the island’s secluded coves and sandy beaches could only be found in the Greek Isles.

Tucked away between the mountains and the Bay of Kotor, one of the most indented parts of the Adriatic Sea, is where you’ll find the picturesque town of Kotor. As you arrive at this secluded city, you’ll notice the dramatic 65-foot high protective walls, which date back to the Venetian period during the 9th century. Stroll the labyrinth of cobbled streets with cozy cafes and craft shops as you marvel the graceful old buildings. Listed as a UNESCO World Natural and Historical Heritage Site, Kotor is also world-famous as a premier yachting and sailing destination.

This Mediterranean city on the eastern shores of the Adriatic has a long and eventful history dating back to the awesome Diocletian’s Palace (circa 295 A.D.) in the centre of the city. Split offers cruise guests a wealth of exciting places to visit, from the majestic cathedral and marble streets in the centre of town to the harbour area with its café-lined promenades and views of coastal mountains.

The largest town on the Slovenian coast, Koper boasts a colourful history dating back to Ancient Greece and Rome that springs to life in the Old Town. Here cruise guests can explore narrow intertwining streets lined with Istrian limestone facades. Enjoy open air festivals and plays, shop for local handicrafts, and savour the local favourites like jota soup, fish specialities and local wines

Along the northeast coast of Italy is where you’ll discover the historic town of Ravenna. Once a thriving seaport in ancient times (it now lies five miles inland), Ravenna was also the westernmost pillar of the Byzantine Empire. Just as everyone who visits, you too will marvel at the exquisite Byzantine mosaics. At first glance the old streets, peaceful squares and fine shops resemble any other Italian city, but the Byzantine domes of its churches still evoke its Eastern heritage. As an added bonus, Ravenna is a great place to taste the famously delicious food of the Emilia-Romagna region.