From the Adriatic Coast to Malta

Proud and eternal, Venice has reigned on its lagoon ever since the 6th century. You may think you know this city before even setting foot here. You will inevitably fall in love with the charm of the innumerable treasures of the Serenissima: Saint Mark’s square, the basilica, Doges palace, the Grand Canal and the gondolas. Yet, secret Venice is also waiting for you to explore its little interlacing streets and canals, to ramble through its squares and to push open the doors of its churches. The city’s extraordinary heritage shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a glass of Spritz and a few tramezzini.

A highlight of the Kvarner Gulf, the island of Rab is a protected geopark and offers thrilling scenery for every taste. It is decorated with a spectacular contrast of cliffs, sandbars, dunes and pine forests. The main town of the same name is known for the four bell towers that rise above its sparkling waters. Ships will anchor offshore and tender guests to shore.

Top Things to Do on Rab:

• visit the Kamenjak Viewpoint
• tour the St. Bernardin Monastery
• hike the Geopark Trail
• relax on Suha Punta Beach
  

Primošten, a picturesque town on the Adriatic coast of Croatia, is famed for its beautiful beaches and charming old town. The historic centre, situated on a small peninsula, features narrow cobblestone streets, traditional stone houses, and the stunning Church of St. George, offering panoramic views of the sea.

The town's coastline boasts pristine beaches such as Mala Raduča and Velika Raduča, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. For wine enthusiasts, the nearby vineyards produce the renowned Babić wine. With its blend of historical charm, clear waters, and local delicacies, Primošten offers a delightful escape on the Dalmatian coast.

Lying on the Adriatic Sea's eastern shore, Split is known for its terracotta roofs, whitewashed buildings, palm-tree-lined promenade and azure waters. A city of romantic beauty, it was built around the historic Diocletian’s Palace. Ships will dock or anchor at this port.

Top Things to Do in Split:

• explore Krka National Park
• visit the city-island of Trogir
• admire the Diocletian's Palace
• swim in the warm water at Bačvice Beach
• go white water rafting on Cetina River
• explore Vranjaca Cave

You will sail towards the popular island of Hvar, for a day in Stari Grad, an intimate port of call that is off the beaten track. Let your feelings guide you and discover this pretty city located at the end of a fertile plain, planted with vines and olive groves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The organisation of its parcels, marked out by dry stone walls that punctuate the landscape, goes back to ancient times. Wander around the small streets at your leisure, discovering the town’s pretty boutiques and gourmet restaurants.

Mljet Island lies off the Pelješac peninsula and is known for its national park, white and red wine, olives and goat's cheese.

This unspoilt island is covered by a dense Mediterranean forest and its waters are rich in fish and marine life. It is also well known for its two salted lakes, Veliko and Malo Jezero, that are located at the north end of the island.

On St. Mary's Island in the middle of Veliko Jezero lake, there is an old Benedictine monastery. Visitors can take a boat to St. Mary's Island, kayak the lakes and stroll or bike one of the many trails.

Emblem of the Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik is magnificently positioned on a rocky spur. History is sovereign here, in this ancient city, now a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. You will perhaps be surprised by the proportions of La Placa, the central drag through the city. The sheer width of it can be explained by the fact that it straddles a former lagoon.

The elegant houses along La Placa are built in the legendary travertine stone. At Pile gate, you will be greeted by the statue of the patron saint of Dubrovnik, and you can admire the coastline as you walk along the ramparts. But what’s inside Fort Saint John, adjoining the outer walls? A maritime museum and an aquarium featuring rare fish from the Adriatic.

Much of Tivat’s elegance comes from the beauty of its marina, Porto Montenegro, which attracts many influential personalities. The port’s promenade, emphasised by its line of palm trees facing the mountains of the Bay of Kotor, really is a setting with unique charm.

Built in the 14th century, the town was successively governed by the Venetians and the Austro-Hungarians before the creation of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia following the First World War. Today, Montenegro's most prosperous city welcomes visitors, in particular to visit its old town or take a walk along its magnificent beaches.

Located in the Apulia region, Otrante is the easternmost transalpine town. Behind its medieval ramparts, you will taste the sweetlife of Salento, the “heel on Italy’s boot”. Inhabited since Antiquity, Otrante has today become a very pleasant seaside town. Yet its history is still visible as you meander through the little streets of its old centre. With its magnificent 12th century ornamental mosaic tiling, the Cathedral is one of its most beautiful treasures. During a stroll along the ramparts, you can sit and relax at a café terrace.

Located on Sicily’s eastern coast, in the province of Messina, the seaside town of Taormina is Sicily’s Saint-Tropez, boasting heritage sites, secluded beaches and luxury shopping. You can visit its medieval centre, suspended 300 metres above sea level, where terraces offer a spectacular view of the Mediterranean Sea. Another vestige from its past are the ruins of the Greco-Roman theatre. This extremely well-preserved site attracts visitors who are fascinated by the natural beauty of the area which overlooks a turquoise bay.

The entire city of Valletta, the capital of Malta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cited as one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world, it’s a cultural hub for Baroque art, museums, and historic sites. Ships will dock at the cruise port.

Top Things to Do in Valletta:

• tour the ornate St. John’s Co-Cathedral
• explore the island of Gozo
• take in the view at Dingli Cliffs
• visit the Grand Master's Palace
• explore Malta’s ancient capital, Mdina
• stroll along the Valletta waterfront