Silversea's Best of the Mediterranean

Today make your own way to the airport for your flight to Barcelona, Spain.

Please note: Some customers may depart on Day 2 and arrive on Day 2.

Meals included: In-Flight

Upon arrival an arranged transfer will take you to your hotel for a two night city stay. Once checked in the remainder of the day is yours at leisure.

Please note: The mandatory city tax/resort fee is not included and will be charged at the hotel.

Overnight: Grand Hotel Central, or similar, Barcelona

Meals included: None

Enjoy a day at leisure in Barcelona!

One way or another, Barcelona will find a way to get your full attention with an infinite variety of street life, the nooks and crannies of the medieval Barri Gòtic, the ceramic tiles and stained glass of Art Nouveau facades, the art, and music, Spanish cuisine and more. The capital of Catalonia is a banquet for the senses, with its beguiling mix of ancient and modern architecture, tempting cafés and markets, and sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches. During your free time you could take a stroll along La Rambla and through waterfront La Barceloneta, or discover Gaudí's majestic Sagrada Família and his other unique creations. Modern art museums and chic shops call for attention, too. Barcelona's vibe stays lively well into the night when you can linger over regional wine and cuisine at buzzing tapas bars (charges apply).

Overnight: Grand Hotel Central, or similar, Barcelona

Meals included: None

After check out this morning, make your own way to the cruise port to embark on Silversea's Silver Ray. Once on board the remainder of the day is at leisure exploring this luxurious ship.

Please note: The following itinerary provides suggestions for additional activities and dining that can be enjoyed during free time at each destination. These activities will be at your own expense.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Ray

Meals included: Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart: 19:00

The Mediterranean gem of Mallorca is a Spanish island of cuisine, culture, and sun-gorged beaches. Palma de Mallorca is the island's dominating capital and a sand-coloured mirage of glorious buildings and living history. Conquered and liberated countless times over the years, the city is your gateway to ceaseless Mediterranean beauty, buzzy markets, and intense flavours. Cafes and bars wait close to the sweeping coastline, where you can enjoy strong espressos to kick start the day, or splashes of red Mallorcan wines to round it off. Bicycles trundle up and down the promenade, which invites you to wander in the morning sunshine beside the waves.

Dominated by the indefatigable form of Santa María cathedral, which looms over the city and coastline, Palma de Mallorca is drenched in history and culture. The labyrinth of the old town is a cobbled haven, which bustles with dripping ice creams and sun-lashed squares. Try the island's superb cuisine, and savour local ingredients with an exceptional depth of flavour. Something about the sunshine here makes tomatoes extra sharp and delicious, while the seafood is consistently juicy and plump.

The creation of the mighty cathedral, Le Seu, began in 1229 and was eventually concluded in 1601. A perfect encapsulation of Palma de Mallorca's blend of the historic and the contemporary, even Gaudi lent his hand to it, and the interior features a spectacular modernist take on the New Testament from artist Miquel Barcelo, which is painted across the chapel's walls. Explore the splendid Royal Palace of La Almudaina fortress stands nearby, a left-behind Moorish footprint of square towers and Arabic archways that now serves as an official summer residence for the King of Spain.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Ray

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart: 18:00

Valencia is a proud, historic city that has been fiercely contested ever since it was founded. Moorish influence has flourished here until El Cid captured Valencia from the Moors in 1094 and won his strangest victory here in 1099. Legend says he died in the battle, but his corpse was strapped to his saddle and so frightened the besieging Moors that it caused their complete defeat. In 1102 his widow, Jimena, was forced to return the city to Moorish rule until again taken by Jaume I in 1238.

In recent times, during the Civil War, it was the last seat of the Republican Loyalist government (1936-37), holding out against Franco's National forces until the country fell to nearly 40 years of dictatorship. Today it represents the essence of contemporary Spain's daring design and architecture along with experimental cuisine - but remains deeply conservative and proud of its traditions.

Though it faces the Mediterranean, Valencia's history and geography have been defined most significantly by the River Turia and the fertile floodplain (huerta) that surrounds it. Modern Valencia was best known for its frequent floods until the River Turia was diverted to the south in the late 1950s. Since then the city has been on a steady course of urban beautification. The lovely bridges that once spanned the Turia look equally graceful spanning a wandering municipal park, and the spectacularly futuristic Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences), most of it designed by Valencia-born architect Santiago Calatrava, has at last created an exciting architectural link between this river town and the Mediterranean.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Ray

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Sea days are the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind under the Mediterranean sun. Whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa (charges may apply), 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.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Ray

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart: 19:00

Tunisia's capital lies at the western end of the shallow Lake Tunis, which opens to the sea at La Goulette. This is the first of a string of beach suburbs that stretches away to the north where the city's port is located. This coastal area includes the ruins of ancient Carthage and the picturesque suburb of Sidi Bou Said, places that attract more visitors than Tunis itself. Tunis has an easy-going, unhurried air about it. It is a very liberal city by Islamic standards and certainly leading the way in Western trends for the rest of the country.

Until the time of the French protectorate, the medina was very much the center of things. Then, under the French influence, the ville nouvelle (new city) emerged with its major banks, department stores, and administrative services. The main focus of Ville Nouvelle is the wide, tree-lined Avenue Habib Bourguiba. At its western end, this major thoroughfare becomes the Avenue de France, terminating in the Place de la Victoire and the entrance to the medina.

Please note: Your ship will dock at La Goulette, approximately 15 kilometres from Tunis.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Ray

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart: 18:00

Surrounded by glowing turquoise waters and rugged coastline, Trapani invites you to explore western Sicily's ruins, intense flavours, and sun-soaked leisure pursuits. The town looks out over the Egadi Islands, gazing west to witness some of Sicily’s most evocative sunset displays. Start exploring Trapani from its historic core, a dense network of alleys hosting a collection of small shops, restaurants, and wine bars. Seek out the Cathedral of San Lorenzo - where colourful artworks are spread below sweeping arches and a beautiful domed roof.

Sicily feels like an island on the cusp of continents, and Trapani practically has one foot in Africa, as you soak in its pretty whitewashed houses and fusion of foods and arts. Discover the Ancient Greek influence by venturing to rich archaeological sites nearby, like Selinus and Segesta, where the treasures from the past have been unearthed and displayed.

Pyramids of white salt rise up at the Riserva Naturale Saline di Trapani e Paceco. These salt marshes and windmills are a symbol of Trapani, and although sea salt production is much less important today, the small white hills remain a Trapani landmark. Pink flamingos can be seen wading in the salt pans below.

For beach days, the Egadi Islands can be easily reached from Trapani - Favignana is the largest and most popular.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Ray

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart: 19:00

Sorrento's colourful, sun-faded facades cascade down from green hills and cliffs to the Bay of Naples' gently lapping waters. The perfect base for exploring this Italian corner of outstanding natural beauty, venture to the curvaceous roads of the Amalfi Coast - or enjoy leisurely jaunts across the shimmering waves to Capri's gem of an island. While it makes for a fantastic jumping-off point, Sorrento itself has oodles of rustic fishing town charm, so don't rush off too quickly.

Piazza Tasso is the locals' main meeting spot and a starting point for a wander through the picturesque streets. Throw back a quick espresso caffeine kick at a standing cafe, before strolling through Corso Italia - Sorrento's spine - which is lined with boutiques, museums, bars, and restaurants. The historic Church of San Francesco blossoms with colourful celebrations of weddings, which spill out into its gorgeous ivy-tangled cloisters.

Or head down to relax by the beach and fishing-boat-filled harbours. If you're feeling a little peckish, enjoy quick and delicious flame-cooked pizzas of oil, basil, tomato, and buffalo mozzarella (not included). The volcanic soil imbues the local wines with rich flavour - soak in the waterfront views while savouring Taurasi and Lacryma Christi flavours, or sample the luminous lemony hit of delicious limoncellos.

The looming, cloud-wisped cone of Mount Vesuvius is unlikely to escape your attention, and this now docile volcano was responsible for a famous tale of destruction when it wiped out the ancient city of Pompeii in a heartbeat. Known for the haunting, frozen casts of the city's unfortunate inhabitants - the massive site is a miraculous snapshot of an Ancient Roman city. Wander the stone slabs streets, visit the beautiful theatre and the columns of the sprawling ancient forum - painstakingly recovered and rendered from below the ash.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Ray

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Sea days are the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind under the Mediterranean sun. Whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa (charges may apply), 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.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Ray

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart: 19:00

A summer escape for Rome's historic elite, the stacked waterfront of Porto Santo Stefano is a secluded taste of idyllic southern Tuscany. 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 harbour 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, based on the Tyrrhenian Sea's juicy bounty. Stroll to Piazza dei Rioni for a dripping lemon gelato, or wander the charming streets. Discover the historic, star-shaped, Spanish fort as it silently stares out resolutely over the waters. It fortified the exposed town against pirate raids and offers beautiful views over the old town's terracotta roofs.

With free time you could explore the rugged coastline, secluded beaches or sail among the coves, admiring cascading olive groves. Or island hop to Giglio and Giannuti, 20 kilometres from shore, or spot them on a hike to the monastery-topped Argentario Mountain. On the other side of the promontory, you'll find Porto Ercole - where the Old Master, Caravaggio, was discovered.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Ray

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart: 23:00

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 flavours, and world-renowned fine art.

With free time in Livorno you could explore 'Piccolo Venezia' (Little Venice quarter) 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 see, 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 flavours of the Bolgheri wine-growing area. Or head out to Prato, to 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 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.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Ray

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart: 19:00

Effervescent and exclusive, Portofino rests on a privileged peninsula. Lavish yachts mingle together, seeking out coveted berths in the harbour, 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 harbour arcs around the lapping waves, with a warmly-hued waterfront of peach and apricot colours - 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 (not included).

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.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Ray

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 08:30 - Depart: 18:00

Home to France’s principal naval base, aircraft carriers, and naval shipyards, Toulon stands apart from the glitzy allure of the rest of the Cote d’Azur. At first glance, its own genuine charms can appear guarded by this military presence but seeking them out is part of the fun. For a city that’s all about the sea, there’s no better place to start than the harbour. With yachts and fishing boats providing an animated backdrop, there are plenty of good restaurants to eat in. It’s also where to find the highly recommended French naval museum, which traces Toulon’s long and often dramatic maritime history.

Above the town rises Mont Faron, nearly 600 metres high, offering an overview and is the place for some great photos of this southern French city and turquoise bay below. A cable car takes the effort out of the climb, and nearby is the newly renovated Mémorial du Débarquement et de la Libération de Provence. It tells the moving story of the Allied landings that took place here in 1944.

Sea salt breezes mingle with the perfume of lavender and herbs from the marketplaces in the recently restored Old Town. It’s a maze of narrow alleyways that open onto delightful squares like Cours Lafayette. Within easy walking distance of the city centre lies the small fishing port Mourillon, with its haut bourgeoise architecture, traditional French market, and sandy beaches. The wild, secluded beach of Anse de Magaud is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Toulon.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Ray

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 07:00

After breakfast this morning, it's time to bid farewell to the Silver Ray and make your own way to your hotel for an overnight stay in this wonderful city.

Glitzy, glamorous, and unashamedly luxurious - live the high life in Monte Carlo. From the super-yachts jostling for position in the harbour to the lavish bars splashing out iced champagne, Monte Carlo is a high-rolling, decadent affair - and a gloriously indulgent, sun-soaked taste of the good life. Famed for its low tax status - and the Formula One race that roars through its hairpin bends and tight streets each year - Monaco is the ultimate playground of the rich and famous. Monaco may be the world's second-smallest country - only the Vatican has a smaller footprint - but Monte Carlo has a confidence, impact, and appeal that few can match.

The gilded Royal Palace adds an air of regal glory, and whether you want to soak up the culture at the opera or raise the stakes at a casino - doing your finest 007 impressions - you'll feel very much at home here (charges may apply). Soar above the high-rise hotels and glorious casinos in a helicopter (not included), to see the city from above, and admire landmarks like the cathedral where Grace Kelly married the Prince of Monaco in 1956.

High-end fashion, fragrances, and fancy adornments await in the gold-label shops of Monte Carlo's lavish shopping streets, while the old town's pink and lemon floral facades offer an authentic balance of historic character to counterpoint the well-heeled excesses. A wonderful escape, revel in old-world glitz and glam, as you admire twinkling chandeliers and wander between palatial architecture while enjoying your time in Monte Carlo's abundant wonderland. Before you leave, you could explore the storied fortress that protected this tiny state's independence for so long (entry fees apply).

Please note: The mandatory city tax/resort fee is not included and will be charged at the hotel.

Overnight: Fairmont Monte Carlo, or similar, Monaco

Meals included: Breakfast

After check out this morning, an arranged transfer will take you to Nice airport for your onward flight to Rome, Italy.

Upon arrival in Rome, an arranged transfer will take you to your hotel for a two night city stay. Once checked in the remainder of the day is at leisure exploring this amazing city.

Please note: The mandatory city tax/resort fee is not included and will be charged at the hotel.

Overnight: Rose Garden Palace, or similar, Rome

Meals included: None

Enjoy a day at leisure in Rome!

All roads lead to Rome, and with good reason - this city is one of the world's most thrilling, offering unmatched history along every street. An evocative, inspiring, and utterly artistic capital of unrivalled cultural impact, Rome is a city of back-to-back landmarks, which will take you on an exhilarating journey through the ages. This may be one of the world's oldest cities, but it's well and truly lived in. The ruins are punctuated with murmuring cafes, and the outdoor seating of restaurants sprawls out across piazzas, enticing you to sample tangles of creamy pasta and crispy pizzas.

Rome's incredible Roman Forum is littered with the ruins of its ancient administrations, which have stood firm for 2,000 years, since the times when the area was the centre of the Western world. Few sites are more simultaneously beautiful and haunting than that of the storied Colosseum, which looms deep into Rome's rich blue sky. Take a tour to learn details of the grisly goings-on within.

The best way to experience Rome is to wander its streets, gelato in hand. There is a lot to see here - whether it's the domed spectacle of the Pantheon, or the elaborate flowing waters and artistry of the Trevi Fountain. Vatican City is an astonishing, colossal display of Catholic grandeur, while the Spanish Steps - crowned by the Trinità dei Monti church - offer a beautiful spot to soak up the lively atmosphere of this humming city (sitting prohibited). With so much on the to-do list, you'll relish the breaks you take, enjoying simple pleasures like a strong espresso, or fresh pasta with tomato sauce and ripped basil.

Please note: Charges may apply to the above activities.

Overnight: Rose Garden Palace, or similar, Rome

Meals included: None

Depart: 19:00

After check out this morning and at the appropriate time an arranged transfer will take you to Civitavecchia port to embark on Silversea's Silver Nova. Once on board the remainder of the day is yours at leisure.

Please note: The following itinerary provides suggestions for additional activities and dining that can be enjoyed during free time at each destination. These activities will be at your own expense.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Nova

Meals included: Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart: 23:00

Raw, unvarnished, and refreshingly authentic, Naples is Italy's third-largest city and you'll soon discover the unique energy and exuberance of this sprawling city, which balances urban grit and timeless wonder like no other. Located on the breathtaking Bay of Naples, with the looming cone of Mount Vesuvius puncturing the blue sky close by, it can take a little time for Naples to work its way under your skin - but once you attune to its rhythms, you'll be hopelessly under its spell.

Naples's densely packed, UNESCO World Heritage Site city centre overflows with market stalls sell handcrafted goods along tight alleyways, and hidden courtyards serving up glasses of glowing Aperol Spritz. The smell of freshly-baked focaccias and drying washing hang over the thoroughly lived-in streets, while stunning baroque churches rise out of nowhere. Wherever you wander, this is a city sprinkled with immense cultural treasures and artistry - from palaces to fortresses and ruins from antiquity.

Unpretentious food, made from simple, flavourful ingredients is a feature of Naples' revered cuisine, and the birthplace of pizza is the perfect city to taste an authentic, fire-baked margherita pizza. Wash it down with a bottle of wine perfected by the fertile slopes of Vesuvius. A sharp espresso is always welcome to punctuate your time exploring. Mount Vesuvius's destructive impulses destroyed and conserved the ancient city of Pompeii in the blink of an eye, and the town is one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world. Naples' National Archaeological Museum displays many magnificent finds should you wish to stay in the city. The Amalfi Coast's immeasurable beauty also stretches out close by, while Capri's glorious island glamorously luxuriates just offshore.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Nova

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart: 18:00

Spectacular tiers of colour-splashed houses cascade down to immeasurably blue seas and hidden coves, along Italy’s premier coastline. Lemon groves and vineyards bask in the country’s generous southern sun, running alongside dramatic mountain precipices, and dazzlingly romantic fishing villages. The Amalfi Coast is rightly celebrated as a treasure of Italy, and you can enjoy the true scale of it, and the feel of the salty sea breeze in your hair, as you hike the Path of the Gods - where some of the best heavenly views of the beautiful beaches and improbably teetering villages open up below you.

The call of beachside bliss is never far away, and descending down to Duoglio Beach is a mesmerising introduction to the coastline’s jagged rock setting and crystalline waters. A dramatic ramp of steps rears up to Amalfi's distinctive black and white striped, Moorish-influenced cathedral, which stands at the heart of the town. Inside, tranquility awaits amid the arches and columns of the Cloister of Paradise.

Chattering piazzas, where ice cubes clink in glowing spritz cocktails, and strong espressos are savoured, hum with life nearby. Enjoy plates of shellfish-tangled spaghetti or spicy pezzente salami in your choice of the Amalfi Coast’s celebrated restaurants, before tasting locally-squeezed limoncello - the perfect denouement to any meal here. Grand villas, spectacular restaurants, and a reputation for refined luxury, but things haven’t always been so peaceful here. In the 10th and 11th centuries, Amalfi was an independent maritime republic, and the Municipal Museum of Amalfi is the place to learn of the region’s rise to global trading prominence.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Nova

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart: 19:00

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. Here you could 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-coloured Greek theatre is a highlight, standing before the distant loom of the volcano.

Alternatively, 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-metre 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 flavours. Enjoy a glass of wine on Giardini Naxos' seafront, and toast your time on these rich Sicilian shores.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Nova

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Overnight

Perched high on the imposing Sciberras Peninsula, Valletta immediately presents its massive, protective walls and vertical bastions to visitors arriving by sea. Rising to 47 metres in places, the fortifications protect lavish palaces, grand domes and illustrious gardens. Built by the Knights of St John on the narrow peninsula, Valletta is a compact, richly historical treasure trove of Baroque wonders. Ascend to reach the restful, flower-filled Upper Barrakka Gardens, where cannons fire and boom in salute at noon each day, sending echoing cracks of noise out across the waves below.

Recognised as 2018’s European Capital of Culture, Valletta is a fascinating and dense haven of history and intrigue. A busy, bustling capital, the breathtaking St John’s Cathedral - commissioned in 1572 - is almost concealed among its narrow streets. The relatively modest exterior is counterpointed by a staggeringly opulent, gold-leaf bathed interior, containing a Caravaggio masterpiece - the shadowy vision of the Beheading of St John. Cinematic and magnificent, Valletta has served as a filming location for Game of Thrones - but real epic history abounds on this rocky isle too.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Nova

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Depart: 18:00

Enjoy another full day in Valletta, Malta, from the prehistoric and megalithic sites of the Hypogeum of Paola and Tarxien, to the fascinating War Museum at Fort St Elmo, there is much to explore while in Malta.

Mdina also waits nearby, and the former medieval capital is a striking contrast to the island’s main city. With a strategic positioning in the Mediterranean, Malta is a jewel gleaming in Mediterranean sunshine.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Nova

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Sea days are the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind under the Mediterranean sun. Whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa (charges may apply), 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.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Nova

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart: 19:00

Breathlessly romantic, and incredibly scenic, the azure domes and whitewash buildings that cascade down Santorini's slopes are prime honeymoon material - and relentlessly romantic. A true gem of the Cycladic Island group, Santorini is startlingly pretty, and its white windmills and dazzling villages are incredibly easy on the eye. Look out over the endless expanse of blue waves, filling the massive volcanic caldera of Santorini - and absorb one of the most spectacular views in the world. The sheer rock shoulders of the caldera create an immense, natural amphitheatre - so enjoy the show, as you sip a local, volcanic-mineral enhanced white wine (not included), and fall in love all over again.

The east side of the island is ideal if you want to recline on volcanic-sand beaches - ranging in hues from charcoal-black to flame-red. This beautiful island was forged by powerful volcanic activity, including the huge eruption of 1,600 BCE - which wiped out the Minoan city at Akrotiri. The eruption sank the centre of the island, forming the moon-shaped topography we see now. Visit the archaeological site that has revealed and preserved the village, which was lost to time below the pumice and ash. Some whisper that this destroyed town may even be the fabled Atlantis.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Nova

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart: 18:00

With an endless sun-soaked season, earthy history, and vibrant culture, the island of Rhodes has it all. At the crossroads between continents, and sandwiched between Crete and Turkey's coastline, Rhodes has swayed between many mighty civilisations throughout its tumultuous history. Part of the Dodecanese Islands, which are sprinkled across the blissfully blue Aegean Sea, dive into this island of dazzling beaches, historic medieval towns, and whitewashed villages.

Crusted with turrets and walls, alluding to its strategic significance over the years. Incredible history has been left behind, and the cobbled streets of the UNESCO World Heritage site listed Old Town are some of Europe's best. Wander back through time, with occasional minarets from Ottoman-era mosques rising from the tangle of Medieval history, and the smells of cinnamon, cumin, and pepper lingering above stone-paved streets. Discover inviting outdoor restaurants, which spill across flower-filled courtyards, and enjoy fresh Greek cuisine with an Eastern influence.

The preserved columns of Lindos's spectacular Ancient Greek Acropolis watch out over electric blue water, while the Gothic Medieval stronghold of the 14th-century Palace of the Grand Masters of the Knights of Rhodes, adds more fascinating history to explore. Fragrant, pine tree-coated hills, and gorgeous beaches of eye-watering blue water, offer your choice of unbridled relaxation or thrilling action, and you can raise the pulse with water sports, or shelter in coves with shocks of turquoise water and monolithic rock formations.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Nova

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart: 21:00

Indulge in idyllic island life, seek out superb foods and wines, and soak in endless views of sweeping turquoise seascapes and pretty whitewash buildings. Known for its lively nightlife and rejuvenating, carefree outlook, Mykonos is a dazzlingly beautiful island escape. Mykonos retains its enduring, exclusive allure that first drew celebrities like Brigitte Bardot to its star-studded shores. True to its roots, Mykonos is a rich land of culture, tradition, and swirling legend, and the island is said to be built on the frozen bodies of giants slain by Hercules and to have been the legendary battleground between Zeus and the Titans.

Head out onto the crystalline waters to seek out serene islands, hit perfect beaches, or venture into the labyrinth of Mykonos Town. White facades and cobalt blue shutters add to this lively town's appeal. Explore narrow streets housing studios - where artisans piece together mosaics - and plenty of restaurants and bars offer sanctuary. Head to Little Venice for a waterfront view of one of the island's famed sunsets, and to enjoy an aperitif of the favourite aniseed liqueur, ouzo.

Boasting numerous attractive sandy coves, a wealth of top-notch restaurants, and rich cultural appeal, it's little wonder that Mykonos is one of the most popular Greek Islands. Discover this jaw-droppingly scenic island paradise, watched over by its iconic huddles of picturesque windmills.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Nova

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart: 18:30

Greece's first capital remains one of the country's most romantic towns, the warm colour palette and tempting, island-sprinkled waters, pull on plenty of heartstrings. With perfect beaches, crystal clear waters for swimming, and evocative fortress-capped mountains, Nafplion is a sun-soaked Greek beauty. A gorgeous blend of Greek, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman influences, stroll the seafront promenade and soak up the ambiance in tavernas and bars. Head into the warren of an old town, full of narrow streets, neoclassical architecture, and pink-flowered trees drooping over walls.

Located on the hill that towers over Nafplion, Palamidi Fortress is a Venetian castle built in 1714, and its steep walls flow dramatically down the slope. If you're feeling brave, climb the 857 steps to the top to see beautiful views across Nafplion and the Argolic Gulf. Acronafplia fortress is Nafplion's oldest castle, and its walls enclosed the entire town until the 13th century.

Just offshore, the Venetian Bourtzi fortress rises on a tiny islet, a short boat ride away across the glistening waters. Venetians built this harbour fortress to protect the town before it later housed the official executioner. Today its hardy walls shake to music, during its summer festival, and the castle enjoys a gorgeous view back over the waves to the town's humming waterfront. Ancient cities like Corinth also lie close by.

Overnight: Silversea's Silver Nova

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 05:00

After breakfast this morning, its time to bid farewell to the stunning Silver Nova and take an arranged transfer from the port of Piraeus to your hotel in Athens for a two night stay in this amazing city. Once checked in the remainder of the day is yours at leisure.

Please note: The mandatory city tax/resort fee is not included and will be charged at the hotel.

Overnight: Acropolian Spirit Boutique Hotel, or similar, Athens

Meals included: Breakfast

Enjoy a day at leisure in Athens!

A city of legend, civilisation, and enduring culture, Athens is a majestic and magical urban sprawl. Extraordinary elegance and grace combine with grit and graft in Greece's capital, where highways encase ruins from antiquity, and gleaming museums and galleries stand beside concrete sprayed with edgy street art. These contrasts enhance and elevate the wonders of this 2,500-year-old city, however, which counts extraordinary contributions to philosophy, drama, and democracy, among its global legacy.

The majestic ancient citadel of the Acropolis dominates an elevated platform and is a constant presence as you explore the city. The wonderful remains of the columned temple of the Parthenon - which date back to the 5th century BC - stand here, representing the pinnacle of classical architecture. The nearby Acropolis Museum adds context to your visit and frames the broad views from its giant glass windows. Or rise up Mount Lycabettus, to be rewarded with perhaps Athens' best panorama of the Acropolis sitting high over the city on its grand stage. See the marble horseshoe of the Old Olympic Stadium, where the first modern Olympics were held in 1896, for more of the city's enduring legacy.

Elsewhere, golden beaches and temples stretch out along the coastline, should you wish to explore a little further afield. Coffee is an art form to the Greeks, and it's an unwritten rule that coffee time must never be rushed. So prepare to settle down for a couple of hours and lose yourself in a good chat. Feeling hungry - try traditional souvlaki made with sauces handed from generation to generation.

Please note: Charges may apply to the above activities.

Overnight: Acropolian Spirit Boutique Hotel, or similar, Athens

Meals included: Breakfast

After check out this morning, an arranged transfer will take you to Athens airport for your homeward bound flight.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Welcome home!