Nice, France

Nice, the Winter Resort Town of the Riviera now a World UNESCO Heritage Site, rises from the pebbled coast to lush hills, yet the heart of the city is located between the old port city and the Aeroport de Côte d’Azur. To take it all in, enjoy a jaunt on the Promenade des Anglais along the Mediterranean Sea. The Old Port, located in Vieux Nice (Old Nice), is a colorful and busy place, with various markets. There discover an ensemble of narrow streets, colorful architecture, and picturesque piazzas. Stretch out on Nice’s recognizable blue lounge chairs on one of its iconic beaches. Some of these private beaches, like the Blue Beach or the Castel Beach, are among the most glamorous beaches on the French Riviera

Cannes, France

Spend your day exploring glamorous and ultra-fashionable Cannes, with its majestic hotels, millionaires, movie stars, and mega-yachts in a gem-like setting along the sparkling Mediterranean. Stroll along the Royal Palm tree lined Boulevard de la Croisette where world-renowned designers cater to the rich and famous. Beyond Cannes, enjoy a picturesque drive outside the city along the famed Golden Corniche. The fiery colors of the rocks make for a striking contrast against the cobalt blue of the sea. Experience la vie en rose with a visit to the Maison des Vins, a modern cellar with hundreds of bottles on display.

Monte Carlo, Monaco

One of the smallest sovereign states in the world – second only to the Vatican City – the Principality of Monaco is sure to mesmerize you. The most recognized building in Monte Carlo is Place du Casino. Try your luck at this opulent and iconic gaming house, a favorite spot of James Bond movies and real-life celebrities. Another icon is the Prince’s Palace, which you can enter for a glimpse at the Throne Room, with ceiling frescoes painted by Orazio de Ferrari depicting the surrender of Alexander the Great. Every day at five minutes before noon, the white-uniformed guards perform the changing of the guard with the pomp and circumstance you would expect in Monaco.

Monte Carlo, Monaco

One of the smallest sovereign states in the world – second only to the Vatican City – the Principality of Monaco is sure to mesmerize you. The most recognized building in Monte Carlo is Place du Casino. Try your luck at this opulent and iconic gaming house, a favorite spot of James Bond movies and real-life celebrities. Another icon is the Prince’s Palace, which you can enter for a glimpse at the Throne Room, with ceiling frescoes painted by Orazio de Ferrari depicting the surrender of Alexander the Great. Every day at five minutes before noon, the white-uniformed guards perform the changing of the guard with the pomp and circumstance you would expect in Monaco.

At Sea

Spend the day on the high seas pampering yourself at the spa or enjoying some time on deck. Mingle with your fellow explorers and swap stories of your exploits, making plans for new ones together once you get to shore

Portofino, Italy

The sea along the Italian Riviera is particularly peaceful, as it gently laps the shore. Snuggled in the Ligurian Coast is the village of Portofino, named after dolphins, Portus Delphini, that frolicked in these waters. The Piazza Martiri Dell’Olivetta is the main square of Portofino at the town’s center. Take a stroll along the row of beautiful multicolored buildings and a number of chic cafes and restaurants. Along the way, grab yourself an Italian gelato or sit down and enjoy a pesto dish before continuing your leisure walk toward the harbor. Not far from the coast, you will find beautiful hidden islands, such as San Fruttuoso and Santa Margherita.

Portovenere, CinqueTerre, Italy

Referred to as Cinque Terre’s “sixth town,” Portovenere overlooks the Gulf of La Spezia along the Ligurian coast, providing much of what its five counterparts do – seaside scenes, rustic cuisine and stunning coastlines – with a fraction of the crowds. Seek out hidden gems like Byron’s Grotto, a secluded cave named after the literary figure who frequented the area. Nearby lies the famous Cinque Terre, comprised of five small towns, hence its name. The region lies within the bounds of a national park and what’s considered the Italian Riviera, giving it a magical aura.

Florence, Pisa, Lucca (Livorno), Italy

From the grandeur of the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the charming canals of La Venezia Nuova (New Venice), which date back to the Medici era, the Italian city of Florence contains much to explore. The port city of Livorno’s colorful building facades rises above the canal waters as a sight to behold. The long and storied history of Lucca call out to curious explorers seeking a mentally stimulating adventure. Cathedrals, art, culture, food, these iconic Italian cities have it all, and Livorno acts as the hub to make your way to each.

Florence, Pisa, Lucca (Livorno), Italy

From the grandeur of the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the charming canals of La Venezia Nuova (New Venice), which date back to the Medici era, the Italian city of Florence contains much to explore. The port city of Livorno’s colorful building facades rises above the canal waters as a sight to behold. The long and storied history of Lucca call out to curious explorers seeking a mentally stimulating adventure. Cathedrals, art, culture, food, these iconic Italian cities have it all, and Livorno acts as the hub to make your way to each.

Bonifacio,Corsica, France

The lagoon-like harbor of Porto Vecchio holds a charming ambience that invites you to stroll through its maze of alleys, shops, bars and restaurants. From the Bastion de France to Porte Genoese, the town’s original gate, the past remains a prevalent influence on the city’s personality. Venturing about a half-hour drive outside of town, discover the natural beauty of Ospedale, the first mountain village sitting 900 meters above sea level. Your exploration of Porto Vecchio is only complete with some time spent at the shores of Pinarello, Santa Giulia, Palombaggia and Cala Rossa for Mediterranean blue seas and sunny adventures.

Bonifacio,Corsica, France

The lagoon-like harbor of Porto Vecchio holds a charming ambience that invites you to stroll through its maze of alleys, shops, bars and restaurants. From the Bastion de France to Porte Genoese, the town’s original gate, the past remains a prevalent influence on the city’s personality. Venturing about a half-hour drive outside of town, discover the natural beauty of Ospedale, the first mountain village sitting 900 meters above sea level. Your exploration of Porto Vecchio is only complete with some time spent at the shores of Pinarello, Santa Giulia, Palombaggia and Cala Rossa for Mediterranean blue seas and sunny adventures.

Porto Ercole, Tuscany, Italy

An ancient hamlet surrounded by fortresses, Porto Ercole creates the perfect backdrop for dreaming and exploration. The lower part of the town along the bay contains modern shops, shipyards, diving centers and restaurants. Travel to the southside of the bay to see the historic center near Rocca Spagnola, a fortress dating back to the 16th century. Take it easy and catch some sunrays at the beaches of Spiaggia della Feniglia and Cala Galera, both of which connect Argentario to the mainland. A scenic daytrip to the nearby Capalbio gives you a splendid taste of Tuscany.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Civitavecchia acts as the main terminal for all cruises heading into Rome. From there a shuttle bus takes travelers to the Service Center of Largo della Pace where they can embark on their adventures through the Eternal City.

Rome lies at the heart of the Italian peninsula along the Tiber River, just 15 miles inland from the Tyrrhenian Sea. It maintains its position in the world as a powerful influence in religion, politics, and art, as it is well known as the site for intellectual and artistic achievements past.

From the iconic Roman Coliseum aboveground to the mysterious catacombs of the Capuchin Crypt below ground, the capital of Italy beckons the adventurous to discover its many secrets and stories. The ancient structures’ architecture alone is enough to captivate even the most veteran traveler.

With so many ruins and historic sites to marvel at, it’s easy to get lost in the country’s past and wonder at how it connects to the present and future. But the city holds a certain cosmopolitan feel as well. Countless rooftop bars make Rome a prime location for an evening sunset with new friends as you raise a glass of wine to adventure.

Make a stop at the Trevi Fountain to toss a coin and make a wish. Do as the Romans do. Whether you make your way through back alleys in search of the quintessential gelato shop or get lost in the Ostiense neighborhood for a look at colorful street art, a day spent in Rome is a treasure hunt.ly

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Civitavecchia acts as the main terminal for all cruises heading into Rome. From there a shuttle bus takes travelers to the Service Center of Largo della Pace where they can embark on their adventures through the Eternal City.

Rome lies at the heart of the Italian peninsula along the Tiber River, just 15 miles inland from the Tyrrhenian Sea. It maintains its position in the world as a powerful influence in religion, politics, and art, as it is well known as the site for intellectual and artistic achievements past.

From the iconic Roman Coliseum aboveground to the mysterious catacombs of the Capuchin Crypt below ground, the capital of Italy beckons the adventurous to discover its many secrets and stories. The ancient structures’ architecture alone is enough to captivate even the most veteran traveler.

With so many ruins and historic sites to marvel at, it’s easy to get lost in the country’s past and wonder at how it connects to the present and future. But the city holds a certain cosmopolitan feel as well. Countless rooftop bars make Rome a prime location for an evening sunset with new friends as you raise a glass of wine to adventure.

Make a stop at the Trevi Fountain to toss a coin and make a wish. Do as the Romans do. Whether you make your way through back alleys in search of the quintessential gelato shop or get lost in the Ostiense neighborhood for a look at colorful street art, a day spent in Rome is a treasure hunt.ly