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Smithsonian Journeys Crossroads of Sicily tour - Sicily Forum

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Smithsonian Journeys Crossroads of Sicily tour

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Has anybody taken above tour recently ? I am considering taking it in 03/11 and would greatly appreciate ANY input.

Thank you in advance.

Most people on TA on DIY'ers - Certainly the Smithsonian has a good reputation and the Sicily tour is a good value.

http://www.smithsonianjourneys.org/tours/crossroadssicily09/

But it is huge with 46 participants. Be sure the local guides are licenced.

Italy Tours

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g187890-i418-k3860716-Italian_Tours-Palermo_Sicily.html

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Sicily Hotels and Places to Stay

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Sicily: Eternal Crossroads of the Mediterranean

All-day program with sicilian-themed lunch, full day lecture/seminar, select your tickets.

Sicilian coast

Sicily’s art and architecture mirror its history as a kaleidoscope of cultures. From stark Greek temples through dazzling Roman and Arab-Norman mosaics and on to Baroque opulence and charming romantic-era revivals, art historian Janetta Rebold Benton highlights the aesthetic eclecticism and cultural signposts of this sun-splashed island.

10–11 a.m. Antiquity

Greek temples at Agrigento; the search for ideal mathematical ratios in architecture and sculpture; 4th-century Roman mosaics at the Villa Romana del Casale reveal a lifestyle of colorful pleasures.

11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. The Middle Ages

The well-preserved medieval town of Erice; celebrated 12th-century Arab-Norman mosaics of the Palatine Chapel in Palermo; unequaled cathedrals, mosaics, and cloisters in Cefalù and Monreale.

12:15–1:15 p.m. Enjoy a Sicilian-themed lunch

1:15–2:15 p.m. Renaissance to Baroque

Early-Renaissance painter Antonello da Messina and Baroque painter Caravaggio; a white stucco oratory in Palermo; curious combinations of cultures in Siracusa and Palermo; dramatic Baroque churches in Modica and Ragusa Ibla.

2:30–3:30 p.m. Luxury Living, 18th and 19th-century Style

The bizarre décor of the “Villa of the Monsters” in Bagheria; the Chinese-inspired Palazzina Cinese outside Palermo; classical and Gothic revival styles at Castello di Donnafugata near Ragusa; Palermo’s eclectic Villa Whitaker.

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit*

*Enrolled participants in the World Art History Certificate Program receive 1 elective credit. Not yet enrolled? Learn about the program, its benefits, and how to register here .

Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba – with Smithsonian Journeys

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£4340.0

* Current p/p indicative rate.

A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion in each port of call.
Engaging discussions onboard with two Smithsonian Journeys Experts.
An opportunity to explore five Mediterranean islands on one itinerary: Malta (embarkation point), Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba.
Five UNESCO World Heritage Sites en route: Palermo, Monreale, Taormina, Syracuse, and Noto.
Well-preserved Greek and Roman ruins in Syracuse and Taormina, and on Sardinia.
Stunning Byzantine-Arab mosaics in the Cappella Palatina in Palermo and the Norman Cathedral of Monreale.
The medieval clifftop town of Bonifacio on Corsica.
Napoleon's villa on Elba.
Opportunities for tasting wines and local specialties in Noto, Taormina, Palermo, and Portoferraio.

In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.

This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.

This voyage in the heart of the Mediterranean explores four islands that, despite their differences, share a history of successive waves of civilizations that have washed over them from prehistoric times to the present. Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Byzantines, French, and Italians—all have left their mark on the language, art, architecture, and cuisine of Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba.

From Valletta, Malta, your discovery of these very special islands begins with three days on the largest of them, Sicily, as you visit the cities of Syracuse, Taormina, and Palermo. In Syracuse, which rivalled Athens as one of the most powerful cities of the ancient world, you may choose to explore the Roman Amphitheater of Augustus and the 15,000 seat Greek theater, or join a walking tour of Ortygia, Syracuse's old town. Or you may choose to travel to nearby Noto, a Baroque World Heritage site, now rebuilt following a devastating earthquake in 1990.

The beautiful resort town of Taormina, perched high on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea, is home to a stunning Greek theater, an Odeon from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, and villas built by European aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries. It is also a gateway to Mt. Etna and the vineyards that thrive in the rich volcanic soils of its slopes.

Palermo, Sicily's capital and your final port of call on the island, was founded by the Phoenicians in 827 BC and became one of Europe’s greatest cities in the 12th century, when the Normans took control. Here you may combine Roger II's Cappella Palatina, featuring dazzling mosaics and magnificent inlaid marble floors and walls, with a drive to nearby Monreale to explore its famed Norman cathedral. Or you may choose to focus on Palermo's famous markets and street food, or decide to travel along the coast to the resort town of Cefalù.

Cagliari, Sardinia's capital, is your gateway to the archaeological site of Nora. Founded by Phoenicians in the 8th century BC, it was subsequently taken over by Carthaginians, then by Romans. Explore the remains of Carthaginian warehouses, buildings from the time of the Roman Republic, a Carthaginian-Roman temple, large baths with splendid mosaics, and a theater, almost intact, dating to the time of the Empire.

You will want to be on deck as your ship navigates the narrow waterway that leads to Bonifacio, perched high on cliffs on Corsica's southern coast. Board a mini-train to transport you to the oldest part of the city, where you can stroll through winding medieval lanes of brightly colored houses and admire their fine Gothic architecture. Or you may prefer to explore the small archipelago of the Lavezzi Islands, a nature reserve famous for the Grotte du Sdragonatu (Dragon's Cave) accessible only by sea.

Portoferraio is the main harbor of the island of Elba, the last of the four islands on your journey. Most famous as the site of Napoleon Bonaparte’s exile in 1814-15, Portoferraio was founded by the Medicis in the 16th century. A walking tour of the town includes a visit to Villa dei Mulini, Napoleon’s home during exile, and is followed by a wine tasting and sampling of Tuscan mezze at a local vineyard.

Your voyage ends in Nice, France.

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or [email protected]) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

The whole of the Maltese capital Valletta is UNESCO World Heritage listed and occupies a peninsula in the north-east of the island. From the fountain of Tritons to Saint-Elme fort, there are as many majestic streets as there are narrow staircase vennels to explore. The painted loggia and carved corbels on the tall houses will accompany you in your explorations, and you’ll rarely be bothered by traffic. You can visit the Grandmasters palace decorated with coats of arms and frescoes. Saint-John’s cathedral and the ramparts which have guarded the city since the 16th century are also among the most emblematic sites of the city. Arranged in terraces, the Barrakka Gardens will punctuate your promenade with a green and floral experience.

Its undulating rocky coastline, the endless sandy beaches, the menacing form of Mount Etna which surveys its island like a patriarch, the flowery gardens on the hillside... Sicily lays out its varied landscapes like a shopkeeper displays his wares. Described by Cicero as “the most beautiful city in the world”, Syracuse was one of the most prestigious cities in Sicily and at her height was even a rival for Athens. A central city of Ancient Greece, it was home to a succession of civilisations, each of which has left their mark. The blend of Arabic, Roman, Norman, Byzantine and Spanish cultures makes Syracuse a town that is extraordinarily rich in fragrances, colours and flavours.

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.

Palermo is the guardian of the Sicilian soul. Many have been attracted to this city, the largest capital of the Italian islands. Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans... Palermo is a rich culmination of so many cultural influences as seen in the Moorish designs on the cathedral, and the Byzantine mosaics of the Palatine chapel, which is itself housed within the precincts of the Norman palace. You will fall under the spell of the palaces, baroque splendours that grace the town with their obsolete beauty. It is thrilling to stumble upon one of those fabulous markets, high in colour, and headily picturesque.

The capital of Sardinia, Cagliari, like Rome, is built on seven hills. Its Sardinian name means “castle”, in reference to the citadel, its historic centre, which dominates the city. The old ramparts are now pleasant panoramic terraces bordering picturesque streets. The city hosted the Nuragic, Phoenician, Roman and Byzantine civilisations before the rein of the Spanish Hapsburgs and the House of Savoy. The monuments of Cagliari bear the traces of these successive dominations, such as the Bastion of Saint-Rémy or the Sainte-Marie Cathedral. On the sea front, Art Nouveau-style public monuments give way to the Poetto beach, a magnificent stretch of sand that is 8 kilometres long.

The spectacular town of Bonifacio located on the very tip of southern Corsica, clings to a narrow promontory of white rock overhanging the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. You can admire its limestone cliffs hewn out by the wind, before setting off on a cultural tour of its cultural treasures. From the little paved streets in the ancient Haute Ville, to the promenade on the open-air medieval chemin de ronde, this stunning town will take you on a journey back in time. Frequented or secluded, there are numerous beaches to choose from, all in keeping with the high standards of the “Île de Beauté”.

In the elbow of a creek on the northern coastline of Elba Island, a small corner of paradise awaits in the form of Portoferraio. As you approach its coastlines, you will make out the powerful and majestic contours of its Medici fortresses. Napoleon Bonaparte spent many of his 300 days in exile here. The Palazzina dei Mulini, his first imperial residence, whose gardens offer outstanding views of the sea, is a must-see. Historical treasures are followed by another kind of treasure, namely white sand beaches, and equally tempting local specialities including gurguglione and rice with cuttlefish ink.

Capital of the Cote d’Azur, Nice is surrounded by an amphitheatre of hills and mountains that protects it from the wind. You will probably want to explore the Promenade des Anglais, where you can sit on one of the famous blue chairs laid out opposite the baie des Anges. The Château hill is also a very pleasent place to walk. This is the entrance to the old city, with its bustling markets and regional products along the main street, the Cours Saleya.

Itineraries are subject to change.

Le Bougainville

Featuring innovative and environmentally-friendly equipment, elegantly designed cabins, spacious suites with large windows, and lounge areas that open onto the outside, this new limited-capacity yacht boasting just 92 cabins and suites will offer you a truly unique cruising experience.

As the first ship in a new series that remains true to the Ponant spirit, Le Bougainville will embody the unique atmosphere that is the cruise line’s hallmark: a subtle blend of refinement, intimacy and comfort.

Aboard this ship that flies the French flag, you will experience the incomparable pleasure of an intimate cruise, with the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic-chic ambiance with luxury service.

Experience a luxurious setting where the accent is on authenticity and passion for travel.

RESTAURANTS

As it is an essential part of French culture, gastronomy will naturally have pride of place aboard this new ship. Through its two restaurants, Le Bougainville will invite you on a journey to elegance and epicureanism.

In a relaxed atmosphere, a first dining area located on Deck 3 and able to seat 70 will serve grilled meats daily, along with a variety of salads and desserts.

To the back of Deck 4, you will find a 260 m² panoramic restaurant which can accommodate all of our passengers in a single sitting. Designed differently to that on our other ships, this dining area, which opens onto the outside, will have a buffet of salads, desserts and cheeses at your disposal. Our discreet and attentive crew will provide table service for hot meals.

PUBLIC AREAS

Like Le Boréal and its sisterships, Le Bougainville has many common areas that are designed and equipped to meet all of your needs while preserving the intimacy of each passenger.

A 140 m² reception area includes:

A reception/concierge desk, An excursions desk, The ship’s administrative services, The sales office, manned by our Guest Relations Officer, Our 50 m² boutique which sells clothing, jewellery, beauty products, postcards and various accessories, Toilets accessible to passengers with reduced mobility.

A new hydraulic platform with adjustable height provides: Easier boarding than on any other cruise ship, Easier Zodiac embarkation and disembarkation for expeditions, Easier access to the sea for swimming and practising various water sports such as kayaking or paddle-boarding.

A pool deck offering: A pool with a panoramic view, equipped with a counter-current swimming system, A pleasant solarium, An outdoor bar and lounge with armchairs and sofas.

A 200 m² main lounge which can accommodate all of our passengers to share convivial moments and to host activities organised during the day or evening.

Lastly, a theatre that seats 188, equipped with: The latest sound and lighting technology, A LED wall as the stage backdrop, for the projection of high-resolution images and videos.

Please click the following links to read more about Ponant and the other Ponant cruise ships .

accommodation in stateroom,
the full meal plan,
the Open Bar: beginning with boarding, and during the duration of the cruise, a wide selection of drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, wine, beer, Charles Heidsieck champagne, spirits, coffee, tea) is served on request and at any time of the day. Certain premium alcoholic beverages on the menu are not included in the Open Bar,
free Wi-Fi internet access 24 hours a day*,
activities offered during expedition cruises (see section "Expedition cruises")
fitness room, steam room, hair salon, swimming pool (sea water, heated), solarium, lounges, theater, boutique & leisure area.
A program of onboard enrichment provided by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts
Transfers and luggage handling from the airport in Nice to the ship on the day of embarkation
Comprehensive 7-night cruise aboard the deluxe Le Bougainville , with all the amenities for which PONANT ships are famous
One included shore excursion in each port of call (see “Itinerary” for more information and choice of excursions, if applicable)
Gratuities for ship crew and for guides and drivers on excursions
Transfer from the ship to the airport in Valletta at the end of the cruise on the morning of disembarkation

8 days from £4340.0

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Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights: Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily – with Smithsonian Journeys Valletta - Livorno

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Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights: Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily – with Smithsonian Journeys

Valletta - livorno, dates: 9/8/2024 to 9/15/2024.

Guest Speaker

Shore excursion in each port of call + transfers included

In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.

This 8-day voyage in Sicily and Southern Italy aboard Le Bougainville visits some of the Mediterranean's most compelling ancient, medieval, and Renaissance sites while also offering extensive opportunities to sample the foods and wines that have made this part of the world famous for its cuisine. Because there is so much to see and do, the itinerary is designed to allow for maximum time ashore. As a special treat, acclaimed Italian chef Denny Imbroisi and his team will join you aboard to prepare authentic Italian dishes for you to enjoy during your voyage.

From Valletta , Malta, your experience of Sicily begins in Syracuse, where you may choose to focus on Ortygia, the ancient center of this once-powerful Greek colony, and on the city's extensive archaeological park ; enjoy a tasting at a nearby winery ; or join excursions that combine exploration of historical sites with samplings of Sicilian arancini, cheeses, salamis, breads, and desserts.

The beautiful resort town of Taormina, perched high on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea, is home to a stunning Greek theater , an Odeon from Roman times , buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, and villas built by European aristocracy in the 18 th and 19 th centuries. It is also your gateway to Mt. Etna and the vineyards that thrive in the rich volcanic soils of its slopes.

Reggio di Calabria , just across the Strait of Messina from Sicily, is home to the National Archaeological Museum of Magna Graecia and the world famous Riace Bronzes . The surrounding area, both along the coast and in the interior mountains, boasts a number of intriguing castles and many wineries. During your time here, you may visit the hilltop Norman Castle in Vibo Valentia or the Aragonese Castle in the village of Pizzo , enjoying a variety of local food specialties whichever excursion you choose, including the native citrus bergamot and the ice cream and fruit delight called tartufo .

From the port of Agropoli, about 30 miles south of the Amalfi peninsula, travel to Paestum , founded by Greeks in the 6 th century BC and one of Italy’s most important archaeological sites, containing Doric temples that are among the best-preserved ancient monuments in the Mediterranean. The region around Agropoli is famous for the production of Campania mozzarella , and you will have the opportunity to see it being made and to sample the end product.

No visit to Naples is complete without the opportunity to explore Pompeii, destroyed by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 AD and frozen in time. No other site so acutely captures everyday life in the early Roman Empire. Other excursions include Herculaneum, which shared Pompeii's fate, and a working farm near Sorrento, where you can make your own version of what is perhaps the region's most famous food, Neapolitan style pizza .

Your final full day of discovery is spent in the Eternal City of Rome , where exploration of monuments like the Colosseum , Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps , the Vatican, and Villa Borghese competes for your attention with tastings of street food and making authentic homemade pasta.

Your voyage ends in Livorno , the gateway to Tuscany.

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A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion in each port of call. Engaging discussions...

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Included in your cruise For more peace of mind, PONANT organizes your trip before or after the cruise. This package is included in the price of your cruise.

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Additional services For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.

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Ports of Call & Excursions

September 8, 2024 - Valletta

Embarkation 9/8/2024 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM Departure 9/8/2024 at 6:00 PM

September 9, 2024 - Syracuse, Sicily

Arrival 9/9/2024 early morning Departure 9/9/2024 late afternoon

Its undulating rocky coastline, the endless sandy beaches, the menacing form of Mount Etna which surveys its island like a patriarch, the flowery gardens on the hillside... Sicily lays out its varied landscapes like a shopkeeper displays his wares. Described by Cicero as “the most beautiful city in the world”, Syracuse was one of the most prestigious cities in Sicily and at her height was even a rival for Athens. A central city of Ancient Greece , it was home to a succession of civilisations, each of which has left their mark. The blend of Arabic, Roman, Norman, Byzantine and Spanish cultures makes Syracuse a town that is extraordinarily rich in fragrances, colours and flavours.

September 10, 2024 - Taormina, Sicily

Arrival 9/10/2024 Departure 9/10/2024 early evening

September 11, 2024 - Reggio di Calabria

Arrival 9/11/2024 Departure 9/11/2024 late afternoon

At the southern tip of the Italian boot, Reggio di Calabria guards the eastern shore of the Strait of Messina. From the lungomare , the sea front promenade, there are magnificent views over Sicily, a little over 3 km away, and Etna. Rebuilt after the 1908 earthquake, Reggio is set out in a grid pattern and has Art Nouveau and Belle Époque architecture that add to its charm. And the fragrance of bergamot, the citrus fruit that dominates the region’s confectionery and perfumery. A visit to the National Archaeological Museum is a must. It is one of the most important in Italy and among its collections are the famous Riace Bronzes, the stunning Greek statues dating from the 5th century BC that were found off the coast in 1972.

September 12, 2024 - Agropoli

Arrival 9/12/2024 early morning Departure 9/12/2024 early evening

Located on the Cilento Coast along the Tyrrhenian Sea, Agropoli is an Italian town located in the province of Salerno in Campania. You will be seduced by the beauty of its coastline, its pristine nature and its fascinating history dating back to Antiquity. The Apennines (from the Celtic word “pen” meaning rocky summit) form the backbone of the Italian Peninsula and serve as a majestic background to a landscape composed of small bays and coves. The magnificent beaches of Trentova Bay contribute to making this small town a very popular seaside resort.

September 13, 2024 - Naples

Arrival 9/13/2024 Departure 9/13/2024 late afternoon

More Italian than Italy itself, Naples is the capital of the beautiful region of Campania, and is an unusual city to say the least. Its gulf, dominated by Vesuvius, is one of the world’s marvels. Built by the Greeks and then occupied by the Romans, the city has retained the memory of antiquity, as Castell dell’Ovo illustrates. But Naples has another side to it with its hustle and bustle, narrow streets, clothes hung out to dry at windows, Caravaggio paintings on the walls of a church, and incessant rumour in an sleepless city. This is a head-spinning city to visit and savour: don’t forget to eat a slice of pizza Margherita .

September 14, 2024 - Civitavecchia (Rome)

Arrival 9/14/2024 early morning Departure 9/14/2024 late afternoon

Built on an Etruscan site, between the Tyrrhenian sea and the Monti della Tolfa, Civitavecchia respires the dolce vita. This very modern and easy going town combines art and history with panache. You can also visit superb historical sites like Fort Michelangelo or the Cathedral of Saint Francis of Assisi. Just 80 kilometres from Rome, the town is a beautiful first step to the Italian capital.

September 15, 2024 - Livorno

Arrival 9/15/2024 early morning Disembarkation 9/15/2024 at 8:00 AM

On the ligurian coast, Livorno invites us to Tuscany , a charming region offering archaeological vestiges , Renaissance treasures, undulating landscapes and a pleasant way of life. When the Medicis arrived in the 16th century they developed the city, which became one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean. Cosmopolitan and multireligious, Livorno has welcomed many immigrants and is a wonderful example of cultural diversity. Built during that period, Fortezza Vecchia and Fortezza Nuova attest to the city’s power. At the foot of the new fort, Nuova Venezia is an enchanting district with small canals and streets to stroll along to discover a few architectural treasures, such as the magnificent Santa Caterina da Siena church in the Tuscan baroque style.

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Archaeological Park & Museum

Colonized by the Greeks in the 8th century B.C., Syracuse became one of the most powerful and prestigious cities of the ancient world, rivaling even Athens. Your exploration of the ruins of this flourishing civilization begins, after a 15-minute drive, with a guided tour of Syracuse's extensive archaeological park, where you will visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus , used for contests between gladiators and wild beasts; the Altar of Hieron , constructed in the 2nd century B.C. to celebrate the Greek victory over Persia at the Battle of Plataea; the Latomie of Paradise , huge caverns once used as prisons; the Orecchio (Ear) of Dionysius , an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo; and the 15,000 seat Greek Theater , one of the largest in the Hellenic World, first constructed in the 5th century B.C. and successively enlarged.

From the archaeological area, continue to the Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum , the largest and most complete in Sicily and one of the best collections in all of Europe. It houses materials found in Sicily from prehistoric times through the Romans, but focuses mainly on the civilization of the Greek colonial period.

This excursion involves approximately a half mile of walking over uneven terrain, as well as a few steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.

Archaeological Park & Sicilian Flavors

Colonized by the Greeks in the 8th century B.C., Syracuse became one of the most powerful and prestigious cities of the ancient world, rivaling even Athens. Your exploration of the ruins of this flourishing civilization begins, after a 15-minute drive, with a guided tour of Syracuse's extensive archaeological park, where you will visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus , used for contests between gladiators and wild beasts; the Altar of Hieron , constructed in the 2nd century B.C. to celebrate the Greek victory over Persia at the Battle of Plataea; the Latomie of Paradise , huge caverns once used as prisons; the Orecchio (Ear) of Dionysiu s, an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo; and the 15,000 seat Greek Theater , one of the largest in the Hellenic World, first constructed in the 5th century B.C. and successively enlarged.

Leaving Syracuse, drive through the Sicilian countryside into the hills overlooking the Ionian Sea to Casa Bianca Lentini , one of the best farm-to-table agriturismo houses in the region, where you will be warmly welcomed by the Notarbartolo family and treated to an extraordinary meal prepared onsite from entirely locally-sourced products.

This excursion involves approximately a mile of walking over uneven terrain, as well as a few steps. It is not recommended for those with limited mobility. You should wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.

Nero d'Avola Wine Tasting

Southeastern Sicily, particularly the area around Noto, is the original home of the famous Nero d'Avola , a deep red grape that produces a bold, fruity wine. This excursion takes you to one of the leading vineyards producing this wine, for a tour of the estate and a tasting of several of vintages.

Enjoy a panoramic tour of Syracuse before departing the city to travel southward along the coast to Avola, the seaside town that gives its name to the grape, and then inland to the Zisola Winery . Situated on a hill with views over the nearby baroque city of Noto, the estate includes about 60 acres of vines, cultivated in the albarello tradition of 'bush-training', which allows for a density of over 2,000 vines per acre.

Your guided tour begins in the vineyards, where you will learn more about the labor-intensive system of pruning that requires countless hours of work per acre—but produces a very high yield. You then then move to the barrel cellar in the main building, where you are treated to a tasting of 3 wines, paired with a variety of mezze from the region.

This is an easy excursion that involves little walking. Lightweight clothing and flat, closed-toes shoes are recommended—as is sun protection. Note : Participation is limited to 20 guests.

The Baroque Town of Noto

Noto has origins in the ancient past, having been founded in the 5th century B.C. during the period of Greek colonization, but it was destroyed in a massive earthquake in 1693. The subsequent rebuilding of the city according to 18th-century ideas of architectural design and town planning has made Noto the quintessential example of Sicilian Baroque . The town is built on terraces connected by monumental flights of steps and is filled with churches and palaces with varying degrees of embellishment but sharing a common architectural theme.

Upon arrival, walk across the Public Gardens , where busts of the artists who contributed to Noto’s urban culture and style are on display. The centrally located and resplendent Cathedral has been restored following the earthquake of 1990. You will also visit other impressive buildings, including the Churches of St. Domenico and St. Charles , the Ducezio Palace , and Villadorata Palace . Noto was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO , and the United Nations provides financial support for the ongoing reconstruction of the town’s monuments.

At the end of your walking tour of this beautiful town, stop at a local bar specializing in gelato and sorbet , where you will sample some of the treats for which Noto is famous – especially a granita with brioche and coffee.

Restoration works on the monuments of Noto are almost completed, but access to some interiors might still be restricted. This excursion involves about 1 mile of walking over mostly easy terrain and steps to enter churches. Comfortable shoes and using sunscreen and hats for protection are highly recommended. Appropriate dress is expected when you enter churches (shoulders/knees covered).

Walking Tour of Ortygia Island

Ortygia, a tiny island just off the coast, is the original center of the ancient city of Syracuse. Meet your guide at the pier and begin your exploration on foot of this tangle of narrow streets that open onto splendid piazzas.

At the Piazza Pancali discover the 6th-century B.C. Temple of Apollo , the oldest Doric temple in Sicily. Next, walk through the food market and delight in the sounds and smells as you discover a vast selection of the region’s produce, meats, seafood, and cheeses.

Walk along the Corso Matteotti and through Archimedes Square en route to the stunning Piazza del Duomo . As the name suggests, this is the site of the Cathedral of Syracuse , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as is the entire city. Originally built in the 5th century B.C. as a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena and later turned into a Christian Basilica, it features a Baroque façade, constructed during the restoration following the 1693 earthquake.

End at the Fountain of Arethusa , one of Ortygia’s most beautiful monuments, reflecting the legend that the nymph Arethusa was turned into a beautiful spring by Artemis to help her escape the pursuit of a crazed lover.

This excursion involves approximately 1.5 miles of walking over uneven terrain and cobblestones as well as some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is expected to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees covered).

Taormina and Its Ancient Greek Theater

Taormina is perched on the side of Mount Tauro, offering superb views of the Mediterranean Sea, Isola Bella, and a snow-capped Mt. Etna in the background. A maze of narrow streets enlivened by the vibrant colors of bougainvillea and oleanders , Taormina's beauty and strategic location have attracted many different civilizations over the centuries, all of which have left their mark on the town: It is home to theaters and a gymnasium from the Greek period, an Odeon and baths from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, traces of a Byzantine past, and villas built as retreats for the European aristocracy of the 18th and 19th centuries.

This excursion begins with a visit on foot to Taormina's historic center. Cross the famous Corso Umberto to discover numerous monuments from several eras, and admire Porta Catania , the Cathedral, Piazza IX Aprile, and Palazzo Corvaja. Take the time at Teatro Antico , the Ancient Greek Theater, to appreciate this remarkable legacy of earlier cultures. The theater was built by the Greeks in the 3rd century B.C. and almost completely rebuilt by the Romans as a gladiatorial arena. It is the second largest theater in Sicily, after the one in Syracuse. Because of its size and acoustic quality, it is still in use to host festivals and concerts in the summer. Seated on the stone terraces, the audience can enjoy the performance while admiring a breathtaking view of the sea, Mount Tauro and Etna in the background.

As this excursion involves a walk of about 1.5 miles over rough terrain with several stairways, we advise that you wear sturdy shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Shoulders and legs should be covered if entering the Cathedral.

Mount Etna & Benanti Winery

Board you coach for a drive up the winding roads that work their way along the slopes of Mt. Etna , the largest active volcano in Europe. Begin with a drive through the small town of Naxos , which was found by Greek colonizers in the 8th century B.C., and then pass the town of Giarre and the villages of Santa Venerina and Zafferana en route. Your destination on Mt. Etna is the Crateri Silvestri area, a collection of inactive craters that were formed during a massive eruption in 1892. From here, the views across the Gulf of Catania and the vineyards clinging to the mountainside are breathtaking .

From this scenic spot, continue to the Benanti Winery, Monte Serra Estate , where you will join members of the staff for a visit to the vineyards and a tour of the estate's historic oak barrel room. A typical Sicilian lunch will be served, accompanied by samples of several of the winery’s finest vintages —a leisurely introduction to some of the delights of Sicilian cuisine.

This excursion includes about half a mile of walking along uneven and sometimes slippery terrain at Mt. Etna; some walking and steps at the winery. Altitude at Crateri Silvestri is about 6500 feet, so the air is thin. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and use sunscreen/hats for protection from the sun. We also recommend you bring a sweater or windproof jacket.

Catania Fish Market & Street Food

The port city of Catania, about 30 miles south of Taormina, is Sicily's economic and commercial hub. Its old town in the center of the city, rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1693, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , boasting some of the most exuberant late-Baroque architecture to be found anywhere in Europe—particularly the Cathedral and the Palazzo Biscari .

On arrival in Catania, you will walk along the city's main street, passing both of these spectacular buildings, but your true destination is the authentic center of the city: the Mercato del Pesce , Catania's famed street market. As the name suggests, there is an abundance of seafood of every description on sale here, but just about any other sort of food you can imagine is also available— oranges and almonds from nearby orchards, roasted peppers, cured meats, fresh vegetables, cheeses, breads . The sights, sounds, and smells are absolutely exhilarating. You will certainly want to sample some arancini, Sicily's emblematic street food of fried rice balls filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. And a cannoli or two from one of the patisseries would be the perfect end to your experience of Catania's food scene.

This tour involves a little more than a mile of walking over sometimes uneven cobblestone surfaces, and there are some steps to negotiate. It may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility. Weather appropriate clothing; sun cap; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Riace Bronzes, Scilla & Chianalea

Reggio Calabria, located at the very tip of the Italian Peninsula, is the site of the earliest Greek colony—the first outpost in what the Romans called Magna Graecia, "greater Greece." Today it is home to the magnificent Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia , one of the best collections of ancient artifacts in the world.

The highlight of the collection is undoubtedly the celebrated Riace Bronzes , sculptures of two larger-than-life Greek warriors dating from the 5th century B.C. that were found in 1972 in the waters off Calabria’s Ionian coast. The statues are perhaps the finest surviving examples of Greek bronze statues of the Classical period. It is believed that they were crafted by Athenian sculptors after the victory over the Persians at the Battle of Marathon (490 B.C.), and dedicated at Delphi.

From the museum, travel northward along the coast to the village of Scilla, situated at the northern entrance to the Strait of Messina. Homer described this ancient spot as home to the nymph-turned-sea-monster who devoured six of Odysseus's crew during his journey home from Troy. Today, Scilla is a resort town where you will visit Ruffo Castle, a fortress built by the Dukes of Calabria on a promontory overlooking the Strait, and the small fishing village of Chianalea . Descending from the castle, enjoy wandering through Chianalea's narrow streets, many of which lead to terraces that jut into the sea, and others that are lined with ancient fountains, churches and palaces. You will have time at leisure for a bit of shopping before returning to the ship.

This is a moderate tour including approximately 1.5 miles of walking along uneven surfaces with several steps and inclines. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and use sunscreen and hats for protection from the sun.

The Bergamot Museum

Reggio di Calabria is a major center for growing bergamot, the bitter fruit harvested primarily for the essential oils extracted from its skin. Used extensively as an ingredient in perfumes and as an element of Earl Grey tea, bergamot is also used in aromatherapy and is frequently touted for its medicinal properties—particularly its apparent ability to lower cholesterol levels. Because of these many uses and because the climate of Reggio Calabria is ideal for its growth, bergamot processing is a significant element of the local economy. Significant enough to have prompted the establishment of a museum to celebrate it.

Your excursion begins with a leisurely stroll along Reggio's famous waterfront before driving to the Museo Nazionale del Bergamotto , where you will be introduced to the history of the production of bergamot in Calabria and explore a remarkable collection of machines for pressing and processing the fruit, many of them invented locally. Proceeding through the exhibit, you arrive at a workshop for a presentation on the myriad uses of bergamot and enjoy a sampling of some of the many products, including refreshments, made from bergamot juice and oil.

This is an easy excursion, involving very little walking. You will want comfortable shoes nonetheless, and layered clothing.

Pizzo:History and Ice Cream

A drive north from Reggio along the coast passes through a number of small towns that share a tortuous history of being prizes fought over in a succession of wars between foreign empires until they were finally brought together as part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861. The village of Pizzo , situated on a cliff overlooking the Gulf of Saint Euphemia, is one of those towns.

The earliest records of Pizzo are from 14th-century, when it was a small fishing village with a community of monks. By the 15th century, it had a castle, built by the Aragonese , which still dominates the town. Your guided walking tour of Pizzo's historic center offers stunning views over the gulf, especially from the vantage of the central Piazza della República .

It is here, in one of the many gelaterias, where you will stop to sample the pride of Pizzo—a rich hazelnut and chocolate gelato invented by a local vendor to capture the essence of a decadent truffle. This dessert is so closely identified with the town that it is known throughout Italy as tartufo di Pizzo . Enjoy some time at leisure before returning to your ship in Reggio.

This tour involves approximately 1.5 miles of walking over uneven ground with several steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.

Vibo Valentina and the Statti Winery

A drive north from Reggio passes through a number of towns that share a tortuous history of being prizes fought over in a succession of wars between foreign empires until they were finally brought together as part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861. The city of Vibo Valentina was one of those towns.

Now the capital of the province with the same name, Vibo is home to a massive Norman Castle that houses an excellent Archaeological Museum . Serious excavations began here in 1921 under the direction of famed archaeologist Paolo Orsi, and the museum now displays artifacts dating to as early as the 7th century BC. Enjoy a guided tour of the collections, which include ancient Greek pottery, bronze basins and helmets, gold jewelry, and fragments from a large Doric temple . The castle’s imposing height also offers sweeping views over the sea below toward the Aeolian Islands.

Continue your drive north along the coast to Lamezia Terme and the Statti Winery . The Statti family have been producing wine, olive oil, and cheeses on these lands since the 18th century, and they will warmly welcome you to their estate, show you around the vineyards and the winery, and then serve a meal of Calabrian specialties , including various olive oils, salamis, cheeses and wines—many from their own farms.

This tour includes approximately 2 miles of walking along both flat and uneven surfaces, with some steps to navigate. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and use sunscreen and hats for protection from the sun.

Ancient Paestum

The region surrounding the small port of Agropoli, in what is now Campania, contains some of the best farm land in Italy, and that may well be why ancient Greeks settled here in the 6th-century B.C. The town these people founded, which they named Poseidonia, in honor of the Greek god of the sea, was renamed Paestum in the 4th-century B.C. and became one of the most important cities of Magna Graecia.

Situated along trade routes and surrounded by fertile land, the city grew quickly into a thriving agricultural and maritime center. Its wealth at the height of its prosperity is attested by the three magnificent Doric temples— the Temple of Neptune, Temple of Ceres, Temple of Hera —that dominate the site to this day. In addition to these three well-preserved temples, the excavations at Paestum have revealed the ruins of residential buildings and a forum. The fine on-site museum displays millennia-old frescoes, ceramics, and the truly remarkable mural paintings from the so-called Tomb of the Diver—examples of extremely rare ancient Greek painting.

This is a moderate excursion, involving about two hours of standing and walking on uneven and rough terrain. It is not recommended for guests with limited mobility. As always, sturdy shoes and protection from the sun are recommended.

Campania Mozzarella & Ancient Paestum

The region surrounding the small port of Agropoli, in what is now Campania, contains some of the best farm land in Italy, and that may well be why ancient Greeks settled here in the 6th-century B.C. It is certainly why this corner of Campania has become famous for the production of mozzarella cheese. Your excursion begins with a short drive to an antique mozzarella dairy that prides itself on using only milk produced by buffalos on the farm. See traditional Campania DOP buffalo mozzarella in the making, and sample the product along with focaccia and tomatoes.

The fertile land in this region is also part of the reason that ancient Greeks settled and founded Paestum , one of the most important cities of Magna Graecia, growing quickly into a thriving agricultural and maritime center. Its wealth at the height of its prosperity is attested by the three magnificent Doric temples— the Temple of Neptune, Temple of Ceres, Temple of Hera —that dominate the site to this day. In addition to these three well-preserved temples, the excavations at Paestum have revealed the ruins of residential buildings and a forum. The fine on-site museum displays millennia-old frescoes, ceramics, and the truly remarkable mural paintings from the so-called Tomb of the Diver—examples of extremely rare ancient Greek painting.

Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius Winery

Situated near the coast beneath the volcano, Pompeii was destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D. and buried under a dense layer of ash and pumice, which preserved a remarkable number of buildings and artifacts that reveal the beauty and grandeur of Pompeii's public spaces, temples and villas.

Pompeii was a prosperous provincial city with a population of perhaps 20,000, and served as a retreat for wealthy patricians escaping the turmoil of Rome. Following Vesuvius's eruption, the site was left buried until the middle of the 18th century, when treasure hunters discovered how much of the city had been preserved. Excavations begun then continue to this day, and new sites and artifacts are constantly being uncovered. Your guided tour will pass through grand houses designed around an inner garden and decorated with mosaics and frescoes . You will discover ancient baths, temples, theatres, markets, and a huge forum . You will encounter plaster casts of the bodies of men, women, children, and animals, who died in the cataclysm. And you will see inscriptions on walls everywhere : notices of wine sales, apartment vacancies and upcoming theater performances and gladiator fights, as well as political slogans, personal love notes, and invitations to sexual encounters.

After the visit to Pompeii, travel to Mt. Vesuvius to tour one of its many wineries . The characteristics of the volcanic soil and a unique microclimate make the slopes of Vesuvius one of Italy's most interesting wine producing regions. You will be guided through the production area and the cellars by a member of the staff who will explain their processs, and then you will sit down to a lunch of local fare, paired with a selection of wines , including Lacryma Christi White, Red and Rose, Aglianico, and Falanghina, as well as an Apricot grappa.

This is a moderate excursion, requiring about two miles of walking over uneven and cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended, as well as protection from the sun (there is no shade at Pompeii).

Pompeii & Herculaneum

Spend the day exploring Pompeii and Herculaneum, the Roman towns that were destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Situated near the coast beneath the volcano, both towns were buried under a dense layer of ash and pumice, which preserved a remarkable number of buildings and artifacts that reveal the beauty and grandeur of the public spaces, temples and villas of these towns.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, travel to nearby Herculaneum , a much smaller site than Pompeii, but where buildings and paintings are even better preserved. The mosaics at Casa del Nettuno de Anfitrite , for example, exhibit intense, vibrant colors. And at the two-story House of the Deer , paintings and furnishings reveal wealth and an opulent lifestyle that would rival the villas of Roman senators. Private baths and fountains are virtually untouched by decay.

Sorrento, Pizza, and Pompeii

Your excursion begins with a scenic drive southward along the coast to Sorrento, where you visit one of the agriturismo farmhouses that populate this region of Campania. See an olive press at work turning the fruit into EVOO; watch as Campania DOP buffalo mozzarella is made; and then attend a pizza making class, followed by a lunch of bruschetta, olives, wine, and the pizza you have made , and finished with a taste of the limoncello liqueur for which Sorrento is famous.

On the return to Naples, stop in Pompeii, to explore its fabled archaeological site, the result a catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D., which buried the city under a dense layer of ash and pumice, at the same time preserving buildings and artifacts that reveal the beauty and grandeur of Pompeii's public spaces, temples and villas.

The Street Food of Naples

This walking tour along Spaccanapoli —the long and straight main street that runs through Naples's historic city center—includes Piazza del Gesù , the center of this UNESCO World Heritage site; Piazza San Domenico Maggiore and the 13th-century church of the same name; and San Gregorio Armeno , famous for the beautifully crafted nativity scenes produced by the artisans whose shops line the street.

But the real purpose of strolling through these areas it to taste some of the marvelous street foods for which Naples is known. Moving from piazza to piazza, you will sample Neapolitan cuoppo , paper cones filled with a variety of fried foods (fish, mozzarella, zucchini, eggplant, potato, etc.) accompanied by a beer or soft drink; Pizza a portafoglio (wallet pizza) a small pie, folded over on itself and wrapped in paper so that it can eaten while standing or walking; and Sfogliatella , the iconic Neapolitan pastry shell of many layers of thin, flaky dough filled with a mixture of ricotta, semolina, and lemon zest.

After this culinary indulgence, enjoy a bit of time at leisure for independent exploration and shopping before returning to the pier and your ship.

This is a moderate excursion, involving about three hours of walking over uneven cobblestone paths, with few opportunities to sit. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. We recommend comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, and sun protection

Roman Highlights

Set out on a comprehensive exploration of Rome's iconic landmarks, from the ancient grandeur of the Colosseum to the charming beauty of its squares and fountains.

From the pier in Civitavecchia, meet your guide and transfer 90 minutes to Rome. Upon arrival in Rome, journey back to the days of the Gladiators with a visit to the incredible and imposing Colosseum , also known as Flavian Amphitheater. Learn about its history, architecture, and the events that took place within its walls. Enter this elliptical amphitheater, still the largest in the world, and see hundreds of rows of marble seats, at one point accommodating up to 55,000 spectators for fierce Gladiatorial games. Discover the long neglected subterranean passageways and holding chambers used by the competitors.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then drive to the city center to start your walking tour of the Eternal City. Stroll through Piazza di Spagna and admire the Spanish Steps , then proceed to Trevi Fountain where you’ll get the opportunity to toss a coin and ensure your return to the Eternal City. Proceed to the Pantheon (outside only) and marvel at its impressive dome. Conclude your walking tour at Piazza Navona , known for its exquisite fountains and Baroque architecture. Reboard your coach and return to Civitavecchia, reflecting on the day's experiences and sights.

This is a moderate excursion, requiring about two miles of walking over uneven surfaces, steps, and cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended, as well as protection from the sun.

Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, & St. Peter’s Basilica

Set out on an immersive exploration of Vatican City's cultural treasures, followed by leisure time in Rome for shopping and personal exploration.

From the pier in Civitavecchia, meet your guide and transfer 90 minutes to Rome. Explore the Vatican Museums , home to an extraordinary collection of artworks spanning centuries. Marvel at masterpieces by renowned artists as you journey through the museum's galleries. Visit the Sistine Chapel , renowned for Michelangelo's breathtaking frescoes, including the iconic "Last Judgment."

After lunch at a local restaurant, continue your tour by walking to St. Peter's Square , where you'll admire the grand colonnade, symbolizing the far-reaching embrace of the Catholic Church. Visit St. Peter's Basilica and wonder at its Italian High Renaissance architecture and three-aisled Latin cross.

Depart from Vatican City and drive through Rome to Piazza del Popolo (The People’s Square). Enjoy some free time for shopping and self-exploration in the city center. Meet your guide and return to Civitavecchia by coach.

This is a moderate excursion, requiring about three miles of walking over uneven surfaces, steps, and cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended, as well as protection from the sun. A strict dress code is enforced in the Vatican Museum (Sistine Chapel). Shorts and tank tops are not permitted, and shoulders must be covered. Guests may be required to check large bags, backpacks, video cameras and/or personal water bottles at designated check points. Flash photos are not permitted in the Vatican Museums. Video and photography are not permitted at any time in the Sistine Chapel.

Rome’s Street Food

Enjoy a delightful blend of culinary exploration and leisure time in the Eternal City.

From the pier in Civitavecchia, meet your guide and transfer 90 minutes to Rome. Begin your three-hour culinary tour in the historic city center. Explore the narrow streets of Rome's historic district, starting at Via del Portico d'Ottavia in the Jewish Quarter. Sample delicacies such as fried codfish and Pizza Bianca with mortadella, accompanied by a glass of local wine.

Continue your culinary adventure at Campo de Fiori , a bustling food market known for its seasonal delicacies. Sample more local specialties and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the market.

After your food tour, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore the city on your own. Then, meet your guide in the late afternoon and return to Civitavecchia by coach.

This is a moderate excursion, requiring about two miles of walking over uneven surfaces, steps, and cobblestone paths. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Sturdy shoes with rubber soles are recommended, as well as protection from the sun. Please consider dietary restrictions and/or food allergies when selecting this tour.

Le Bougainville

Welcoming and spacious common areas, refined open-to-the-sea design, sleek exterior lines, a marina to make access to the ship's zodiac inflatables easier, hi-tech equipment, an outdoor pool, a multisensorial underwater lounge… Le Bougainville represents the new generation of ships designed to combine discovery and exploration with luxury , even in the planet's most remote and isolated regions.

Find out more about Le Bougainville

PONANT has organized the following included program for you, which starts the day of embarkation.

Included Features:

A program of onboard enrichment provided by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, including archaeologist Albert Leonard and Italian food writer Maureen Fant
Italian cuisine aboard prepared by special guest chef, Denny Imbroisi
Transfers and luggage handling from the airport in Valletta to the ship on the day of embarkation
Comprehensive 7-night cruise aboard the deluxe Le Bougainville , with all the amenities for which PONANT ships are famous
One included shore excursion in each port of call (see “Itinerary” for more information and choice of excursions, if applicable)
Transfer from the ship to the airport in Pisa or Florence at the end of the cruise on the morning of disembarkation

Not included:

Independent meals and beverages ashore
Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, etc.)
This voyage is offered on a space available basis
Program is subject to change without notice

Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.

Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands

9/7/2024 - HIGHLIGHTS OF MALTA (1 NIGHT)

9/15/2024 - THE HEART OF TUSCANY: FLORENCE AND SIENA (2 NIGHTS)

HIGHLIGHTS OF MALTA (1 NIGHT)

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a specially designed program. Day 1 – Valletta, Malta Arrive at Malta International Airport. You will be met at the exit of the Arrivals hall. Look for the PONANT-SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS sign or a sign with your name on it. Transfer from the airport to The Grand Hotel Excelsior (or similar) and check in. Official check-in time is 3:00 p.m. A local representative will be present at the hospitality desk in the afternoon to welcome you and answer any questions you may have. Join your fellow travelers for a welcome cocktail reception this evening. An independent dinner is at your leisure. Day 2 – Valletta | Embarkation

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. After check-out, depart on a walking excursion of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Valletta, Malta’s fortified capital city located on a hilly peninsula between two natural harbors. Visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens to enjoy panoramic views over the Grand Harbor. Proceed to the 16th-century St. John’s Co-Cathedral and view Carravaggio’s famous masterpiece, The Beheading of St. John the Baptist, during an inside visit. Walk to the Magisterial Palace, today serving as the office of the president of Malta. Here, visit the state rooms and the tapestry chamber.

Board your coach and drive to a local vineyard. Enjoy a wine tasting of some of the country’s most delicious wines. Proceed to a historic local restaurant for a lunch of traditional Maltese specialties. The chef will speak to you about Maltese cuisine and introduce the dishes that you will eat.

After lunch, reboard your coach and drive to the Hagar Qim Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple complex dates to 3600 BC and is in a beautiful location on a cliff overlooking the sea. After a guided visit, transfer to the ship for embarkation.

Your hotel: The Grand Hotel Excelsior has a stunning location, overlooking Marsamsett harbor and Manoel Island. The hotel is just steps from the capital city of Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its historic wonders, including St. John’s Co-Cathedral, are all within easy walking distance. The hotel boasts 433 rooms and suites combining classic and contemporary design, as well as several retaurants and lounges.

Your program includes:

1 night at The Grand Hotel Excelsior (or similar), including breakfast
Transfer and luggage handling from the airport to the hotel on the scheduled program arrival day
Transfer and luggage handling to the pier on embarkation day
Welcome cocktail reception on Day 1
Breakfast and lunch on Day 2
Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary
Local English-speaking guide
Gratuities for the drivers and local guides

Your program does not include:

Transfer from the airport to the hotel on any day other than the scheduled program arrival day
Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program

Please note:

It is imperative that your flight arrival details are communicated at least 60 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the airport to the hotel.
Early check-in and/or late check-out are available depending on availability and at a supplement. An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please, contact reservations or your travel agent for further details.
The official currency is the Euro. Credit cards are largely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
The duration of the visits is given as a guide only, and the order of the visits may change.
This pre-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.
Program is offered on a space available basis.
Program is subject to change without notice.

Hotel contact information: Grand Hotel Excelsior Great Siege Road Valletta FRN1810 Malta Telephone: +356.2125.0520

Total : $640

THE HEART OF TUSCANY: FLORENCE AND SIENA (2 NIGHTS)

On this post-cruise you will extend your encounter with Italian history and cuisine from Sicily and the south into the heart of Tuscany—exploring iconic monuments of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance from a home base in one of Italy's most elegant resorts. Visit or revisit the Renaissance glories of Florence and the medieval architecture of Siena and San Gimignano during the daytime, and retreat to the comforts of Castello del Nero in the evenings. Lunches are taken at award-winning organic farms and wineries, while dinners are at the hotel, including the farewell dinner at Michelin-starred La Torre.

Day 1 – Livorno | Florence | Castello del Trebbio | Castello del Nero Hotel & Spa After breakfast aboard, enjoy a drive through Tuscany to Florence, where you will be met by an expert guide for a walking tour of the city's most important landmarks. Begin at the Piazza del Duomo, site of the massive Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, whose dome, built by Brunelleschi, is the defining feature of the Florentine skyline. Also in the Piazza are Giotto's Bell Tower and the Baptistery, whose famous doors, known as the "Gates of Paradise," were designed by Lorenzo Ghiberti. Continue to the Piazza della Signoria, the historical political center of Florence. In addition to the city's town hall (Palazzo Vecchio), Piazza della Signoria is also an open-air museum of sculpture, including Cellini’s Perseus holding up the head of Medusa, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabine Women, and a replica of Michelangelo’s David. A short walk brings you to Ponte Vecchio, the only bridge in Florence to escape destruction during World War II. Today, it continues to host goldsmiths and silversmiths and their shops, as it has since the 17th century. The final stop on your guided tour is Piazza di Santa Croce and the Franciscan Basilica that dominates this large square. Built by a succession of famous Florentine architects including Brunelleschi, Vasari, Giotto and Donatello, it is also the burial site for Michelangelo, Machiavelli, and Galileo. Lunch at the Hotel Brunelleschi is followed by a scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside to reach Castello del Trebbio, a winery and agritourism estate in the heart of the Chianti Rufina region. Following a guided tour of the castle's medieval cellars, enjoy a tasting of wines from the vineyard before completing the day's journey at Castello del Nero Hotel & Spa, situated in the rolling hills of Tuscany halfway between Florence and Siena. Dinner this evening is at the hotel's Pavilion restaurant, overlooking the spectacular hills, vineyards and olive groves of the castle.

Day 2 – Castello del Nero Hotel & Spa | Siena | San Gimignano | Castello del Nero Hotel & Spa After your breakfast in the hotel, join your guide for a brief drive to Siena, often described as Italy's best-preserved medieval city. Your guided tour of this lovely hilltop town begins with a visit to the Church of San Domenico, founded in 1125 and closely identified with St. Catherine of Siena. Her chapel here features frescoes by the 16th-century artist Giovanni Antonio Bazzi, Il Sodoma. Continue to the spectacular Gothic-Romanesque Piazza del Duomo, home to Siena's massive Cathedral, which was built between 1136 and 1382 on the site of an ancient Roman temple. At Piazza del Campo, one of Italy's most beautiful squares, you will be surrounded by elegant palaces, before ending your tour at Palazzo Pubblico, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that continues to serve as the Town Hall, where you will enjoy some time at leisure. Depart Siena and drive toward San Gimignano, stopping along the way at Fattoria Poggio Alloro for lunch. The estate, which is dedicated to strictly organic agriculture, is famous for its traditional Tuscan cuisine, almost all of which is made from the produce of the farm itself. After lunch, proceed to the walled hilltop of San Gimignano, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1990 because of its "feudal atmosphere and appearance," which it owes in large part to 14 medieval towers, built partly as fortification, and partly as a demonstration of the wealth of their owners. This afternoon, you will have ample time to explore the city center on your own, long after the large crowds of tourists have gone. Return to your hotel, where dinner this evening is in the Michelin-starred restaurant La Torre.

Day 3 – Castello del Nero Hotel & Spa | Homeward Start the day with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before transferring by coach to Florence airport for flights homeward.

Your hotel: Castello Del Nero is situated among the rolling hills of Tuscany, in the world-famous Chianti wine region. The hotel's 50 rooms are spacious— some with original eighteenth-century frescoes—overlooking the surrounding hills, woods, and lawns. There are three dining venues at Castello Del Nero: Michelin-starred La Torre, casual La Taverna, and the 'al fresco' Pavilion. Each dining venue uses carefully sourced produce from around the Tuscan region, which is showcased in nourishing, flavorful menus.

2 nights at Castello del Nero Hotel & Spa, including breakfast
Transfer and luggage handling from the pier to the hotel on Day 1
Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to the airport on Day 3
Breakfast on Days 2 and 3
Lunch and Dinner on Days 1 and 2
Local English-speaking guides
Gratuities for the drivers and local guides
Transfer from the hotel to the airport on any day other than the scheduled program departure day
It is imperative that your flight departure details are communicated at least 30 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the hotel to the airport.
Late check-out is available depending on availability and at a supplement. An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please contact reservations or your travel agent for further details.
The official currency is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted.
This post-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.
Program is subject to change without notice.

Hotel contact information: COMO Castello del Nero Hotel & Spa Strada Spicciano 7, 50028 Barberino Tavarnelle, Tuscany, Italy Phone: +39 055 806470 Email: [email protected]

Total : $3,990

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Rick Steves Tours
Comparing RS, Ody...

Comparing RS, Odyssey, and Smithsonian tours of Italy

If anyone here has been on both RS and Odyssey and/or Smithsonian tours, I'd love to get your impressions of how they compare. I've been on 2 RS tours, and enjoyed them a lot. My biggest complaint is that I always wish there were more time to explore the places we visit. I noticed that the Odyssey and Smithsonian tours spend 3 or 4 nights in the same location. That's appealing to me. However, in looking at their itineraries, it seems like they have guided day trips from their base, spend about a half day on the trips, and then return to their hotel. I'm wondering if that's an accurate assessment....and if so, whether that might be just as frustrating--especially if the hotels aren't centrally located.

I'm also interested in learning about your experience with Odyssey/Smithsonian guides and tour mates. in what ways are they similar to those on RS tours, and how are they different? I'm suspecting those on Smithsonian tours might be either older, more wealthy, or more academic than the people on the other tours, just because the primary difference between Odyssey and Smithsonian tours seem to be the addition of the academic subject matter expert, and an additional $1500. What differences have you seen in the makeup of the groups?

I am a long way from actually scheduling my next tour, but I'm looking at the Odyssey Northern Italy and Southern Italy tours, as well as the RS Southern Italy and Village Italy tours. Thanks!

It is not a complete apple to apple comparison. Each tour has different objectives as to tour "comfort." Our only experience with Odyssey Small group was 16 days to Machu Picchu and the Galapagos. It was very high end about $500/day/person. One hotel we used at the entrance to Machu Picchu had a posted rack rate of $1000/night. Odyssey provided a very high level of support - never carried a bag - outstanding meals and first class and then some at hotels. Tours guides were exceptionally good and, of course, the tour group was less than 20 -- actually on our trip we had 17. It was a fairly intense 16 days BUT very worthwhile and informative. Min amount of "shopping" time.

RS tours tend to be more low key and at a more economic level of travel. Excellent guides with good hotels and meals but you carry your own luggage. I think you really need to look at the details of the daily activity.

I have not done a Rick Steves tour yet (it's on my bucket list), but I have done two Smithsonian/Odysseys tours, including the Southern Italy tour, and one Smithsonian cruise.

Smithsonian usually has a guided tour in the morning and free time in the afternoon. I never went back to the hotel during free afternoons, although some people did. I have found Smithsonian to be very flexible. On the Southern Italy tour, a few of us decided to go to Naples one day instead of to the Amalfi coast, and our tour guide had no problem with it. Another day, a handful of us decided to hike Mt. Vesuvius instead of taking a cooking class in Sorrento. Once again, it was not a problem. On the Turkey tour, we mostly stayed pretty close to the tour guide. I think I was the only person who explored Istanbul on her own, but there were extenuating circumstances that required it.

The hotels are almost always centrally located or easily accessible to a central location. In Taormina, our hotel with a gorgeous view of Mt. Etna was at the top of a steep hill, which made for a challenging but manageable walk. There was also a frequent shuttle to the hotel. I didn't feel that I missed anything because of the hotel's location. In Istanbul, we were close to Taksim Square, and I would have preferred to be in Sultan Ahmet. Other than that, the hotels have always been very centrally located. All of the hotels have been extraordinarily nice, sometimes down right luxurious --- I am guessing a step up from the RS tours.

The demographic for Smithsonian tends to skew marginally older and wealthier than other tours. They are usually exceptionally well-read, and just about everyone has traveled extensively. Our group in Turkey was especially congenial, and three years later we still sometimes exchange correspondence about reading lists and world events.

The subject expert is a big difference between Smithsonian and other tours. Our expert on the Southern Italy tour was both erudite and fun, a delicate balance to strike. He provided a lot of deep context that made the trip more meaningful. On the Turkey tour, our subject expert was fine but possibly a bit superfluous, largely because our regular guide was so amazing. On a river cruise with Smithsonian, I thought that the subject expert was a tad stuffy, although I did learn some things.

The activity level is pretty much what you make of it. You can take it easy, or you can give yourself a workout. Turkey was a bit more strenuous than Southern Italy.

The food is really good on the Smithsonian tours. I gained 9 pounds on the Southern Italy tour. (Ouch!)

Are Odyssey tours part of Smithsonian Journeys?

Judy, Smithsonian contracts with Odysseys for some of their tours, including the Southern Italy tour. You make the reservation through Smithsonian Journeys, but then they hand it off to Odysseys Unlimited. The Smithsonian branded version includes a subject expert and all tips; Odysseys does not. Occasionally, there are some minor differences in the itinerary. For example, the Capadoccia extension on the Smithsonian version of the Turkey tour included a night in Ankara. The itinerary and accommodations for the Smithsonian version of the Southern Italy tour, I believe, are identical to Odyssey.

Many organizations hand off their tour programs to a tour/travel agencies such as GoNext or Odyssey Small Groups out of Boston. I would have no problem using Odyssey but they are a high end group. By definition Odyssey tours probably do attract more wealthy people since they are more expensive. A few years ago we did a Cuba trip with GoNext. It was the most exhausting, demanding trip we were ever on. Absolutely exhausted after one week but the most enlightening/educational trip we have ever been on in 30 years of travel.On returning to Miami we spend a week on a Ft. Lauderdale beach recovering. Truly a vacation from a vacation was needed.

We have done both RS and Odysseys and like both. We choose the tour company based on the itinerary. Odysseys is more high end, you are expected to tip the main guide, the tour participants are well educated and well traveled but can be a bit spoiled some times. RS tour people are a bit easier to live with and more independent. Both companies give excellent service, have great guides and stand by their product. With Odysseys the airfare is included in the price. You can request the land only price and book your own airfare. That being said, if your flight doesn’t arrive when the other tour participants arrive at the airport then you will have to transfer yourself to your hotel. With the free afternoons on the tours, if you are pooped you can go to room or wherever and chill. Or you can do your homework before the trip and see something the tour doesn’t cover. Next year we are planning on doing the RS Sicily and Southern Italy because we like the itineraries. Either way you can’t go wrong.

I would agree with Mary. We’re leaving on our 5th RS tour - Southern Italy and toured Spain & Portugal with Odyssey. I still like RS tours better, but dear friends have moved on to Odyssey tours because they don’t have to carry their luggage and the hotels are more corporate and less quaint. The food on the Odyssey tour was top notch, but sometimes I prefer something more casual. In our experience the RS guides have been more personal - our Odyssey guide was very nice but kept his distance, nothing spontaneous. Travel partners were all nice, but required and expected more service. We ended up getting based in Carmona and did day trips to Córdoba and Seville - it would have been nice to actually stay in one of those towns and get to spend more time. I also agree that I would make my decision based on the itinerary.

I have done three RS tours and I'm currently on my second Odysses tour. (I take tours when public transportation isn't great.) This tour is Southern Italy and Sicily. I did their Northern Italy last year and also the RS Village italy the year before.

I prefer Odysses. All hotels are very centrally located. The coaches can't always park near the hotel but unlike with RS tours, the luggage is transported to and from the coach.(In Venice this was well apprecitated.) All tour directors/guides are licensed and from the country you are visiting. The included meals have been great with wine included. Local guides everywhere. You are given plenty of time when visiting a location that includes both guided time and free time.

My current tour has 18 people. Everyone is getting along. All types from different areas of the U.S. and backgrounds. I will say the RS tour people are a little more knowledgable of the local culture but our tour director is doing a great job in teaching people. The only tipping is to the tour director. We are spending 3-4 nights in most locations (but this depends on the tour.)

Having a local guide really helps. I'll give you an example. Sienna was included on both the RS Village Italy tour and the Odysseys Northern Italy. With Odysses, a local, licensed guide gave us a tour of the town. With RS, our guide was not licensed to "guide" so we were told to either use the RS app or the guidebook to take a tour ourselves.

Odysses also has amazing customer service. On my current tour, there was a problem with our hotel stay in Matera. We had to skip the overnight. Instead, we spent one night in Alberobello about a five minute walk to the central areas of the Trulli and an extra night in Lecce. It turned out we all loved Lecce and was glad for the extra night. (I know RS does not really push Apuglia and I'm glad. Hardly any english speaking tourists. It was a highlight I never expected.) Odysses also refunded us $250 and added an extra included dinner as a "We're sorry." We had that last night and it turned out to be one of the best meals we had on the trip. I think the included limoncello helped.

Thanks, everyone -- this is really helpful information!

For those of you who have been on Odyssey tours, how does tipping the tour director work? Is this done in cash? How much is one expected to tip?

If you have taken an Odyssey tour and opted for their transportation, how was your experience with this? Once you select the airport you want to fly out of, do they give you any options about flights or just tell you what flights you are on?

For me, one of the biggest drawbacks might be the flights. I know you can fly on your own, but it seems to be a better deal financially if you select the package with the flights included. However, I usually like to arrive a number of days ahead of a tour, to get over jet lag, do some touring on our own, and acclimate. The idea of hitting the ground running for a tour isn't super appealing.

How would you compare the amount of time you are given to explore/visit any particular sight on RS vs Odyssey? On the RS tours I usually wished I had more time most places. I'm guessing that would be the case with any tour, but I'm wondering whether you felt you had more time with Odyssey?

For those of you who took the Odyssey Southern Italy tour, how did you feel about combining Southern Italy and Sicily? It seems like that might be too much ground to cover in such a short time?

Of the 4 itineraries (Odyssey Northern Italy, Odyssey Southern Italy, RS Village Italy, and RS Southern Italy) I like the RS Southern Italy itinerary best. But combing through the reviews, that tour has fewer 5 star reviews than do many others, and that concerns me. I have already visited Venice twice, and been to the Cinque Terre on the RS 21 day tour. I'd like to see areas of Italy I haven't visited before. Appreciate any suggestions. Thanks!

No tour is going to give you lots of free time. They want to include as much as possible. That's why people take tours; to cover as much ground as possible in a short amount of time.

You have to go with the itinerary you like best. I'm glad RS does not include Apuglia in any of his books. It was amazing. Very few American tourists so it was not overrun. Most everone we ran into was Italian. No "we serve spaghetti" restaurants. Contrast that with Matera and Alberobello where it was wall to wall people. (And that's April. Can you imagine what it is like in Summer.) I'm in Sorrento now and I can hardly move through the crowds. It's fun to see five British/Irish style pubs on the main pedestrian street. (Not).

That being said, I enjoyed Sicily and will probably go back to see the rest of the island.

As for flights, Odysses will only book flights that leave on day 1 as per the itinerary. I always book my own flights as I like to arrive in Europe a few days before so I can acclimate to the time. Some of the people on my current trip have 6 AM departures from Naples to they can make connecting flights back to the U.S. Their transport to the airport leaves the hotel at 3 AM. Most of the ones who had the tour company arrange the flights were those who wanted everything done for them.

As for tipping, the company states that is is completely up to you but suggests about 10 Euro per person per day for the tour director. All you have to do is put it in an envelope and hand it to him/her at the farewell dinner. Not as earth shattering as some think. All other tips are included.

One thing I will say about Odyssey......since none of the hotels were near where the coach could park I was glad to have baggage service included.

One thing I would like to comment on is the cultural experience. Every day, except travel days, we had a local guide with us. Local as in is from the area. We went to three working farms for lunch/dinner and to see how they each produce different products. We went to one former palace where the owner, the fifth generation of the family, opens it up to groups for meals and they bring in local musicians and singers to perform and teach us folk music of the area. At no time were we told to use a guidebook or listen to a recorded audio for a tour. (That has happened to me on RS tours.)

And there is nothing wrong after a full day of sightseeing and activity to return to a comfy hotel. (Our hotel in Lecce was a former palace.)

Frank II and Marie -- did you "lose" an entire day on the Southern Italy tour traveling from Sicily to Matera? There are a lot of compelling things about the tour, but I worry it tries to cover too much ground in too short an amount of time. How does the amount of time spent on the bus compare with that of the RS Italy tours you've been on? Thanks!

You arrive in Matera about mid afternoon. The other long drive is between Lecce and Sorrento but you spend the morning and have an included lunch in Polignano al Mare which is a beautiful town on the sea.

But I think you are looking for something that doesn't exist--a tour that goes at your speed. If you are afraid of seeing a long drive on one day and that will ruin your trip, then go with RS. RS changes hotels basically every two nights while Odyssey tries to let you stay at least three.

Ultimately, you have to go with the itinerary you like best and the one you feel more comfortable with.

Ruth, the trip from Taormina to Matera took most of the day, but it was a very pleasant and interesting. The long bus day came after three pretty active days in Taormina, Etna and Agrigento, and so it was nice to be able to relax a bit.

Frank II, I am sorry to hear that Matera was crowded. When I was there in 2014 there were very few tourists. Residents would walk up to us and ask us (in Italian, of course) if we were enjoying our stay and whether we would recommend Matera to our friends. The hospitality was outstanding, and I found the whole place magical in an offbeat way. Of course, this year, 2019, Matera is a European Capital of Culture, which may account for the crowds. When we were there, they had just been selected for the 2019 Cultural Capital status. Everyone we met was so excited about it.

Alberobello is indeed touristy, but still worth seeing. Lecce was great, and I found Otranto especially fascinating. I had not realized before the trip how important Otranto was to stopping the Ottoman advance toward Naples and Rome. Also, the 12th century mosaic on the floor of the Otranto cathedral combined biblical scenes with Greek mythology, Alexander the Great, King Arthur, and more. I have never seen such diverse cultural references in a single work of art. (Oh my, I am enjoying reliving the whole experience.)

Marie, we were in Matera on April 25 which is a holiday and that could be the reason it was so crowded.

Our tour encountered some hotel problems. So instead of staying overnight in Matera, we spent one night in Alberobello and added an extra night in Lecce. With that, we got to go to Galatina and Gallipoli on the western shore of Apuglia. I only heard one person outside our group speak English. Never in my life have i seen such clear water as I did at Gallipoli.

At first my tour mates were unhappy with the change. But once we actually did it, we were all happy that we got the extra night in Lecce. We saw parts of the unspoiled Italy rather than just the checklist overcrowded tourist sites.

@Frank II: You have to go with the itinerary you like best. I'm glad RS does not include Apuglia in any of his books. It was amazing. Very few American tourists so it was not overrun. Most everone we ran into was Italian.

RS doesn't have the whole guidebook market although you're right, places he mentions tend to zoom in popularity both due to his books and others that "discover" the same place. We had a wonderful time in Apuglia, but in general the entire Adriatic side of Italy is far more Italian tourists than British or American. So Apuglia is not the exception, its almost the rule. We liked Trani a lot too! The flip side is you need to learn at least a few words of Italian and be comfortable (or accomodating) to situations where you can't understand everything or communicate all you'd like. Whereas in Sorrento you can do fine without a single Italian word.

The flip side of the story is that even right down the road from the heavily touristed places you can find a more local existence. For example Cinque Terre is filled with tourists, many from America. We read a NYT article a few years back about Lerici, about 15 miles away. Same ocean, same charm, also an Italian tourist destination but unknown to Americans. So again outside of the larger hotels you'll need a few words of Italian, but you can take a vacation with a completely different feel and still take a boat ride across to Porto Venere, drive to Portofino or Santa Margherita Ligure (a better place to visit IMHO), etc. Lerici isn't well served by public transit, but other than that if you visit you might get a sense of what RS might have found a few decades ago in the CT.

John....yes, you do have to have some Italian in Apuglia. But that's what makes it great.....it's catering to Italians and not Americans.

I also agree regarding Santa Margarita Ligure. A charming little town that seemed to be lacking in tourists when I spent time exploring. Contrast that to Vernazza that felt like the streets of NYC at rush hour......or even worse.

Since you are at least considering a tour that includes Sicily I would suggest looking at Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT) for a tour of Sicily. They tend to spend three nights at each location. They handle your luggage for you. The tours are smaller than RS, our tour of Sicily had 16 members. The people on our tour were on average a little older than on RS tours (OAT travelers were similar in terms of wealth or education as RS tour members, although overall maybe they hadn't travelled quite as much as the RS tour members). The hotels are generally nicer than RS. The tour guide was just as good as RS guides. The hotels were mostly centrally located (with one exception but it was a really nice resort hotel). They did use local guides just like RS does and they were similar to RS tours. The tour bus was comparable to RS buses. You have the option of booking your flight through OAT and having them pick you up at the airport, however, the cost was more expensive than we got on our own. Instead, we bought our own flights and arrived a few days early to get over our jet lag (we stayed in Cefalu before the tour - we used a car service that we found on Trip Advisor to pick us up from the airport and take us to Cefalu and then a few days later pick us up from Cefalu and take us to the hotel in Palermo. The car service was either Alex Travel or Adriana Viaggi, they may be affiliated companies). On the day we left Sicily we just got a taxi through the hotel to take us to the airport. I really liked seeing Sicily, I found that there were fewer tourists in general than on the Italian mainland (of course they did have tourists like me just not as many and definitely fewer Americans, of the tourists more were from other parts of Italy and some from other parts of the EU). It seemed to me that the people of Sicily were friendlier as a rule than in some big or touristy Italian cities, even in the cities of Palermo and Catania . Also, I felt safer (I did wear a money belt). OAT also offers pre-trip and post-trip extensions to different parts of Southern Italy, we didn't do that (instead we flew from Sicily to London and stayed there for a few days before flying home).

We have only ever taken one guided tour and it was with Odysseys Unlimited. We did our own air reservations and went several days ahead to adjust to the 16 hour time change in Asia before the tour began. We stayed in the tour’s first hotel which was very nice. Only one other couple went early which really surprised us. We also added three days at the end and returned to a place which we felt deserved more time. Odysseys had the best, most inclusive itinerary of all the tours we studied and considered. It was also a good value for the length of time for the tour. The tour was well done, several special events, cooking class was one. Some very nice hotels, one not so nice, one average. Many of the other participants did not seem to have any confidence in traveling independently but were a nice group from all over the USA. Tips- cash to the guide was suggested at $10-15 per day per person, given at end. We put it in an envelope. Guide was excellent, a native of the country we toured. She had to shepherd 19 people on and off high speed trains, not easy for her. Odysseys is a good tour company. No one complained about their flight arrangements.

I have traveled with Rick Steves tours (Eastern France) and Odyssey (Pousadas and Paradores and to Italy).

Odyssey uses mostly 4-5 star hotels but not necessarily in the towns that you are visiting (use hotels as a base and do day trips to major sights).
Odyssey local tour guide tips are included however we were encouraged to pay for local tour guides (why?, felt we were always paying).
Odyssey does take the luggage to/from the bus.

Odyssey the meals were not necessarily "local fare" but more Americanized.

For the money, I enjoyed Rick Steves much better although I had to carry my own luggage. Loved the charming family-run hotels located in town - no bus and close to amenities and tourist sights. The included meals were also better as they were more regional.

Local tour guide tips are included however we were encouraged to pay for local tour guides (why?, felt we were always paying)

You should not have had to pay anything extra to any tour guide. Did you tell Odysses about this?

Just the opposite on my two Odysses tours of Italy--we ate regional dishes known to that area and definitey not "Americanized."

On my last tour, there was a last minute problem with a hotel and we had to change the original plans. This happened two days before the tour was supposed to begin. (We didn't miss anything just a minor change of hotels and timing.) It was not Odysses fault. However, Odysses called every tour member to apologize and let us know they were going to refund each of us $250 and added an extra included dinner that turned out to be one of the best meals we had.

Another vote for OAT. We took their TERRIFIC tour of Sicily, also Umbria & Tuscany (combined in one itinerary). Took RS for Greece & Portugal (two separate tours), Greece being the outstanding-er.

Not Italy, but we have taken two Odysseys tours. On neither was any hint given that we should tip local guides. It sounds like there may have been some collusion between the main and local guides. It should have been reported to the Odyssey’s office. On the general question of carrying your own bags and the related issue of hotels without elevators (thought by some to be “quaint”). One of the main reasons we have taken some tours is our advanced ages, 80 and 82. There is no way I would pay the substantial prices RS charges and carry my own bags, either up stairs, or even from the bus.

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Sicily Archaeology Tours & Cruises

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Food & Wine
Most Popular
Scheduled Group Tour
Adventure Options
Archaeological Site Visits
Land & Sea Exploration
Local Market Visits
Small Ship Cruises
Small Ship Sailing
Urban Exploration
Village Visits
Wildlife Viewing
Wine Tasting
Emerald Sakara
Le Bougainville
Le Champlain
Le Dumont-d'Urville
Royal Clipper
Scenic Eclipse
Sea Cloud II
Silver Whisper
Star Clipper
World Traveller

Italy, Montenegro & Croatia

Ride in a gondola in Venice
Visit the town of Rovinj
Call in at Kotor, Montenegro
Join an optional tour to Pompeii
Explore the Sistine Chapel
Snorkel at Palmarola
Visit the medieval city of Kotor
Cruise through Venice's canals

Mediterranean Gems: From Dubrovnik to Naples

Explore Gerace
Tour the Amalfi Coast
Visit Pompeii
Explore Dubrovnik

Amalfi & Sicily

Gaze upon the Sistine Chapel
Visit a snorkeling heaven Palmarola
Join Pompeii's historical excursion
Wander through the grand Duomo

Treasures of Sicily

Visit the Island of Sicily
Discover the Valley of the Temples
Visit Taormina's ancient ruins
See the Mount Etna in Sicily
Explore the coastal town of Cefalu
Visit Syracuse's Archeological Park
Discover the Zingaro Nature Reserve

A Circumnavigation of Sicily with Smithsonian Journeys

Take a loop around Sicily
Discover Sicily's beautiful cities
Visit Syracuse
Explore Palermo

Aeolian Archipelago

Discover Lipari and Salina
Visit a local winery
Enjoy a scenic hike in Vulcano
Swim in Cala Junco nature reserve
Take a walking tour in Stromboli
Relax on the beaches of Salina
Visit historical Pompeii

Sicily & Greece

Ride a donkey on Hydra
Visit Sicily's archaeological sites
Explore historic Pilos
Discover Gozo, a diving destination

Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba – with Smithsonian Journeys

Discover Mediterranean islands
Experience ancient ruins
Admire Byzantine-Arab mosaics
Explore medieval towns
Discover local cuisine

Back to Summer On The Azure Adriatic

Explore the charm of Rovinj
Journey through streets in Korcula
Witness Lecce's Baroque charm
Experience Roman-Venetian fusion

Ancient Jewels of the Mediterranean

Meet a famous puppeteer in Syracuse
Immerse in Southern Italy
Wander through the ancient streets

Fiery Sicily and Charming Adriatic Sea

Marvel at volcanic soil in Catania
Explore Sicily's poetic masterpiece
Learn about Europe's Mount Etna
Step into Bari's historic old town

From the City of Gods to the Eternal City

Explore the Mediterranean
Explore notable stops
Explore southern Aegean Sea
Explore Civitavecchia

Islands and cities of the Mediterranean

Sail from Greece to Malta
Explore the city of Valletta
Discover Hydra
Visit the island of Kythira

The artistic Adriatic and the Pinault Collection - Palazzo Grassi

Explore Valletta
Experience Syracuse
Discover Otrante
Admire Dubrovnik

From Malta to the Adriatic Coast

Explore Lecce
Visit Bay of Kotor
Experience the Adriatic islands
Explore Syracuse

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*Prices below are per person based on double occupancy and include airline taxes, surcharges and fees of $0, which are subject to change until final payment is made. All tour prices (excluding airline taxes, surcharges, and fees) are guaranteed.

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Southern Italy & Sicily

With apulia & the amalfi coast.

Delight in a special exploration of Italy’s southern climes, from striking Sicily and the breathtaking Amalfi Coast to unheralded Apulia, the alluring “boot heel” where a vivid history, unique architecture, and bountiful plains join the sun and sea in creating a prized (and crowd-free) region. Add Italian hospitality, outstanding cuisine, and notable lodgings for la dolce vita , small-group style.

Tour Details

From $5,074

Small Group Highlights

Sicily’s intriguing cultural and historic heritage
“Valley of the Temples,” Agrigento
Mt. Etna excursion
Lunch at a working Sicilian farmhouse
Two Apulia UNESCO sites: cave dwellings of Matera and Alberobello’s medieval white-washed buildings
Neapolitan cooking demonstration and dinner
Lecce, the “Florence of the South”
Fascinating, uncrowded Apulia region
Stunning Amalfi Coast
Tour of ancient ruins at Pompeii (UNESCO site)
Day trip to Isle of Capri
Unique, well-located, small-group style hotels
Pleasing mix of touring and time at leisure

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Please note: We use a variety of distinctive hotels in Lecce, as listed below. For specific accommodations per departure date, click on the Reservation Request button in the Dates & Prices section below or call for more information.

The Eurostars Monte Tauro enjoys an incredible location in Taormina. The hotel cascades down a hillside at the edge of the town’s center, offering an easy walk to many shops and restaurants and also an unspoiled view across the sparkling Ionian Sea. Amenities of this 98-room hotel include a restaurant and bar overlooking the water; outdoor swimming pool with water views, hydro-massage jets, and a lounge area; spa services; laundry and dry-cleaning services (for a fee); and complimentary Wi-Fi internet access. Each air-conditioned guest room has a private deck overlooking the water and features private bath with hair dryer, minibar, in-room safe, TV, and phone.

The 32-room Locanda di San Martino offers guests the rare opportunity to stay in cave dwellings created thousands of years ago – but updated with contemporary comforts and modern amenities. Passageways cut into the rock, external staircases, and elevators connect all four levels of the hotel. The focus of our stay is the unique experience the hotel can offer in an area famous for this type of dwelling. While your room is clean and comfortable, it will not be as luxurious as hotels on other parts of your tour. Fresh local food is brought to the hotel for each meal because the hotel does not have a kitchen. Locanda di San Martino is in the heart of Matera’s “ Sassi ” Historical District, very close to the city center. The hotel has a bar and breakfast room; air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, complimentary Wi-Fi internet access, and TV. Please note that because of the historical nature of the hotel, room sizes and views vary, and you must pay attention to the stairs around the hotel and within your room.

The 18-room Chiostro dei Domenicani is set within a 15th-century Dominican convent. The cultural and historical Italian charm remains today, with original Lecce stone structures, Doric-style columns, and detailed frescoes throughout. Along with spacious common areas and large, comfortable rooms, the hotel offers a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, garden, terrace, restaurant, wine bar, and complimentary Wi-Fi internet access. Air-conditioned guest rooms preserve the characteristic structure of the former convent with tasteful yet simple décor, and include private bath with hair dryer, minibar, tea- and coffee-making facilities, in-room safe, TV, and phone.

This 19 th -century mansion was once a private residence and today operates as a 41-room hotel that blends historical charm with modern comforts. Located inside the historic city center, Risorgimento Resort is just steps away from some of Lecce’s most iconic sites, such as the Cathedral of Maria Santissima Assunta and Sant’Oronzo, Piazza sant’Oronzo, and the Roman Amphitheatre. Hotel amenities include a restaurant, lounge bar, rooftop garden terrace with views of the bell tower of the Duomo, spa with massage services (for a fee), laundry service (for a fee), and complimentary Wi-Fi internet access. Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, minibar, in-room safe, TV, and phone.

This historic hotel sits in the heart of Sorrento on Piazza Tasso, the main square, close to shops and restaurants. Amenities of the intimate 46-room Hotel Antiche Mura include an outdoor swimming pool, solarium, lovely gardens with a citrus grove (which supplies all of the oranges and lemons used by the hotel), lobby bar, outdoor snack bar, breakfast room, complimentary Wi-Fi internet access, and laundry and dry-cleaning services (for a fee). Art nouveau-style guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, in-room safe, minibar, TV, and phone. Air conditioning is available from May through October; heat from November through April.

Tour Price Includes

Round-trip air transportation from listed cities
13 nights’ accommodations in Superior First Class and First Class hotels
26 meals: 13 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 8 dinners
Extensive sightseeing as described, including all entrance fees
Services of an Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director
Private motorcoach transportation throughout your trip
Luggage handling for one bag per person
Gratuities for local guides, dining room servers, airport and hotel porters, and all drivers
$100 frequent traveler credit towards your next Odysseys Unlimited tour ($200 after 3 tours; $300 after 10 tours)

Average Daily High by Month (°F )

Average temperature (°f ), dates & prices.

Airline upgrades (subject to availability; pricing subject to change) on round-trip Trans-Atlantic flight: Business Class – $3,795 per person in 2024; $3,995 per person in 2025. Premium Economy – $1,595 per person in 2024; $1,795 per person in 2025

Apologies, we were unable to retrieve the latest tour information at this time.

Regrettably, we do not currently have any available departure dates for this tour.

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Post-Tour Extension

Rome – On Your Own

Explore the Eternal City at your leisure.

Post-Tour Extension Price Includes

Private transportation Sorrento/Rome
3 nights’ accommodations at Monti Palace Hotel (Superior First Class)
3 meals: 3 breakfasts
Transfer to airport

Pricing: $795 in 2024; $695 in 2025. Single Supplement: $295 in 2024; $245 in 2025

Accommodations

Sitting just a 10-minute walk from Rome’s famed Colosseum, the Monti Palace Hotel occupies a 19 th -century building in the heart of the Eternal City. Amenities of this stylish and contemporary hotel include a rooftop bar with terrace overlooking the city, library bar and lounge, 24-hour fitness center, laundry services (for a fee), and complimentary Wi-Fi internet access. Air-conditioned guest rooms have private bath with hair dryer, in-room safe, minibar, tea- and coffee-making facilities, TV, and phone.

Tour Directors

Odysseys Unlimited Tour Director

"Ingrid’s warmth, courtesy, professionalism, and genuine concern made her an absolute pleasure to travel with. With infinite patience and gentle humor, she shared her knowledge and enthusiasm and made our travel stress-free."

Michael & Colleen Thompson The Woodlands, TX

“Her knowledge was amazing, she was fun to be with, and built a real community among the travelers. You knew that each of us was the most important person in her life for those 14 days.”

Thomas & Mary Heyman Montclair, NJ

"Arianna went way above her duties as a tour director. She was very knowledgeable, friendly, patient, [and] helpful."

Kathryn Barton Rochester, NY

"Elizabeth was beyond exceptional in all areas. Her attention to detail and individual needs was superb; her knowledge…of the areas outstanding; and her management of the group truly admirable."

Gale Wood & David Dewsnap Havertown, PA

“Osh [was amazing]…He has a wonderful personality, and helped [the group] bond as a unit. We loved him also.”

Bonnie & Douglas Herr Williamstown, MA

“Katia was hands down the best tour director we have ever had! She was sweet, funny, intelligent, efficient, knowledgeable, and really went way beyond what she had to do…we loved her!”

Jim & Sue Sanders Plainwell, MI

“We could not have had a better tour director. Her information about olives, local fare, gelato, and the region was truly an asset to the trip… She is a real treasure!”

Kay & Sherman English Seattle, WA

“Marina was outstanding. She was alert to individual needs and extremely helpful throughout the trip.”

John & Arleen Cooper Arvada, CO

“You are fortunate to have Sara on your staff. She is the greatest! Her energy, dedication, and professionalism are beyond anything we have seen.”

William Garro Boonton, NJ

“She was wonderful!”

Layton & Marsha Carr

“Anna was THE BEST! Unfailingly patient, friendly, helpful, knowledgeable, warm, and a joy to be around. I cannot list enough positive descriptions for her. She is a gem!”

Henry & Susan Fradkin Dearborn, MI

“Andrea is a gem (diamond). His knowledge, enthusiasm, caring, and competence cannot be overstated. He’s an exceptional leader.”

Nancy Munno Montpelier, VT

"An excellent combination of steel and velvet: firm grasp on all logistics…combined with a caring attitude for each member of the group."

Stephen Rose & Patricia Midgette Virginia Beach, VA

“He did his homework and personally knew the other staff people on the ground.”

Cecilia & Francis Kelly Hartford, NC

"On this, our 11 th Odysseys tour, we encountered a tour director who exceeded the high standards set elsewhere. Giulia was pure joy: warm, welcoming, with a great sense of humor."

Roger & Donna Authers Charlottesville, VA

“Best tour director ever! She went way above and beyond expectation.”

John & Jane Pratt Newbury, NH

“Maurizio is a treasure. What a fabulous tour director he is. His knowledge, stories, and wonderful personality made this tour even better. I could feel his love of Italy, his love for people and his love for his job. He is doing exactly what he is meant to do.”

Carol Kut Chepachet, RI

“[Gaetano] was not only knowledgeable and efficient, but had a great personality and was very funny. The stories he told about his personal experiences greatly enhanced the overall tour. He was one of [the] best we have had.”

Steven & Royce Menkus Sherman Oaks, CA

“Daniela is an asset to your company. Her knowledge and love for her country are remarkable. She is simply 'Magnifico' and 'so Italien.'”

Cary Jane Miller Corona del Mar, CA

Destination Insights

Recommended books & films, guest photos & testimonials.

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Physical Activity Level

Walk 2-4 miles per day, often on uneven terrain or cobblestones
Occasional long walks from motorcoach drop-off to sights and hotels
Uneven natural terrain at Mt. Etna and at Agrigento and Pompeii archaeological sites
Steep grades while walking in Taormina
Many stairs of varying height throughout the tour
Embarkation/disembarkation from multiple boats
Several long days of travel via motorcoach
Locanda di San Martino hotel (Matera) does not have an elevator that has access to each floor

Destinations

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This Tiny Italian Island Is Giving Away Goats to Anyone Who Can Catch Them

An estimated 600 of the hoofed intruders are wreaking havoc on the two-square-mile island of Alicudi

Daily Correspondent

Goats are taking over a small Italian island—and local officials are offering them up for free to anyone who can catch them.

The hoofed intruders are located on Alicudi , a volcanic island off the northern coast of Sicily that’s part of the Aeolian chain. It’s tiny, spanning roughly two square miles, and has approximately 100 human inhabitants.

The goat problem dates back about 20 years, when a farmer released some of the animals onto the island, as CNN ’s Barbie Latza Nadeau and Amarachi Orie report. Usually, roughly 100 goats roam around Alicudi at any given time. But this year, their population has skyrocketed.

“Six hundred goats have been counted,” Riccardo Gullo, Alicudi’s mayor, tells Sky News ’ Claire Gilbody Dickerson. “The island is really small, so [that’s] really too many.”

The animals are beginning to cause problems for the local community. While they once kept to themselves on the island’s steep cliffs, they have started wandering into people’s yards and gardens—and sometimes even into their homes.

“We absolutely do not want to even consider culling the animals, so we are encouraging the idea of giving them away,” Gullo tells the Guardian ’s Angela Giuffrida. “Anyone can make a request for a goat—it doesn’t have to be a farmer—and there are no restrictions on numbers.”

He adds, “If someone has the capacity to domesticate a goat, it could be a beautiful and more humane way to control the issue.”

Beautiful view of volcanic island with sea in the distance

Anyone can file a request with the adopt-a-goat program free of charge—as long as they can catch the goats and get access to a boat that can transport them elsewhere.

Interested parties need to mail in an official request by April 10 (though the deadline will likely be extended until the majority of the goats have been adopted) and pay a €16 (around $17) stamp fee. Once approved, they’ll have 15 days to snag the goats and take them away.

Authorities have heard from dozens of prospective goat owners. Per Sky News , the requests have come from as far as Tuscany in central Italy and Lombardy in northern Italy. One farmer from Vulcano, a nearby island, has expressed interest in some of the goats for his cheese-making operation.

Some of the goats will be kept on the island for tourism, as the charismatic creatures make great photo opportunities for visitors. Alicudi—which is about a two- or three-hour boat ride from mainland Sicily—has no hotels and just one bar , but its rustic charm still appeals to some travelers. To get around, visitors must walk or use donkeys and mules .

Alicudi is one of the seven primary Aeolian islands, and it has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2000.

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Sarah Kuta | READ MORE

Sarah Kuta is a writer and editor based in Longmont, Colorado. She covers history, science, travel, food and beverage, sustainability, economics and other topics.

IMAGES

A Circumnavigation of Sicily
A Circumnavigation of Sicily
Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba
Southern Italy and Sicily
Sicily: An In-depth Exploration of History and Culture
Sicily: An In-depth Exploration of History and Culture

VIDEO

Taking the kids to Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington DC! Come visit the zoo with us 😊
Terrible: 2nd eruption Etna Volcano continues, city Sicily buried ash,Catania airport turns to ashes
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Sicily: Mazurka
TAORMINA, SICILY IS SO LOVELY
🚧⚠️ LAVORI NELLA GALLERIA SAN DEMETRIO (Autostrada Catania-Siracusa)

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Smithsonian Journeys Crossroads of Sicily tour - Sicily Forum

Smithsonian Journeys Crossroads of Sicily tour

Sicily Hotels and Places to Stay

Sicily: Eternal Crossroads of the Mediterranean

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£4340.0

Le Bougainville

8 days from £4340.0

Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights: Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily – with Smithsonian Journeys

Shore excursion in each port of call + transfers included

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Ports of Call & Excursions

September 8, 2024 - Valletta

September 9, 2024 - Syracuse, Sicily

September 10, 2024 - Taormina, Sicily

September 11, 2024 - Reggio di Calabria

September 12, 2024 - Agropoli

September 13, 2024 - Naples

September 14, 2024 - Civitavecchia (Rome)

September 15, 2024 - Livorno

Archaeological Park & Museum

Archaeological Park & Sicilian Flavors

Nero d'Avola Wine Tasting

The Baroque Town of Noto

Walking Tour of Ortygia Island

Taormina and Its Ancient Greek Theater

Mount Etna & Benanti Winery

Catania Fish Market & Street Food

Riace Bronzes, Scilla & Chianalea

The Bergamot Museum

Pizzo:History and Ice Cream

Vibo Valentina and the Statti Winery

Ancient Paestum

Campania Mozzarella & Ancient Paestum

Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius Winery

Pompeii & Herculaneum

Sorrento, Pizza, and Pompeii

The Street Food of Naples

Roman Highlights

Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, & St. Peter’s Basilica

Rome’s Street Food

HIGHLIGHTS OF MALTA (1 NIGHT)

THE HEART OF TUSCANY: FLORENCE AND SIENA (2 NIGHTS)

Comparing RS, Odyssey, and Smithsonian tours of Italy

Smithsonian Institution

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Cosmic Journey

Smithsonian Open Access

Plan Your Visit

Digital Backgrounds

Orchids: Nature's Art

A “Monster” in the Milky Way Galaxy

Take Me Out to the Ball Game

Votes for Women

Fabulous Footwear

A Celebration of Poetry

Neil Armstrong's Space Suit

National Volunteer Month

Duke Ellington

Dog: Museum's Best Friend

Hail! Hail! Rock 'n' Roll

Sidedoor Podcast

The Artist Critics Love to Hate

Monkeyin' Around on the Devil's Island

Cellphones Rock

Red, White, and Brew

Sicily Archaeology Tours & Cruises

Italy, Montenegro & Croatia

Mediterranean Gems: From Dubrovnik to Naples

Amalfi & Sicily

Treasures of Sicily

A Circumnavigation of Sicily with Smithsonian Journeys

Aeolian Archipelago

Sicily & Greece

Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba – with Smithsonian Journeys