Silversea Best of Croatia & Italy

Today make your own way to the airport for your outbound flight to Venice, Italy.

Upon arrival a transfer is provided to your hotel. Once checked in the remainder of your day is at leisure exploring this fascinating city.

Overnight: Splendid Venice - Starhotels or similar, Venice Italy

Meals included: None

Today you have a free day to explore Venice at your own leisure. Losing none of its allure over the years, this floating city of canals, bridges, and masks is a place of eternal beauty and enduring elegance. The lagoon of more than 100 islands is a heavenly sight, transporting visitors on a journey through time from its Roman inception, through centuries of trade to the modern face we see today. Navigate Venice's sparkling waterways by romantic gondola, or on cruises along wide canal boulevards. Span the Grand Canal over its iconic original crossing, the Rialto Bridge, which with its parade of tiny shops gives some of the city's most endearing views. If the crowds unsettle you at any point, take two turns away from the main thoroughfares to find peace alone, amid the city's labyrinth of tiny streets.

Hurry to Piazza San Marco to be immersed in Venice's elegant glory. Basilica San Marco transports you back to the wealthy days of the Doges, who ruled for over 1,000 years. Initially, their private chapel, it's now decorated with beautiful Byzantine mosaics. Nearby the Campanile di San Marco bell tower offers views over the higgledy-piggledy rooftops of times gone by. Just a hop skip and a jump around the corner is the Doge's Palace, where the levels of opulence ramp up even further. Justice was meted out in this stunning Palace, with the guilty walking to the cells across the covered Bridge of Sighs. Vaporetto trips to local islands offer even more adventures to float your boat, whether it's Murano with its world-famous glass, Torcello with its amazing Cathedrals, or Burano with its handmade lace and delightfully colorful painted houses.

Overnight: Splendid Venice - Starhotels or similar, Venice Italy

Meals included: None

Depart: 19:00

After check out this morning a transfer is arranged for Fusina port to board the stunning 'Silver Muse'. Once on board the remainder of the day is at leisure exploring this amazing ship.

Overnight: Silversea Siver Muse

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart 22:00

With a sweeping old town of Venetian architecture, sing-song Italian emanating from its cafes, and even a fountain that honours the Rialto Bridge you could be forgiven for thinking that you’d stepped off the boat into the Floating City itself while exploring Koper. Formerly an island, Koper was linked artificially to the Slovenian mainland in 1825. It now serves as the only major port of Slovenia and basks in the sun of the Istria coast, which offers an alluring blend of the best of Croatian, Slovenian, and Italian. The nation’s capital, Ljubljana, also lies within easy reach. A working city, with plenty of charm below its sea of terracotta roofs, the picturesque Tito square lies at Koper’s heart. The Cathedral of Assumption with its narrow bell tower dating back to 1664 when the city was a regional capital of Venice’s republic rises above the square, and towers over the narrow streets nearby.

Take a deep breath and climb the 200 steps for a stunning panorama of the city. Or, simply soak up the atmosphere with a wander through Čevljarska Ulica – a set of cobbled streets adorned with artisan shops, small bars, and restaurants. Soak up the sights of Koper, the country’s oldest town, or make for the Slovenian capital Ljubljana to discover a lively city of green parks, leafy open spaces, and pedestrianised boulevards. The pretty Ljubljana River stretches through the city’s heart, providing casual strolls and charming bike rides. Nearby, encounter a scene from a fairy-tale, as you see the breathlessly picturesque Bled Castle emerging from a tiny island in the centre of a cloudy-blue, alpine lake.

Overnight: Silversea Siver Muse

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart 18:30

Feel the strong Italian influence as soon as you step into this city, known as Croatia’s "Little Venice". A gorgeous artwork of a port, you can revel in seafront promenade strolls, waterside drinks, and the tangled beauty of an immensely atmospheric old town. Nearby, islands sparkle, and beaches call out, while working fishing boats add authentic everyday charm. With both Croatian and Italian languages spoken, there's more than a hint of Venice in the crisscrossing streets and soaring bell towers of this breathlessly romantic place. An alluring highlight of the Istrian Peninsula, walk the cobbled streets of Rovinj's old town, between sun-parched houses that rear up directly against the sea's lapping water. Tiny streets and squares are lined with little souvenir shops, bars, gelato stalls, and restaurants serving up delicious dishes laced with Istria's elusive white truffles.

Take the climb up above via the elegant Church of St Eufemia's Venetian bell tower. The tower's ascent is perhaps best viewed from the glinting waters, however, as you look back to see the church rising above the town's pretty clutch of colourful buildings. Explore the olive groves and vineyards of the sunny peninsular, on your way to villages where truffles are sniffed out by specially trained dogs, or head out to rocky coves to swim in refreshing, transparent seas. Pula is also close by - a city scattered with Roman ruins, including the magnificently preserved, in-tact amphitheater which continues to be a centre of entertainment, hosting atmospheric festivals and concerts to this day.

Overnight: Silversea Siver Muse

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 (charges may apply), 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.

Overnight: Silversea Siver Muse

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart 19:00

Embedded into the slopes of the steep Lovćen mountain, and overlooking the deep blue Adriatic, the fortified town of Kotor boasts a spectacular, imposing staging that few can match. Squeezing in through the tight Bay of Kotor is a daunting and impressive approach, as you arrive via one of Europe's most stunning waterways. A pearl of Montenegro and the Adriatic, Kotor's warren-like streets drip with history and authenticity. Under Venetian influence for four centuries, the city's UNESCO World Heritage Site old town invites you to wander amid atmospheric stone-clad streets, overlooked by a sea of terracotta roofs and the double towers of the cathedral. Protected by thick stone walls and the mountains behind, Kotor draws comparisons with another fortified Adriatic wonder in Dubrovnik.

Many favour Kotor for its compact layout, smaller crowds, and authenticity, however - having been spared from shelling during Yugoslavia's breakup. The tight-knit streets here are patrolled by a slinking population of feline residents, who were adopted as the town's mascots, after being left behind by transient trader ships. Learn of the city's extensive heritage on the waves, in the dedicated maritime museum that is contained within Grgurina Palace. Pick your way through tight alleys of workshops and studios, walking below fresh laundry strung from windows, before settling into shiny, paved piazzas for an afternoon coffee or seafood meal. If you're up for an aerobic challenge, tackle the 1,350 steps up the steep walls to St. John's fortress. The views over the gorgeous bay make the arduous slog worth it, as you rise past the city's eye-catching 15th-century church bell tower.

Overnight: Silversea Siver Muse

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart 19:00

Bari is a historic port town that invites you on a journey through everyday life in Italy’s unpretentious south. Explore further afield to immerse yourself in Puglia’s beauty and cultural wonders or simply soak up the atmosphere roaming the crooked streets of Bari’s old town Bari Vecchia where matriarchs roll out sheets of pasta in open doorways, footballs rattle along dusty streets, and sun-wrinkled old men lay out hands of cards. The photogenic old town’s streets are crowned by the chalky white Cattedrale di San Sabino, where vaulted archways, pretty mosaics, and a large rose window await. Wander along the ruler-straight Lungomare Promenade to breathe in fresh salty air and look up at the slowly twirling Ferris wheel - take a ride for some of the best views out over Bari’s waterfront.

Feeling hungry? Enjoy some local cucina povera cooking of the poor deeply traditional food that is simple and rich in elemental flavors. Warm focaccia bread, pasted with fruity local olive oil, and ear-shaped orecchiette pasta tangled with sun-gorged cherry tomatoes and creamy ricotta cheese, are all on the menu. Puglia’s whitewashed ancient villages, stunning beaches, and laid-back, down-to-earth approach to life means you’ll most likely want to explore further than just Bari. Highlights include Lecce’s grand baroque architecture and the conical roofs of the fairy-tale trulli houses of Alberobello. Powdery white sand beaches await at Salento - punctuated by arching rock formations. The incredible cave dwellings of Matera – 2019’s European Capital of Culture - are also easily within your grasp, as is Polignano a Mare’s spectacularly scenic narrow wedge of urban beach. Surrounded on three sides by steep terraces of rock, and full of snorkelers admiring the sights below the crystal-clear water, it’s a truly stunning place to bathe in the glow of the Italian sun.

Overnight: Silversea Siver Muse

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart 22:00

Croatia's crowning glory rears up vertically from the tranquil waters of the Adriatic, and Dubrovnik's daunting fortress town is a truly imposing sight to behold. Encircled by chunky stone walls so thick and dramatic they could have been purpose-built as a film set, this city's unmatched old town is the setting for countless films and shows from Star Wars to Robin Hood, Game of Thrones, and every production in between seeking a truly authentic medieval flavour. This fantasy fortress's walls which are no less than 12 meters thick at places are certainly not just for show, however. They kept Dubrovnik safe when it was a maritime republic and they were besieged as recently as 1991, when Serbian and Montenegrin forces attacked, as Yugoslavia broke apart. Fully restored now, the stone streets of the city take you through a beautiful mosaic of architectural splendour, baroque churches, and splashing fountains. Tapering alleys rocket up from the central boulevard of Stradun, offering spectacular views down, but you'll need to walk the city walls to appreciate the fortress city's full scale. Banking up sharply to the rear, you can gaze across an ocean of terracotta roofs and church spires, clamouring together before the sparkling Adriatic.

Visit the neighbouring fort of Lovrijenac, for another perspective, or swing up to Srd fortress's glorious panorama on a cable car. Dubrovnik's streets are crammed with eateries and candlelit tables, where couples splash wine into glasses and enjoy gnocchi mixed with creamy truffle sauces. Nearby beaches like Banje are also close by, and hidden bays reward the intrepid who venture out beyond the old town. Take sunset drinks to sit back and watch as flotillas of sea kayaks roll by, or sail on the pristine waters to explore island gems like Lokrum - where peacocks are the only permanent residents.

Overnight: Silversea Siver Muse

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart 18:00

Bathing in the Dalmatian Coast's generous sunshine, and overlooking sparkling, island-studded waters, Split is a city of romantic beauty, built around an extraordinary still beating historical heart. The setting may be spectacular, but it's the Diocletian's Palace - a Roman remain of incredible scale and detail that is truly bewitching. While immensely historic, Split hasn't been afraid to move with the times, and the stone walls encasing the streets are alive with buzzy bars and quiet nooks, where bottles of red wine are uncorked and delicious meals devoured. With a natural backdrop of dramatic limestone mountains, and Croatia's trademark scenic wonders all around, Split is a true heavyweight of the Adriatic. To enter Split's Diocletian's Palace is to step into a beautiful time warp.

Head first to the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, where a hollow bell tower rockets up, puncturing the sky. The palace's cellars can shelter you from a little of the heat and give space for everything from wine festivals to souvenir stalls. The perfume of lavender hangs heavy wherever you walk in the old town, where tucked shops offer artisan chocolates, dried figs, and freshly ground coffees. The expansive seafront promenade is all palm trees, buzzing bars, and eateries. Further out you'll find the peace of Marion Hill - where you can climb to some of the best views in town. Or, take the far less exerting wander to Sustipan cemetery's breathtaking panorama of sea, city, and distant islands. Trips to island paradises like Hvar and Brac are tempting, as are longer excursions to sites like Krka National Park's Waterfalls - where wide terraces of frothing water thunder into cooling, swimmable splash pools below. Nearby Trogir is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a cozier, no less charming old town, and historic port

Overnight: Silversea Siver Muse

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart 17:00

Croatia's Capital of Cool, Zadar is a dazzling mesh of influences and creativity. Romans founded the city before the Venetians, Austrians, French, and Italians all had their say, leaving a wealth of architectural interest. Glorious turquoise-water beaches and heavenly waterfalls also lie within easy reach of this energetic city of festivals and outdoor fun. See the old town, with its robust city walls, boasting decorative stone gateways and marble streets. The church of St Donatus was built from stones pillaged from the Roman forum, while Zadar Cathedral Dalmatia's biggest stands among the many architectural treats of this city, which was once an impenetrable stronghold of Venice's republic. Head for the 'pillar of shame' with its chains to humiliate the criminals of a bygone time or succumb to the tempting treats of shopping in the market. The sparkling Adriatic waters call you, and Kolovare Beach is a mere ten-minute wander from the old town.

A day trip to Kornat National Park which incorporates the Zadar Archipelago's immaculate scattering of beach-fringed islands or to the divine waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park, will introduce you to more of Croatia's thrilling natural beauty. The sea truly does sing here in Zadar, thanks to a unique waterfront artwork, which encapsulates the city's playful spirit. Designed to make music when the waves wash over it, the ebb and flow of the Adriatic plays the Sea Organ instrument like a maestro. Not far away, the Monument to the Sun is a 22-meter-wide disc, which gathers the sun's rays during sunny days and releases solar energy in the form of a magical light show after dark. Sit and admire the artwork coming to life, as one of the city's famous sunsets plays out before you.

Overnight: Silversea Siver Muse

After breakfast this morning its time to disembark and a transfer is provided to the airport for your flight to Nice, France. Upon arrival a transfer is provided to your hotel. Once checked in the remainder of the day is at leisure.

Overnight: Sheraton Nice or similar, Nice, France

Today you have a free day to explore Nice at your own leisure. The cities 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.

Overnight: Sheraton Nice or similar, Nice, France

Meals included: None

Today you'll meet your friendly guide for a full day guided tour of Nice aboard a luxury minivan. As an expert in the region, your guide will share fascinating insights as your journey begins along the scenic drive from Nice. Start your day with panoramic views over Nice, the Bay of Angels, the Bay of Villefranche, and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, before cruising along the famous coastal road. Your first stop is the historic hilltop village of Eze, perched at 429 metres, offering incredible views from its ancient walls. Wander through the charming medieval alleyways, discover beautiful boutiques and luxury hotels nestled in the cobbled streets, and enjoy a guided visit to the renowned Fragonard perfume factory. Arrive in the heart of the Principality of Monaco, where you’ll be dropped off directly on Le Rocher. Visit the Neo-Romanesque Cathedral, the final resting place of Grace Kelly, and stroll through the historic old town. Witness the changing of the guards at the Prince’s Palace.

No visit to Monaco is complete without experiencing the legendary Grand Prix Formula 1 circuit! Your guide will drive you along its most iconic sections, showcasing the emblematic symbols of Monaco’s luxury: the Grand Casino and the Hotel de Paris. Enjoy some free time in Nice to grab a quick lunch—your guide will be happy to offer local recommendations. After lunch, set off along the coastal road toward Antibes. Explore its fortress walls, historic old town, and bustling port, and take in the breathtaking views across the Mediterranean Sea and the Cap d’Antibes. Discover the hidden paradise of Cap d’Antibes, an exclusive neighborhood offering spectacular views of the sea and the Alps. On the way to Cannes, pass by the charming marinas of Juan-les-Pins and Golfe-Juan, known for their lively atmosphere and seaside elegance. Live like a celebrity in glamorous Cannes, snap a photo on the iconic red carpet! Admire the palm-lined boulevards, luxury boutiques, and prestigious hotels along La Croisette. Then, leave the sparkle behind and stroll through the historic quarter of Le Suquet, discovering the Cathedral Square and its stunning panoramic views over the City of Cinema. Return to Nice with unforgettable memories of the French Riviera.

Please note that during high season, there may be heavy traffic. Our dedicated local driver-guide will do their utmost to minimize travel time while ensuring your journey remains comfortable and enjoyable.

Overnight: Sheraton Nice or similar, Nice, France

Meals included: None

Today you have another free day to explore Nice at your own leisure. 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 colourful 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 colourful 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.

Overnight: Sheraton Nice or similar, Nice, France

Meals included: None

Depart 19:00

After check out this morning a transfer is arranged to the cruise port to embark the stunning Silver Shadow. Once on board the remainder of the day is at leisure exploring this amazing ship.

Overnight: Silversea Silver Shadow

Arrive: 08:00 - Overnight in port.

The Port of Livorno, known in English as Leghorn, is a major Italian seaport on the Tyrrhenian Sea, a part of the Mediterranean. It is the primary maritime gateway to the Tuscany region. With its roots stretching back to ancient times, the port truly flourished in the 16th century under the House of Medici, which developed Livorno as an "ideal city" and a free port to attract international trade and a diverse, multicultural population. Today, it remains a vital hub for various types of traffic, including cargo, containers, and ro-ro vessels. The port also serves as a popular cruise destination, acting as a convenient entry point for tourists heading to the famous Tuscan cities of Florence, Pisa, and Siena.

Overnight: Silversea Silver Shadow

Depart: 18:00

Enjoy another day in Livorno.

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. 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.

Overnight: Silversea Silver Shadow

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart 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 19 kilometres 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.

Overnight: Silversea Silver Shadow

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart 19:00

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 unrivaled 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 center 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 gather and soak up the lively atmosphere of this humming city. 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.

Overnight: Silversea Silver Shadow

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 (charges may apply), 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.

Overnight: Silversea Silver Shadow

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart 19:00

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 peninsular, 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.

From the prehistoric and megalithic sites of the Hypogeum of Paola and Tarxien, to the fascinating War Museum at Fort St Elmo. Mdina also waits nearby, and the former medieval capital is a striking contrast to the island’s main city. Cars are barred from its streets, and it offers endlessly atmospheric old-time wanders. With a strategic positioning in the Mediterranean, Malta is a jewel that many have wrestled for over the centuries. Independence from Britain was finally achieved in 1964, but the close allegiance remains evident, with English recognised as an official language, cars driving on the left, and red post boxes and telephone gleaming in Malta’s sunshine.

Overnight: Silversea Silver Shadow

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart 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 coloured Greek theatre 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 flavours. Enjoy a glass of wine on Giardini Naxos' seafront, and toast your time on these rich Sicilian shores.

Overnight: Silversea Silver Shadow

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart 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 remodelled 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 harbour, 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.

Overnight: Silversea 'Silver Shadow'

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart 17:00

An intriguingly off-the-beaten-track island of dreamy colours 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 harbour, dabbed with pastel colours, 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.

Overnight: Silversea Silver Shadow

Arrive: 09:00 - Depart 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 harbour'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 harbour 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.

Overnight: Silversea Silver Shadow

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 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 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. 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 Silver Shadow

Today, at the appropriate time you will disembark and will be transferred to the airport for the return flight home.

Please note: some flights may arrive +2 days due to flight schedules.

Welcome home!

Meals included: None