An Adriatic Renaissance: Valletta to Venice Cruise

Sitting in the center of the Mediterranean, Malta boasts unbeatable location, location, location. Its sunny charm and island lifestyle have made it a modern-day summer holiday destination, but historically, its strategic position has made it a target for invaders. The Maltese people, known for their convivial and family-oriented nature, have a long history of defending their homeland, from ancient Greek sieges to Napoleon’s forces. Their remarkable bravery during World War II, particularly during the Second Siege of Malta, earned the nation the George Cross from King George VI. This honor is proudly displayed on the Maltese flag and coat of arms, symbolizing their enduring spirit and resilience.

Your day is spent in Maltas’ convivial capital, Valletta, which remains a historical city with streets of fascinating sites telling more than their fair share of stories. Your local guide tells tales of the past and present at the Barrakka Gardens where you’ll gain a perspective of the city’s harbor from a naval point of view before exploring the Grand Masters Palace and Armory, where you’ll uncover an impressive collection gathered by The Knights of St John, while the multimedia show, Malta Experience, places thousands of years of Malta into perspective.

There’s time after your locally guided tour to stroll the city streets before you board the ship and begin your voyage. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner where you’ll meet your guide team and crew.

Sitting in the ‘toe’ of Italy’s ‘boot’ and guarding the formidable Strait of Messina, Calabria’s former capital, Reggio di Calabria, has witnessed centuries of history. Offering views across to Sicily just two miles away, and the formidable Mount Etna, Reggio di Calabria is home to the National Archaeological Museum, which houses the famous Riace Bronzes—life-size, ancient warrior-like Greek statues. The town boasts the Lungomare Falcomatà, a lengthy seafront promenade lined with palm trees, where locals gather for the age-old Italian evening stroll known as la passeggiata. Reggio di Calabria is also known for its historical ties to Magna Graecia, which are reflected in its classical architecture and ancient ruins. Your morning experiences offer time to enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the ship or on shore, before sailing east to the heel of the boot late afternoon.

You can choose from a selection of morning and full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). In the morning, the Coastal Duet of Scilla & Chianalea for “Little Venice” and the seaside villages’ charming and quiet allure, including beach time for relaxing and swimming. The morning Cursed Village of Pentedattilo tours an abandoned ghost town in the shadow of a “five-fingered” mountain which threatens all who visit. For a full-day experience, opt for the Tropea Beach & Winery Tour with Calabrian Lunch to experience the region’s beloved seaside resort with beach time before heading inland to the “Land of Wine” with its history dating back to ancient Greece, complete with a tour, tasting and Calabrian lunch at the prestigious Cantine Masicei vineyard.

Sailing the Italian coastline, reach the region of Puglia and moor in the walled coastal town of Gallipoli around midday. This charming town acts as your gateway to the southern tip of Italy, offering an afternoon to explore its hidden treasures on one of our ‘Your Choice’ experiences. Early evening, set sail once more, journeying overnight around the heel of ‘the boot of Italy’ to the port town of Bari.

You can choose from a selection of afternoon shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). Tour the Walled City of Gallipoli with a local guide for insights into the picturesque island town and its fascinating history. Or visit Lecce, the Florence of the South, for Renaissance and baroque influences, lively markets and delicious cuisine.

Bari acts as your gateway today with its popular neighbors of Alberobello, Matera and Castel di Monte in sight. As the capital of Italy’s up-and-coming Puglia region, Bari is undergoing a renaissance, transforming once-neglected suburbs into colorful neighborhoods. The city’s bustling port has been a hub of trade and culture for centuries, showcasing its rich maritime heritage, while Bari’s charming old town, Bari Vecchia, features narrow, winding streets leading to historical sites like the Basilica di San Nicola and the imposing Norman-Swabian Castle. Famed for its orecchiette pasta, often handmade by local women right on the streets, Bari adds a personal touch to its culinary scene, with seafood a local specialty. Stories rich in legends such as that of Saint Nicholas, whose relics were brought to Bari from Myra in 1087, further enrich the city’s mystical allure as does a devotion to the 150,000 tons of olive oil produced in the region annually, which funds its ongoing facelift.

You can choose from a selection of morning and full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the morning UNESCO World Heritage Site Alberobello tour, a local guide introduces you to the enchanting, conical whitewashed trulli houses. On the morning UNESCO World Heritage Site Castel di Monte tour, visit the octagonal hilltop fortress with a unique design by emperor Frederick II. On the full-day UNESCO World Heritage Site Matera tour, be enchanted by ancient the Sassi districts’ cave dwellings, labyrinthine streets and intricate rock churches.

Sailing east across the Adriatic, meet the Croatian coast at the walled city of Dubrovnik, where the ‘Your Choice’ experiences offer an opportunity to view the city from ground level on a walking tour, or above from its city walls.

This stunning walled city boasts a history spanning over a millennium. Founded in the 7th century, Dubrovnik thrived as the Republic of Ragusa, a prominent maritime power. Its strategic location encouraged trade across the Mediterranean, with the associated wealth shaping its unique blend of architecture and culture. Throughout its history, Dubrovnik faced periods of prosperity and challenges, including conflicts with rival states and invasions. The city’s formidable defensive walls, begun in the 9th century and expanded in the 14th and 15th centuries, symbolize its strategic significance.

In modern times, Dubrovnik gained global recognition as a filming location for motion pictures such as “Game of Thrones,” where its ancient walls and historic streets provided the backdrop for King’s Landing. Today, Dubrovnik’s well-preserved medieval architecture, including churches, monasteries and palaces, continues to attract visitors seeking to explore its rich heritage and cinematic allure along the scenic Adriatic coast.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). The Locally Guided Walking Tour of Dubrovnik & its City Walls experience historical buildings and landmarks, shops, cafes, and panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the terracotta rooftops below. Choose the Walking Dubrovnik & St Vicenzo Dominican Monastery Herbal Gardens tour for highlights of the Old Town before a trip out to the lush valley of Zupa Dubrovacka, to discover the St Vicenzo Dominican Monastery and taste its unique products. Or opt for the Cultural Visit to Konavle Valley & Gruda Village for the rural Konavle County Museum with its national costumes, textile crafts, jewelry, musical instruments and more, then continue to Gruda Village to learn about its famous silk production and take in a local dance performance.

Your afternoon is free to explore the city independently before catching your tender back to the ship. Sail north to Split in the early evening.

Dubrovnik’s northern neighbor, Split, offers a plethora of experiences, with the city itself deserving a full day of exploration.

Split’s blend of ancient sites and modern delights promises a rich experience at every turn. This 1,700-year-old living museum is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important ports on the Adriatic Coast. Split’s heart beats within Diocletian’s Palace, commissioned in the 4th century AD by the Roman Emperor himself, seamlessly blending ancient grandeur with modern-day markets, cafés and shops. The city’s Roman legacy echoes through its street layout and the remnants of ancient walls and columns are scattered everywhere.

Don’t miss exploring historical sites like the Cathedral and Bell Tower of St. Domnius, originally Diocletian’s mausoleum, or browsing the souvenir stalls in Diocletian’s Cellars, once used as the palace’s storage rooms. While you are here, be sure to rub the big toe of the Grgur Ninski statue. Sculpted by Ivan Meštrović, this massive statue is one of the defining images of Split. The 10th-century Croatian bishop, Gregory of Nin fought for the right to use old Croatian in liturgical services instead of Latin. His left big toe has been polished to a shine–it’s said that rubbing the toe brings good luck and guarantees that you will return to Split.

You can choose from a selection of morning and full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the morning Split & Salona tour, join a local guide to the ruins of Salona, a former capital whose remains are considered Croatia’s most important archeological site; then visit Split’s Old Town on a walking tour, followed by free time before returning to the ship for lunch. On the morning Fortress of Klis & Stella Croatica Ethno Village tour, visit a medieval fortress which appears in “Game of Thrones,” followed by an orchard and olive grove walk at the living museum of Stella Croatica Ethno Village for a look into traditional ways of life.

The morning Pirate Town of Omiš & Cruise on the Cetina River excursion features a scenic drive and river cruise to an old mill for snacks and refreshments, followed by lunch back on board or on your own in Split. And the full-day UNESCO Feast—Split & Trogir visits the UNESCO-listed Trogir with a local guide for Renaissance-era architecture and free time before returning to Split for lunch on board, followed by a locally guided walking tour of Split’s UNESCO treasures, including possibly the oldest cathedral in the world.

Returning to Italy’s east coast, dock at the city of Ancona. Set amidst miles of sandy beaches, this region is a favored summer retreat for Italians wishing to enjoy their homeland’s seaside scene.

Ancona, an ancient city with a modern Italian vibe, has been a magnet for explorers and merchants for centuries. Its strategic location has made it a pivotal port since Greek and Roman times, with the city’s Arch of Trajan, a triumphal arch built in honor of the Roman emperor Trajan, standing as a testament to the city’s Roman heritage. During the Renaissance, Ancona flourished as a hub for explorers like Amerigo Vespucci, who embarked on voyages of discovery to the New World from its port.

Ancona’s name, derived from the Greek word ankon meaning ‘elbow,’ reflects the shape of its natural harbor. The Mole Vanvitelliana, a pentagonal fortress on a small island near the harbor, which was originally built as a quarantine station for maritime travelers, now hosts cultural events and exhibitions. Today, Ancona serves as your gateway to its surrounding charms, offering enticing options such as a day trip to the Republic of San Marino, or winery visit, among the ‘Your Choice’ experiences.

You can choose from a selection of morning and full-day shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the morning Medieval Corinaldo tour, discover the quiet medieval hilltop town, including its legendary ancient well. Also in the morning, the Magical Wines of the Marche experience visits a traditional, family-run winery for a tour and tasting. For a full-day option, the Republic of San Marino offers medieval architecture, breathtaking views and unique political status as the world’s oldest republic.

Once the capital of the Western Roman Empire and later the Byzantine Empire in Italy, Ravenna boasts a wealth of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase its ancient glory. Its strategic location near the Adriatic Sea made it an ideal center for administration and defense against northern invaders during the declining years of Rome, placing the empire’s fate in the hands of Ravenna. In later years its renaissance attracted notable figures throughout history, including Dante Alighieri, the renowned Italian poet, whose tomb remains a place of pilgrimage for literature enthusiasts. A guided tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate the city’s rich history and its remarkable mosaics, which tell their own captivating story.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the Curious Case of Roman Ravenna tour, take in the Western Roman Empire’s capital with impressive architectural and artistic achievements. Or choose to visit the Mural Village of Dozza for its vibrant murals and imposing castle,

The Istrian Peninsula, situated at Croatia’s entrance, is steeped in a profound Roman heritage. Today, dock at the picturesque enclave of Rovinj, granting access to both the town and its scenic surroundings. Start with a morning experience before returning to the ship for lunch.

Ancient ruins like well-preserved amphitheaters and temples dot its terrain, bearing witness to centuries of Roman influence. Istria’s prized olive oil tradition underscores its Mediterranean charm, with groves dating back through the ages. The wealth brought by this ‘liquid gold’ to the former Roman colony still resonates today, making Istria a favored holiday destination for Italians, Slovenians and Croatians alike. Among its gems, romantic Rovinj shines as Istria’s star attraction—a picturesque Mediterranean fishing port with morning markets, scenic cliffside views, renowned restaurants, beautiful beaches and a year-round calendar of cultural events. Climbing the bell tower offers vistas of Rovinj’s historic center and the Adriatic Sea beyond.

You can choose from a selection of morning shore excursion options that best suits your interests and level of fitness (ask your Adventure Specialist for details). On the Roaming Rovinj & Pula tour, walk the Old Town section of one of the Mediterranean’s most picturesque towns, then visit Pula for its Roman heritage, including one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Opt for the Medieval Enclave of Motovun tour for a walking tour of the walled medieval enclave including one of the last preserved lowland Mediterranean forests, with free time in town. Or the Istria’s Liquid Gold locally guided walking tour explores Rovinj and then heads to the countryside for an olive oil property tour and tasting, complete with smoked ham, cheese, bread and wine.

The afternoon is yours to explore Rovinj’s charming streets, savor a cool drink at a waterfront bar, or relax on a nearby beach. Set sail in the early evening as the sun sets over this enchanting town.

Disembark this morning at the port of Fusina on the Laguna Veneta and transfer to the island of Venice in true Venetian style—by boat.

The true magic of Venice is that no matter how many times you visit, it remains a surreal experience. It’s almost impossible to believe that people live and go about their daily lives in this movie-set city. Founded in the 5th century as a refuge from barbarian invasions, Venice rose to become a powerful maritime republic and a major center of trade and culture during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. At the height of its wealth and influence, Venice expanded its empire, leaving an indelible mark across the Mediterranean, evident in the architecture, art and culture from the Dalmatian coast to the Ionian Islands.

Unlike many great cities, Venice lacks grand boulevards, world-class entertainment facilities, and bright neon signage. Its true allure lies in the city’s ability to transport visitors to another world. It is the Venetians who reveal Venice’s true character. In winter, they wear real fur and don sunglasses day and night as they emerge from hidden trattorias, skillfully avoiding the tourist menus. They navigate the city using vaporetto’s, not gondolas, purchase Murano glass directly from the island of Murano, and shrug off remarks regarding the canals’ odors with disdain.

Today, your Venetian guides lead you through their city as honored guests. Spend time in Saint Mark’s Square, marvel at the eclectic Saint Mark’s Basilica, sigh at the Bridge of Sighs and navigate the maze of alleys leading to the Rialto Bridge. No visit to Venice is complete without an exploration of the city’s canals by gondola. Your gondolier will navigate through a series of waterways, offering a unique insight into the other side of Venice—a view from the city’s many canals. Choose to return to the hotel with your guide or make your way to your coach transfer point later in the day. Venice is yours to explore.

This evening, celebrate your journey with a farewell event–Venetian style!

This morning, check out of your hotel and say farewell to your fellow travelers, as you transfer to Venice Marco Polo Airport for your onward flight.