Civitavecchia to Venice

After navigating the Tyrrhenian Sea, you make port in the small town and commune of Agropoli. The promontory on which it stands has been occupied since Neolithic times, starting with the indigenous people of the land. Most of what remains of Agropoli’s historic past are monasteries and castles, ready for exploration and discovery.

As you make your way to Paestum, Italy, the three major Greek Doric temples that once paid tribute to different gods call out to your imagination. These ruins create a connection between Greece and Italy’s storied past, giving you a glimpse into what life must have been like for those ancient peoples.

Some argue the temples are for Hera, Athena, and Poseidon (Juno, Minerva, and Neptune for the Romans) while others say one of the structures is dedicated to the Greek goddess Demeter (Ceres to the Romans). Different sources make varying claims, but one thing they agree on is the absolute magnificence of these ruins.

The Paestum Museum offers travelers a glimpse at more artefacts and explanations of the ruins’ history. It gives context to the truly impressive preservation of such ancient remains as the temples still stand, ready for visitors to traverse their grounds.

Beyond the ancient ruins of Paestum lies a residential village near the excavations. It’s a quaint small town with a little square where the locals gather and walk through as they go about their daily lives. Just outside that you can see expansive fields abloom with roses, for which the town gained fame for in the past.

A picturesque jewel perched elegantly on the cliffs of Sicily, Taormina has a story as old as time in every corner. Ascend the awe-inspiring Mount Etna, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An excursion here is more than a hike; it's an adventure through history, legend, and raw earth. As you traverse its dramatic landscapes, feel the powerful heartbeat of the island and the stories of mythological deities echoing through the trails. Unravel the ambrosial secrets of Sicily's cuisine and wines. Journey through vineyards and partake in tastings that let every sip tell tales of grape varietals transformed by the unique, volcanic terroir. Step into the past with a visit to the ancient Greek Theatre. The grandeur of this amphitheater, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the azure Ionian Sea, will transport you to a bygone era of arts and drama. Wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Taormina's historic center. Each narrow lane leads to discoveries of vibrant boutiques, timeless architectural marvels, and rich local culture that flourishes in the lively markets and piazzas.

The iconic image of Venice shows a city with no roads, only canals, because it's built on over 100 small islands in a lagoon amid the Adriatic Sea. In the heart of the city close to Piazza San Marco you will find the Bridge of Sighs, an architectural jewel amid so many historical wonders. Venetian cuisine is renowned throughout Italy for its high-quality seafood. Positioned within a lagoon, local chefs and restaurants have the advantage of fresh-caught fish directly from the source and bringing it straight to their tables.

The iconic image of Venice shows a city with no roads, only canals, because it's built on over 100 small islands in a lagoon amid the Adriatic Sea. In the heart of the city close to Piazza San Marco you will find the Bridge of Sighs, an architectural jewel amid so many historical wonders. Venetian cuisine is renowned throughout Italy for its high-quality seafood. Positioned within a lagoon, local chefs and restaurants have the advantage of fresh-caught fish directly from the source and bringing it straight to their tables.