Tuscany, Rome, Malta & Italian Islands

27 Mar 26
00:00 - 19:00

Nice's sweeping bend of brilliant blue seawater - which once tempted the aristocracy of Europe - continues to entice and entrance visitors to these sun-soaked shores. A refined city of airy ocean boulevards, grandiose buildings and open spaces, fountain-sprinkled parks, and colorful floral displays add to the city's timeless appeal. Nice has lost none of its old-world luster, and there remains something of the divine in the Bay of Angels' endless sparkling waterfront. The vast, open Promenade des Anglais remains Nice's magnificent crowning glory, inviting the city out to jog, wander, and glide along the Mediterranean's most spectacular curve of seafront promenade. Dotted with sun worshippers and swimmers, it's an ode to the rejuvenating character of that unbeatable duo - the rich blue sea and endless sunshine. The crisp, clear, golden light also continues to make Nice a destination of creative pilgrimage and Matisse, Picasso, and Renoir are among the many artists to lavish in the city's eternal beauty. Drag yourself away from the waterfront to discover the old town, punctuated with Baroque churches rising, and the wafting scents of baking pastries, and lavender bundles. Follow the floral odors to Nice's famous flower market, which spills gorgeous colorful displays along Cours Saleya. There's a strong hint of Italy, explained by the fact that Nice only aligned with France in 1860 - following 500 years under the House of Savoy. A gorgeous Orthodox Russian church also rises incongruously with colorful onion domes, forming one of the city's unusual sights, and one of the largest such cathedrals outside of Russia. Walk in Nietzsche's footsteps and climb up to Colline du Château's charming green park and cascading waterfalls, to relish the views down over the city and sparkling sea expanse. Not without challenges over recent years, Nice continues to bloom and inspire its visitors with an intoxicating allure of sun, sea, and sophistication.

28 Mar 26
08:00 - 00:00

There are few more elegant places to salute the sunset than Terrazza Mascagni, Livorno's refined chessboard piazza. A historic port, and a beachy gateway to Tuscany, Livorno welcomes you ashore to explore this enchanted Italian region's sun-soaked beauty, rich flavors, and world-renowned fine art. Stay in Livorno to explore 'Piccolo Venezia', or - Little Venice - a quarter of the town that's laced with canals, little marble bridges, and plenty of tempting eateries. With its bustling market, fortresses, and iconic waterfront, there is plenty to keep you busy here, but most will be tempted to venture inland to explore more of Tuscany's many charms and artistic wonders. Test your nose, as you breathe in the subtleties of Tuscany's vineyard-draped scenery and visit wineries showcasing the best of the renowned flavors of the Bolgheri wine-growing area. Or head out to Prato, where you'll find tightly woven textile history. Pisa's showpiece tower is within reach, as is Florence's city of immense and imaginative Renaissance beauty. Admire the delicate carving of Michelangelo's masterpiece, the David statue, and note the provocative stance as he casts a dismissive glance towards Rome. Stand before the city's majestic black and white cathedral - the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore - with its colossal brick dome. The view down over Florence's river and grand dome from Piazzale Michelangelo, meanwhile, is one of Italy's finest. However you choose to spend your time in Tuscany, you'll discover an artistic region, filled with beauty designed to appeal to every sense.

29 Mar 26
00:00 - 18:00

There are few more elegant places to salute the sunset than Terrazza Mascagni, Livorno's refined chessboard piazza. A historic port, and a beachy gateway to Tuscany, Livorno welcomes you ashore to explore this enchanted Italian region's sun-soaked beauty, rich flavors, and world-renowned fine art. Stay in Livorno to explore 'Piccolo Venezia', or - Little Venice - a quarter of the town that's laced with canals, little marble bridges, and plenty of tempting eateries. With its bustling market, fortresses, and iconic waterfront, there is plenty to keep you busy here, but most will be tempted to venture inland to explore more of Tuscany's many charms and artistic wonders. Test your nose, as you breathe in the subtleties of Tuscany's vineyard-draped scenery and visit wineries showcasing the best of the renowned flavors of the Bolgheri wine-growing area. Or head out to Prato, where you'll find tightly woven textile history. Pisa's showpiece tower is within reach, as is Florence's city of immense and imaginative Renaissance beauty. Admire the delicate carving of Michelangelo's masterpiece, the David statue, and note the provocative stance as he casts a dismissive glance towards Rome. Stand before the city's majestic black and white cathedral - the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore - with its colossal brick dome. The view down over Florence's river and grand dome from Piazzale Michelangelo, meanwhile, is one of Italy's finest. However you choose to spend your time in Tuscany, you'll discover an artistic region, filled with beauty designed to appeal to every sense.

30 Mar 26
08:00 - 22:00

A summer escape for Rome's historic elite, the stacked waterfront of Porto Santo Stefano is a secluded taste of idyllic southern Tuscany. Physically closer to Rome than Florence, the city is strung to Italy's western coast by two sandy harnesses and sits on the unique peninsula of Monte Argentario - which was once an island. Flamboyant pink flamingos and herons stroll through the encased lagoon, while Porto Santo Stefano's waterfront hums with clinking cafes and strolling visitors. The luxury yachts in the harbor show that Porto Santo Stefano has lost none of its luxury appeals, and with beaches, wild hikes, and waterfront beauty, it continues to lure visitors to this secluded escape. Known for its fishing and cuisine - which is based on heavy use of the Tyrrhenian Sea's juicy bounty. Stroll to Piazza dei Rioni for a dripping lemon gelato, or wander the streets noticing the lingering World War II damage - the city was heavily bombed during the conflict. Fortunately, the historic, star-shaped, Spanish fort was spared, and it still watches out resolutely over the waters. Built during the Napoleonic Wars, it fortified the exposed town against pirate raids and offers beautiful views over the old town's terracotta roofs. Rugged coastline falls to secluded beaches, with a wilder, unkempt charm. Sail the coves - seeing cascading olive groves - or island hop to Giglio and Giannuti, which lie 12 miles from shore, and can be seen from the monastery-topped Argentario Mountain. On the other side of the promontory, you'll find Porto Ercole - where the lifeless body of the Old Master, Caravaggio, was discovered.

31 Mar 26
08:00 - 23:00

01 Apr 26

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and catch up with what you've been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale-watching, catching up on your reading, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shoreside.

02 Apr 26
08:00 - 19:00

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03 Apr 26
08:00 - 18:00

Hugging a long, sweeping bay, Giardini Naxos welcomes you ashore to some of Sicily's most scenic and historic sites. Naxos was the first Greek settlement in Sicily, and it is surrounded by remarkable remains and swirling mythology. With a long arc of sun-soaked golden sand, you can kick back by the waves - and cool off with a dip into the sea's refreshing embrace. Up above the seaside revelry, the spectacular Taormina hillside town perches - containing rich Roman and Greek history. Visit to encounter one of Sicily's best views, as you look down over the rejuvenating blue of the sea, and the looming backdrop of Mount Etna rising in the distance. The majestic, honey-colored Greek theater is a highlight, standing before the distant loom of the volcano. Head towards the puffs of cloud, and wisps of smoke, that gather around the peak of Sicily's mighty volcano, which is among the most active in Europe. Arrive through vineyards, thriving in this fertile soil, before taking the 1,737-meter incline to the summit of the legendary mountain of fire, across fields of solidified lava flows. Known to the Greeks as the home of the God of Fire, and the one-eyed Cyclops, the mountain continues to amaze and awe with its restless power. Vineyards carpet the scenery - interrupted by occasional cacti and citrus groves - and produce some of Sicily's most refined flavors. Enjoy a glass of wine on Giardini Naxos' seafront, and toast your time on these rich Sicilian shores.

04 Apr 26
08:00 - 23:00

Have a taste of dolce vita in Salerno. The city is situated at the northern end of the Gulf of Salerno, near the stunning Amalfi Coast. The old town, rising up the slopes of the hill on the site of the ancient Salernum, still bears evidence of its great days during the medieval period. It had the oldest medical school in Europe, which flourished from the 11th century until it was closed down by Napoleon's brother-in-law, Murat, in 1812. Today, Salerno's main attraction is an imposing Romanesque cathedral, built in 1085 and remodeled in the late 18th century. A flight of steps leads up to an atrium with 28 columns from Paestum and fourteen ancient sarcophagi. The magnificent bronze doors were made in Constantinople in 1099. Inside is the ornate tomb of Margaret of Anjou and the tomb of Pope Gregory VII, who died in Salerno in 1085. In the richly decorated crypt under the altar lie the remains of the Evangelist Matthew, brought here from Paestum. A 45-minute walk from the cathedral leads to a hilltop crowned by the old Lombard Castello, from where extensive views are available. Along the seafront, to the east of the harbor, extends a fine promenade lined with impressive modern buildings. The Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi is the town's principal traffic artery. Salerno is the gateway for travelers for visits to the Greek temples of Paestum. Other favorite excursions from here are to Pompeii and to visit the popular resort towns of Amalfi and Ravello.

05 Apr 26
08:00 - 17:00

An intriguingly off-the-beaten-track island of dreamy colors and mouthwateringly fresh cuisine, Ponza is the authentic Italian escape. Indulge in the idyllic Italian island experience - but crucially, without the crowds and inflated prices. This rustic retreat draws Italians from the bustle of Rome and Naples, eager for the refreshing sea breeze. With relatively few ferries making the crossing, Ponza remains a surprisingly relaxed and low-key destination, content to let the Amalfi Coast, Ischia, and Capri take the international spotlight. As part of the Pontine Islands, Ponza retains oodles of authentic charm, and you’ll be welcomed ashore with warm smiles from the locals. Gorgeous white cliffs tumble into the turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea, while views from the steep, sea-horse-shaped island, evoke Santorini - especially at sunset when the golden light flares. The lively harbor, dabbed with pastel colors, is the island’s wholesome heart. Restaurants here serve up the fruits of the sea, like plump shellfish tangled in fresh pasta, to a soundtrack of creaking fishing boats. Many of Ponza’s beaches are rocky, but Cala Feola is a wonderfully picturesque wedge of sandy beach. The best vantage point for soaking in Ponza’s beauty, however, is on the water. Sail to natural pools, chalky cliffs, and hidden beaches, lapped by glowing turquoise waters.

06 Apr 26
09:00 - 19:00

Napoleon Bonaparte may have been forced into exile here in 1814, but nowadays this picturesque Tuscan island draws no end of visitors who come by their own free will. Offshore in the Tyrrhenian Sea, Elba is a mountainous mirage of glowing beaches, turquoise waters, and craggy coastline. The island capital's sun-faded pink and yellow buildings stack up over the waterfront, offering sweeping views back to the mainland. The harbor's tiny wooden fishing boats are now dwarfed by the gleaming yachts that visit, and Elba invites you to join them, dropping in to relish a secluded, sun-soaked taste of the island's good life. Elba is the third-biggest Italian island, and the protected Tuscan archipelago's largest, with no fewer than 90 miles of gorgeous coastline rolling out for you to explore. Grown from the ruins of the Roman settlement of Fabricia, steep fortifications, and a scenic natural harbor all add to Portoferraio's appeals. Bonaparte hung around for just ten months - but the sea panorama from his former residence, Villa dei Mulini - which is now a museum - keeps visitors coming back for more. An island of steep inclines, which reward with spectacular vistas, Elba's villages cling to precipitous drops, while beautiful beaches unravel along its shores and enchanting scenery of chestnut tree woods, olive groves, and vineyards coat its lands. Take the cable car up to Monte Capanne - which offers more of the island's trademark views, without the need to break a sweat. Settle down to taste the island's succulent seafood, and tuck into juicy, grilled sardines and plump octopus - rounded off with a glass of the famous local, sweet wine.

07 Apr 26
08:00 - 19:00

Effervescent and exclusive, Portofino rests on a privileged peninsula. Lavish yachts mingle together, seeking out coveted berths in the harbor, while gelato drips onto the stone-paved streets in this, the most alluring and glamorous town of the Italian Riviera. This section of the Ligurian Coast is a protected area, and home to some of the country's most picturesque, and jaw-dropping scenery - which is best viewed from the deck of a sailing boat. Crisp white villas roll out across the verdant green hillsides, surrounded by laden vineyards and olive groves. Down in Portofino itself, the buzz of chatter and the clatter of cutlery, provide the soundtrack to busy terrace bars and restaurants, which serve up fine food and delicious sea views. Portofino's achingly beautiful harbor arcs around the lapping waves, with a warmly-hued waterfront of peach and apricot colors - which also adorns postcards and promotional travel guides of Italy. For the authentic Portofino experience, sail out onto the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Tigullio, to mingle amongst the privileged at play, or settle back in the shade as you take aperitivo on the picturesque waterfront Piazzetta. Here you can sip the famous Ligurian wines, and stave off hunger with focaccia con il formaggio - or platters of fine cheese and hams. Deeper into Portofino, you'll find artisans crafting their wares and weaving together lace, or you can ascend to viewpoints like the lemon-shaded Church of San Giorgio, to look over the pretty jumble from up above. A wander out along the headland to the tapering tip of the peninsular, rewards with the views of Portofino's iconic white lighthouse beaming out light and welcoming ships to this slice of Riviera heaven.

08 Apr 26
07:00 - 00:00

Nice's sweeping bend of brilliant blue seawater - which once tempted the aristocracy of Europe - continues to entice and entrance visitors to these sun-soaked shores. A refined city of airy ocean boulevards, grandiose buildings and open spaces, fountain-sprinkled parks, and colorful floral displays add to the city's timeless appeal. Nice has lost none of its old-world luster, and there remains something of the divine in the Bay of Angels' endless sparkling waterfront. The vast, open Promenade des Anglais remains Nice's magnificent crowning glory, inviting the city out to jog, wander, and glide along the Mediterranean's most spectacular curve of seafront promenade. Dotted with sun worshippers and swimmers, it's an ode to the rejuvenating character of that unbeatable duo - the rich blue sea and endless sunshine. The crisp, clear, golden light also continues to make Nice a destination of creative pilgrimage and Matisse, Picasso, and Renoir are among the many artists to lavish in the city's eternal beauty. Drag yourself away from the waterfront to discover the old town, punctuated with Baroque churches rising, and the wafting scents of baking pastries, and lavender bundles. Follow the floral odors to Nice's famous flower market, which spills gorgeous colorful displays along Cours Saleya. There's a strong hint of Italy, explained by the fact that Nice only aligned with France in 1860 - following 500 years under the House of Savoy. A gorgeous Orthodox Russian church also rises incongruously with colorful onion domes, forming one of the city's unusual sights, and one of the largest such cathedrals outside of Russia. Walk in Nietzsche's footsteps and climb up to Colline du Château's charming green park and cascading waterfalls, to relish the views down over the city and sparkling sea expanse. Not without challenges over recent years, Nice continues to bloom and inspire its visitors with an intoxicating allure of sun, sea, and sophistication.