Best of Southern Europe

Today, upon your arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel.

The balance of the day is at your leisure.

Our guide will meet you at your hotel to take you to visit some of the most traditional places of Lisbon and also taste some of the food and drink specialties of Lisbon (and Portugal). After crossing Avenida da Liberdade you'll take the funicular of Glória to get to Bairro Alto's Hill. From the belvedere of S. Pedro de Alcântara recently renovated and with a small garden, you'll be able to feel the heartbeat of the city and to admire its beautiful hills. We will be walking through Bairro Alto, one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Lisbon. In the cosmopolitan Chiado, a commercial and cultural center, a great variety of shops and cafeterias gather people during the day, while theatres, bars, and restaurants are busy in the evening. In front of the historical "A Brasileira" cafe, you'll pass by the statue of the poet Fernando Pessoa drinking his coffee, watching people passing by. Right next door you may have a look at "Casa Havanesa" (since 1834), selling the famous Cuban cigars. In this same area, you may also have a look at "Livraria Bertrand", Lisbon's oldest bookshop.

Walking down the Chiado section you can have a look at "Luvaria Ulisses" (http://www.luvariaulisses.com/), possibly the smallest and most curious glove shop in the world! Next, you'll walk down to Rossio Square and Figueira Square and see some of the famous cafes and nice spots. The "Café Nicola" is one of the most ancient cafes, with charm and history. At "Ginginha do Rossio" you'll try a cup of this sherry liqueur. At Figueira Square, we'll have a look at "Manteigaria Silva" (http://www.manteigariasilva.pt/), a very traditional grocery, where you can see the typical salted codfish and many Portuguese food articles.

Get in "Confeitaria Nacional" and try a bite of the famous "pastel de nata" (custard tartlets). Time to walk through Rua (street) Augusta till "Terreiro do Paço" Square and enjoy the view towards the Tagus River. Nearby we'll get in "Conserveira de Lisboa"(http://www.conserveiradelisboa.pt/) and watch the variety of canned fish (tuna, sardines, etc.). We'll return to Rossio and finalize our tour at "Cervejaria Beira-Gare" to try the Portuguese famous "Bifana" (basically a slice of pork steak in a roll of bread, the pork having been lightly sautéed, sometimes with garlic and/or other spices, so that the meat is warm and juicy) and "pastéis de bacalhau" (codfish cakes) accompanied with beer or "vinho verde" and a vegetable soup of the day. Our guide will help you to choose your meal and leave you to enjoy it on your own pace. In the end, you will return to your hotel on your own.

Leisure day.

Today you are met and transferred to the airport on time for your flight to Madrid.

Welcome to Madrid! - Private Transfer from Madrid Airport to your hotel.

You will be greeted on arrival in Madrid by a private driver who will take you to your hotel. Estimated transfer time of 30 minutes.

Madrid is one of the world's most vibrant and seductive cities. It is a city with a charming and infectious atmosphere that the visitor can immediately sense, feel a part of and enjoy. A city that takes unabashed pleasure in its past traditions, it is proud to display a wealth of cultural treasures and architectural glories. Each neighborhood has a flavor all its own and the city wonderfully juxtaposes its grandeur - elegant marble statues, spectacular fountains, the awe-inspiring Royal Palace - with lively bohemian districts, where funky restaurants and cafes are sprouting up between old established local favorites. It’s an exciting time for food lovers in the capital too, where you can choose between traditional cuisine and state-of-the-art cooking techniques, in both restaurants and tapas bars.

If you're an art fan, you've come to the right place. Madrid is practically bursting at the seams with museums and galleries where you can get your fix of some of the greatest works of art from Velaquez, Goya, Picasso, El Greco, Dali and co. The Prado, the Reina Sofía and the Thyssen are the heavyweights and highly recommended at some stage of your visit. For day excursions, you are spoiled for choice, with Toledo and Segovia rightly being the most popular choices.

Come to Madrid and live like a local for a few days, it’s a place that quickly envelops visitors and almost always exceeds expectations.

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

As always, we´re happy to provide great restaurant recommendations and make any table bookings on your behalf.

Our expert guide will meet you at your hotel and together you will enjoy the architecture, history and anecdotes of Spain’s capital.

Enjoy a walking tour that includes some of the capital's most impressive sights, such as the Plaza de Oriente and the historic quarter including the 17th-century Plaza Mayor, a wonderful Baroque square lined with arcades filled with picturesque cafes.

Walk through the peaceful Plaza de la Villa where the City Hall stands and the narrow streets of Madrid of the “Austrias”, named after the Austro- Hapsburg dynasty which came to rule over in 1561. Much of the Austrias neighborhood today is a gastronomic centre, with traditional favorites aplenty, including the famous Botin, the oldest restaurant in the world. The nuns of the Convento nearby occasionally offer their home made cakes too!

The tour will also include an in-depth visit of the Prado Museum. No one would dispute the Prado's claim to house one of the world's greatest collections of paintings. The visit will focus on works by Goya, Velazquez, Zurbarán and the paintings here by El Greco. Your expert guide will make the visit a fascinating and unforgettable museum experience.

Alternatively, the tour is followed by a visit to Madrid's Royal Palace. Home to the Kings of Spain from Charles III to Alfonso XIII, Madrid's Royal Palace takes us on a journey through the history of Spain. Though it is no longer the royal family's home, it continues to be their official residence and has more than 3,000 rooms.

Please advise your preferences in advance.

Meet your guide at the hotel and set off together for Madrid’s Atocha train station where you will take the train to Toledo.

On arrival, your guide will begin the visit by taking a taxi above the city to allow you to marvel at the overwhelming panoramic view of the former capital of Spain.

Toledo is a thousand-year-old masterpiece created by various cultures including the Romans, Moors, Jews and Christians. Its heyday was in the 16th century when it became the capital of the mighty Spanish empire. The beautifully preserved buildings of this ancient town provide striking testimony of Toledo’s rich and colorful past. The city of Toledo, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986, is located on a rocky headland, bordered by the river Tajo in the very heart of Spain, just 70 kilometers (42 miles) from the capital, Madrid. Although now completely overshadowed by Madrid, Toledo’s stone churches, brick houses and winding streets embody Spain’s past.

In the Middle Ages, Toledo was built on a “convergence” of Christianity, Islam and Judaism, and contains two of the few remaining medieval Spanish synagogues. The two synagogues, which stand in the city today, are powerful reminders of that period of religious tolerance before the Spanish Inquisition. Built in the XIII Century, the synagogue of Santa María La Blanca retains the Mudejar characteristics of Toledo. It was erected as the main synagogue of the town. It remained active until the XV Century, when it was turned into a church.

At the center of Toledo, you will find the soaring Gothic Cathedral, the finest example of Gothic style in Spain. Its Sacristy contains many paintings by El Greco, Caravaggio, Titian and Goya amongst others. An impressive collection of medieval garments and textiles can also be admired. Stop at the parish church of Santo Tomé, and marvel at El Greco’s famed Burial of the Count of Orgaz, considered to be El Greco’s finest work and one of the greatest masterpieces of all time.

After lunch, you might opt for some strolling or shopping this afternoon before returning to Madrid. For centuries, Toledo has been able to preserve an unrivalled, thousand-year-old urban, architectural, and artistic heritage. Churches, synagogues, mosques, convents, city walls, bridges, towers and an endless amount of cultural and artistic possibilities make the city of Toledo an open air museum waiting to be discovered.

At the end of the tour, stop at one of our recommended restaurants for lunch on your own.

Before heading back to Madrid, you might opt for some strolling or shopping this afternoon before returning by train to Madrid. For centuries, Toledo has been able to preserve an unrivalled, thousand-year-old urban, architectural, and artistic heritage. Churches, synagogues, mosques, convents, city walls, bridges, towers and an endless amount of cultural and artistic possibilities make the city of Toledo an open air museum waiting to be discovered.

Return to Madrid by train mid-late afternoon.

This morning, after check out, take a taxi to Atocha train station, where you will take the train to Sevilla. 

Today take the AVE train to Sevilla! (2.5 hours - hourly departures). 

We suggest arriving at the station no later than 30 minutes before your train´s scheduled departure time.

Captivating and beautiful, the capital of Andalucia intoxicates and excites. It is the city of flamenco, bulls, Carmen and Don Juan; its history and culture give rise to pride, tradition, passion and joy. It’s arguably Spain’s most beautiful city and we strongly recommend you embrace its history, charm and idiosyncrasies. Sevillanos are fun-loving people who take great pride in their custom and traditions. The annual Easter parades and April Fair festivities are extraordinary events in many ways, but the city is joy throughout the year. Apart from great local guides, we are also proud to offer an exciting range of activities and very unique “insider access” activities. We like to say “It’s all about the People” and in Sevilla you have the chance to meet some fabulous folk and add some wonderful tales to your travel journal. A beautiful town with some wonderful tours, experiences and activities to indulge in, make sure Seville is part of your itinerary.

Sevilla also makes a great base for some fabulous day excursions, foodies will be tempted by Jerez de la Frontera or an adventure to the heart of Iberian ham, whereas Ronda and the famous pueblos blancos of Andalucia offer incredible scenery and cultural highlights.

Private Half-day Walking Tour of Sevilla

This afternoon, your guide will meet you at your hotel and together step out into arguably Spain’s most enchanting city. Be seduced by its enchanting neighborhoods, with its twisting narrow streets, stunning patios and squares lined with orange trees.

During your tour you might see the enormous cathedral, the largest Gothic building in the world, featuring the tomb of Christopher Columbus and its 12th-century bell-tower, La Giralda, originally built by the Moors as a minaret.

You may also visit the ornately decorated Alcazar Palace and its Andalusian gardens. Originally a Moorish palace, it was re-built and designed by Mudejar craftsmen for the Christian royalty after the expulsion of the Moors. You may also wander through the Barrio de Santa Cruz: originally the Jewish Quarter and now the prettiest quarter of Sevilla.

For other areas and sights, we leave this to the discretion of your expert guide.

Check out and take a taxi to Sevilla Santa Justa train station, where you will take the train to Valencia. 

We suggest arriving at the station no later than 30 minutes before your train´s scheduled departure time.

Take a taxi to your hotel in Valencia.

Private Half-day Tour of Valencia

Meeting Point: Valencia Port

Meet your guide and driver waiting for you on land and ready to begin your tour.

The tour will be flexible but we recommend an insight and comparison of the “old” Valencia and the “new” Valencia, a Mediterranean city now boasting some of the most innovative urban architecture in Europe, largely thanks to local boy Santiago Calatrava. You’ll embark on a walking tour of the historic quarter of Valencia, including the Cathedral, La Lonja -Silk Exchange- (a UNESCO heritage site), the Central Market, Plaza de la Virgen, Plaza de la Reina and the National Ceramics Museum.

Following your tour of the center, head to the City of Arts and Sciences and for a walking tour of the magnificent Santiago Calatrava-designed buildings: the Science Museum, Hemisferic, Umbracle and the Palau de les Arts (the opera house).

At the end of the morning, say farewell to your driver and guide.

Spend the rest of the afternoon and evening at leisure.

Check out of your hotel and take a taxi to Joaquin Sorolla's train station, then take your train to Barcelona.

Once in Barcelona, take a taxi to your hotel.

Welcome to Barcelona! 

Nestled between the sea and the mountains, the aesthetics of Barcelona impress from afar and close up. The city is an architectural dream with gems from legendary Modernist architects such as Antoni Gaudi, as well as the full range of contemporary avant-garde architecture dotted in between its 19th century promenades and thriving local neighborhoods. In recent years, Barcelona has become the most talked about city in Europe for its ever-evolving restaurant scene. From bistro cooking to beachside dining, local chefs are letting their creativity guide them and forging a gourmet paradise along the way. There are more than 40 local markets, the best known being La Boqueria and the range of specialist food and wine stores is staggering. You’ve also got vineyards in the Penedes and the Priorat wine region, both within reach of Barcelona. The options for foodies here are vast and we encourage you to get involved as much as possible… Excursions can also take you to a range of great destinations… the sacred alpine monastery at Montserrat, the picturesque seaside town of Cadaques, the Dali Museum in Figueres, medieval villages in the Emporda area as well as Girona, which apart from its fascinating history, is also currently home to the “Best Restaurant in the World”.

Our expert guide will meet you at your hotel lobby and together you will explore one of Europe’s most fascinating cities.

Barcelona, with typical Catalan pride and creativity, remains determined to project itself as Spain’s most innovative city, and offers a staggering array of attractions. Our guided tour will cover how the city was reborn with the Olympics in 1992 and stress the importance of Catalan history and culture in its development.

You will visit the unique and magical Sagrada Familia, Gaudí's most famous work and a worldwide symbol for Barcelona. The temple is a synthesis of his overall conception of architecture. Your guide will unpick the richness of detail and its significance and allow you to fully appreciate the fascinating and extraordinary mind and genius of Gaudi.

The tour will take in the Passeig de Gracia, the most stylish street of Barcelona, lined with boutique shops and art galleries.

Also La Rambla, with its outdoor cafes and colorful flower stands.

Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter rests on the ancient Roman city of Barcino, today full of buildings from the 13th to the 15th century. The Quarter, where you’ll spend most of the tour, is full of interesting shapes, peaceful plazas and winding alleyways, with its medieval Cathedral and the Picasso Museum.

Leisure day.

Today you are met and transferred to the airport on time for your flight to Palermo.

Arrival transfer to Cefalu.

Leisure day.

Cefalù is a haven of tranquility, a refuge, and a sanctuary of religious inspiration. The name was given to the town by the Greeks. Translated, it means "head", probably referring to the shape of the hill that is crowned with an ancient castle and that rises above the town. Mentioned in ancient times over the ages by Pliny, Strabo and Ptolemy as simply a pleasant Sicilian town, the aroma of this charming city hangs enigmatically in the air of ancient history.

Enjoy one of the best Italian village and its small beach and restaurants.

Transfer to Milazzo. Hydrofoil to Vulcano and shuttle to your hotel.

Afternoon at your leisure.

FD Excursion to Panarea and Stromboli with hike, private local guide and shared boat/hydrofoils.

The daily experience starts from the visit of Panarea, the smallest island of the archipelago. It has a small port. During the navigation you will enjoy some very interesting spots such as the rocks of Dattilo and Lisca Bianca, St. Peter and the Cave Palomba, the surrounding islets, particularly Basiluzzo and Bottaro with its bubbles of sulphurous water and the bay of Cala Junco. This itinerary includes a short walk around the harbor, where there are many bars, restaurants, shops and an amazing nightlife.

In the afternoon departure for Stromboli. This small village is situated on a cliff and allows you to enjoy spectacular views of the Aeolian Islands. Particularly impressive the black beaches and the small street of the town flowered with multicolor Bougainville. Then visit Ginostra, a small pier, mainly used for mooring the ferry.

Leisure day.

Shuttle to Vulcano Port. Hydrofoil to Milazzo. Upon arrival in Milazzo, private transfer to Taormina. 

Enjoy the day how you would like as today you have the full day at leisure to explore Taormina.

Private transfer to Siracusa.

Leisure days in Siracusa.

Private transfer to Agrigento.

Rest of the day at leisure.

After breakfast follow your guide for a breathtaking visit of the Archeological Park Valley of The Temples Agrigento was one of the greatest cities of the ancient Mediterranean. Founded as a Greek colony in the 6th century B.C., it became one of the leading cities in the Mediterranean world. Its supremacy is demonstrated by the remains of the magnificent Doric temples, much of which still lie intact and preserved in an exceptional condition. Its great row of Doric temples is one of the most outstanding monuments of Greek art and culture. The area was included in the UNESCO Heritage Site list in 1997. The Valley includes remains of seven Doric temples. You will visit the Temples of Juno, Concord, Castor and Pollux and the Necropolis.

Then arrive at the Kolymebtra Garden a wonderful Mediterranean botanical Garden that was an old Greek water reservoir.  Today, the Kolymbetra Garden, represents an enchanting concentration of the ancient agricultural and natural landscapes of Southern Sicily.  End you walking tour with an amazing picnic lunch. You will enjoy a unique experience in an unexpected location, surrounded by colors, flavors and scents of Sicily!

Morning at your leisure.

This afternoon,  take a train to Palermo.

Rest of the day at leisure.

Today you are met and transferred to the airport on time for your flight to Bari.

Upon your arrival, you are met and transferred to Matera.

After breakfast at the hotel, departure for a walking guided visit of Matera, including  Chiesa Rupestre and Casa Grotta.

Today you are met and transferred to Ostuni via Alberobello and Polignano al Mare.

Driver at your disposal - 8 hours.

Alberobello at your leisure.
The Historical centre of Alberobello, declared by UNESCO as World heritage, is a gem. The whole territory, shaped by mankind over the centuries, offers countless evidences of the so called peasant’s civilization, who was able, autonomously and exploiting only the resources of the territory, to transform once a hostile and dry landscape in a perfect symbiosis between man and nature.

Continue to Polignano al Mare
Leisure time in Polignano a Mare.  Walk and visit this wonderful corner of Puglia with a breathtaking view over the sea.

You will finish your day at your hotel in Ostuni.

Leisure day in Ostuni.

Ostuni is a wonderful medieval village, rich with alleys  and whitewashed houses, in a maze of streets which recalls an Arab Kasbah. Take a stroll in the old town centre, called “la terra” (the land) to distinguish it from the more recent “marina”: it offers picturesque spots amid the alleys, sloping stairs, courtyards and small squares, where whitewashed houses appear, embellished with geraniums, craft shops, typical restaurants and small shops.

Today you are met and transferred to Otranto.

Days at your leisure in Otranto.

During your days in Otranto, we recommend to visit :

• Torre San Giovanni
• Gallipoli

Today you are met and transferred to Brindisi airport (via Lecce) on time for your flight to Split via Rome. 

You will spend the morning in Lecce with your guide. 

Arrival transfer in Split.

Leisure days in Split.

Split is one of the most visited destination in Croatia. The first inhabitant of Split was the Roman emperor Diocletian who started to build his palace in this friendly bay around 293 AD. After his abdication he withdrew to this luxurious palace of about 30 thousand square meters. The following turbulent centuries made the palace into a town first populated by the citizens of the nearby Salona, fleeing before Avars and Slavs.

SPLIT (D)

Transfer from Split hotel to the Split harbor where the vessel will be docked. Check in from 14.00 h onwards. After settling, enjoy the guided tour of the city (not possible for late arrivals). Split is a historic town under UNESCO protection and part of the world heritage. One will find an abundance of Roman architecture – of special interest is the magnificent Diocletian palace, once inhabited by the Roman emperor. After the tour of Split, return to the ship for a welcome reception and cocktail to enjoy the meet and greet party on board. Overnight in Split.

SPLIT – HVAR (B, L)

Morning departure towards Hvar. Lunch stop in one of the secluded bays en route followed by a swim stop at the Pakleni Islands.  Arrival to Hvar in the afternoon. Hvar is the longest Island in the Adriatic and one of the sunniest; known for lavish lavender fields and breathtaking beauty. One can find many historical landmarks in Hvar: the Renaissance cathedral with its original tower, and the oldest community theatre in Europe which was founded in 1612. Hike up to the town fort overlooking the harbour to get some lovely scenic views of your ship and the Pakleni islands. In the evening Hvar offers an abundance of entertainment - many restaurants, bars and cafes are open long into the night. Overnight docekd in Hvar

HVAR – TRSTENIK  (B, L, D)

Early morning departure towards Trstenik, the Pelješac Peninsula well known for its excellent wine. Before lunch a short stop and afternoon arrival to Trstenik. Today we move away from the shore inland to explore the rural areas. Afternoon transfer to the village followed by a visit to a local farm you will indulge in a typical village party with Croatian delicacies, an all-inclusive dinner with local dishes made from their own produce. Late transfer back to the ship. Overnight docked in Trstenik.

TRSTENIK – MLJET & DUBROVNIK  (B, L, D)

Next morning we head further south to the Island of Mljet. Join the cruise manager for a stroll to the famous salt lakes in the Mljet National Park and enjoy the boat ride to the St Mary Isle, where you will visit an ancient Benedictine monastery, an old abbey and a Church dating from the 12th Century. Return to the ship for lunch followed by departure towards Dubrovnik. Late afternoon arrival in Dubrovnik, but before we tie the ropes at Gruž harbour the captain will take you for an evening cruise along side the old city walls while a buffet dinner is served on deck. Enjoy the spectacular views of this magnificent old town. Overnight docked in Dubrovnik.

DUBROVNIK  (B)

After breakfast transfer to the old town for the guided walking tour to enjoy this magical town. You will have the opportunity to take best pictures of the town of Dubrovnik as we take the cable car from the Old Town to Srđ mountain to enjoy scenic views of the Walls and Elaphiti Islands.  Afternoon at leisure to find idyllic spots for lunch and dinner. For those of you with more enthusiasm, we recommend to walk the famous walls 1,940 m long and take a stroll along the walking street "STRADUN" – both a street and a square, a promenade inside the city walls. Overnight docekd in Dubrovnik.

DUBROVNIK - KORČULA  (B, L )

 In the morning, we will leave this magnificent town and continue our cruise towards the Island of Korčula, best known as the birthplace of Marco Polo. Stop for lunch in one of the secluded bays en route. Early afternoon arrival in Korčula followed by a guided walking tour of this enchanting town with fortified walls. On this Island, you can find more legends, tales and monuments than anywhere else while you wander along the herringbone pattern streets. Korčula has an abundant choice of restaurants where you can continue your gourmet experience and there are many bars and clubs for those looking for evening entertainment. Overnight docked in Korčula

KORČULA - BOL (B, L, T, CD)

Our final stop will be the Island of Brač and picturesque town of Bol. Walk along the promenade or swim at one of the most famous beaches in Dalmatia – Zlatni Rat (the Golden cape - known for its gravel promontory shifts from side to side as the wind and waves constantly change its shape). Bol is a typical fishermen’s town turned into a popular tourist destination. After lunch on board time at leisure until afternoon wine tasting in the facilities of the oldest Dalmatia wine cooperative (dating 1903) followed by the Captain’s farewell dinner with live entertainment on board. Overnight docked in Bol or nearby Milna.

Early morning departure for Split and on arrival it is time to say goodbye to the crew and all your new friends! Check out by 9.00 am and transfer to Split airport.

Flight from Split to Athens.

Arrival transfer to your hotel.

PRIVATE ATHENS CITY TOUR

Meet with your private guide & driver and enjoy a morning sightseeing tour of Athens, including a visit to the Acropolis & its Museum, as well as a panoramic tour of the highlights of the city. Afternoon is free to explore the city. You can stroll through the streets of Plaka, known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods", built on top of the residential areas of ancient Athens. Cafes, restaurants and shops invite you to partake in the sumptuous culture that is found in a variety of forms around the city.

Transfer to the Airport for your flight to Naxos.

Arrival and transfer to the hotel. In the afternoon, take a walk in Chora (main town of the island) and taste traditional dishes in one of the various local restaurants.  

Days at your leisure in Naxos. We suggest you take the ferry and visit the nearby island of Paros.

Transfer to the port for a speed ferry to Heraklion, Crete. Arrival and drive to Chania on your own. Check-in at your hotel for overnight. (3 hours drive).

Enjoy the days at leisure in Chania, the second largest city of Crete that lies along the north coast of the island. This charming port town is full of flavors, aromas and a most distinct character. The ‘Old Town’ presents a colorful blend of architectural influences predominantly Venetian.

Check-out of your hotel and drive on your own to Rethymno.

Combining the rough dominating mountains, and the soft sandy beaches along the north and south coasts, Rethymno is a very beautiful part of Crete, and one that offers a diverse selection for your holidays and travels. The town is one of immense charm and inspiration. The Venetian fortress that overlooks the sea is a great place to visit. Its charming harbor is lined with old but colorful Venetian buildings and structures. Check-in at the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight. 

Enjoy the days at leisure. Don’t miss a visit to the Monastery of Arkadi and to the Venetian castle of Fortezza.

Self drive to Heraklion airport on time for your international flight.