Ancient & Artistic Jewels

Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. Athens has been called the “birthplace of democracy.” Its legacy looms large from atop Acropolis Hill, the pinnacle of ancient Greece. This open air museum is an astonishing repository of once-mighty structures. From its colonnaded Parthenon—built more than 2,600 years ago—revered Greek philosophers like Plato and Aristotle formulated new ideas of government and debated its role in civic life to captivated audiences. Remnants of spiritual life are also here in the several temples to Athena and Zeus.

The white houses act as a blank canvas for splashes of color provided by the climbing purple bougainvillea, subtropical gardens, and front doors that come in every shade of blue to match the sea. Bodrum is Turkey's coast at its most vibrant. Located at the junction of the Mediterranean and the Aegean, Bodrum is all about the sea. It boasts a world-class marina, a favorite of super yachts, fine dining restaurants and bars. Set sail from here on one of the many boats heading out to the peninsular. Relax, soak up the sun and coastal scenery whilst drifting through the turquoise water. For a totally authentic experience, choose a 'gulet', a beautiful two-masted, wooden sailing boat traditional to Bodrum. Once ashore, dip into the history of Bodrum or Halicarnassus as it was once known. Still visible are remains of one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, the Mausoleum of Mausolus, once an impressive 46 meters high. In the 15th century, some of the stones of the ruined Mausoleum were reused by the Knights Hospitallers of St John to build the Castle of St. Peter which still dominates the seafront today. As much as the foundations of the castle are steeped in history, so are its exhibits today as home to the Underwater Archaeology Museum. Looking for a souvenir or a chance to people watch, head to the large bazaar by the castle. Set out as shops rather than stalls you can find almost anything from spices, fruit, and vegetables to textiles and local pottery. You won't be able to leave empty-handed.

For better or worse, it can be difficult to reach Patmos—for many travelers, this lack of access is definitely for the better, since the island retains the air of an unspoiled retreat. Rocky and barren, the small, 34-square-km (21-square-mi) island lies beyond the islands of Kalymnos and Leros, northwest of Kos. Here on a hillside is the Monastery of the Apocalypse, which enshrines the cave where St. John received the Revelation in AD 95. Scattered evidence of Mycenaean presence remains on Patmos, and walls of the classical period indicate the existence of a town near Skala. Most of the island's approximately 2,800 people live in three villages: Skala, medieval Chora, and the small rural settlement of Kambos. The island is popular among the faithful making pilgrimages to the monastery as well as with vacationing Athenians and a newly growing community of international trendsetters—designers, artists, poets, and “taste gurus” (to quote Vogue’s July 2011 write-up of the island)—who have bought homes in Chora. These stylemeisters followed in the footsteps of Alexandrian John Stefanidis and the English artist Teddy Millington-Drake who, in the early ’60s, set about creating what eventually became hailed as one of the most gorgeous island homes in the world. The word soon spread thanks to their many guests (who included Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis) but, happily, administrators have carefully contained development, and as a result, Patmos retains its charm and natural beauty—even in the busy month of August.

Skiathos, a lush island in the Sporades group of the Aegean Sea, is a captivating Greek cruise port celebrated for its natural beauty and lively atmosphere. Skiathos Town is charmingly traditional, with whitewashed houses, red-tiled roofs, and a bustling waterfront featuring both an Old Port with fishing boats and a New Port. The town is filled with shops, tavernas, bars, and nightclubs. A key landmark is the Bourtzi Peninsula, located between the two ports, which features the ruins of a Venetian fortress and offers tranquil views and a café.

Skiathos, a lush island in the Sporades group of the Aegean Sea, is a captivating Greek cruise port celebrated for its natural beauty and lively atmosphere. Skiathos Town is charmingly traditional, with whitewashed houses, red-tiled roofs, and a bustling waterfront featuring both an Old Port with fishing boats and a New Port. The town is filled with shops, tavernas, bars, and nightclubs. A key landmark is the Bourtzi Peninsula, located between the two ports, which features the ruins of a Venetian fortress and offers tranquil views and a café.

Syros is an island in the Aegean Sea, 78 miles (125 kilometres) southeast of Athens, and the administrative, commercial, intellectual and cultural centre of the Cyclades. Syros is 32 square miles (82.8 square kilometres) in area. Its largest towns are Ermoupoli, the capital of the island and Cyclades, Ano Syros and Vari. Although Syros belongs to the Cyclades islands, its architecture is more medieval than Cycladic. The beaches of Syros are especially inviting, and surrounded by many tourist facilities and accommodations.

Rising from the turquoise expanse of the sunny Mediterranean, Hydra is the counterpoint of choice for Athenians - who can swap the city chaos for blissful relaxation with an hour’s boat journey. Known for its inspiring celebrity appeal - Leonard Cohen bought a house here in the 60s - Hydra is a pretty island of rising streets, whitewash mansions, and carefree clamour. Located a stone's throw from the Greek mainland, the authorities have resisted the temptation to cash in, meaning Hydra remains an endearing time-warp, which revels in life in the slow lane. With cars and new building developments banned – discover an island of donkeys plodding cobbled streets, and fishing boats undulating gently on the harbour’s waves. 

Zakynthos is the largest of the Ionian Islands and is famous for its dramatic coastline, turquoise waters, and unique natural landmarks. The town is built in Venetian style and features several points of interest:

• Solomos Square (Plateia Solomou): The central square lined with neo-classical buildings, including the Byzantine Museum of Zakynthos.

• Agios Dionysios Church: A prominent seaside church dedicated to the island’s patron saint, known for its tall, Venetian-style bell tower.

• Bochali Hill: Located above the town, offering panoramic views of the harbor and the town center. It contains the ruins of the Venetian Castle.

Zakynthos is the largest of the Ionian Islands and is famous for its dramatic coastline, turquoise waters, and unique natural landmarks. The town is built in Venetian style and features several points of interest:

• Solomos Square (Plateia Solomou): The central square lined with neo-classical buildings, including the Byzantine Museum of Zakynthos.

• Agios Dionysios Church: A prominent seaside church dedicated to the island’s patron saint, known for its tall, Venetian-style bell tower.

• Bochali Hill: Located above the town, offering panoramic views of the harbor and the town center. It contains the ruins of the Venetian Castle.

Spend a leisurely day 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.

The medieval cliff-hanging town of Taormina is overrun with tourists, yet its natural beauty is still hard to dispute. The view of the sea and Mt. Etna from its jagged cactus-covered cliffs is as close to perfection as a panorama can get—especially on clear days, when the snowcapped volcano's white puffs of smoke rise against the blue sky. Writers have extolled Taormina's beauty almost since it was founded in the 6th century BC by Greeks from nearby Naxos; Goethe and D. H. Lawrence were among its well-known enthusiasts. The town's boutique-lined main streets get old pretty quickly, but the many hiking paths that wind through the beautiful hills surrounding Taormina promise a timeless alternative. A trip up to stunning Castelmola (whether on foot or by car) should also be on your itinerary.

Ravello is a historic, cliffside town located high above the Amalfi Coast in Italy, known for its elegance, cultural heritage, and panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Ravello offers a quieter, more serene atmosphere compared to the bustling seaside towns of Amalfi and Positano.

Attractions: The town's main draw is its spectacular gardens and historic architecture, which have long been a retreat for artists and writers.

• Villa Cimbrone Gardens

  • Famous for the "Terrace of Infinity," a spectacular viewpoint lined with marble busts that offers sweeping, unforgettable panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the coastline below.

• Villa Rufolo

  • A medieval 13th-century estate that features beautiful gardens overlooking the sea.

  • The villa is known for inspiring Richard Wagner, who found inspiration here for his opera Parsifal.

• Ravello Cathedral (Duomo di Ravello)

  • This 11th-century church, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, stands on an elevated platform in the main gathering area, Piazza Duomo.

  • Visitors can view the ornate bronze doors and the interior, which features a 13th-century marble pulpit decorated with mosaics and a museum.

• Piazza Duomo

  • The central square of Ravello, which serves as the main gathering place, offers easy access to all the major sights and features a viewpoint with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains.

• Cultural Activities

  • Ravello is nicknamed the "City of Music" and hosts the Ravello Festival in the summer, often staged in the gardens of Villa Rufolo.

  • Other sites include the Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium.

• Shopping and Dining

  • Stroll through Via Roma, or visit local spots around Piazza Duomo to try gelato or enjoy lunch with a scenic view.

Ravello is a historic, cliffside town located high above the Amalfi Coast in Italy, known for its elegance, cultural heritage, and panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Ravello offers a quieter, more serene atmosphere compared to the bustling seaside towns of Amalfi and Positano.

Attractions: The town's main draw is its spectacular gardens and historic architecture, which have long been a retreat for artists and writers.

• Villa Cimbrone Gardens

  • Famous for the "Terrace of Infinity," a spectacular viewpoint lined with marble busts that offers sweeping, unforgettable panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the coastline below.

• Villa Rufolo

  • A medieval 13th-century estate that features beautiful gardens overlooking the sea.

  • The villa is known for inspiring Richard Wagner, who found inspiration here for his opera Parsifal.

• Ravello Cathedral (Duomo di Ravello)

  • This 11th-century church, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, stands on an elevated platform in the main gathering area, Piazza Duomo.

  • Visitors can view the ornate bronze doors and the interior, which features a 13th-century marble pulpit decorated with mosaics and a museum.

• Piazza Duomo

  • The central square of Ravello, which serves as the main gathering place, offers easy access to all the major sights and features a viewpoint with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains.

• Cultural Activities

  • Ravello is nicknamed the "City of Music" and hosts the Ravello Festival in the summer, often staged in the gardens of Villa Rufolo.

  • Other sites include the Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium.

• Shopping and Dining

• Stroll through Via Roma, or visit local spots around Piazza Duomo to try gelato or enjoy lunch with a scenic view.

Ravello is a historic, cliffside town located high above the Amalfi Coast in Italy, known for its elegance, cultural heritage, and panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Ravello offers a quieter, more serene atmosphere compared to the bustling seaside towns of Amalfi and Positano.

Attractions: The town's main draw is its spectacular gardens and historic architecture, which have long been a retreat for artists and writers.

• Villa Cimbrone Gardens

  • Famous for the "Terrace of Infinity," a spectacular viewpoint lined with marble busts that offers sweeping, unforgettable panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the coastline below.

• Villa Rufolo

  • A medieval 13th-century estate that features beautiful gardens overlooking the sea.

  • The villa is known for inspiring Richard Wagner, who found inspiration here for his opera Parsifal.

• Ravello Cathedral (Duomo di Ravello)

  • This 11th-century church, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, stands on an elevated platform in the main gathering area, Piazza Duomo.

  • Visitors can view the ornate bronze doors and the interior, which features a 13th-century marble pulpit decorated with mosaics and a museum.

• Piazza Duomo

  • The central square of Ravello, which serves as the main gathering place, offers easy access to all the major sights and features a viewpoint with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains.

• Cultural Activities

  • Ravello is nicknamed the "City of Music" and hosts the Ravello Festival in the summer, often staged in the gardens of Villa Rufolo.

  • Other sites include the Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium.

• Shopping and Dining

  • Stroll through Via Roma, or visit local spots around Piazza Duomo to try gelato or enjoy lunch with a scenic view.

Ravello is a historic, cliffside town located high above the Amalfi Coast in Italy, known for its elegance, cultural heritage, and panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Ravello offers a quieter, more serene atmosphere compared to the bustling seaside towns of Amalfi and Positano.

Attractions: The town's main draw is its spectacular gardens and historic architecture, which have long been a retreat for artists and writers.

• Villa Cimbrone Gardens

  • Famous for the "Terrace of Infinity," a spectacular viewpoint lined with marble busts that offers sweeping, unforgettable panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the coastline below.

• Villa Rufolo

  • A medieval 13th-century estate that features beautiful gardens overlooking the sea.

  • The villa is known for inspiring Richard Wagner, who found inspiration here for his opera Parsifal.

• Ravello Cathedral (Duomo di Ravello)

  • This 11th-century church, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, stands on an elevated platform in the main gathering area, Piazza Duomo.

  • Visitors can view the ornate bronze doors and the interior, which features a 13th-century marble pulpit decorated with mosaics and a museum.

• Piazza Duomo

  • The central square of Ravello, which serves as the main gathering place, offers easy access to all the major sights and features a viewpoint with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains.

• Cultural Activities

  • Ravello is nicknamed the "City of Music" and hosts the Ravello Festival in the summer, often staged in the gardens of Villa Rufolo.

  • Other sites include the Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium.

• Shopping and Dining

• Stroll through Via Roma, or visit local spots around Piazza Duomo to try gelato or enjoy lunch with a scenic view.

Gaeta is a picturesque coastal city located in the Lazio region of Italy, along the Tyrrhenian Sea. Known for its stunning beaches, historic charm, and scenic views, it sits between Rome and Naples, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and culture.

The city is rich in history, dating back to ancient Roman times, and features landmarks such as the imposing Castello Angioino-Aragonese, which overlooks the town and offers breathtaking views of the coastline. Another notable site is the Sanctuary of Montagna Spaccata, famous for its dramatic split mountain and spiritual significance.

Gaeta’s old town is filled with narrow streets, medieval buildings, and charming piazzas, reflecting its long and diverse history. The city is also known for its local cuisine, especially seafood dishes and the traditional “tiella,” a savory pie filled with ingredients like octopus or vegetables.

With its mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and relaxed seaside atmosphere, Gaeta offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors exploring the Italian coast.

Porto Cervo is the main resort and a celebrity hotspot on the Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast) of Sardinia, Italy. It is renowned worldwide for its exclusive atmosphere, high-end yacht harbor, luxury shopping, and pristine beaches.

Attractions:

• The Porto Cervo Marina

  A central point of interest, the harbor is one of the most exclusive marinas in the Mediterranean, offering fantastic views of luxurious super-yachts. The adjacent waterfront promenade, Sottopiazza, features luxury boutiques from international designers.

• Piazza Azzurra

  The main town square, a gathering spot for high-end dining and people-watching. The area is architecturally distinct, with pastel-colored buildings winding around the hillside.

• Stella Maris Church

  A striking, modern church designed by architect Michele Busiri Vici. It features a unique, curved architectural style and houses important art, including a Mater Dolorosa attributed to El Greco.

• Luxury Shopping

  Porto Cervo is famous for its concentration of high-end brands, including designer fashion, jewelry, and art galleries, primarily located around the Sottopiazza and Piazza Azzurra.

• Beaches of the Costa Smeralda

  The primary draw of the region. Many spectacular beaches are easily accessible from the town:

  • Spiaggia del Principe (Prince's Beach): One of the most famous and beautiful beaches, named after Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.

  • Grande Pevero Beach: A large, popular beach with fine white sand and clear, shallow water.

  • Cala di Volpe: Known for its iconic bay and the luxury hotel located there.

Porto Cervo is the main resort and a celebrity hotspot on the Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast) of Sardinia, Italy. It is renowned worldwide for its exclusive atmosphere, high-end yacht harbor, luxury shopping, and pristine beaches.

Attractions:

• The Porto Cervo Marina
  A central point of interest, the harbor is one of the most exclusive marinas in the Mediterranean, offering fantastic views of luxurious super-yachts. The adjacent waterfront promenade, Sottopiazza, features luxury boutiques from international designers.

• Piazza Azzurra
  The main town square, a gathering spot for high-end dining and people-watching. The area is architecturally distinct, with pastel-colored buildings winding around the hillside.

• Stella Maris Church
  A striking, modern church designed by architect Michele Busiri Vici. It features a unique, curved architectural style and houses important art, including a Mater Dolorosa attributed to El Greco.

• Luxury Shopping
  Porto Cervo is famous for its concentration of high-end brands, including designer fashion, jewelry, and art galleries, primarily located around the Sottopiazza and Piazza Azzurra.

• Beaches of the Costa Smeralda
  The primary draw of the region. Many spectacular beaches are easily accessible from the town:

  • Spiaggia del Principe (Prince's Beach): One of the most famous and beautiful beaches, named after Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.

  • Grande Pevero Beach: A large, popular beach with fine white sand and clear, shallow water.

• Cala di Volpe: Known for its iconic bay and the luxury hotel located there.

For centuries, Rome ruled much of Europe, building a vast empire from the power of emperors. More than 2,500 years of history live in the city’s streets. Ancient structures recall those heady days when the cheers of 80,000 spectators roared from the Colosseum, citizens mingled in the Forum and senators asked the gods for guidance at the Pantheon. Along with the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica, this rich pocket of Italy is one of the world’s greatest repositories of history and civilization.