Italy in Depth

Welcome to Venice – a truly magical destination. With its grand palazzos, marble palaces and elaborate churches perched on a series of islands threaded with canals, it’s a place of incomparable beauty and fascinating history. A world of wonder awaits with a two-night Special Stay. Your haven of luxury in this busy city offers the perfect place to relax before your adventure.

Today, explore this timeless city from the water. Enjoy a gondola ride along magnificent canals and underneath ancient bridges. Marvel at the colourful Grand Canal, the main waterway that divides the city in two. Glide under the famous Ponte dei Sospiri, built almost 500 years ago, and explore the winding waterways that pass crumbling mansions and ornate public buildings. Freechoice: Dorsoduro & the Peggy Guggenheim Collection: Explore the picturesque Dorsoduro district, the city’s cultural heart. Finish with a private guided tour of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, a world-renowned modern art collection. Walking Tour: Discover Venice on foot, visiting the spectacular Doge’s Palace and the majestic Basilica of San Marco. Stroll through the Rialto Market, stopping at an osteria for a glass of wine and a few cicchetti (snacks).

Your first stop today is Modena, one of Italy’s great gastronomic destinations. More relaxed than Venice or Rome, Modena is home to some of the world’s best restaurants and is said to be the birthplace of tortellini, lasagna, parmesan cheese, and balsamic vinegar. The centre of the city is a World Heritage-listed site, recognised for its grand cathedral, beautiful piazza and well-preserved Romanesque architecture. Visit a producer of traditional balsamic vinegar for a tasting and light lunch. This afternoon, travel on to Rapallo for a two-night Special Stay.

This scenic seaside town on the Italian Riviera has been a favourite of royals, writers and poets for more than a century. It’s also an ideal base to explore the rugged coastline of the World Heritage-listed Cinque Terre. The five villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore are dotted along the cliffs and accessible only via walking paths, train or boat, which lends itself to the already considerable charm of these unique 11th-century settlements. Bask in a full day exploring this picturesque coastline.

Travel to Portofino, a gorgeous fishing village also on the Italian Riviera. Postcard-perfect and oozing Mediterranean charm, Portofino is a place to soak up la dolce vita. Brightly coloured buildings sit against crystal-clear water with lush pine-covered hills in the distance as you cruise around the spectacular bay. Then continue to Pisa to enjoy a guided tour and see its famous leaning tower. The tower began to lean soon after construction started in 1173. A stabilisation project was implemented in the 1990s, halting the tilt at four degrees. Later, arrive in Florence for a two-night Scenic Special Stay.

Known as the Cradle of the Renaissance, Florence (or Firenze) is renowned for its artistic masterpieces and culinary Tuscan delights. Enjoy a walking tour of this art lover’s paradise, including a visit to the Academy of Fine Arts to admire Michelangelo’s David. In the afternoon, depart for Siena and enjoy a guided tour through this medieval city where time seems to have stood still. The 15th century city sits on three hills and comprises a maze of tight alleyways full of shops and restaurants. Its main square Piazza del Campo is considered one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares. Enrich Visit a Tuscan farmhouse and discover local wine and oil production techniques. Later, enjoy a tasty rustic dinner featuring the region’s wine and produce. 

Welcome to Rome, where you’ll enjoy a two-night Special Stay. Known as the Eternal City, this ancient city was founded in 753BC. Like an enchanting open-air museum, there is history at every turn, with ancient monuments and elaborate churches sitting alongside busy cafes and designer boutiques. Today you’ll enjoy a walking tour of its historic centre, where your expert local guide will show you iconic landmarks such as the 18th century Spanish Steps, the Navona Square and Trevi Fountain, which was erected on the site of an ancient Roman water source.

This morning, visit the world’s smallest state, the Vatican City, home of the breathtaking Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica, the world’s largest church, which leads to the magnificent St. Peter’s Square. From there, continue to the Roman Forum, the ruins of an ancient district of temples, basilicas and public spaces, and the historic Colosseum. The iconic Colosseum was built between 70 and 72 AD as an arena for gladiatorial games. After the fall of the Roman Empire, nearly two-thirds of the structure was destroyed by neglect and destructive weather, but in the 1990s it underwent an extensive restoration project. Enrich This evening, enjoy a private dinner as your land journey comes to an end.

After breakfast, you’ll travel from Rome to Civitavecchia, an ancient port dating back to the 2nd century. Here, by the Roman Dock and the 16th century Michelangelo Fort, you’ll board your 6-star ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht Scenic Eclipse for the next leg of your journey. Upon boarding, be warmly greeted by Scenic Eclipse’s world-class crew and raise a glass of champagne with fellow guests on the Observation Deck as you delve into the magical Mediterranean en route to Gaeta.

Gaeta is situated on a peninsula in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Considered one of the prettiest towns in this region, this hidden jewel has a scenic historical centre that tumbles down to the sea, fantastic golden sandy beaches and clear blue waters. Gaeta is popular with Romans looking for a seaside holiday but remains off the tourist trail and only small ships – like your Disocvery Yacht – can stop here. Gaeta is famous for its food and the narrow streets of the medieval Old Town are packed with restaurants. Youll depart late this evening, giving you time to explore the city after dark. Freechoice: Villa Tiberio & Archeological Museum: A half-day tour of Sperlonga, a small sea village, and the National Archaeological Museum, which features a grotto of Roman marble sculptures. Archeological Area of Minturno: A guided tour of Minturno, on the banks of the River Garigliano south of Gaeta, now an archaeological site. Gaeta Walking tour: Join this half day guided excursion through the historical centre of Gaeta, represented by three gates. Montecassino Abbey & Villa Matilde Winery: Embark on a captivating excursion to Montecassino, where history, spirituality, and cultural richness converge at the renowned Montecassino Monastery, followed by a tasting at Villa Matilde Winery.

Capri is famous for its jaw dropping beauty; steep green cliffs rise from an impossibly blue sea, elegant villas draped in bougainvillea hide among the hills, and brightly coloured towns line the water’s edge. Only small cruise ships and luxurious superyachts can call at Capri, making for an exclusive experience for our guests. As this is an overnight stop, you’ll have time to explore Capri Town by night. Wander the Piazzetta, sit at an outdoor restaurant to sample a fresh, aromatic caprese salad or the famous flourless chocolate cake; and listen for the sound of live music. Freechoice: Walking tour of Capri & Augustus gardens - Explore Capris enchanting heart, starting at Marina Grande pier, where you take the funicular to the main village of Capri. Island of Capri by Land & Sea – Discover the beauty of ‘The Island of Love,’ starting with a cruise along the east coast before ascending to the main village of Anacapri. Capri Natural Arch & Capri Town Walking Tour – Visit Capri Town to see the Piazzetta, Via le Botteghe, Via Croce and the Natural Arch. Explore a residential area and admire the views.

A small resort town with a huge reputation, Sorrento is known as the land of lemons and orange groves. It’s the birthplace of limoncello liqueur and the gateway to the spectacular Amalfi Coast. Perched on cliffs that plunge into the deep blue of the Mediterranean, Sorrento is a place of peaceful alleyways, pastel-coloured buildings, grand villas and luxury hotels. Freechoice: Guided tour of Pompeii: Step back in time at the archaeological site of Pompeii and experience the city as it existed more than 2,000 years ago. Hike on the Path of Gods & Positano: A three-hour vigorous hike along a beautiful trail more than 450m above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast and Mount Pertuso. Walking tour of Sorrento: Explore Sorrentos treasures, including the Valley of the Mills, San Francesco Cloister, and the historic town. Taste of Sorrento: Visit a charming farm for an exclusive Italian gastronomy tour and to learn how mozzarella is made and sample hand-crafted delicacies.

Spend this morning relaxing in your suite, perhaps enjoying breakfast on the verandah, or explore some of the indulgent spaces on board. Try a class in the Yoga & Pilates Studio, an invigorating massage# in the Senses Spa or a swim with a view in the Vitality Pool. You’ll arrive in Porto Cervo, at the heart of the spectacular Costa Smeralda, at midday. Built as a millionaire’s playground by Prince Aga Khan in the 1960s, Porto Cervo oozes luxury with high-end boutiques, stylish restaurants, glamorous nightclubs, world-class golf courses and tennis clubs, and many sumptuous hotels. Freechoice: Villages of Sardinia and Coddu Vecchiu Giants Tomb: Take a scenic guided journey to the archaeological site of Coddu Ecchiu, home of Nuragic funerary architecture, and Baja Sardinia, a delightful summer village. Boat tour to La Maddalena: An enchanting ferry voyage to La Maddalena Island and soak in panoramic views of Sardinia’s coastline, the Maddalena archipelago and distant Corsica. Sardinian Wine Tasting- Enjoy a visit to the typical Sardinian village of San Pantaleo before reaching the winery Piero Mancini for a visit with the owners followed by a wine tasting experience, accompanied by a delightful selection of Sardinian delicacies.

Calvi, on the French island of Corsica, has a long and illustrious history. It was founded in the 13th century and its fiery medieval citadel still stands. It has been a tourist hotspot since the 1920s, thanks to its moon shaped bay lined with a golden, sandy beach and forested mountains on the horizon. Today, it has the feel of a chic resort on the French Riviera, with waterfront restaurants, luxury hotels and multi-million dollar yachts at anchor. Enjoy another late departure tonight, giving you the chance to spend a delightful evening in Calvi’s candle-lit restaurants and al fresco bars. Freechoice: Calvi Walking Tour & Wine Tasting: Take a walking tour of Calvi and enjoy breathtaking vistas of red rooftops and the crystal-clear sea before a wine tasting at Domaine Alzipratu. Old Villages of Corsica: Visit the ancient circular village of Sant’Antonio, the hilltop village of Pigna and the timeless beauty of Corbara and Aregno on this coastal tour. Scenic South Coast Drive: Discover the beauty of Corsica’s southern beaches on this delightful half-day exploration of the island.

Monaco makes up for its diminutive size with its elegance, glamour and opulence. Monte Carlo, its most famous district, attracts high rollers and prodigious wealth with luxurious high-rise hotels, designer boutiques and beautiful people at every turn. Sleek and stylish Scenic Eclipse fits in perfectly among the private superyachts anchored at the marina. From Monaco Old Town to the iconic Monte-Carlo Casino, there is much on offer. Discover the history of the Grimaldi royal family, window shop in the designer boutiques that line Avenue de Monte-Carlo or have a drink at the legendary Le Bar Américain inside Hotel de Paris. Freechoice: Old City of Monaco and Monte Carlo City Tour: Explore Monte-Carlo and Monaco Old Town on foot and by bus on this guided tour. Admire Prince’s Palace Square and the legendary Monte-Carlo Casino. Panoramic Monte Carlo & Eze: Discover the medieval village of Eze, which overlooks the Mediterranean. Traverse narrow streets and pass through the ancient double gateway before venturing to Monaco Rock for a guided walking tour. Saint Paul de Vence Tour: Embark on an unforgettable journey as you explore the breathtaking beauty and captivating galleries of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, one of the French Riviera’s oldest towns. Enrich Classic Concert at Oceanographic Museum: Indulge in an evening of elegance and enchantment with a classical concert featuring the renowned Harpsody Orchestra at the prestigious Conference Hall of the Oceanographic.

Your Cruise Voyage ends in Nice, one of the most famous port cities of the Côte d’Azur. After a final delicious breakfast, you will disembark and be transferred to the airport for your onward journey or return flight home, taking wonderful memories with you. Please book your flight to depart out of Nice after 12:00 PM. #Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.