Itinerary
Day 1 Rome
Welcome to Rome! Independent arrival to your hotel.
The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Overnight stay in Rome at Hotel St Martin or similar.
Day 2 Rome
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, you will meet with your driver who will transport you to the designated meeting point where your knowledgeable local foodie guide awaits.
Embark on a delightful walking tour of the charming food markets, grocers, and gelato shops in the Campo De’ Fiori, Trastevere, and the Jewish Ghetto areas. Recognizing the potential hunger that may arise from all the exploring, we have included some pit-stops along the way! Indulge in a delectable portion of freshly baked and crispy "Pizza Bianca," a version of focaccia native to Rome, sliced in half and generously filled with thinly sliced "mortadella" - a beloved snack among locals. And why not sample a "Supplì"? These delightful fried risotto balls with a luscious melted mozzarella center are a crowd-pleasing street food favorite. Pasta dishes will also be included, along with some delectable offerings from the Roman Jewish culinary tradition. Savour the flavors of the deep-fried and artichoke-based "Carciofo alla Giudìa," which resembles a miniature sunflower, and the battered and fried cod fillet known as "Filetto di Baccalà." Be sure to save room for dessert, as we will not pass up the opportunity to treat you to some carefully crafted artisanal "Gelato"!
Following this gastronomic adventure, your driver will take you to the Vatican area, where you will join a small and agile group of up to 10 people. Upon arrival, meet your highly professional guide and embark on a captivating tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Square, bypassing any lengthy queues. Marvel at the remarkable masterpieces of Renaissance art, such as the extraordinary Gallery of Tapestries, the opulent Gallery of Maps, the breathtaking Raphael's Rooms, and the world-renowned Sistine Chapel. Completing the tour, you will have the opportunity to appreciate St. Peter's Square, a grand open space that acts as a gateway to the basilica. This iconic square, skillfully redesigned by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, stands as an architectural masterpiece of the Baroque era. From the exterior, you will gaze upon St. Peter's Basilica, not only the largest church in the world but also home to numerous remarkable works of fine art, including Gian Lorenzo Bernini's intricate canopy and Michelangelo's awe-inspiring Pietà.
Concluding the tour, you will have leisure time to explore Rome's hidden corners at your own pace.
Overnight stay in Rome at Hotel St Martin or similar.
Day 3 Rome Naples & Pompeii Sorrento
Your journey commences by heading south along the renowned Sun Highway, traversing the fertile Roman countryside and the region known as Castelli Romani, which is adorned with captivating medieval villages. Eventually, you will arrive in Naples, one of Italy's largest and most renowned cities.
Begin with a brief panoramic tour ascending to Vomero hill, where you can indulge in breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples, featuring the majestic presence of Vesuvius, Capri, Ischia, Procida, and the bustling city below. Take advantage of this opportunity to capture some memorable photographs. Descend towards the port of Mergellina, bid farewell to the city, and continue your journey south towards Mount Vesuvius.
Upon reaching the town of Pompeii, savour an authentic Neapolitan pizza for lunch, followed by a captivating visit to one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world.
The ruins of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, grant you the privilege of a Skip the Line entrance and a guided tour. Explore the haunting remains of Pompeii, transporting yourself back to the tragic days of 79 AD when the once-silent Mount Vesuvius suddenly erupted, engulfing the prosperous Roman city in lethal volcanic ashes and toxic gases. These remnants have remained preserved to this day, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of its inhabitants. Marvel at the residences and "bars" of that era, admire the frescoes and mosaics, and envision the opulence and prosperity that once emanated from this city before that fateful day.
After the tour, continue your journey along the enchanting Sorrentine Coast, ultimately arriving in Sorrento. Here, you will relish a dinner (with a dress code requiring jackets for men) and spend the night in your exquisite new hotel.
Overnight stay in Sorrento at Michelangelo hotel or similar.
Day 4 Sorrento Capri Sorrento
After breakfast, we'll head to Capri island. Weather permitting, we'll hop on a boat to visit the famous and enchanting "Grotta Azzurra" (Blue Grotto), where sunlight shines through the water, creating a magical blue reflection. Once we're back at the port, we'll hop on a minibus for a scenic drive up to Anacapri, which sits 918 feet above sea level.
From there, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the bay of Naples and have some free time for lunch (lunch not included).
Afterward, you can explore Capri at your own pace or do some shopping. Finally, we'll head back to Marina Grande and return to the mainland.
In the evening, a delightful dinner will be provided.
Overnight stay in Sorrento at Michelangelo hotel or similar.
Please note that during peak season, visiting the Blue Grotto in Capri may involve long lines and limited capacity. If access is not possible, or the weather conditions do not allow it, our guides will suggest alternative attractions to ensure a satisfying and memorable tour (e.g. Faraglioni rocks).
Day 5 Sorrento Rome
After breakfast, enjoy your morning at leisure before returning to Rome by coach bus in the afternoon.
Overnight stay in Rome at Hotel St Martin or similar.
Day 6 MSC Orchestra Cruise: Rome Civitavecchia Port
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to embark on your 7-night MSC Orchestra Cruise from Civitavecchia.
Departing from Civitavecchia aboard the MSC Orchestra, this Cruise will take you through enchanting destinations like Cagliari, Ibiza, Barcelona, Marseille, and Genoa, offering the best of both land and sea.
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Day 1 |
Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy |
Arrival: - |
Departure: 19:00 |
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Day 2 |
Genoa (Portofino), Italy |
Arrival: 08:00 |
Departure: 19:00 |
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Day 3 |
Marseille (Provence), France |
Arrival: 08:00 |
Departure: 18:00 |
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Day 4 |
Barcelona, Spain |
Arrival: 09:00 |
Departure: 21:00 |
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Day 5 |
Ibiza (Baleari Is.), Spain |
Arrival: 10:00 |
Departure: 23:30 |
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Day 6 |
At sea |
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Day 7 |
Cagliari (Sardinia), Italy |
Arrival: 08:00 |
Departure: 17:00 |
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Day 8 |
Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy |
Arrival: 08:00 |
Departure: - |
Day 7-11 MSC Orchestra Cruise: Genoa Marseille Barcelona Ibiza Cagliari
Discover the Magic of MSC Orchestra
Embark on a journey of comfort, entertainment, and discovery aboard MSC Orchestra. Relax in the lavish spa with Turkish baths, saunas, and rejuvenating massages, or stay active at the sports centre, panoramic gym, jogging track, and sparkling pools. Families will love the dedicated play areas for kids and teens, while adults can indulge in elegant bars, a vibrant theatre, a casino, and live music venues.
Savour global cuisines at gourmet restaurants like Shanghai and Four Seasons. Choose from stylish cabins, including balcony suites for ultimate luxury. Every moment aboard MSC Orchestra promises unforgettable experiences tailored to every traveller’s dream.
Overnight stay onboard MSC Orchestra in an ocean view cabin.
Day 12 MSC Orchestra Cruise: Civitavecchia
Arrival: 08:00am.
We hope you had a wonderful last night onboard the cruise.
The cruise ends at Civitavecchia port.
