Rome to Venice

Whether enjoying the street performers at the Spanish Steps and people-watching over a fine glass of wine in colorful Trastevere, or taking in the historical and architectural glory that is Rome, visitors are spoiled for choice in this truly Eternal City. St. Peter’s Basilica is a full-day outing, featuring the Sistine Chapel and panoramic city vistas for those willing to climb to the top of the dome. Other landmarks not to miss include the renowned Trevi Fountain, the Coliseum, and Aventine Hill, which provides you with a grand view of the imposing remains of the Imperial Palaces and the Circus Maximus, of Ben Hur fame.

Discover chic Positano with its relaxed, sophisticated air and white Moorish-style houses clinging to steep slopes around a sparkling bay filled with colorful fishing boats. Then visit enchanting Amalfi and admire the 12th-century Capuchin monastery and see the beautiful 11th-century Cathedral and cloister before exploring on your own. Browse Positano’s boutiques for the town’s locally made casual cotton clothes or search for unique souvenirs in Amalfi. Enjoy delicious fresh seafood and pasta or tempting pastries and espresso in a spectacular seaside, mountainous setting.

With a wealth of archeological sites, such as Selinunte and Segesta; the neighboring mountaintop medieval town of Erice, overlooking the beautiful archipelago of Egadi; and nearby Marsala (from the Arab name, "Marsa Allah," or “port of Allah”), with its House of Mosaics and renowned wine; Trapani allows visitors to experience Sicily with all of their senses. Don’t miss the day trip through the scenic countryside to local olive farms, where cooking demonstrations become delectable repasts, gastronomic memories in the making.

Malta’s major port and capital, the entire city of Valletta was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. The centerpiece is the impressive 19th century Mosta Dome, visible from anywhere on the island, with its inlaid marble floor and the gilded, carved stone flowers set around the interior dome. For a tranquil afternoon, stroll the San Anton Palace Gardens, artistically laid out in Three Villages - Attard, Lija and Balzan. Or, for spectacular vistas, take a day tour to Dingli Cliffs, which offer striking views of the sea and rugged coastline. Valetta is also a portal to day trips to nearby Mdina, with its landmark Baroque Cathedral of St. John; and Rabat, the provincial township that was once part of the Roman city of Melita, where you can explore several fascinating archaeological digs.

Kotor is a coastal town in Montenegro, located in a most secluded part of the Gulf of Kotor. The old port, surrounded by an impressive city wall built by the House of Nemanjicc, is very well preserved and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Numerous other attractions include the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon in the old town (built in 1166), and ancient walls which stretch directly above the city. Nightlife also attracts tourists to Kotor with pubs, taverns, cafes, and nightclubs.

Found on the northern Dalmatian coast of Croatia, Zadar is rich with thousands of years of history. Ruled at various times by the Romans, Ostrogoths, and Byzantium, the city became a center of commerce and naval power rivaling that of Venice. Today, Zadar’s history, culture, and architecture draw visitors from around the world, as does Plitvice National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.