Adriatic, Sicily & the Amalfi Coast from Rome

Rome's ancient maritime gateway since the Emperor Trajan commissioned its harbour in 106 AD, Civitavecchia is the natural prologue to the Eternal City — just seventy minutes southeast by express rail. The port's Renaissance fortress, designed in part by Michelangelo, anchors a working waterfront that has welcomed travellers for millennia. Beyond Rome's unmissable monuments, consider an afternoon in the Civitavecchia thermal baths, drawing on mineral waters prized since antiquity. Spring and autumn offer the ideal balance of mild weather and manageable crowds for exploring the capital's layered history.

Capri is a legendary limestone island rising from the Bay of Naples, celebrated since Roman antiquity for its dramatic cliffs, the ethereal Blue Grotto, and an atmosphere of effortless Mediterranean elegance. Visitors should not miss the Grotta Azzurra's cobalt light show and the sunset view of the Faraglioni from the Piazzetta's café tables. The island is magnificent year-round, though late April through June offers ideal conditions — warm days without peak-summer crowds, wildflowers blanketing the cliff paths, and crystalline waters already inviting enough for a swim off the rocks at Marina Piccola.

Amalfi is the former maritime republic that gave its name to Italy's most celebrated coastline, where the Arab-Norman cathedral, medieval paper mills, and whitewashed buildings cascading to the Tyrrhenian Sea create the definitive image of Italian coastal beauty. Visit April through June via Windstar or Azamara for the Cloister of Paradise and the coastline that has been the world's standard for scenic perfection.

Lipari, the largest of Sicily's volcanic Aeolian Islands, has been a Mediterranean trading hub for over 6,000 years, featuring a dramatic Castello, world-class archaeological museum, and gateway access to Stromboli's erupting crater. Must-dos include exploring the fortified old town, tasting caper-laced Aeolian cuisine and Malvasia wine, and island-hopping to Vulcano and Stromboli. May through October offers ideal conditions.

Palermo is the Mediterranean's most intoxicating crossroads of civilisations — Arab arches meet Byzantine gold mosaics beneath Norman royal chapels in the extraordinary Palatine Chapel, a monument to 12th-century multicultural brilliance that is Sicily's single greatest work of art. The Ballarò and Capo street markets, among southern Italy's most atmospheric, tumble through the ancient city in a sensory barrage of swordfish, blood oranges, jasmine, and street food improvised across centuries. Do not leave without tasting arancini and sfincione, Sicily's gloriously thick street pizza. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the ideal climate — warm enough for the sea, cool enough for extended walking.

Giardini Naxos is the Sicilian bay where Greek civilization first touched western shores in 734 BC, serving today as the gateway to hilltop Taormina's extraordinary Greek-Roman theatre with Mount Etna as its eternal backdrop. Visit May or September via Windstar or Explora Journeys for ancient ruins, cable-car ascents to Sicily's most famous resort, and the view that convinced the first Greek colonists they had found paradise.

Syracuse (Siracusa) is one of the ancient world's greatest cities, featuring the island quarter of Ortigia—a baroque masterpiece built over Greek temple ruins—and an archaeological park with a fifth-century BC theatre still hosting summer performances. Must-dos include Ortigia's cathedral with its embedded Greek columns, the morning market, and tasting pasta with sea urchin. April through June and September through November offer ideal temperatures.

Hvar port, with its rich history and stunning coastal charm, is a must-visit destination in Croatia. Don't miss indulging in local specialties like pašticada and the breathtaking views from the fortress. The best time to visit is during the late spring or early fall when the weather is delightful and the crowds are manageable.

Zadar, a historic port city on Croatia's Dalmatian coast, is a captivating blend of ancient architecture and vibrant culture. Must-do experiences include visiting the Church of St. Donatus and enjoying the enchanting music of the Sea Organ. The best season to visit is during the warm summer months when the city comes alive with festivals and outdoor activities.

Rovinj, a historic port on Croatia's Istrian coast, is renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and delectable local cuisine. Be sure to savor dishes like **fuži** and **škampi na buzaru** while exploring its charming streets. The best time to visit is during the summer months when cultural festivals bring the town to life.

Venice, a historic port city, captivates with its unique canals and rich cultural heritage. Must-do experiences include visiting the iconic Basilica di San Marco and indulging in local delicacies like risotto al nero di seppia. The best time to visit is during the mild, vibrant spring months when the city comes alive with festivals and outdoor activities.