Italian Riviera & Amalfi Coast

As your ship sails into Lisbon along the Tagus River and under the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge, you can witness prominent Portuguese landmarks punctuating the skyline from the unique viewpoint of the sea. The majestic Belém Tower stands proudly at the water’s edge as a testament to the Age of Discovery, while nearby the Monument to the Discoveries commemorates the country’s explorers, Vasco de Gama and Henry the Navigator. Meanwhile, in the distance, you will also be able to see São Jorge Castle, overlooking the historic Alfama District.

Overlooking the River Tagus, Portugal’s capital city offers an abundance of maritime highlights, including the iconic Ponte de Abril Suspension Bridge, and the UNESCO-listed Belém Tower, which served as an embarkation and disembarkation point for Vasco de Gama and other Portuguese explorers. The delicious pastéis de nata are also not to be missed when visiting Lisbon, particularly when sampled at the original bakery, which opened in 1837.

Located at the top of the Gulf of Angels, Cagliari is considered to be the most Italian city of the autonomous region of Sardinia. The local language is Sardu, and so Cagliari is known as Casteddu, meaning castle. The ancient city is dominated by palazzi and domed structures, leading to the iconic hilltop citadel Il Castello, where the old medieval city is a maze of intriguingly narrow high-walled alleyways.

As your cruise ship sails past the impossibly beautiful Amalfi Coast, the deep blue of the Tyrrhenian Sea stretches endlessly beneath the golden sun, while pastel-coloured villages cling to steep cliffs, their terraces overflowing with lemon trees and bougainvillea. From the decks of your ship, you may be able to see the legendary towns of Positano, with its charming beachfront; Amalfi, home to citrus groves and steeped in maritime history; and Ravello, offering dramatic views and tiny secluded coves.

Perfectly located between the Amalfi Coast and Cilento National Park, Salerno is an often overlooked destination in the Campania region. With centuries of rich history, influenced by the Romans, Goths and Byazantines, there are many churches and authentic trattorias laced through the towns narrow cobbled streets. The 11th century cathedral in Salerno is the city’s most important church, and has an abundance of artefacts dedicated to Saint Matthew, with stunning artwork on its ceilings and walls.

The coastal port of Civitavecchia is gateway to the Eternal City of Rome, so named because ancient Romans believed that no matter what happened to the world, the city would go on forever. Alongside the many inviting trattoria in Rome, there are many deeply historical structures, including the imposing Colosseum, Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain. From Rome, the holy Vatican City is easily accessible and is home to His Holiness, the Pope.

The charming city of La Spezia, located on the Ligurain coast of Italy, offers a colourful blend of maritime heritage, natural beauty and culture. Known for its strategic maritime importance, the naval base here was reconstructed after it was decimated in World War Two, and still produces naval warships for the Italian Navy. The tranquil bay in La Spezia is known as the “Gulf of Poets”, and has inspired many writers and poets, including Lord Byron and Mary Shelley. The city is also gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cinque Terre, with its beautifully coloured villages perched on rugged cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Savona is a charming coastal city located in the Liguria region of northwestern Italy, perfectly positioned between the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, boasting a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and a blend of cultural and natural attractions. As you step ashore, you will have opportunities to explore the sandy shores and rocky coves of Savona’s coastline, framed by lush green hills. Alternatively, you can wander round the city, stopping to admire landmarks like the Torre della Quarda, a tower named in honour of Leon Pancaldo, who explored the world with Magellan; or the Priamar, a huge fortress built by the Genovese people. Amidst your explorations, savour opportunities to indulge in local dishes of panissa (deep-fried polenta-like dough) or trofie al pesto (a traditional Ligurian pasta made with basil pesto) along with a glass of fruity chinotto, perfect for summer.

Originally constructed in 223 B.C by the Carthaginians, Cartagena is immersed in ancient history and has been through some incredibly turbulent times. Its heyday was during the Roman era, and there are several archaeological sites in the city, many only discovered when built over in recent years. The first of these sites to be discovered was the Roman Theatre, which held 6,000 spectators; and other sites including the Baths and the Augsteum.

One of Europe’s oldest cities, Cadiz is well-known for the golden dome atop the cathedral, which gleams in the pleasant spring sunshine. You will be perfectly placed to wander through the narrow streets of the old town or ascend the 173 steps of the former watchtower, Torre Tavira, for outstanding views across the city. There will be opportunities for you to witness a traditional Flamenco show in its place of origin and dine at authentic tapas bars, offering delectable small plates like fried anchovies, garlic prawns, and shrimp fritters, accompanied by local wines or the famously sweet and nutty-tasting Jerez sherry.