Italy, France & Greece Featuring Sicily

Overview

A 19-night voyage aboard Silver Ray, departing Civitavecchia, Rome on 17 Jun 2028 and arriving in Athens (Piraeus), Greece, calling at 18 destinations along the way.

Cabin prices

Live prices per person based on two sharing. Select a grade to see its fare options.

1. 1

   Day 1 ·Civitavecchia (Rome)Embark

   17 Jun 2028

   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 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 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.
2. 2

   Day 2 ·Salerno

   18 Jun 2028

   Arrive 09:00Depart 19:00
3. 3

   Day 3 ·At Sea

   19 Jun 2028
4. 4

   Day 4 ·Livorno (Tuscany)

   20 Jun 2028

   Arrive 08:00Depart 21:00

   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. 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. View less
   
   With its bustling market, fortresses and iconic waterfront, there’s 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. 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, where you’ll 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 black and white 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.
5. 5

   Day 5 ·Portofino, Italy

   21 Jun 2028

   Arrive 08:00Depart 18:30

   Bronzed and beautiful visitors enjoy the unique ambiance, chic boutiques and quaint cafés that overlook the small yacht harbor and line the narrow, cobbled streets. Others explore along the coastline, where tiny villages are tucked away in hidden coves.
   
   Don't miss out on practically everyone's favorite pastime - people-watching while sitting in one of the outdoor cafés, sipping a campari or enjoying a cappuccino. The boutiques and designer shops are only a stone's throw away, tempting prospective buyers with chic resort wear and Italian designer clothing (be aware that not all shops may be open on Sunday).
6. 6

   Day 6 ·Porto Santo Stefano

   22 Jun 2028

   Arrive 08:00Depart 19:30

   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 unqiue 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. View less
   
   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 - which is based around 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 12 miles 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.
7. 7

   Day 7 ·Ajaccio (Corsica)

   23 Jun 2028

   Arrive 08:00Depart 18:00

   Ajaccio is Corsica's largest town. As such, it retains the image of a typical French Mediterranean resort - palm trees, street cafés and a marina full of yachts from around the world. Set in a magnificent bay with a shadowy mountain range as a scenic backdrop, its first image is of yellow-toned buildings and a majestic citadel.
   Ajaccio also serves as a popular departure point for trips into Corsica's rugged interior
   
8. 8

   Day 8 ·St. Tropez, France

   24 Jun 2028

   Arrive 08:00Depart 18:30

   Once an insignificant fishing village, this jet set haven became popular as an artists' colony in the late 19th century. But it was Roger Vadim's movie, And God Created Woman, filmed here with Brigitte Bardot, that brought about the international cult of Tropezian sun, sex and celebrities. Located at the end of its own peninsula, St. Tropez suddenly became the talk of the jet set, which propelled the tiny port into world fame.
   A hundred years ago not even a proper road led to St. Tropez; access was mainly by boat. Novelist Guy de Maupassant sailed his yacht into the port in 1880. The neo-Impressionist painter Paul Signac followed, as did a number of other famous artists and writers. By the time of World War I, St. Tropez was well established as a hangout for Bohemians.
   The old part surrounding the harbour is the focal point. Here, narrow streets are packed between Quai Jean Jaurès, Place des Lices and what is left of the 16th-century citadel. The harbour is filled with sleek, gleaming yachts that have replaced the simple fishing boats. Pastel-coloured houses ring the waterfront, presenting the classic St. Tropez impression of sidewalk cafés and small boutiques with the latest fashions.
9. 9

   Day 9 ·Collioure

   25 Jun 2028

   Arrive 08:00Depart 18:30

   The south coast of France is nothing if not beautiful. To the east you have the sparkling seas of the Riviera while to the west, the terrain becomes craggier, less built upon but no less lovely. As you travel west ports get smaller and less glossy – but remain undeniably authentic. Such is true of Collioure. This charming seaside resort might not have the mega yachts (or mega bucks) of St. Tropez and Monte-Carlo, but it certainly has a local flavour that is unique to the south-west of France.
   
   So much so that the post-impressionist movement Fauvism was immortalised here. Apparently the movement was created when artists including Matisse, Picasso and Derain arrived in 1905 and realised they could not purchase black pain in the area. They were thus forced to find a creative solution to their problem. The answer was, of course, the dotty pictures that defined 20th century art. So magnetic was the region that others flocked to the area, and even today Collioure’s church is one of the most painted locations in France, with a record 242 reproductions. So perhaps the best guide to Collioure is not the usual guide books, but rather a crash course in modern art. Little seems to have changed since the painters left the seaside village, olive and lemon groves are still abundant, grape vines still line the horizon and stone cottages still stand. Cicadas still sing, fishing boats – bringing home the region’s speciality of anchovies – still float, and life carries on very much as it must have done in 1905.
10. 10

    Day 10 ·Barcelona, Spain

    26 Jun 2028

    Arrive 07:00

    The infinite variety of street life, the nooks and crannies of the medieval Barri Gòtic, the ceramic tile and stained glass of Art Nouveau facades, the art and music, the throb of street life, the food (ah, the food!)—one way or another, Barcelona will find a way to get your full attention. 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.
    
    A stroll along La Rambla and through waterfront Barceloneta, as well as a tour of Gaudí's majestic Sagrada Famíliaand his other unique creations, are part of a visit to Spain's second-largest city. 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.
11. 11

    Day 11 ·Marseille, France

    27 Jun 2028

    Arrive 08:00Depart 18:00

    Today, Marseille is the country's most important seaport and the largest one in the Mediterranean. The city is divided into 16 arrondissements fanning out from the Old Port. The large industrial port area virtually rubs shoulders with the intimate, picturesque old harbor, the Vieux Port. Packed with fishing boats and pleasure crafts, this is the heart of Marseille. Two fortresses guard the entrance to the harbor: Fort Saint Nicolas and, across the water, Fort Saint Jean.
12. 12

    Day 12 ·St. Tropez, France

    28 Jun 2028

    Arrive 08:00Depart 18:30

    Once an insignificant fishing village, this jet set haven became popular as an artists' colony in the late 19th century. But it was Roger Vadim's movie, And God Created Woman, filmed here with Brigitte Bardot, that brought about the international cult of Tropezian sun, sex and celebrities. Located at the end of its own peninsula, St. Tropez suddenly became the talk of the jet set, which propelled the tiny port into world fame.
    A hundred years ago not even a proper road led to St. Tropez; access was mainly by boat. Novelist Guy de Maupassant sailed his yacht into the port in 1880. The neo-Impressionist painter Paul Signac followed, as did a number of other famous artists and writers. By the time of World War I, St. Tropez was well established as a hangout for Bohemians.
    The old part surrounding the harbour is the focal point. Here, narrow streets are packed between Quai Jean Jaurès, Place des Lices and what is left of the 16th-century citadel. The harbour is filled with sleek, gleaming yachts that have replaced the simple fishing boats. Pastel-coloured houses ring the waterfront, presenting the classic St. Tropez impression of sidewalk cafés and small boutiques with the latest fashions.
13. 13

    Day 13 ·Livorno (Tuscany)

    29 Jun 2028

    Arrive 08:00Depart 19:00

    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. 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. View less
    
    With its bustling market, fortresses and iconic waterfront, there’s 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. 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, where you’ll 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 black and white 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.
14. 14

    Day 14 ·Porto Santo Stefano

    30 Jun 2028

    Arrive 07:00Depart 18:00

    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 unqiue 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. View less
    
    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 - which is based around 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 12 miles 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.
15. 15

    Day 15 ·Salerno

    1 Jul 2028

    Arrive 09:00Depart 18:30
16. 16

    Day 16 ·Giardini Naxos (Sicily)

    2 Jul 2028

    Arrive 08:00Depart 18:30

    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 on 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. View less
    
    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-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 cactai and citrus groves – and produce some of Sicily’s most refined flavors. Enjoy a glass of wine on Giardini Naxos’ seafront, and toast your time on these rich Sicilian shores.
17. 17

    Day 17 ·At Sea

    3 Jul 2028
18. 18

    Day 18 ·Milos

    4 Jul 2028

    Arrive 08:00Depart 18:30

    Milos or Melos is a volcanic Greek island in the Aegean Sea, just north of the Sea of Crete. Milos is the southwesternmost island in the Cyclades group. The Venus de Milo and the Asclepius of Milos were both found on the island, as were a Poseidon and an archaic Apollo now in Athens.
19. 19

    Day 19 ·Paros

    5 Jul 2028

    Arrive 08:00Depart 18:30

    As one of the lesser known islands in the Aegean Sea, Paros enjoys its reputation as being the underdog of the Cyclades. Often overshadowed by Mykonos to the north, or Santorini to the south, the savvy traveller knows this island paints one of the finest pictures of Greece that you’re ever likely to find. Arrival in Paros is postcard perfect and exactly as you imagine it. Cafes and tavernas line the pretty port, bougainvillea covers narrow streets, brightly painted fishing boats bob gently in the harbour. View less
    
    If you arrive early enough, you’ll find the catches of the day being sold for pennies. All the touch points are there: evocative blue shuttered, white-washed houses, windmills and domed churches on the horizon, arid hillside above an azure bay that homes promise of fresh figs, olives and the seductive lullaby of cicadas. This image might seem clichéd but in Paros, it’s reality. If strolling the cobbled streets that snake into the village does not sustain your love of Greek history, then head for the Archaeological Museum in the centre of town. Paros has been inhabited since 3200 BC and has a past of maritime battles, followed by economic development and cultural flourishing. The island was well known for its fabulous marble, a fine example of which is the lovely Town Hall in Lefkes village (notably Venus de Milo was also crafted from Parian marble). Literary lovers will also know that Paros was the birthplace of Greek lyrical poet Archilochus, statues of whom can be found all over the island.
20. 20

    Day 20 ·Athens (Piraeus), GreeceDisembark

    6 Jul 2028

    Arrive 07:00

    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 can count notable contributions to philosophy, drama and democracy, among its global legacy. Piraeus' giant port and naval base welcome you to the edge of the Athens' urban area.
    
    From there it's a simple jaunt to the centre. 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.

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