Amalfi Coast, Africa & Iberia

For centuries, Rome ruled much of Europe, building a vast empire from the power of emperors. More than 2,500 years of history live in the city’s streets. Ancient structures recall those heady days when the cheers of 80,000 spectators roared from the Colosseum, citizens mingled in the Forum and senators asked the gods for guidance at the Pantheon. Along with the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica, this rich pocket of Italy is one of the world’s greatest repositories of history and civilization.

Best known as a gateway to the Amalfi Coast, Salerno boasts a rich history and its founding dates back more than 2,500 years. Its heyday came under Norman rule, when its medical school became the foremost institution of its kind in Europe. During World War II, the late summer of 1943 saw heavy fighting in Salerno during Operation Avalanche, the landing of Allied troops on Italian shores. Miraculously, much of the ancient city survived the heavy fighting. Today, its winding, narrow streets are an invitation for further exploration beyond the newly renovated shoreside boulevard.

Palermo, the Sicilian capital, is noted for its culture and culinary scene. Bustling open markets can be found across the city offering seasonal fresh produce as well as traditional tasty morsels, such as arancini (fried rice balls) and sfincione (focaccia topped with sweet tomato sauce). The city is also filled with historic gems, such as the stunning Royal Palace of Palermo—a fine example of Norman architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site; this lavish palace is one of Europe’s oldest private residence.

Tunis is a vibrant mix of North African tradition and French influences. The modern city revolves around Avenue Habib Bourguiba, affectionately called the “Champs-Élysées” for its colonial buildings, shops and cafés. A drive along this lively tree-lined boulevard and a walk through the passageways of the city’s souks reveal contrasting views of ancient and modern Tunisia. The nearby ancient city of Carthage was the capital of the Carthaginian Republic, a powerhouse in the Mediterranean for centuries. A stroll around this UNESCO site opens a window to antiquity.

About one-fifth of Sardinia’s land is used for agriculture, earning it a reputation as Italy’s other farmland. Tomatoes, artichokes, citrus fruits and olives are some of its primary crops. And because Sardinia cannot call itself Italian without producing wine, lush vineyards blanket its hillsides. Here, the Castello District is home to a Roman amphitheater and the subterranean Cathedral of St. Mary, a Pisan relic. Cagliari gleams in the Sardinian sun, inspiring D.H. Lawrence to call it the “white Jerusalem.”

Sail the ocean stage on which civilizations have risen and fallen, where empires ventured forth in their great armadas to control these strategic waters.

Valencia is steeped in 2,000 years of history and culture. Its Old Town is one of Spain’s largest, a diverse medley of ancient buildings, wide-open plazas and cultural monuments. The Gothic Silk Exchange, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, bears witness to Valencia’s Renaissance trading power. A literal taste of Valencia’s past bubbles up in every skillet of paella. The centuries-old rice dish was invented here and perfected by farmers; barracas throughout the city offer demonstrations and tastings of this famously rustic cuisine.

Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions.