Dalmatian Route To La Dolce Vita

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.

One of only three coastal towns in Slovenia, Piran offers a bustling harbor scene filled with seafood restaurants, a busy main square and enthralling medieval walls to explore. Tartini Square offers a superb perspective both from the ground and up high. Taking the trail from the Piran Promenade at the end of Tartini Square to Punta, you can watch fishing boats and private vessels pull into the dock. Treat your tastebuds to the fresh catch of the day as you enjoy the nautical atmosphere at Ladja Podlanica, a seafood restaurant located on the owners’ fishing boat.

You’ll know you’ve arrived somewhere special from the moment you stroll along the Sibenik promenade. Surrounded by epic views of the islands just off the coast, it may just take the throne as the best city in Dalmatia. For an even more impactful view, pedal the path that runs along St. Anthony’s Channel. At the end of the trail, reward yourself with a selfie at the UNESCO masterpiece of the Fortress of St. Nicholas. Fans of the television series Game of Thrones will recognize this as the city of Braavos. If you prefer real-life fantasy, journey to Krka National Park, where a wonderland of thundering waterfalls awaits you.

The port town of Hvar shares its name with the Croatian island, renowned as a prime summer destination for yachting. Considered the crown jewel of Croatia’s Dalmatian islands, Hvar has cultivated a reputation as rich in history, culture, literature and natural monuments. Drink in the stunning landscapes as Hvar is covered in vast fields of ancient olive trees, lavender and vineyards. Within its bounds you will find the oldest town in the entirety of Croatia, Stari Grad, established by the ancient Greeks. For a picture-perfect seaside locale, head over to Dubovica Beach along the Adriatic Sea.

Along the Adriatic Sea in southern Croatia lies Dubrovnik, a city well-known for its 16th-century Old Town. Filled with enchanting historic sites and containing a sense of stories past, the Croatian city has rightly earned its place among the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Delve into the fantastical side of the city as you tour the streets that have become part of cinematic history. Take a break from the historic for a relaxing beach day with a quick ferry ride to the nearby Lokrum Island. Delve deep into the local culture with wine and delectable platters of meat and cheese.

Medieval ramparts, narrow alleys and cobblestone streets bring the past to life in the town of Otranto, one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. Its cathedral though, is the shining star among a treasure trove of architecture with a dazzling mosaic tile floor depicting the Tree of Life. As you and your fellow explorers wander the Old Town’s cozy streets, you will discover an array of modern restaurants, wine bars and shops housed in antiquated stone buildings. Stop in at one of these eateries to share a meal of Puglia’s famed orecchiette, a favorite pasta of the region usually served with delicious ricotta. Raise a glass of the region’s wine, such as Primitivo or Bombino Nero, and toast to new companions and new adventures. Join the locals of Otranto for a passeggiata along the seaside promenade overlooking the sparkling ocean.

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 island of Capri is the gem of the Bay of Naples. In Capri you can marvel at the whitewashed homes and villas, fragrant lemon trees and flower-filled courtyards. From the water, be sure to visit the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Grotto), which is only accessible by boat. Once inside the cave, you can marvel at the water’s sapphire color, which is caused by the light refraction from the hidden opening in the rock. Also from the water, see the Arco Naturale on the east coast of the island. Dating from the Paleolithic age, the limestone arch is the remains of a collapsed grotto.

Civitavecchia acts as the main terminal for all cruises heading into Rome or the less-crowded, nearby Tarquinia. From there a shuttle bus takes you to the Service Center of Largo della Pace where you can embark on adventures through the Eternal City. Rome 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 city holds a certain cosmopolitan feel as well with countless rooftop bars that are a prime location for an evening sunset. For explorations further off the beaten path, Tarquinia offers historic treasures such as the Monterozzi Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an authentic, Italian small-town feel.