Italy, Montenegro & Croatia

Venice embodies romance at its finest. Admire the rounded domes of San Marco, pause at the Bridge of Sighs, marvel at the golden lions and Renaissance splendor of the Doge's Palace, and sense the echoes of Verdi, Puccini, and Caruso at La Fenice Opera House. Take in the timeless Palladian elegance of San Giorgio Maggiore and drift through the Grand Canal by gondola. In Venice, love is always in the air.

Rovinj is a quintessential Mediterranean town, crowned by the grand Baroque Church of St. Euphemia. Near the harbor, landmarks include the historic clock tower, the ornate Balbi’s Arch, and the 17th-century former Town Hall. To the east stands the serene Franciscan monastery, while to the south lies Rovinj’s oldest monument—the Romanesque, heptagonal Chapel of the Holy Trinity.

Sibenik, Croatia, is a charming coastal town on the Adriatic Sea known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The town is home to the UNESCO-listed St. James Cathedral, a masterpiece of Renaissance art. With its narrow, winding streets and sea views, Sibenik offers a blend of medieval charm and beautiful coastal scenery, making it a popular destination in Croatia.

George Bernard Shaw said: 'Those who seek paradise on earth should come to Dubrovnik.' Indeed, Dubrovnik is a treasure by any measure made more precious by its miraculous restoration. Crowned by the Minceta Tower, the 10th-century city walls are the proud symbol of Dubrovnik's colorful history.

This stunning rock-walled chasm splitting the coastal mountains of Montenegro is the longest arm of the sea in southern Europe. Boka harbors the medieval city of Kotor, one of the prettiest, unspoiled towns you have ever seen. Founded by the Romans, fortified during the Byzantine era, and then ruled by Venice for much of its history, Kotor has been naturally preserved by its isolation.

Set along the Adriatic coast, this historic Italian town captivates with its whitewashed buildings, narrow alleys, and charming seaside views. The ancient harbor is filled with colorful fishing boats, giving the town an authentic and lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore medieval churches, relax on pristine beaches, and savor delicious Apulian cuisine in this picturesque coastal destination.

Each Star Clippers ship offers a traditional and elegant way to see the world. Feel the wind fill the sails and gently carry you from one gorgeous destination to the next. During your time on board, you can choose to relax on a sun lounger or cool off in one of the pools on the top deck, while more adventurous passengers may enjoy the opportunity to climb the rigging or even have a go at steering the ship. Alternatively, you can wander the interior areas of the ship and discover relaxing lounges, a revitalizing spa (Royal Clipper only), and a peaceful library.

Syracuse is a city on the Ionian coast of Sicily known for its ancient ruins. It was once the largest city in the world, bigger than Athens and Corinth, and as you can imagine, it's steeped in history. Visit Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, one of Sicily's greatest archaeological sites. Relax in one of its stylish little cafes surrounding its beautiful baroque piazzas before wandering down its medieval lanes towards the sparkling blue sea.

The Aeolian archipelago comprises seven islands of volcanic origin, of which only Stromboli and Vulcano are active volcanoes. The main island is Lipari, which offers travelers arriving by boat a beautiful panorama of its Acropolis, presided over by the Cathedral. Its marina is bustling with shops, boutiques, and stalls, and it's an island where life is good.

Sorrento, whose city walls rise straight out of the sea, is located on the lovely Amalfi Coast and overlooks the Bay of Naples. Optional excursions might include taking a trip back in history to Pompeii, where the ashen remains of ancient Romans lie frozen in time.

The pastel houses of Ponza Town rise in neat terraced rows from the busy harbor, where sleekly groomed yachts and ramshackle fishing boats moor side by side. Happily, there are few tourists here, so it's a delight to wander through the unspoiled town.

Palmarola is a snorkeling heaven part of a group called The Pontine Islands, located off the coast between Rome and Naples. A craggy landscape with pink coral beaches and emerald coves beckons, so don't forget your swimsuit and flippers. Unique, isolated, and stunning.

Disembark after breakfast and continue your independent trip back home.