Mediterranean: Civitavecchia to Valletta

All roads lead to Rome. The stunningly beautiful city on the Tiber is around 70 kilometers (44 miles) from the port of Civitavecchia. The highlights of the "Eternal City" are not limited to the seven hills of antiquity. The historic center and the Vatican State in Rome are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In the city of Vespas and "la dolce vita", painters, sculptors and architects have left behind innumerable works of art over three millennia. Ancient sites, Renaissance palaces, Baroque squares, and fountains create a splendid backdrop for enjoying life in between the daily routine and eternity.

The chalk cliffs are visible even from a long way away and fall away steeply into the sea like a wall - around 70 meters (230 feet) high. Hidden behind them is a fjord-like inlet, which provides a beautiful entrance into the natural harbor of Bonifacio. The elegant modern lower town is set around the harbor with a promenade that runs the length of the deep harbor bay and leads to the elegant marina. More than 187 stone steps, majestically named the "Staircase of the King of Aragon", lead you up to the medieval upper town which sits lofty and impregnable high up on the top of a steep chalk cliff.

Enjoy the ship's amenities as she sails for the island of Capri.

Even at the time of the Roman Empire, Capri was a particularly precious natural gem and became the summer residence of the Emperor Tiberius. Artists and hedonists, aristocrats and the moneyed classes discovered the island for themselves in the 19th century. This stunningly beautiful rocky island in the Gulf of Naples is famous for its numerous grottos, the most well known being the Blue Grotto. You can expect a combination of pleasure and spectacle when you experience the colorful lifestyle and goings-on in the Piazetta right in the center of Capri.

Agropoli is a smaller but beautiful upcoming tourist destination that is worth a visit. You will be surprised by some of the unique things to do and places you can explore at this hidden destination. The history of this attractive Italian town started in the 6th century when Agropoli was run by a powerful local family. During its history, the town was several times ambushed by pirates who wished to turn Agropoli into their base. Today one of the most notable architectural sights of the city, ancient gates, reminds of those times.

Lipari is the largest and most populated of the Aeolian Islands (Isole Eolie or Isole Lipari in Italian), a volcanic archipelago off the coast of Sicily. The island has the biggest town of the archipelago, also called Lipari; a lively busy place with picturesque streets, an attractive harbor and a historic castle-citadel. Like its island neighbors, Lipari has volcanic origins.

Taormina is perched on a rock with a majestic view over the sea. In the 19th century, this small town had already developed into a dream destination for well-heeled travelers and artists. The town's fascination lies in its elegance, the many ancient buildings, the stunningly beautiful coastline, the mild climate, and the view over the silhouette of Etna. Europe's largest volcano is over 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) high, has four summit craters and around 400 subsidiary craters, and is covered with snow almost all year round. In ancient times it was considered the seat of the gods, but nowadays large sections of it are a nature reserve.

The municipal area of Syracuse boasts relics from cultural history going back more than three millennia. In ancient times, the city was the most powerful in the known world and was famed for its splendor. The island of Ortigia, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was where Syracuse began its rise as an ancient city. The huge cathedral is at the heart of the old town, magnificent palaces line the Piazza, and wide promenades invite you to take a stroll. The archaeological park brings Greek and Roman history back to life. Yet Syracuse exudes southern Italian charm, with washing drying outside the windows.

This strategically important location has always attracted foreign conquerors. More than 7,000 years ago, a civilization existed here, leaving behind enormous temple complexes. Just like proud Valletta, these are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Jean Parisot de la Valette, Grand Master of the Order of St John, founded a modern fortified city on a rock in 1566, between the two splendid natural ports of Marsamxett and Grand Harbour. Long rows of facades made from golden-yellow blocks of chalk stretch along the straight streets. Splendid Renaissance and Baroque buildings are evidence of riches and power, such as the Palace of the Grand Master and the impressive St John's Co-Cathedral. Disembark and return home individually.