Viking Venus sailing on August 25th, 2026

About Istanbul

Istanbul is not only where Europe meets Asia; it's where history, built upon empire after empire, meets modern-day commercialism. Explore Old Istanbul's mosques, hippodromes and opulent palaces. Discover remnants of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Test your bargaining savvy with the merchants at the Grand Bazaar and visit the awe-inspiring Ayasofya (Church of Holy Wisdom). Istanbul is the perfect place to step far back in time and admire incredible cultural accomplishments. Don't forget your camera!

Istanbul Attractions

Journey to Istanbul's Sultanahmet neighborhood to experience the astounding Ayasofya (also know as the Church of Holy Wisdom or the Hagia Sophia), an incredible example of Byzantine architecture. The original cathedral was completed in A.D. 537, using columns and marble from other temples around the empire. Earthquakes, crusaders and successive rulers have all left their mark on the Ayasofya. The original mosaics, which were once plastered over, have been gloriously restored. Simply put, this is a sight you will always remember.

Istanbul Activities

Equally affecting is the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii), a grand, bulbous monument to Islam. With 260 stained glass windows, six minarets and liberal use of decorative tile, the Blue Mosque is an amazing visual adventure. Take a tour of Dolmabahçe Palace and see how the sultans of the Ottoman Empire lived.

About Istanbul

Istanbul is not only where Europe meets Asia; it's where history, built upon empire after empire, meets modern-day commercialism. Explore Old Istanbul's mosques, hippodromes and opulent palaces. Discover remnants of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Test your bargaining savvy with the merchants at the Grand Bazaar and visit the awe-inspiring Ayasofya (Church of Holy Wisdom). Istanbul is the perfect place to step far back in time and admire incredible cultural accomplishments. Don't forget your camera!

Istanbul Attractions

Journey to Istanbul's Sultanahmet neighborhood to experience the astounding Ayasofya (also know as the Church of Holy Wisdom or the Hagia Sophia), an incredible example of Byzantine architecture. The original cathedral was completed in A.D. 537, using columns and marble from other temples around the empire. Earthquakes, crusaders and successive rulers have all left their mark on the Ayasofya. The original mosaics, which were once plastered over, have been gloriously restored. Simply put, this is a sight you will always remember.

Istanbul Activities

Equally affecting is the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii), a grand, bulbous monument to Islam. With 260 stained glass windows, six minarets and liberal use of decorative tile, the Blue Mosque is an amazing visual adventure. Take a tour of Dolmabahçe Palace and see how the sultans of the Ottoman Empire lived.

About Nessebar – Canakkale

About Kusadasi

The gulf city of Kusadasi has miles of isolated beaches and is a rather lively resort. A tour of nearby Ephesus establishes the areas early religious importance and is considered one of the seven wonders of the world for its ruins. Among the most visited sites are the home where the Virgin Mary lived until her death, the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountain of Trajan and the Street of Curates.

Kusadasi Attractions

When you're in the area, don't miss the chance to visit the once powerful trading and religious city of Ephesus. Travel through the Magnesia Gate, the main entrance to the ancient city, and continue along marble streets grooved by chariot wheels. Gaze upon beautiful temples, porticoes, fountains and frescoes. Discover the three-story Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, the Odeum, the Fountain of Trajan and the Great Theater.

Kusadasi Activities

Explore the 14th-century Turkish baths and the Isa Bey Mosque on your way to the Basilica of St. John. Visit the Temple of Artemis - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Less known than Ephesus are the ruins of ancient Miletus and Dydima. They include a well-preserved Roman theater at Miletus and the sacred Temple of Apollo at Dydima. It requires a day trip to visit these sites. They are favored mainly by guests with a keen interest in archaeology.

About Rhodes

Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese Islands, is truly a vacation destination with something for everyone: sunshine, spectacular beaches on the Aegean Sea, a medieval walled city, an ancient acropolis, and much more. In ancient times, the people of Rhodes chose Helios, the Sun, as their divine patron. With an average of three hundred plus days of sunshine a year, it's safe to say that Helios continues to smile upon Rhodes today.

Rhodes Attractions

On the north end of the island, overlooking the sea, stand the ancient remains of the Acropolis of Rhodes. The buildings of the Rhodes Acropolis date back to the 3rd-2nd century BC. Though the entire Acropolis has yet to be excavated, some amazing sections have been restored: the stadium; a marble odeion - a concert hall or theatre; four columns of the Temple of Pythian Apollo; and a few remains of the Temple of Athena Polias and Zeus Polieus.

Rhodes Activities

Storm the Street of the Knights in the Old Town. This medieval, cobble-paved street lies over an ancient pathway from the Rhodes Acropolis to the port. In the early 16th century, the street was lined with inns housing the Knights of the Order of St. John, who once ruled the island. The inns that remain today are a study in history and architecture, definitely worth seeing. For a cleansing experience like no other, visit the Municipal Baths (Turkish baths) located in a 7th-century Byzantine structure in the old town. Discover the large collection of tombstones of the Knights of the Order of St. John at the Archeological Museum of Rhodes.

About Souda

About Athens (Piraeus)

Piraeus is the port of Athens. Serving as the gateway to the past and civilization as we know it, Athens is far more than the Acropolis. Nowhere on earth are mans past accomplishments more dramatically displayed as a backdrop to a modern metropolis. Spend time exploring ancient ruins, viewing incalculable treasures or just relax as another day evolves in the cradle of civilization.

Athens (Piraeus) Attractions

No visit to Athens would be complete without a visit to the Acropolis. There you'll find the Parthenon, the largest building in the Acropolis and one of the world's most awe-inspiring sights. It was built as a temple to Athena and is still a remarkable structure today.

Athens (Piraeus) Activities

Visit Plaka, the old neighborhood of Athens. Explore the narrow streets and alleys, single-story houses, neoclassical villas, taverns and many tourist shops. Experience the traditional flea market of Monastiraki, the neighborhood next to Plaka. Explore the National Archaeological Museum, home to a formidable collection of the world's antiquities. Pay a visit to ancient Agora, ancient site of the religious and political heart of Athens. The Archaeological Museum is known to have the finest collection of Greek art in the world. Exhibits include the sensational finds from the excavations at Mycenae and the remarkably well preserved frescoes from a 3,000-year-old civilization discovered at Akrotiri on the island of Santorini. There are also classical statuary, pottery, stone carvings and jewelry from excavations throughout Greece. The Benaki Museum has recently undergone thorough modernization. Its three floors house more than 30,000 items, all illustrating the character of the Greek world. Located near Kolonaki, the Goulandris Museum features a fantastic collection of Cycladic and ancient art spanning 5,000 years. The exhibits were assembled by ship owner Nikolaos P. Goulandris. Its treasures include many of the slim marble figurines that fascinated artists like Picasso and Modigliani. Mount Lycabettus, Athens' highest hill, is only a 10-minute walk from Syntagma Square. It borders the fashionable Kolonaki residential area. A steeply inclined funicular climbs to the summit, which is crowned by a small, white chapel. Pollution permitting, the view from Mount Lycabettus is the finest in Athens. Plaka stretches east from the Agora, this lovely quarter, with winding alleys, neo-classical buildings, whitewashed, bougainvillea-framed houses and tiny churches, is worth your exploration. Agios Eleftherios is a 12th-century Byzantine church and Athens' former cathedral is known for the fanciful figures and zodiac signs that adorn its walls.

About Athens (Piraeus)

Piraeus is the port of Athens. Serving as the gateway to the past and civilization as we know it, Athens is far more than the Acropolis. Nowhere on earth are mans past accomplishments more dramatically displayed as a backdrop to a modern metropolis. Spend time exploring ancient ruins, viewing incalculable treasures or just relax as another day evolves in the cradle of civilization.

Athens (Piraeus) Attractions

No visit to Athens would be complete without a visit to the Acropolis. There you'll find the Parthenon, the largest building in the Acropolis and one of the world's most awe-inspiring sights. It was built as a temple to Athena and is still a remarkable structure today.

Athens (Piraeus) Activities

Visit Plaka, the old neighborhood of Athens. Explore the narrow streets and alleys, single-story houses, neoclassical villas, taverns and many tourist shops. Experience the traditional flea market of Monastiraki, the neighborhood next to Plaka. Explore the National Archaeological Museum, home to a formidable collection of the world's antiquities. Pay a visit to ancient Agora, ancient site of the religious and political heart of Athens. The Archaeological Museum is known to have the finest collection of Greek art in the world. Exhibits include the sensational finds from the excavations at Mycenae and the remarkably well preserved frescoes from a 3,000-year-old civilization discovered at Akrotiri on the island of Santorini. There are also classical statuary, pottery, stone carvings and jewelry from excavations throughout Greece. The Benaki Museum has recently undergone thorough modernization. Its three floors house more than 30,000 items, all illustrating the character of the Greek world. Located near Kolonaki, the Goulandris Museum features a fantastic collection of Cycladic and ancient art spanning 5,000 years. The exhibits were assembled by ship owner Nikolaos P. Goulandris. Its treasures include many of the slim marble figurines that fascinated artists like Picasso and Modigliani. Mount Lycabettus, Athens' highest hill, is only a 10-minute walk from Syntagma Square. It borders the fashionable Kolonaki residential area. A steeply inclined funicular climbs to the summit, which is crowned by a small, white chapel. Pollution permitting, the view from Mount Lycabettus is the finest in Athens. Plaka stretches east from the Agora, this lovely quarter, with winding alleys, neo-classical buildings, whitewashed, bougainvillea-framed houses and tiny churches, is worth your exploration. Agios Eleftherios is a 12th-century Byzantine church and Athens' former cathedral is known for the fanciful figures and zodiac signs that adorn its walls.

About Katakolon

Katakolon is the gateway to Olympia, site of the first Olympic games which began in 776 B.C. Olympia was a sacred precinct built exclusively for the quadrennial games dedicated to Zeus during which all hostilities were ceased in the name of athletic competition. Much was destroyed when the games were outlawed as a pagan festival in 393 A.D., but visitors can still see the Temple of Zeus and the 45,000 seat stadium. The Archaeological Museum houses sculptures, including the famous "Winged Victory."

Katakolon Attractions

Visit the site of ancient Olympia, 25 miles from Katákolon. With the impressive Temple of Zeus with its forty-foot statue of the god, and the original Olympic stadium, this town was a hive of activity in centuries past.

Katakolon Activities

You are invited to experience the beauty and charm of the Mercouri's Vineyards and Winery, to see the old and new winery, and also to have a taste of the three different wines produced locally.

About Corfu

Regarded by many as the most distinctive of the Greek Isles because of its lush vegetation, hidden beaches, and near-mountainous scenery, Corfu has always attracted visitors - Venetians, Gauls, Austrians, and the British, who introduced cricket here. Shop for silver in the old Venetian quarter of Kerkyra, in main town, or visit the beach at Paleokastritsa and see if you agree that it is indeed the loveliest in the Mediterranean.

Corfu Attractions

Don't miss this opportunity to tour the Achilleion Palace, built by the Empress Elizabeth of Austria in 1891. View her breathtaking gardens as well as a spectacular panoramic view of the Ionian Sea. The Achilleion Palace also houses the Terrace of the Muses, which was built as a tribute to the nine muses of Greek mythology.

Corfu Activities

Go off-roading to see Corfu's beautiful landscape up close. Take a scenic drive through the wonderful Corfiot countryside, full of olive groves, pine, cypress, lemon and orange trees. Hike to the top of Mount Pantokrator where you'll get a perfect view of Corfu's lush greenery and memorable views firsthand.

About Kotor

Montenegro is a country with deep blue sea, crystal clear rivers, mountains that reach the sky, dense forests, and beautiful lakes. It is bordered on the southeast by Albania. On the south, it is separated from Italy by the Adriatic Sea. Its western neighbors are the former Yugoslav republics of Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The old town of Kotor is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in this area of the Mediterranean. It has succeeded in maintaining its original form, typical of towns from the 12th-14th centuries. The only car in the old walled section is a replica of a small Fiat Cinquecento with a mini-trailer, used to collect the trash. The narrow streets and squares, along with numerous medieval monuments, helped earn Kotor a place on UNESCO's World Heritage list.

About Dubrovnik

This remarkable city on the Adriatic coast is an enduring example of strength and beauty. Dubrovnik is once again welcoming visitors, who are delighted to discover that it is still one of the finest examples of a walled medieval city.

Dubrovnik Attractions

The old city of Dubrovnik and the walls that surround it have been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Portions of the wall date back to the 13th century. The ramparts are intact and encircle the old city with a circumference of more than 1.5 miles. Don't miss the chance to take a walking tour along its length for a spectacular view of the city it surrounds.

Dubrovnik Activities

Drive along the coastline to one of the finest botanical gardens in Croatia, the Arboretum. Spend the day touring the city's rich religious and cultural history. Visit the large Onofrio Fountain, the Franciscan Monastery, and the Rectors' Palace. Visit Lopud Island, the home of many great sailors and sea captains throughout history. With its mild climate, subtropical vegetation, charming footpaths, beautiful scenery, and sandy beaches, it is the perfect spot to relax. Visit the 15th-century Rectors' Palace that was once the seat of Dubrovnik's Republic government. The elected Rector was not permitted to leave this building during his one-month term without permission from the Senate. Today, the palace is a museum with furnished rooms, Baroque paintings, and historical exhibits that will give you a taste of how the ruling class and the aristocracy used to live in Dubrovnik. Take a side trip to the seaside resort of Cavtat. The original town grew up around the ruins of an ancient settlement by the Greeks from Epidaurus. Over the years, Cavtat has become a popular destination for yachting and sailing enthusiasts.

About Split

World famous Roman core of the Old City makes Split one of the most interesting places to see. Roman core belongs to the UNESCO protected heritage of the world. Today, Split is a popular vacation spot, a sophisticated centre of activity in Dalmatia, boasting numerous art galleries, concert halls and theatres.

Split Activities

The most important attraction and a must see is the Old Town within Diocletian's Palace. Its sights are covered on both tours, but if you decide to explore independently be aware that sightseeing has to be on foot. Located in Gripe Fortress on a hilltop east of the Old Town, the Maritime Museum features an interesting exhibit of wartime maps, photos, artifacts and scale models. Captions are in Croatian.

About Chioggia

Chioggia is a coastal town and comune of the province of Venice in the Veneto region of northern Italy. The town is situated on a small island at the southern entrance to the Lagoon of Venice about 25 kilometres (16 miles) south of Venice (50 km (31 mi) by road); causeways connect it to the mainland and to its frazione, nowadays a quarter, of Sottomarina. The population of the comune is around 51,000, with the town proper accounting for about half of that and Sottomarina for most of the rest.

Chioggia Attractions

Chioggia is a miniature version of Venice, with a few canals, chief among them the Canale Vena, and the characteristic narrow streets known as calli. Chioggia has several medieval churches, much reworked in the period of its greatest prosperity in the 16th and 17th centuries. The church of S. Maria, founded in the eleventh century, became a cathedral in 1110, then was rebuilt as Chioggia Cathedral from 1623 by Baldassarre Longhena. The church of St. Andrew (18th century) has a bell tower from the 11th-12th centuries,the most ancient tower watch in the world. The interior has a Crucifixion by Palma the Elder.

About Chioggia

Chioggia is a coastal town and comune of the province of Venice in the Veneto region of northern Italy. The town is situated on a small island at the southern entrance to the Lagoon of Venice about 25 kilometres (16 miles) south of Venice (50 km (31 mi) by road); causeways connect it to the mainland and to its frazione, nowadays a quarter, of Sottomarina. The population of the comune is around 51,000, with the town proper accounting for about half of that and Sottomarina for most of the rest.

Chioggia Attractions

Chioggia is a miniature version of Venice, with a few canals, chief among them the Canale Vena, and the characteristic narrow streets known as calli. Chioggia has several medieval churches, much reworked in the period of its greatest prosperity in the 16th and 17th centuries. The church of S. Maria, founded in the eleventh century, became a cathedral in 1110, then was rebuilt as Chioggia Cathedral from 1623 by Baldassarre Longhena. The church of St. Andrew (18th century) has a bell tower from the 11th-12th centuries,the most ancient tower watch in the world. The interior has a Crucifixion by Palma the Elder.

About Chioggia

Chioggia is a coastal town and comune of the province of Venice in the Veneto region of northern Italy. The town is situated on a small island at the southern entrance to the Lagoon of Venice about 25 kilometres (16 miles) south of Venice (50 km (31 mi) by road); causeways connect it to the mainland and to its frazione, nowadays a quarter, of Sottomarina. The population of the comune is around 51,000, with the town proper accounting for about half of that and Sottomarina for most of the rest.

Chioggia Attractions

Chioggia is a miniature version of Venice, with a few canals, chief among them the Canale Vena, and the characteristic narrow streets known as calli. Chioggia has several medieval churches, much reworked in the period of its greatest prosperity in the 16th and 17th centuries. The church of S. Maria, founded in the eleventh century, became a cathedral in 1110, then was rebuilt as Chioggia Cathedral from 1623 by Baldassarre Longhena. The church of St. Andrew (18th century) has a bell tower from the 11th-12th centuries,the most ancient tower watch in the world. The interior has a Crucifixion by Palma the Elder.

About Sibenik

Sibenik is a port in south-west Croatia, on the Adriatic Sea. Among the city's notable buildings are a Roman Catholic cathedral (begun early 15th century) and a 12th-century fort. Nearby is the Krka National Park with its cascading waterfalls, green pools and swimming holes.

About Bari

Fairy-tale houses that look like chanterelle mushrooms. Alberobello´s little round houses with the cone-topped roofs are called trulli - and they are unique. Their orgins are ancient - some date from 3100 B.C. And they are only found here.

Bari Attractions

Basilica di San NicolaThe Basilica di San Nicola (Saint Nicholas) was founded in 1087 to receive the relics of this saint, which were brought from Myra in Lycia, and now lie beneath the altar in the crypt. The church is one of the four Palatine churches of Apulia (the others being the cathedrals of Acquaviva delle Fonti and Altamura, and the church of Monte Sant'Angelo sul Gargano. Cathedral of St. SabinusThe church of St. Sabinus (the current Duomo of the city) was begun in Byzantine style in 1034, but was destroyed in the sack of the city of 1156. A new building was thus built between 1170-1178, partially inspiring to that of San Nicola. Of the original edifice, only traces of the pavement are today visible in the transept. An important example of Apulian Romanesque architecture, the church has a simple Romanesque façade with three portals; in the upper part is a rose window decorated with monstruous and fantasy figures. The interior has a nave and two aisles, divided by sixteen columns with arcades. The crypt houses the relics of St. Sabinus and the icon of the Madonna Odigitria. The interior and the façade were redecorated in Baroque style during the 18th century, but these additions were deleted in the 1950s restoration. Stadio San Nicola Local football team A.S. Bari play in the impressive Stadio San Nicola, an architecturally innovative 58000-seater stadium purpose-built for the 1990 world cup.

About Crotone

About Messina

As Sicilys main gateway to continental Italy, Messina is a large and bustling port city completely rebuilt after a devasting earthquake in 1908. South of Messina, in the shadow of Mt Etna, is the beautiful resort of Taormina. Clinging to the side of a mountain, Taormina affords spectacular views at every turn. After admiring the magnificent Greek Theatre dating from the 3rd Century B.C., take a stroll along the main shopping street to appreciate the harmony of Taorminas architecture.

Messina Attractions

For a show unlike any you've seen before, check out the world's largest astronomical clock, Orologio Astronomico, in the Piazza del Duomo. It's set in a 197-foot bell tower and when the clock strikes noon, it comes to life. As Ave Maria begins playing from a loudspeaker, the bronze mechanical figures start to move. A lion roars, a bird flaps its wings, and two historical heroines take turns ringing the bell, all before it ends with a statue of Jesus appearing from a tomb.

Messina Activities

Take a walk through the Duomo, the town's main cathedral in the Piazza del Duomo. Although most of it has been refurbished in recent years, it has retained some of the original Norman-style features from 1160, when it was built by the Holy Roman emperor Henry VI. Make a wish in the Fontana di Orione in the center of the piazza. The pre-baroque-style fountain was built to commemorate Messina's aqueduct and symbolizes the four rivers, Tiber, Nile, Ebore and Camaro. Spend some time in the Museo Regionale. Here you'll find an amazing collection of art rescued from the 1908 earthquake, including pieces dating back to the 13th century.

About Naples

Naples the diva of Italy. Voluptuous, vivacious and vibrantly alive. All the marvelous sights, scents and sounds of Southern Italy are here. It's where pasta was invented and where the first pizza was tossed. And in the ashen ruins of Pompeii, see where ancient Romans came to play, only to be lost under Vesuvius fire and fury.

Naples Attractions

While you're in the area, you'll want to visit Pompeii, one of the most famous excavation sites in the world. A thriving city 1,900 years ago, it was devastated by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. when 30 feet of volcanic ash and pumice stone covered it. Enter Pompeii by the sea gate and take a short walk to the hub of the city: the Forum. View the lavish temples and porticoes that lay beneath the ash for centuries.

Naples Activities

Take a short boat trip to the entrancing Isle of Capri, and explore Capri Town. Wander its quaint streets and explore its shops and cafés. Discover the Gardens of Augustus, overlooking the famous Faraglioni of Capri and Marina Piccola. Take a ride up the Amalfi Coast. With its ocean views and beautiful vistas, it's one of the most breathtaking stretches of road in the world. Walk around and spend an afternoon getting to know the picturesque city of Naples.

About Civitavecchia (Rome)

For centuries the ancient port of Civitavecchia has served as the gateway to magnificent Rome. Its a city so immersed in history, you'll find yourself drifiting back to a distant time. Home of Michelangelos Sistine Chapel, Rome flourishes today as she did in her Golden Age. Experience Rome, a city of colossal ruins, majestic cathedrals and a golden past, worthy of many return visits.

Civitavecchia (Rome) Attractions

Experience the history of Rome as you wander around the Colosseum and Roman Forum.

Civitavecchia (Rome) Activities

Explore the amazing history and culture of Rome. Stop at the Ara Pacis, or Altar of Peace, a Roman sacrificial altar enclosed in a screen of Parian marble. Visit the Vatican Museum, where you can walk through the many rooms that house the largest art collection in the world. Travel through magnificent St. Peter's Basilica, the largest church in the world. View the Sistine Chapel, a masterpiece of Renaissance art, the ceiling of which was painted by Michelangelo. Toss a coin in the famous Trevi Fountain - a way to ensure that you'll always return to Rome.

About Livorno (Florence,Pisa)

The birthplace of the artist Modigliani, this is Tuscanys principal port, just a short jaunt from the artistic treasures of Florence. As you wander the streets and piazzas of this famous city you will encounter countless treasrues of Renaissance art and architecture.

Livorno (Florence,Pisa) Attractions

When you're in the area, you'll definitely want to explore Florence, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Start by visiting the church of Santa Croce, known as Italy's Westminster Abbey because of the Italian monarchy buried there. View the 14th-century interior and marvel at one of the finest examples of Florentine Gothic decoration. Stop at the Piazza del Duomo in Florence, where the cathedral, bell tower and baptistery share the same square. Then stop in the Piazza della Signoria, the city's largest square, and gaze upon a copy of Michelangelo's David and the Loggia dei Lanzi.

Livorno (Florence,Pisa) Activities

Shop for souvenirs at the famed Ponte Vecchio in Florence. Explore the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, home to works by Giotto, Botticelli, Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael and Rubens. Visit the Field of Miracles in Pisa, and discover one of the world's most amazing sights - the Campanile, or Leaning Tower. Learn the fascinating details about this famous bell tower, such as how it leans a bit more every year and has now reached over 14 feet out of perpendicular. Take a scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside, enjoying its soft, rounded hills, the medieval architecture of its villages and the silver green of the olive trees mingling with the dark-green of the cypress trees. Stop in a local winery to sample some of its delicious product.

About Livorno (Florence,Pisa)

The birthplace of the artist Modigliani, this is Tuscanys principal port, just a short jaunt from the artistic treasures of Florence. As you wander the streets and piazzas of this famous city you will encounter countless treasrues of Renaissance art and architecture.

Livorno (Florence,Pisa) Attractions

When you're in the area, you'll definitely want to explore Florence, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Start by visiting the church of Santa Croce, known as Italy's Westminster Abbey because of the Italian monarchy buried there. View the 14th-century interior and marvel at one of the finest examples of Florentine Gothic decoration. Stop at the Piazza del Duomo in Florence, where the cathedral, bell tower and baptistery share the same square. Then stop in the Piazza della Signoria, the city's largest square, and gaze upon a copy of Michelangelo's David and the Loggia dei Lanzi.

Livorno (Florence,Pisa) Activities

Shop for souvenirs at the famed Ponte Vecchio in Florence. Explore the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, home to works by Giotto, Botticelli, Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael and Rubens. Visit the Field of Miracles in Pisa, and discover one of the world's most amazing sights - the Campanile, or Leaning Tower. Learn the fascinating details about this famous bell tower, such as how it leans a bit more every year and has now reached over 14 feet out of perpendicular. Take a scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside, enjoying its soft, rounded hills, the medieval architecture of its villages and the silver green of the olive trees mingling with the dark-green of the cypress trees. Stop in a local winery to sample some of its delicious product.

About Monte Carlo

The jewel of the French Riviera a fitting destination and one sure to please. You'll be dazzled by Monte Carlos elaborate casinos, the famous wine cellars of the Hotel de Paris and the Ephrussi-de-Rothschild Museum with its XV and XIX century treasures. An exciting stop at one of the worlds most enticing and alluring playgrounds.

Monte Carlo Attractions

Monaco-Ville comprises the old town and holds the seat of Monaco’s government. Narrow streets lead to the Prince’s Palace dominating the rocky peninsula. Other attractions include the 19th-century cathedral, the Parliament building and the Oceanographic Museum operated under the auspices of the Jacques Cousteau Society. Most of the sites in Monaco-Ville and Monte Carlo have to be seen on foot.

Monte Carlo Activities

Open year round, the Exotic Garden and the Observatory Cave offers amazing plants in a magnificient setting. An Eden for a variety of "succulent" plants landscaped onto a rock face, the garden offers a splendid panoramic view of the Principality of Monaco, as well as of the French and Italian Rivieras. At the elegant, baroque Monte-Carlo Casino try your luck in the elegant European Rooms - slots in the Salle Blanche, roulette and trente et quarante in the Salle Europe, chemin de fer and banques à deux tableaux and pai gow poker in the Salon Privés (high rollers only). Craps and blackjack, if that's your passion, the American Room. Fort Antoine Theater is a marvelous outdoor theater with a capacity of some 350 spectators in tiered seating built in a semi-circle. In this enchanting setting, high quality performances are given during the summer season. Inaugurated in 1910 by its founder, Prince Albert I, the Oceanographic Museum & Aquarium is a monumental architectural masterpiece with a grandiose façade rising sheer above the sea to a height of 279 feet. Visitors can enjoy the spectacular delights of the world-famous aquarium with its extraordinary show of marine flora and fauna. The magnificient Fontvieille Park covers an area of nearly 4 hectares and contains a multitude of green plants and shrubs from all over the world, planted around a charming little fresh-water pond inhabited by ducks and swans Situated on the Rue Basse the Wax Museum of the Princes of Monaco depicts historical episodes in the Grimaldi dynasty from the late XIII century to the present day. The wax figures are life-size, and many of them wear authentic period costumes.

About Marseille

Founded nearly 26 centuries ago, Marseilles is the oldest city in France, a mosaic of old and new with a dozen villages and eight islands, each offering a world of enchanting discoveries. At nearby Avignon, visit the magmificient Palace of the Popes and the hilltop Basilica Notre Dame de la Garde. Explore ruins of 13th century Palais Longchamps and colorful "Old Harbour" where you can browse open-air markets.

Marseille Attractions

For the best view of the city, there's only one place to go: Notre Dame de la Garde. Entirely covered in gold leaf, it towers over Marseille at an impressive 500 feet tall (154 meters.) Throughout the years, it has served as a lookout post, a military zone and a place of worship.

Marseille Activities

Stroll around the Old Port, or Vieux Port as the locals say, which was once known as the gateway to the Mediterranean. Here you'll find the popular theatre, Théâtre National de la Criée, as well as many cafés and restaurants lining the streets. See the amazing history of the city - 26 centuries worth - at Musée d'Histoire de Marseille. Walk through Cours Julien, a pedestrian square with a beautiful water garden and fountain, as well as trendy shops, cafés and theatres. Visit Le Prado south of the city where you'll find Parc Borély, a magnificent city park with numerous ponds, a botanical garden and a greenhouse.

About Sete

Situated at the Golfe du Lion in the south of France, Sete, called Ceta or Sita under the Gallo-Romans, was first known for its production of pickled fish. With the closure of the seaports of Aigues Mortes, Agde and Narbonne in the 17th century, a new port was needed to open the Languedoc onto the Mediterranean. Sete developed around the new port, becoming the country's second busiest port after Marseille..

Sete Attractions

The upper part of the town straddles the slopes of Mont St. Clair, offering wonderful views of the port and the vast Bassin de Thau, a breeding ground for mussels and oysters. The lower part is intersected by waterways lined with tall terraces and seafood restaurants. Its pedestrian streets allow visitors leisurely strolls, and scattered cafe tables invite you to relax, sip an aperitif and people-watch. Other interesting sightseeing destinations include the university city of Montpellier.

About Barcelona

Founded by Romans in the first century BC, Barcelona is the vibrant capital of Catalonian Spain. Many of the worlds finest treasures can be seen in Barcelonas museums and monuments. Romanesque and Gothic frescoes and treasures can be enjoyed at the Catalan Art Museum. Among the most treasured sites is Gaudis masterpiece, The Sagrada Familia.

Barcelona Attractions

While you're in Barcelona, don't miss the Picasso Gallery. Several adjoining 15th-century palaces house a huge collection (over 2,000 pieces) of Picasso's work.

Barcelona Activities

Stroll along Las Ramblas, a wonderfully vibrant part of the city where street vendors and performers vie for your attention. Explore the many churches and cathedrals of Barcelona and discover the city's modernist architecture along Paseo de Gracia. Visit Antoni Gaudí's unfinished Segrada Familia. With eight soaring spires and a spectacular main façade, this cathedral is a true architectural masterpiece.

About Barcelona

Founded by Romans in the first century BC, Barcelona is the vibrant capital of Catalonian Spain. Many of the worlds finest treasures can be seen in Barcelonas museums and monuments. Romanesque and Gothic frescoes and treasures can be enjoyed at the Catalan Art Museum. Among the most treasured sites is Gaudis masterpiece, The Sagrada Familia.

Barcelona Attractions

While you're in Barcelona, don't miss the Picasso Gallery. Several adjoining 15th-century palaces house a huge collection (over 2,000 pieces) of Picasso's work.

Barcelona Activities

Stroll along Las Ramblas, a wonderfully vibrant part of the city where street vendors and performers vie for your attention. Explore the many churches and cathedrals of Barcelona and discover the city's modernist architecture along Paseo de Gracia. Visit Antoni Gaudí's unfinished Segrada Familia. With eight soaring spires and a spectacular main façade, this cathedral is a true architectural masterpiece.