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Sicily, the Amalfi Coast & Rome - Northbound
Sicily, the Amalfi Coast & Rome – Northbound
Sicily, the Amalfi Coast & Rome was one of the earliest small ship cruises in our Mediterranean portfolio – and for 2025, we’re setting sail once more. Explore stories of antiquities steeped in history and mythology, experience a myriad of natural wonders, and spend two nights in Malta, two nights in Rome, at premier hotels.
They’ve been conquered in turn by different invaders, with some, like Malta and Sicily, boasting a history of occupation that dates back thousands of years. Once you see the sensational seaside views from the cliff-top, Maltese city of Mdina, walled since medieval times, you’ll discover why so many visitors were eager to claim this island gem for their own. Sicily, inhabited since the Ice Age, was a favorite trophy for the Greeks in the 5th and 6th centuries BC, followed in turn by a succession of rulers, including the Romans, the Vandals, the Arabs, the Normans, the Swabians, the House of Aragon and the Bourbons. The landscapes on this large Mediterranean island have proven to be fertile ground for vineyards, citrus groves, almond and cherry trees – and beaches. While its conquerors had their own reasons for turning Sicily into one of their colonies, travelers today revel in the archaeological treasures they left behind. You’ll see an ancient Greek theatre and temple in Siracusa, a Roman renovation in Taormina, an open-air Arab casbah in Palermo, and Punic and Norman fortifications in medieval Erice – mingling with magnificent frescoed duomos, grand piazzas, Baroque balconies and terraced towns that speak volumes about Sicilian life, past and present. And spend two nights in the heart of Rome for the ultimate “Roman Holiday”…
| Day 1 |
Malta is a string of islands located south of Italy and Greece. They are a favorite destination of divers. |
| Day 2 |
Malta’s ornate and vibrant capital, Valletta, dazzles travelers with its abundance of historical landmarks and striking architecture. This island jewel off the coast of Italy remains a popular destination for Mediterranean cruises. From central St. George’s Square, to sixteenth-century Casa Rocca Piccola, to the Siege Bell War Memorial, Valletta has no shortage of monuments detailing the city’s long history. Unique remnants of Valletta’s military past include the Saluting Battery, which continues to fires cannon salutes from the harbor for tourists, and the wreckage of WWII ship HMS Maori, accessible on scuba diving excursions in St. Elmo Bay. Gilded St. John’s Co-Cathedral, laden with exquisite gold and grand frescoes, is a must-see attraction in Valletta, while opulent Teatru Manoel offers stunning opera performances in a setting decorated with rich reds, golds, and teals. Stroll the Baroque-style Valletta Waterfront to find the city’s best culinary delights or hop aboard a boat from the Laguna Marina. |
| Day 3 |
On the East coast of Sicily is the city of Syracuse. Some people says that it has the best natural harbour of Italy. Once a great rival to ancient Athens, the old city is based in a small island next to the coast and contains many historical buildings. Archimedes lived and died here. Catania is a city that dates from the 18th century, reconstructed after a series of earthquakes. Mount Etna, the greater active volcano of Europe, is close and its continuous eruption attracts many tourists.
Visit the archaeological museum Paolo Orsi. Break for lunch in a noble villa in the gulf in front of the island of Ortigia. Explore the city and its monuments, such as the Greek theather and the Dyonisus’s Ear. Tour Ortigia, historical centre of the city and visit Palazzo Bellomo to see paintings by Caravaggio and Antonello da Messina. |
| Day 4 |
Small island off Malta. |
| Day 5 |
Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, Italy, is a city where history, culture, and gastronomy converge in a kaleidoscope of experiences. A walk through Palermo is like stepping into a living museum, where Byzantine, Arab, Norman, and Baroque influences blend seamlessly. The Palermo Cathedral, a masterpiece of architectural evolution, showcases a mix of styles from its Norman origins to later Baroque and Neoclassical elements. Visitors can marvel at its intricate façade and explore the royal tombs within. One of Palermo’s most captivating sites is the Capella Palatina, an exquisite chapel within the Norman Palace. Adorned with stunning mosaics and golden Byzantine artwork, this chapel reflects the grandeur of Sicily’s medieval period. The palace itself, once a royal residence, offers a glimpse into the opulent past of Sicilian nobility. The city's bustling markets are a sensory overload of vibrant colors and enticing aromas. The Mercato di Ballarò and Mercato della Vucciria are among the most famous, where you can experience the lively atmosphere and taste local delicacies like arancini (stuffed rice balls) and cannoli. These markets not only offer delicious food but also an immersive look into Palermo's daily life and traditions. Fun fact: Palermo is known for its unique street food culture, with the city's market vendors offering some of the best street food in Italy. Be sure to try "pane con la milza," a traditional Sicilian sandwich made with spleen, a local delicacy. |
| Day 6 |
Taormina, with its hilltop location above the Ionian Sea, is easily one of Italy's most beautiful places. As it's packed with people in the summertime, recommended months to visit include April and September. |
| Day 7 |
Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily, Italy, is a city where history, culture, and gastronomy converge in a kaleidoscope of experiences. A walk through Palermo is like stepping into a living museum, where Byzantine, Arab, Norman, and Baroque influences blend seamlessly. The Palermo Cathedral, a masterpiece of architectural evolution, showcases a mix of styles from its Norman origins to later Baroque and Neoclassical elements. Visitors can marvel at its intricate façade and explore the royal tombs within. One of Palermo’s most captivating sites is the Capella Palatina, an exquisite chapel within the Norman Palace. Adorned with stunning mosaics and golden Byzantine artwork, this chapel reflects the grandeur of Sicily’s medieval period. The palace itself, once a royal residence, offers a glimpse into the opulent past of Sicilian nobility. The city's bustling markets are a sensory overload of vibrant colors and enticing aromas. The Mercato di Ballarò and Mercato della Vucciria are among the most famous, where you can experience the lively atmosphere and taste local delicacies like arancini (stuffed rice balls) and cannoli. These markets not only offer delicious food but also an immersive look into Palermo's daily life and traditions. Fun fact: Palermo is known for its unique street food culture, with the city's market vendors offering some of the best street food in Italy. Be sure to try "pane con la milza," a traditional Sicilian sandwich made with spleen, a local delicacy. |
| Day 8 |
Amalfi, Italy, is a gem nestled along the world-famous Amalfi Coast, where dramatic cliffs meet the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. This enchanting town, once a powerful maritime republic, is now a beloved destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. The heart of Amalfi is its bustling Piazza del Duomo, dominated by the stunning Amalfi Cathedral. With its striking Arab-Norman architecture, bronze doors from Constantinople, and beautifully ornate interior, this 9th-century cathedral is a must-visit for anyone intrigued by Italy's rich historical tapestry. Climbing the 62 steps to the cathedral’s entrance rewards visitors with a commanding view of the lively square below, filled with quaint cafes, boutique shops, and the joyful hum of daily life. Just steps away from the cathedral lies the Chiostro del Paradiso, a peaceful cloister dating back to the 13th century that showcases Moorish-influenced architecture and houses the tombs of Amalfi’s nobility. The adjacent Museo della Carta offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s history as a medieval center of papermaking, where visitors can witness traditional techniques still in practice today. Wandering through Amalfi's labyrinthine streets reveals charming piazzas, vibrant ceramics shops, and delightful spots serving limoncello, the zesty lemon liqueur made from locally grown lemons. For those with a sweet tooth, indulging in a delicious sfogliatella, a shell-shaped pastry filled with ricotta and citrus, is a must. Amalfi also serves as a gateway to the natural wonders of the Amalfi Coast. The Valle delle Ferriere is a serene nature reserve just a short hike from the town center, where visitors can escape the crowds and immerse themselves in lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and ancient ruins. The valley is named after its historic ironworks, some of which still stand today. For those who prefer the sea, Amalfi’s pebble beaches, such as Marina Grande, offer the perfect spot to bask in the sun or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. Boat tours along the coast provide a unique perspective of the region’s dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, including the famed Emerald Grotto, known for its dazzling green waters. Fun fact: Amalfi was one of the four great maritime republics of Italy, alongside Venice, Pisa, and Genoa. During its peak in the 10th and 11th centuries, Amalfi established the Amalfi Tables, the earliest known maritime code that governed the Mediterranean Sea. These regulations were so influential that they remained in effect until 1570, demonstrating Amalfi’s historical significance as a formidable maritime power. Today, this legacy lives on, not only in its historical sites but also in the town’s enduring spirit of adventure and discovery. |
| Day 9 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
| Day 10 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
| Day 11 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
| Day 12 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
10/02/25 - 10/13/25 |
Starting At $12,490 |
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Offer subject to availability and change without notice. Some restrictions may apply.
