12-Day Adriatic Dream
Starting from
$2,299*
Venice, Italy to Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
Ship: ms Zuiderdam
Departure Date :
Itinerary
Day Venice, ItalyDeparts 05:00 PM
"When I went to Venice, my dream became my address," wrote Lord Byron, just one of many famous figures who found a haven in this fantasy city. This enchanted land was built on stilts, set into the water by ancient Venetians seeking refuge from the harsh realities of landlocked life. And Venice, Italy still offers a palpable feeling of escape from the real world today. When you cruise into the lagoon and step onto what passes for solid ground, you'll still be very much on the water. Venice is a floating labyrinth of reflections, with mirror and glass sights everywhere, from glorious Venetian architecture echoed in the canal waters to the marble palaces that shimmer in the sky. And although Carnivale is only held once a year, being in Venice on any day is like going to a festival with plenty of vibrant things to do and attractions to see. Locals seem to love the many sightseeing visitors who arrive each year, and Venice will openly reveal her charms even to those who are only here for a few hours, an afternoon or a magical evening.
"When I went to Venice, my dream became my address," wrote Lord Byron, just one of many famous figures who found a haven in this fantasy city. This enchanted land was built on stilts, set into the water by ancient Venetians seeking refuge from the harsh realities of landlocked life. And Venice, Italy still offers a palpable feeling of escape from the real world today. When you cruise into the lagoon and step onto what passes for solid ground, you'll still be very much on the water. Venice is a floating labyrinth of reflections, with mirror and glass sights everywhere, from glorious Venetian architecture echoed in the canal waters to the marble palaces that shimmer in the sky. And although Carnivale is only held once a year, being in Venice on any day is like going to a festival with plenty of vibrant things to do and attractions to see. Locals seem to love the many sightseeing visitors who arrive each year, and Venice will openly reveal her charms even to those who are only here for a few hours, an afternoon or a magical evening.
Day Split, CroatiaArrives 10:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
"Croatias second-biggest city oozes small-town charm, thanks to its quaint, narrow streets and the easygoing lifestyle that the Dalmatians are known for. With a busy ferry port, Split is the point of access to the many islands up and down the coast. Much of its old town is within the walls of Diocletian's Palace, a 1,700-year-old UNESCO-listed fortress on the Adriatic seafront. Roman Emperor Diocletian built the palace as his retirement home on the sea and through the centuries many conquerors have taken refuge within its thick walls."
"Croatias second-biggest city oozes small-town charm, thanks to its quaint, narrow streets and the easygoing lifestyle that the Dalmatians are known for. With a busy ferry port, Split is the point of access to the many islands up and down the coast. Much of its old town is within the walls of Diocletian's Palace, a 1,700-year-old UNESCO-listed fortress on the Adriatic seafront. Roman Emperor Diocletian built the palace as his retirement home on the sea and through the centuries many conquerors have taken refuge within its thick walls."
Day At Sea
Day Argostoli, Cephalonia, GreeceArrives 08:00 AM Departs 05:00 PM
"Cephalonia is the largest island in the Ionian Sea, famous for its gorgeous beaches, crumbling castles, secluded monasteries and warm Greek hospitality. Throughout the course of history, Cephalonia has exchanged hands many timesfrom the Normans to the Venetians to the Ottoman Turks, and it has survived occupations by German and Italian soldiers during WWII. These influences from other European countries have shaped the island's culture, and are especially evident in the spelling variations of place names. Several museums and memorials around town pay tribute to both Cephalonias classical and recent history, and are worth a visit. Argostóli is Cephalonias port town, on the bay of Livadi. It was rebuilt after a devastating 1953 earthquake. The architecture, although new, remains traditionally Greek. Lithostroto is the main draga pedestrian-only street lined with specialty shops and tourist kiosks offering souvenirs and the island's famous cheese pastries. During the warm months, musicians come to play traditional music by guitar and mandolin in Vallianos Square (Plateia Valianou) while down beside the waterfront promenade, local fishermen haul in their daily catch. "
"Cephalonia is the largest island in the Ionian Sea, famous for its gorgeous beaches, crumbling castles, secluded monasteries and warm Greek hospitality. Throughout the course of history, Cephalonia has exchanged hands many timesfrom the Normans to the Venetians to the Ottoman Turks, and it has survived occupations by German and Italian soldiers during WWII. These influences from other European countries have shaped the island's culture, and are especially evident in the spelling variations of place names. Several museums and memorials around town pay tribute to both Cephalonias classical and recent history, and are worth a visit. Argostóli is Cephalonias port town, on the bay of Livadi. It was rebuilt after a devastating 1953 earthquake. The architecture, although new, remains traditionally Greek. Lithostroto is the main draga pedestrian-only street lined with specialty shops and tourist kiosks offering souvenirs and the island's famous cheese pastries. During the warm months, musicians come to play traditional music by guitar and mandolin in Vallianos Square (Plateia Valianou) while down beside the waterfront promenade, local fishermen haul in their daily catch. "
Day Souda (Chania), GreeceArrives 10:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
Souda Bay (or Suda Bay) is located in western Crete, 6 km east from the city of Chania and south of the Akrotiri peninsula. The north coast within the Bay is prohibited to be approached by ships and boats, because is a military territory of the Greek and NATO naval bases. At the southwestern part of the bay is located the port, which is the main passenger and commercial port of the prefecture of Chania and of the western Crete, since the early of 20th century when the old harbor of Chania stopped to be used as a port.
Souda Bay (or Suda Bay) is located in western Crete, 6 km east from the city of Chania and south of the Akrotiri peninsula. The north coast within the Bay is prohibited to be approached by ships and boats, because is a military territory of the Greek and NATO naval bases. At the southwestern part of the bay is located the port, which is the main passenger and commercial port of the prefecture of Chania and of the western Crete, since the early of 20th century when the old harbor of Chania stopped to be used as a port.
Day Rhodes, GreeceArrives 08:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
"Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese (the name translates as ""twelve islands""), draws more visitors than most other Greek islands. Its capital, Rhodes Town, offers an enduring blend of history and architecture, and the island's interior is filled with lushly forested hills. To the south, Lindos, one of the most stunning villages in all of Greece, is watched over by a picture-perfect ancient ruin on the hill above. The island owes its rich history to a good climate and a strategically valuable position between Asia and Europe. Adding to this is a fine natural port where its former main attraction, an immense statue of the sun god Heliosthe Colossus of Rhodesonce stood. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the statue made Rhodes a must-visit destination for ancient world travelers until it collapsed in an earthquake in 226 B.C.E. Even the statues ruins were grand enough to bring curious travelers to Rhodes for another 800 years until the metal pieces were melted and sold off by an occupying army."
"Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese (the name translates as ""twelve islands""), draws more visitors than most other Greek islands. Its capital, Rhodes Town, offers an enduring blend of history and architecture, and the island's interior is filled with lushly forested hills. To the south, Lindos, one of the most stunning villages in all of Greece, is watched over by a picture-perfect ancient ruin on the hill above. The island owes its rich history to a good climate and a strategically valuable position between Asia and Europe. Adding to this is a fine natural port where its former main attraction, an immense statue of the sun god Heliosthe Colossus of Rhodesonce stood. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the statue made Rhodes a must-visit destination for ancient world travelers until it collapsed in an earthquake in 226 B.C.E. Even the statues ruins were grand enough to bring curious travelers to Rhodes for another 800 years until the metal pieces were melted and sold off by an occupying army."
Day Kusadasi (Ephesus), TurkeyArrives 07:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
"Kusadasi in Turkey is the gateway to one of the most legendary cities of the ancient world: Ephesus. St. Paul preached in its Great Theater, while the facade of the Celsus Library survives as a testament to the citys role as a center of learning and culture. Not far from Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis (also known as the Temple of Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, once stood, drawing pilgrims from around the Mediterranean. While it no longer stands, it is possible to walk amongst its foundations and the remains of its towering columns. Other historic sites can also be found nearby: The House of Mary is believed to be the home of Jesuss mother at the end of her life, and the Basilica of St. John, constructed in the 6th century, marks the location of his tomb. (Like Mary, he spent his final years in Ephesus.) Nearby, the Selcuk fortress reflects the period of Byzantine and Ottoman control of the region."
"Kusadasi in Turkey is the gateway to one of the most legendary cities of the ancient world: Ephesus. St. Paul preached in its Great Theater, while the facade of the Celsus Library survives as a testament to the citys role as a center of learning and culture. Not far from Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis (also known as the Temple of Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, once stood, drawing pilgrims from around the Mediterranean. While it no longer stands, it is possible to walk amongst its foundations and the remains of its towering columns. Other historic sites can also be found nearby: The House of Mary is believed to be the home of Jesuss mother at the end of her life, and the Basilica of St. John, constructed in the 6th century, marks the location of his tomb. (Like Mary, he spent his final years in Ephesus.) Nearby, the Selcuk fortress reflects the period of Byzantine and Ottoman control of the region."
Day At Sea
Day Valletta, MaltaArrives 08:00 AM
"The ancient city of Valletta is teeming with historic monuments, churches and gardens. At just one-third of a square mile in area, Europe's southernmost capital is one of the easiest to explore on foot. Given Maltas strategic location and succession of rulers including the Romans, Normans, Sicilians, Spanish, Knights of St. John, French and British, its somewhat surprising to see Valletta so well preserved. The city dates back to the 16th century and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. Extensive restorations of historic buildings are underway, including the rebuilding of the city entrance to mark Valletta's recognition as the European Capital of Culture in 2018."
"The ancient city of Valletta is teeming with historic monuments, churches and gardens. At just one-third of a square mile in area, Europe's southernmost capital is one of the easiest to explore on foot. Given Maltas strategic location and succession of rulers including the Romans, Normans, Sicilians, Spanish, Knights of St. John, French and British, its somewhat surprising to see Valletta so well preserved. The city dates back to the 16th century and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. Extensive restorations of historic buildings are underway, including the rebuilding of the city entrance to mark Valletta's recognition as the European Capital of Culture in 2018."
Day Valletta, Malta / Mgarr (Victoria), Gozo, MaltaDeparts 06:00 AM / Arrives 08:00 AM Departs 03:00 PM
"The ancient city of Valletta is teeming with historic monuments, churches and gardens. At just one-third of a square mile in area, Europe's southernmost capital is one of the easiest to explore on foot. Given Maltas strategic location and succession of rulers including the Romans, Normans, Sicilians, Spanish, Knights of St. John, French and British, its somewhat surprising to see Valletta so well preserved. The city dates back to the 16th century and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. Extensive restorations of historic buildings are underway, including the rebuilding of the city entrance to mark Valletta's recognition as the European Capital of Culture in 2018."
Mgarr (Victoria), Gozo, Malta
The lesser-known sister of Malta in the Maltese archipelago, Gozo is a 67-square-kilometer island full of ancient history. Standing atop the island is a medieval citadel, marking the spot where the earliest settlers lived as far back as the Bronze Age. Today, its the centerpiece of the islands biggest settlement, Victoria, which is known to its 6,000 residents as Ir-Rabat. Outside the capital, crystal clear waters and red sandy beaches attract swimmers and snorkelers, while the ruins of Ġgantija are one of the Mediterraneans historical highlights. Stunning rock formations and a patchwork of salt pans are among the islands other intriguing natural attractions. The best way to explore is by the cheap modern taxis that line up at the port of Mġarr. Youll quickly discover that food is a passion and a pleasure of Gozitan life. Try the local specialty ftira, a breadlike snack typically served with toppings and eaten as a pizza or tart. Fruit conserves of lemon, fig, orange or prickly pear are common, along with a variety of locally produced oils and sea salts. You wont go hungry on Gozo.
"The ancient city of Valletta is teeming with historic monuments, churches and gardens. At just one-third of a square mile in area, Europe's southernmost capital is one of the easiest to explore on foot. Given Maltas strategic location and succession of rulers including the Romans, Normans, Sicilians, Spanish, Knights of St. John, French and British, its somewhat surprising to see Valletta so well preserved. The city dates back to the 16th century and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. Extensive restorations of historic buildings are underway, including the rebuilding of the city entrance to mark Valletta's recognition as the European Capital of Culture in 2018."
Mgarr (Victoria), Gozo, Malta
The lesser-known sister of Malta in the Maltese archipelago, Gozo is a 67-square-kilometer island full of ancient history. Standing atop the island is a medieval citadel, marking the spot where the earliest settlers lived as far back as the Bronze Age. Today, its the centerpiece of the islands biggest settlement, Victoria, which is known to its 6,000 residents as Ir-Rabat. Outside the capital, crystal clear waters and red sandy beaches attract swimmers and snorkelers, while the ruins of Ġgantija are one of the Mediterraneans historical highlights. Stunning rock formations and a patchwork of salt pans are among the islands other intriguing natural attractions. The best way to explore is by the cheap modern taxis that line up at the port of Mġarr. Youll quickly discover that food is a passion and a pleasure of Gozitan life. Try the local specialty ftira, a breadlike snack typically served with toppings and eaten as a pizza or tart. Fruit conserves of lemon, fig, orange or prickly pear are common, along with a variety of locally produced oils and sea salts. You wont go hungry on Gozo.
Day Palermo, Sicily, ItalyArrives 08:00 AM Departs 05:00 PM
"Palermo, Sicily's capital, is a marvelously jumbled, crumbling blend of old and newa canvas upon which the region's complex and ever-shifting history has been painted. Over the centuries, the port of Palermo was controlled by forces from the far cornersfrom Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans, to Arabs from North Africa, and then Normans from France, who oversaw a renaissance during which many of Palermo's iconic landmarks and modern tourist attractions were built. To see some of the vestiges of ancient empires, take a day trip from Palermo to the Valley of the Temples at Agrigento, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its Greek and Roman ruins, including the Temple of Concordia, remain wonderfully intact. Within the city itself, explore the attractions in historic neighborhoods such as the Arab district of La Kalsa, home to the finery-filled Palazzo Mirto. The Quattro Canti (Four Corners) lies in the heart of the old city, with Piazza Pretoria on the corner. From there it's only a short distance to Palermo's Norman Palace, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Palermo's star attractions, which houses the Palatine Chapel, famous for its intricate mosaics."
"Palermo, Sicily's capital, is a marvelously jumbled, crumbling blend of old and newa canvas upon which the region's complex and ever-shifting history has been painted. Over the centuries, the port of Palermo was controlled by forces from the far cornersfrom Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans, to Arabs from North Africa, and then Normans from France, who oversaw a renaissance during which many of Palermo's iconic landmarks and modern tourist attractions were built. To see some of the vestiges of ancient empires, take a day trip from Palermo to the Valley of the Temples at Agrigento, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its Greek and Roman ruins, including the Temple of Concordia, remain wonderfully intact. Within the city itself, explore the attractions in historic neighborhoods such as the Arab district of La Kalsa, home to the finery-filled Palazzo Mirto. The Quattro Canti (Four Corners) lies in the heart of the old city, with Piazza Pretoria on the corner. From there it's only a short distance to Palermo's Norman Palace, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Palermo's star attractions, which houses the Palatine Chapel, famous for its intricate mosaics."
Day Naples (Pompeii), ItalyArrives 08:00 AM Departs 07:00 PM
"Rising behind the wide curve of its bay with brooding Mount Vesuvius and the deep blue sea as a backdrop, Naples, Italy enjoys a magnificent natural setting. It is the third-largest city in Italy after Rome and Milan, and arguably the most colorful and seductive of them all: Splendor and squalor live side by side in 21st-century Naples, and the mix is intoxicating. Home to world-class museums and attractions, superb restaurants, eclectic shopping, a thriving contemporary art scene and an edgy, vibrant street life, Naples has something for everyone. But once youve had enough of the pounding traffic and jostling crowds while sightseeing in Naples, there are endless opportunities for exploration further afield. The celebrated Roman ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, both victims of Vesuvius devastating 79 C.E. eruption, lie just south of the city. The delightful town of Sorrento and the magnificent scenery of the Amalfi Coast are within easy reach, and the dolce vita glamour of Caprinot to mention the healing thermal waters of Ischiaare a short hydrofoil hop from the mainland. Naples and its surrounding area offer a perfect mix of cultural and natural attractions. "
"Rising behind the wide curve of its bay with brooding Mount Vesuvius and the deep blue sea as a backdrop, Naples, Italy enjoys a magnificent natural setting. It is the third-largest city in Italy after Rome and Milan, and arguably the most colorful and seductive of them all: Splendor and squalor live side by side in 21st-century Naples, and the mix is intoxicating. Home to world-class museums and attractions, superb restaurants, eclectic shopping, a thriving contemporary art scene and an edgy, vibrant street life, Naples has something for everyone. But once youve had enough of the pounding traffic and jostling crowds while sightseeing in Naples, there are endless opportunities for exploration further afield. The celebrated Roman ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, both victims of Vesuvius devastating 79 C.E. eruption, lie just south of the city. The delightful town of Sorrento and the magnificent scenery of the Amalfi Coast are within easy reach, and the dolce vita glamour of Caprinot to mention the healing thermal waters of Ischiaare a short hydrofoil hop from the mainland. Naples and its surrounding area offer a perfect mix of cultural and natural attractions. "
Day Civitavecchia (Rome), ItalyArrives 07:00 AM
Originally built by Emperor Trajan who had a villa here, Civitavecchia has flourished as a major port for Rome since the 13th century. Today it is an important ferry terminal and for many travelers the gateway to the Eternal City, Rome. The Renaissance fortifications that surround the harbor area were begun by Bramante and completed by Michelangelo in 1535.
Originally built by Emperor Trajan who had a villa here, Civitavecchia has flourished as a major port for Rome since the 13th century. Today it is an important ferry terminal and for many travelers the gateway to the Eternal City, Rome. The Renaissance fortifications that surround the harbor area were begun by Bramante and completed by Michelangelo in 1535.
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