Stay overnight in Venice aboard a ship and explore its beauty. Renowned as the "Queen of the Adriatic" and "The Floating City," Venice is hailed as one of Europe's most romantic destinations.

The iconic image of Venice shows a city with no roads, only canals, because it’s built on over 100 small islands in a lagoon amid the Adriatic Sea. In the heart of the city close to Piazza San Marco you will find the Bridge of Sighs, an architectural jewel amid so many historical wonders. Venetian cuisine is renowned throughout Italy for its high-quality seafood. Positioned within a lagoon, local chefs and restaurants have the advantage of fresh-caught fish directly from the source and bringing it straight to their tables.
 

Sitting along Croatia’s beautiful Dalmatian Coast is the stunning city of Zadar. Remnants of Venetian rule and architecture from Eastern European influence throughout the city showcase the depth of history hidden between paved streets and stone buildings. Within Zadar’s bounds, you and your fellow explorers seeking immersive stories will find the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Venetian Works of Defence between the 16th and 17th Centuries: Stato da Terra – Western Stato da Mar. Step out of the past and into the present, gathering a group for a day of leisure on the enchanting beaches of Dalmatia, like Kolovare. Edenic scenes of nature and cascading waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes National Park invite you to take a moment of appreciation for the world around you. Croatia’s seafood cuisine entices with traditional flavors such as shrimp or lobster prepared in a buzara sauce — garlic, olive oil, tomato sauce, wine, fresh herbs and breadcrumbs combined to perfection.

The second-largest city in Croatia, Split offers a plethora of treasures. Explore its Old Town — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and dive into history at Diocletian’s Palace. Admire the various styles of architecture, as the city has been under Venetian, Roman, French, Austrian, Italian and Yugoslav rule. Away from the bustle of the city, find Kasuni Beach. Its pebbled shores meet crystalline waters, with a backdrop of rugged cliffs dotted with lush forests. Split also contains a wealth of specialty museums with unique displays that will delight any traveler. The Game of Thrones Museum exhibits authentic set props, costumes, weapons, city dioramas and more from the sensational HBO show.

Along the Adriatic coast of Montenegro lies the fortified town of Kotor, known for its medieval old town with winding streets and historic squares, as well as its many Romanesque churches and Maritime Museum. For unbelievable views of the Bay of Kotor, hike to the top of San Giovanni Fortress. Stroll through the many vendors, taking in the sounds, scents and colors as they call out their daily specials, produce and homemade goods. Swim the stunning azure waters of the bay with a boat tour to the Blue Cave.

Medieval ramparts, narrow alleys and cobblestone streets bring the past to life in the town of Otranto, one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. Its cathedral though, is the shining star among a treasure trove of architecture with a dazzling mosaic tile floor depicting the Tree of Life. As you and your fellow explorers wander the Old Town’s cozy streets, you will discover an array of modern restaurants, wine bars and shops housed in antiquated stone buildings. Stop in at one of these eateries to share a meal of Puglia’s famed orecchiette, a favorite pasta of the region usually served with delicious ricotta. Raise a glass of the region’s wine, such as Primitivo or Bombino Nero, and toast to new companions and new adventures. Join the locals of Otranto for a passeggiata along the seaside promenade overlooking the sparkling ocean.

As you pull into port at Naxos in the Gulf of Catania, you are greeted by white, sandy beaches that call out to you to come and play. The port town acts as a gateway to the greater Taormina municipality that lies on the island of Sicily.

With settlement dating back to 734 BCE, Taormina holds a treasure trove of historical and artistic riches to explore. Whether it’s the Palazzo Corvaja or Duomo di San Nicola, the city’s ruins create an ancient atmosphere that entices the most venturesome travelers. You can feel the past come alive as you make your way through the old stone structures that have stood the test of time.

On bright, sunny days, as you wander the grounds of the Ancient Greek Theater, a construct built directly into the mountains, standing amid such ruins transports you back to ancient live theater. It’s easy to spend hours regarding the expansive view from up high. The surrounding peaks and slopes of Mount Etna are the perfect backdrop for a picture that is postcard ready.

Mount Etna provides an exhilarating environment for the traveler that wants more. Its various foothills and pathways make it the perfect site for hiking enthusiasts. But don’t worry; a cable car ride to the top of the mountain is also available for the more easy-going visitor. Gazing up at the smoky peaks of Europe’s tallest active volcano sends shivers down one’s spine as they marvel at a force of nature.

From beaches along the coast of the Ionian sea to craters atop an active volcano, the journey from Naxos on through Taormina holds a diverse landscape that will not leave any traveler wanting.

The island of Capri is the gem of the Bay of Naples. In Capri you can marvel at the whitewashed homes and villas, fragrant lemon trees and flower-filled courtyards. From the water, be sure to visit the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto), which is only accessible by boat. Once inside the cave, you can marvel at the water’s sapphire color, which is caused by the light refraction from the hidden opening in the rock. Also from the water, see the Arco Naturale on the east coast of the island. Dating from the Paleolithic age, the limestone arch is the remains of a collapsed grotto.

Civitavecchia (Rome) acts as the main terminal for all cruises heading into Rome or the less-crowded, nearby Tarquinia. From there, a shuttle bus takes you to the Service Center of Largo della Pace where you can embark on adventures through the Eternal City. Rome maintains its position in the world as a powerful influence in religion, politics, and art, as it is well known as the site for intellectual and artistic achievements past. From the iconic Roman Coliseum aboveground to the mysterious catacombs of the Capuchin Crypt below ground, the capital of Italy beckons the adventurous to discover its many secrets and stories. The city holds a certain cosmopolitan feel as well with countless rooftop bars that are a prime location for a sunset. For explorations further off the beaten path, Tarquinia offers historic treasures such as the Monterozzi Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an authentic, Italian small-town feel.

The lagoon-like harbor of Porto Vecchio holds a charming ambiance that invites you to stroll through its maze of alleys, shops, bars, and restaurants. From the Bastion de France to Porte Genoese, the town’s original gate, the past remains a prevalent influence on the city’s personality. Venturing about a half-hour drive outside of town, discover the natural beauty of Ospedale, the first mountain village sitting 900 meters above sea level. Your exploration of Porto Vecchio is only complete with some time spent at the shores of Pinarello, Santa Giulia, Palombaggia, and Cala Rossa for Mediterranean blue seas and sunny adventures.

From the grandeur of the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the charming canals of La Venezia Nuova (New Venice), which date back to the Medici era, the Italian city of Florence contains much to explore. The port city of Livorno’s colorful building facades rises above the canal waters as a sight to behold. The long and storied history of Lucca call out to curious explorers seeking a mentally stimulating adventure. Cathedrals, art, culture, food, these iconic Italian cities have it all, and Livorno acts as the hub to make your way to each.