DAY 0 – CIVITAVECCHIA (ROME), ITALY
Originally built by Emperor Trajan who had a villa here, Civitavecchia has flourished as a major port for Rome since the 13th century. Today it is an important ferry terminal and for many travelers the gateway to the Eternal City, Rome. The Renaissance fortifications that surround the harbor area were begun by Bramante and completed by Michelangelo in 1535.
DAY 1 – SORRENTO, ITALY
With an idyllic cliff-top location on the Bay of Naples, Sorrento has inspired legends for centuries. In Greek mythology, the Sirens were said to live here, luring sailors onto the rocks. Today, citrus trees scent the air and add zest to the city’s limoncello liqueur. Sorrento is an ideal place to savor the local color, and to shop for embroidered linens, cameos and Capodimonte ceramics, all of which can be found in Old Town and along the pedestrian-only Via San Cesareo.
DAY 2 – GIARDINI (TAORMINA), ITALY
This harbor on the eastern shore of Sicily near Messina gives us close access to the fabulous Greco-Roman ruins of Taormina, as well as the active volcano Mt. Etna. The temples, streets and large amphitheater of Taormina make it one of Italy’s premier ancient sites. Its location overlooking the sea and with the backdrop of snow-capped Etna complete the package and make it among the most famous attractions in the Mediterranean region. Giardini Naxos itself boasts a lovely beach at Lido Europa, and intrepid visitors can climb Mt. Etna to see a volcano close up.
DAY 3 – VALLETTA, MALTA
Occupied successively by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs, French and British, Malta has been of strategic importance throughout history. A British Crown Colony until 1964, Malta received the George Cross for its valiant resistance to German occupation in WWII. The island’s rich heritage is reflected in the architecture of Valletta, the current capital, and Medina, the capital until 1565. In Valletta the Knights of St. John built such masterpieces as St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Palace of the Grand Masters, along with the fortifications that guard the town’s magnificent harbors.
DAY 4 – AT SEA
Relax and experience all that Seabourn Quest has to offer!
DAY 5 – KOTOR, MONTENEGRO
Kotor is a town of medieval architecture and historic monuments, influenced by its time under the rule of the Republic of Venice between 1420 and 1797. Set to a backdrop of majestic mountains, the scenery is second to none, so be sure to keep your camera handy. The Gulf of Kotor is sometimes called the southernmost fjord in Europe, although it is actually a submerged river canyon. The overhanging limestone cliffs of Orjen and Lovćen complete one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful landscapes. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the best preserved medieval towns in the Adriatic. Take a stroll through the old town and you’ll find many cathedrals, churches and Venetian palaces to explore. St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, Church of St. Nicolas, Church of Our Lady of Remedy and Kotor Maritime Museum are a few to get you started. Visit Our Lady of the Rocks or, take a 15-minute drive to Perast, a picturesque village at the edge of the bay, which is one of the most romantic places in Montenegro and affords a stunning view over the twin islets.
DAY 6 – ZADAR, CROATIA
Located in central Dalmatia Zadar is one of the Adriatic’s most historically interesting towns with a wealth of sightseeing and exciting nightlife. Zadar was founded by the Romans, attacked by the Turks, ruled by the Austrians and made part of Italy until 1943 when the Germans moved in. Allied bombing destroyed much of the historic centre which was rebuilt after the war only to suffer more attacks by Yugoslav forces in 1991. In recent years Zadar has undergone a startling revival. Cafes and bars are filled, museums and churches have been restored and tourists pour in to take boats to nearby islands.
DAY 7 – FUSINA (VENICE), ITALY
Nestled along the breathtaking Venetian Lagoon, Fusina, Italy, offers a serene escape for discerning travelers seeking a blend of opulence and cultural exploration. This picturesque port town serves as a gateway to the timeless allure of Venice while embodying its own charm and sophistication.
Whether immersing oneself in the rich history and artistry of Venice, navigating the iconic canals aboard a private gondola, or savoring the flavors of authentic Italian cuisine in charming trattorias, there is no shortage of unforgettable experiences awaiting visitors.
