Adriatic & Tuscan Tastes

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.

The charms of Tuscany call out to your explorer spirit from the picturesque seaside town of Porto Santo Stefano. Luxury yachts in the harbor, buzzing cafes, and locals and visitors alike strolling the promenade make the port’s waterfront a lovely scene. As you and your new friends take a leisurely walk along Piazza dei Rioni, lined with palm trees, stop for a refreshing lemon gelato in one of the cafes. Blue waters and white, sandy shores invite you to spend a day on one of Porto Santo Stefano’s beautiful beaches. Venture out with fellow explorers in search of hidden coves surrounded by sloping olive groves. Sitting along the Tyrrhenian Sea, the cuisine offers a bounty of fresh seafood with Italian tastes, such as spaghetti with sea urchins or seafood risotto. Pair your culinary adventures with a wine selection from the Argentario region as you engage in a lively conversation about your day’s adventures.

Bonifacio is a town near the southernmost tip of Corsica in France, situated directly on the Mediterranean Sea. Separated from Sardinia by the Strait of Bonifacio, the town offers idyllic beaches for you to enjoy. Among the most popular beaches are those in the bays of Sant’Amanza and Rondinara, in addition to the beach at Petit Sperone. Further afield, take a boat to the Lavezzi Islands. These islands are part of a marine preserve and perfect for snorkeling. These pristine islands are also protected for the preservation of wild birds and fauna and flora that are endemic here.

Experience la dolce vita on the Emerald Coast in Sardinia. Often regarded as the Italian Saint-Tropez, Porto Cervo is known for its luxury boutiques, exquisite restaurants and beautiful marina filled with sleek yachts. Begin your exploration at the Waterfront Costa Smeralda, the glamorous heart of the village, and the Porto Cervo Marina, which hosts some of the most important world regattas. For an unforgettable panorama, take a drive along Cugnana Gulf and the enchanting bay of Cala di Volpe. Take a dip in glorious beaches like Cala Granu or Romazzino, both boasting crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. After a refreshing swim, satiate your appetite with exquisite Sardinian cuisine.

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.

Off the coast of Sicily you find the volcanic Aeolian Islands, the largest of which is Lipari. But not to worry, as the island’s last eruption took place over 1,000 years ago and the only signs of volcanic activity today are fumaroles and thermal springs. From a place in ancient Greek mythology to UNESCO World Heritage status, the Aeolian Islands and Lipari hold a rich and intriguing history. Seek the ultimate views with an invigorating hike through Monte Rosa. Archaeological excavations within the citadel tell a story dating as far back as the Neolithic era.

The journey from Giardini Naxos on through Taormina holds a diverse landscape that includes white, sandy beaches that call out to you to come and play. Taormina holds a treasure trove, whether it’s the Palazzo Corvaja or Duomo di San Nicola, of ancient atmospheres that entice you to venture deep. As you wander the grounds of the Ancient Greek Theater built directly into the mountains, standing amid such ruins transports you back to ancient live theater. The surrounding peaks of Mount Etna provide an exhilarating environment. Its various foothills and pathways make it the perfect site for hiking.

Sailing the Ionian Sea reveals a mesmerizing expanse of blue water that shimmers beneath the Mediterranean sun. As you glide along ancient maritime routes, the horizon gives way to verdant island coastlines and dramatic limestone cliffs plunging into the deep. High above the shoreline, hillside villages and terraced olive groves paint a picture of enduring tranquility, with pale stonework contrasting against the lush green. The sea itself feels alive with gentle movement. Traditional fishing boats bob rhythmically in the distance, while seabirds glide effortlessly on the ocean breezes just overhead. If you look closely at the yacht’s wake, you might even spot a pod of dolphins playfully breaking the surface. This serene journey builds quiet anticipation for the cultural treasures awaiting on the next shore.

Along the Adriatic coast of Montenegro lies the fortified town of Kotor, known for its medieval old town with winding streets and historic squares, as well as its many Romanesque churches and Maritime Museum. For unbelievable views of the Bay of Kotor, hike to the top of San Giovanni Fortress. Stroll through the many vendors, taking in the sounds, scents and colors as they call out their daily specials, produce and homemade goods. Swim the stunning azure waters of the bay with a boat tour to the Blue Cave.

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.