Italy Intensive Cruise: Venice,
Sicily & Amalfi

Venice

Venice is unique, its elegant buildings and
palaces peering over an ancient maze of narrow streets and
labyrinth of canals. Tourists here wake up to the morning calls of
gondoliers before venturing out to lose themselves among the twists
and turns of this famously romantic haven.

The city rests on one of 117 islands
distributed throughout the Venetian lagoon. The aptly named Grand
Canal splits the city, running from the Santa Lucia railway station
past the famous Rialto Bridge to Piazza San Marco, home to the
cathedral of Basilica di San Marco which is adorned with endless
mosaics that sparkle at sunset.

The historic centre is divided into six
quarters: San Marco, Dorsoduro, San Polo, Santa Croce, Cannaregio
and Castello. Countless waterways wind their way through the city.
While some choose to pick their way over the more than 400 bridges,
by far the most popular way to get around is to cruise the
waterways onboard vaporetto boats or iconic gondola.

Known for its inventive cuisine, lavish
spreads of cicheti (Venetian tapas) can be found in bars around the
city while canalside bistros offer spectacular fine dining
experiences. Venice's penchant for outlandish fashion gave the
world eyeglasses, dresses without corsets and platform shoes, and
the annual carnival is renowned for the elaborate masks on
display.

Venice extends beyond its six sestieri to
the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello. These are known for
glass and lace-making respectively, and Torcello is noted for the
magnificent Byzantine Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta resting on
its soil. Trips by boat to the islands provide a pleasant escape
from the busier historic quarters.

Ravenna

Ravenna is a city located in the north-eastern part of Italy, in the Emilia Romagna region. This city is famous for its countless stunning mosaics that are scattered throughout its historical centre, and its transformation into the capital of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century AD. With its rich history and heritage, Ravenna has become one of Italy's most visited places, attracting tourists from all over the world.

The city’s history dates back to the Etruscan era, with the origins of the city being shrouded in ancient mystery. However, the city first gained widespread attention during the Roman Empire's decline, which Ravenna played a significant role in. During this time, the city was an essential cultural and political center, and in 402 AD, the Emperor, Honorius, transferred the capital of the Western Roman Empire from Milan to Ravenna.

One of the most notable features of Ravenna is its larger-than-life mosaic art. This art form was first introduced to the city in the 5th and 6th centuries, during the Byzantine Empire era. Ravenna is home to dozens of churches, chapels, and cathedrals, many of which are perfect examples of the mosaic art that the city is famous for. It is believed that Ravenna's mosaics were the one inspiration for the famous Italian Renaissance painter, Giotto.

The Basilica of San Vitale is one of the most famous churches adorned with mosaic artwork in the city. This beautiful basilica was built in the 6th century and features mosaic art from both Western and Byzantine traditions. The circular dome of the apse has a stunning image of Jesus with two angels, one of which is thought to be the Archangel Michael. The basilica's beauty comes not only from its perfectly preserved mosaic work but also from its unique architectural features.

The Mausoleum of Theodoric is another significant landmark in Ravenna. This impressive Gothic-style tomb was built-in 520 AD, and although it was built for the Ostrogoth king Theodoric, it was never used, and it was converted into a Christian church. The exterior of the building is impressive, with a sixteen-sided base that leads up to a 36-meter dome decorated with intricate Romanesque and Gothic ornamentation. The Mausoleum of Theodoric is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and well worth a visit.

Another iconic attraction that Ravenna has to offer is the Palace of Theoderic, located in the heart of the city's historical centre. This palace was built for King Theoderic in 493 AD and is one of the finest examples of Ostrogothic architectural art that survived to this day. Today, the palace now houses the city's Archaeological Museum, which has a rich collection of artefacts ranging from ancient Roman to Byzantine times.

In conclusion, Ravenna is a city that is rich with history, art, and culture, and it has played a vital role in shaping Italian history. With its numerous churches, chapels, and cathedrals, all adorned with breathtaking mosaics, it's no wonder that Ravenna has become a favourite destination for tourists from all over the world. Whether you are an art lover, history buff or simply looking for a tranquil getaway, Ravenna is a city that should be on your travel list.

Ancona

Ancona, located in the stunning country of Italy, is a charming city that beautifully combines ancient history, picturesque landscapes, and a vibrant modern atmosphere. Situated along the Adriatic Sea, Ancona is the capital of the Marche region, offering visitors a unique experience filled with fascinating landmarks, delicious cuisine, and stunning coastal views.

With a history dating back to ancient times, Ancona is a city steeped in rich cultural heritage. One of the most significant landmarks in the city is the Arch of Trajan, a grand Roman monument built in honor of the Emperor Trajan. This magnificent structure stands as a testament to the city's historical significance and provides a glimpse into Ancona's past.

Another must-visit attraction in Ancona is the Duomo di San Ciriaco. This majestic cathedral, situated atop a hill, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. Its striking Romanesque and Byzantine architecture make it a visual marvel both inside and out.

One of the highlights of visiting Ancona is exploring its charming historic center. The narrow, winding streets are lined with beautiful medieval and Renaissance architecture and adorned with vibrant cafes, boutique shops, and local markets. Piazza del Plebiscito is at the heart of the city and serves as a central meeting point for locals and visitors alike. Here, you can relax in one of the many popular cafes or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Ancona is also known for its year-round events and festivals, which showcase the region's cultural traditions. In particular, the Carnival of Ancona, held in February, is a vibrant celebration with colorful parades, music, and dancing. The Festa di San Ciriaco, held in July, is another lively event where locals pay homage to the city's patron saint with processions, concerts, and firework displays.

For those seeking a taste of the local cuisine, Ancona offers a delightful culinary experience. Being a coastal city, the fresh seafood takes center stage in many traditional dishes. From mouthwatering fish stews to succulent fried seafood platters, Ancona's restaurants and trattorias serve up an array of delectable seafood options. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the famous "Brodetto," a traditional fish soup prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

Apart from its historical and cultural attractions, Ancona is blessed with stunning natural beauty. The city boasts beautiful sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. Nearby regional parks, such as Parco del Conero and Monte Catria, offer picturesque hiking and biking trails, providing an escape into nature.

Ancona is well-connected to other major Italian cities and neighboring countries, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas. The nearby towns of Senigallia, Urbino, and Jesi, each with its own unique charm, are easily accessible and make for excellent day trips.

Whether you're captivated by history, interested in exploring coastal beauty, or simply looking to immerse yourself in Italian culture, Ancona offers a perfect blend of experiences. With its rich history, delectable cuisine, and natural wonders, Ancona promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Italy.

Kotor

Tourists to Montenegro will most likely spend the bulk of their
time exploring the small Balkan country's natural landscape. From
snowy peaks to tall pine forests, from the coastlines to the
fjords, Montenegro is an outdoor lover's dream come true.

However, for those looking to get to grips with the culture of
Montenegro, the medieval city of Kotor is certainly the place to
visit, especially in recent years as Montenegro has swiftly
established itself as one of Europe's top tourist destinations.

It's not hard to see why this is. The surrounding Mediterranean
coastline, with its limestone cliffs and thick vegetation, is
punctuated by the port of Kotor, which in turn is surrounded by
city walls that were built by the Republic of Venice. These
ramparted and bastioned city walls, together with the
Venetian-inspired old city, are a designated UNESCO World Heritage
Site, and lauded for their role in the diffusion of Mediterranean
culture in the Balkan region.

A small city, with a population of just under 14,000 permanent
inhabitants, Kotor is a wonderful place to navigate on foot,
soaking up the scenery and admiring the medieval buildings. In
terms of tourist sights, the Maritime Museum is a must-visit
attraction, as is the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon (built in 1166)
and the Church of Our Lady of Health, which is located on a small
promontory overlooking Kotor and provides unbeatable views of the
bright blue Adriatic Sea beneath.

Taranto

Italy dips down out of Europe and into the Mediterranean like a sleek stiletto, so it's hardly surprising its citizens are known for impeccable style and fashion. Once containing the great Roman Empire empire stretching across the globe, it now boasts some of the most spectacular architecture, frescoes, sculptures and Renaissance paintings in all of Europe.

More than 3,000 years of history are spread across landscapes ranging from quiet, pastoral hillside olive farms and seaside fishing villages to the Armani-wearing, scooter-driving and espresso-drinking buzz of the big cities. Italy is also home to more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country on earth, with an incredible 54 places of global historical significance dotted around the country.

Italy's cities reveal awe-inspiring architecture from the curved arches of the Ponte Vecchio in Florence to the crumbling magnificence of the Colosseum in Rome. Home of da Vinci, Michelangelo, Caravaggio and Botticelli, its artworks are a visual feast.

Nestled into the outskirts of Rome is the independent Vatican City, seat of the Pope and home to the famous St Peter's Basilica and Sistine Chapel. The influence of the Holy Catholic Church on the people of Italy is still evident today, with holy festivals, carnivals, and parades in almost every city, town and village.

From the twisting canals of Venice to the beaches of the Riviera, and the rocky crags of the Alps to the slopes of the Dolomites and Apennines, Italy offers unique experiences to every kind of tourist.

Catania

The largest island in the Mediterranean
Sea, Sicily may be just a short hop from the Italian mainland,
across the narrow strait of Messina, but it's worlds apart in
atmosphere and attitude. Everything Italian seems a little more
appetising here - not only the food, but the history and culture
too.

For a long time, Sicily was ignored as a
holiday destination, largely because of the mafia stranglehold and
the poverty of the people. But today, the island is experiencing a
tourism boom and a surge in development as the destructive
influences of the organised crime wane. Visitors discover that the
Sicilian people are gracious and welcoming, and that the island
itself offers natural and historic attractions of great beauty and
interest.

The main cities of Palermo and Catania
feature some of the most exquisite architecture in the world, a
legacy of the many great civilisations that have vied for control
of this strategically-situated island over the centuries, from the
Greeks, Romans, Arabs and Normans, to the French, Spanish and
Italians. There are massive Romanesque cathedrals, the
best-preserved Greek temples in the world and Roman amphitheatres,
as well as magnificent Baroque palaces.

The continuous blue skies and temperate
climate, lush vegetation and rich marine life all add to the
island's appeal. Indeed, nature has given Sicily Europe's tallest
active volcano, Mt Etna; a dramatic coastline; and fertile soil
that gives forth much of the bounty on which the island's unique
and delicious cuisine is based.

Sicily has a coastal Mediterranean climate
of mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The mountainous interior
has cooler temperatures, with snowfall during winter; while along
the coast, winter temperatures average about 50°F (10°C), and
summer temperatures about 84°F (28°C).

Palermo

Palermo, the capital city of Sicily in Italy, is a vibrant and diverse destination that offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. With its rich architectural heritage, bustling markets, mouthwatering street food, and stunning coastal scenery, Palermo has something to offer to every type of traveler.

One of the highlights of Palermo is its historic architecture, which reflects the city's fascinating past. The Palermo Cathedral, a masterpiece of Norman architecture, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Another iconic landmark is the Palazzo dei Normanni, a stunning palace that has served as the seat of power for various rulers over the centuries. The Cappella Palatina, located within the palace, showcases intricate Byzantine mosaics that are considered some of the finest in the world.

Exploring the city's markets is a sensory delight not to be missed. The Vucciria Market is a maze of narrow streets filled with stalls selling a variety of fresh produce, cured meats, and traditional Sicilian products. For a truly authentic experience, try the street food, such as arancini (fried rice balls) and panelle (chickpea fritters), that the vendors offer.

Art lovers will find plenty to admire in Palermo's numerous art galleries, such as the Galleria Regionale di Palazzo Abatellis, which houses a collection of Italian masterpieces, including works by Antonello da Messina and Renato Guttuso. The city is also dotted with charming churches, such as the Church of San Cataldo and the Church of Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio, known as the Martorana, both of which showcase stunning Byzantine architecture and intricate mosaics.

For those seeking respite from the city's busy streets, Palermo offers beautiful natural landscapes. The nearby Mondello beach, with its crystal-clear waters and sandy shores, is a popular choice for locals and tourists alike. The picturesque fishing village of Cefalù, located just an hour outside of Palermo, is another great option for a day trip, with its charming old town and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

No visit to Palermo would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Sicilian cuisine is known for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients, and Palermo boasts a wide variety of traditional dishes. Try the famous pasta alla Norma, a hearty pasta dish with eggplant and ricotta salata, or the iconic cannoli, a crispy pastry shell filled with sweet ricotta cream. Don't forget to wash it all down with a glass of refreshing Sicilian wine!

In terms of transportation, Palermo has a well-connected public transport system, including buses and trains. However, the city center is relatively compact and easily navigable on foot, allowing visitors to take in the sights at their own pace. Taxis and rental cars are also readily available for those who prefer more flexibility.

Overall, Palermo is a captivating destination that combines a rich history, vibrant culture, delicious food, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient ruins, indulging in local cuisine, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, Palermo is sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler lucky enough to visit.

Amalfi

The rugged southern shore dividing the Bay
of Naples from the Gulf of Salerno is a restful and picturesque
area. Miniature towns shelter in precipitous coastal ravines and
tranquil seas calmly lap the shores of quiet pebbled beaches. The
Amalfi Coast is a great relaxation spot from which to enjoy coastal
Italian culture.

Stretching between the towns of Positano
and Vietri sul Mare, near Salerno, the area is renowned for its
breathtaking scenery and towering mountain cliffs that plunge into
the Mediterranean Sea. Precariously perched and threatening to
tipple into the sea, the small town of Positano is a great
attraction for tourists with its cluster of multi-coloured houses
and remarkable setting. A cliffside stairway provides the perfect
vantage-point from which to admire its glorious sea vistas.

Four miles (6km) down the coast is the
quaint town of Praiano, framed by caves, castles and sharp cliffs.
A stroll from here towards Amalfi will take you to a ramp leading
to Marina di Praia, a 400-year-old fishing village nestled in the
embrace of a tiny ravine. Another notable stop between Praiano and
Amalfi is the Grotta dello Smeraldo.

The busy seaside town of Amalfi basks in
the glory of its longevity as the first Sea Republic of Italy, and
as the hometown of Flavio Gioja, the inventor of the compass. It's
referred to as the 'pearl of the coast' and has a bit of everything
for the weary traveller. A pebble's throw away from here is the
quiet village of Atrani, its tranquil beach rests languidly on the
water's edge against a superb backdrop of mountains.

Further down the coast is Minori, notable
for its lemon exports, a gentle place with villas and beaches to
explore. The quiet town of Ravello retains the charm prized by
Bocaccio who dedicated part of his famous work, the Decameron, to
the town. The coastal road that twists its way between the rocks
affords glimpses of small villages, bays and inlets, and a journey
along this southern route will take travellers to towns of
worldwide fame as well as to lesser-known spots of equally
enchanting beauty.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a coastal town in southwestern Italy, facing the Bay of Naples on the Sorrentine Peninsula. Perched atop cliffs that separate the town from its busy marinas, it’s known for sweeping water views and Piazza Tasso, a cafe-lined square. The historic center is a warren of narrow alleys that's home to the Chiesa di San Francesco, a 14th-century church with a tranquil cloiste

Civitavecchia

Rome is like a living museum, liberally
dotted with fascinating ruins, ancient relics and archaeological
sites. Centuries are peeled back from the Eternal City with each
new vista in this great metropolis of fearsome gladiators and
gorgeous art. Vespas, sports cars and nippy Fiats speed past trendy
sidewalk cafes, bistros and nightclubs, revealing the Rome of
Fellini's La Dolce Vita, while the stark facades of the Stadio
Olimpico reminds visitors of Mussolini's attempts to reinvent the
architecture of the Caesars.

For a taste of the Baroque, visitors need
only climb the famous Spanish Steps, walk through the Piazza Navona
or toss a coin into the beautiful Trevi Fountain. Renaissance
splendour is best revealed in the Vatican Palace, specifically
Michelangelo's efforts on the roof of the Sistine Chapel. From
early Christian Basilicas and the Roman Forum to the Colosseum and
the Pantheon, the sequence of history trails back to the dizzying
heights of the empire.

It may sound like a city of contrasts, but
Rome's timeless magic lies in its ability to blend the old with the
new. Empires have risen and fallen, old gods have been replaced
with the new, but Rome nonetheless remains.