7 Night Western Mediterranean Cruise on Enchantment of the Seas from Barcelona, Spain Portofino, Italy Sea Coast Houses
The 7 Night Western Mediterranean Cruise from Barcelona, Spain visits Provence (Marseille), France; Nice (Villefranche), France; Genoa, Italy; Portofino, Italy; Florence / Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy. Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.
Royal Caribbean Cruises
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7 Night Western Mediterranean Cruise
Itinerary Overview
Explore Enchantment of the Seas
Day 1 - Barcelona, Spain
Day 2 - Cruising
Day 3 - Provence (Marseille), France
Day 4 - Nice (Villefranche), France
Day 5 - Genoa, Italy
Day 6 - Portofino, Italy
Day 7 - Florence / Pisa (Livorno), Italy
Day 8 - Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
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Portofino, Italy Sea Coast Houses
Beautiful sea coast with colorful houses in Portofino, Italy
This is your

7 Night Western Mediterranean Cruise

Explore This Itinerary
Leaving from
Barcelona, Spain
Onboard
Enchantment of the Seas
Day Port
1
Barcelona, Spain
Departs at 5:00 PM
2
Cruising
Day at sea
3
Provence (Marseille), France
From 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
4
Nice (Villefranche), France
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
5
Genoa, Italy
From 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
6
Portofino, Italy
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
7
Florence / Pisa (Livorno), Italy
From 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
8
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
Arrives at 5:00 AM
*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.
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Sailing from {{ overview.startDate }} (+ {{ additionalDatesCount }} Additional Dates)

Your ship Enchantment of the Seas

Your ship
Enchantment of the Seas
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Enchantment of the Seas, Aerial View, Bahamas and Caribbean Cruise Destinations
Aerial View of Enchantment of the Seas Cruise Ship With Destinations in CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas
Get to know
Enchantment of the Seas
Time to shake up your weekend routine. Enchantment of the Seas® has plenty of thrills to keep you entertained, from poolside movie nights to star-studded guest performances. Throw in woah-worthy dining at Chop's Grille℠ or Chef's Table, and classic cocktails at R Bar, and you have the perfect getaway.

KICK BACK OR KICK IT UP A NOTCH

Soak up soaring views from the top of the Rock Climbing Wall, learn how to whip up something delicious in a culinary class, or unwind outdoors and watch a movie on the poolside screen. Looking to break a sweat or spa the day away? Head to Vitality℠ at Sea Spa and Fitness Center.

FAR OUT FEASTING

Once you've worked up an appetite, indulge in prime steaks at Chop's Grill℠ or sit down to a five-course foodie fest at Chef's Table. At R Bar, you'll find classic cocktails and vintage vibes. And complimentary breakfast, happy hour and concierge access await in the Diamond Club, exclusive to Crown & Anchor® Society Diamond members and above.

CUE THE ACTION

If rock and roll is your jam, don't miss Can't Stop the Rock. If you're a movie or musical buff, you'll love Stage to Screen. And be sure to look out for guest entertainers— from live music at the Schooner Bar to an elusive piano man who pops up in unexpected places around the ship.

Day 1: Barcelona, Spain

Day 1
Barcelona
Spain
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Spain Barcelona La Sagrada Couple
La Sagrada Couple Walking
Things to do in
Barcelona
Departs at 5:00 PM
It’s easy to see why Barcelona is the most-visited city in Spain. As the capital of the country’s Catalonia region, this cityscape’s cultural mosaic pieces together a 2,000-year-old hodgepodge of sun-drenched beaches, cutting edge architecture, and a world-renowned dining and drinking scene. Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí left his modernist handprint all over the city, while medieval treasures linger in historic Gothic Quarter squares. Get lost in the whimsical gardens of Park Güell or savor a chef-led Catalan cooking class. Browse art collections dedicated to Picasso and Miro— or ride a cable car to the top of Montjuïc Hill, relishing citywide views along the way.
Spain Barcelona La Sagrada Familia Interior
La Sagrada Familia Interior Colorful

SKY HIGH DELIGHTS

Get an up-close glimpse of La Sagrada Família, a cathedral masterwork designed by celebrated Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Marvel at its sky-piercing spires and then step inside to admire intricate mosaics, Montjuïc stone pillars and the Nativity façade. You can even climb to the tippy-top of the spires for panoramic city views.
Spain Barcelona Barceloneta Beach
Barceloneta Beach at Sunset

SEAS THE DAY

With seven beaches spanning more than two miles of Mediterranean coastline, Barcelona’s harborfront is known for some of the world’s best sun-seeking and on-the-sea adventures. Lounge along the shore, kayak deep blue waters— or charter a fishing trip for the chance to reel in tuna, swordfish or Mediterranean spearfish.
Barcelona, Spain La Rambla Shops
Street view of La Rambla in Barcelona, Spain, with shops lining the street

IN THE MIX

Take a stroll along La Rambla’s pedestrian boulevard to experience the city’s pure essence. Souvenir shops, street artists, flower stalls, sidewalk cafes and Catalan folk sardana dancers set a lively scene. Its marvelous centerpiece, La Catedral, dates from the 1200s— and its tower delivers sweeping views of medieval Barcelona.
Spain Barcelona Sparkling Cava Wine
Couple Enjoying the Local Sparkling Cava Wine

LOCAL CUISINE

Barcelona has mastered the art of eating. Many restaurants serve up creative nueva cocina española, while waterfront spots dish out seafood paella and multi-course lunch menus include a glass of sparkling cava wine. For a taste of Catalan cooking, try pa amb tomàquet (tomato-topped bread). Or nibble on Spanish tapas (bite-sized appetizers) around the bar like a local, with house-made vermouth in hand.
Spain Barcelona Local Fresh Market Shopping
Couple Strolling Through the Fresh Local Market

SHOPPING

You could spend hours checking out the markets of Barcelona for high-quality leatherwear, jewelry, old books and unique housewares. Passeig de Gràcia and Barcelona Shopping Line are two popular retail promenades— and the Gothic Quarter is home to dozens of family-owned shops that sell textiles, stationery, decorative ceramic tiles and earthenware kitchenware.

Day 2: Cruising

Day 2
Cruising
At Sea
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Vitality Spa Couple Massage Relaxing
Vitality Spa Couple Massage Relaxing
PLAY ANY WAY YOU LIKE
Solarium at Sunset
Sunset at the Solarium Pool

Solarium

Slip away to this adults-only indoor and outdoor retreat. The Solarium is your slice of paradise, with soothing whirlpools, warm sunshine and a refreshing water mist.
Man Receiving Massage
Man Receiving Massage at Vitality Spa

Spa & Fitness Center

A luxurious sanctuary offering signature treatments, medi-spa services, and a full-service salon to make you glow from the inside out. Browse our spa menu for pricing.
Boardwalk Arcade Skee Ball
Close-Up the Skee Ball on the Boardwalk Arcade

Arcade

Blips, bleeps, clangs and cheers. Play to win in a classic arcade atmosphere with timeless games, plus the latest at the Royal Caribban Arcade.
Whirlpool at Night
Beautiful Night on the Pool Deck

Whirlpools

It’s easy to let every thought melt away while relaxing in a whirlpool, especially when you’re soaking up ocean views, too.

Day 3: Provence, France

Day 3
Provence
Marseille, France
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Provence (Marseille), France, Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica
The Notre Dame de la Garde basilica towering over the city of Marseille, France
Things to do in
Provence
From 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
France's oldest city, Marseille blends ancient charm with Provencal beauty. In the morning, head to the fish market Quai des Belges, where trade has been going on for more than 2,600 years — stroll along the promenades and 18th-century warehouses, and grab a cafe au lait and a melon tarte from one of the cafes on the ground floor. Cruise to Provence and check out the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde: Built in the 19th century in a neo-Byzantine style, its golden statue of the Virgin and Child dominates the Marseille skyline. Then, take in the modern architecture and Mediterranean cultural artifacts at the MuCEM art museum, or see the craggy limestone cliffs of Calanques National Park, a half-hour drive outside the city.
Provence (Marseille), France, Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica Close Up
The steps leading up to the Notre Dame de la Garde basilica in Marseille, France

Climb to the Heavens

Climb the steps to 19th-century Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, rising 150 meters above the water. At its peak is a large golden statue of the Virgin Mary and Child, said to watch over Marseille's maritime community. The basilica incorporates a renaissance-era fort that includes a serene chapel with ornate stained-glass windows.
Insider tip
To the north-west you'll find L'Estaque, one of the fishing villages that inspired many of France's greatest artists in the late 19th century, including Cezanne and Monticelli.
Provence (Marseille), France, Calanques D'En Vau bay
The Calanques D'En Vay bay in France

Natural Drama

At Calanques National Park, you'll find rough, white limestone cliffs that rise sharply above the sea. You can take a relaxing boat tour or even kayak in the area. The park stretches from Marseille to La Ciotat, where you'll encounter landscapes of lime rock and red conglomerate. The park is internationally known for its sublime landscapes, biodiversity and rich heritage.
Insider tip
Musee des Docks Romains, which covers the site of one of the world's few known Roman warehouses, is where you'll find dolia, huge ceramic jugs that can store up to two thousand liters of olive oil or wine.
Provence (Marseille), France, Palais de Longchamp
The fountain in front of the Palais de Longchamp

Cultural Stroll

Make your way on foot down Boulevard Longchamp, with its posh 19th-century houses, tree-lined promenade and stunning Palais Longchamp, where you'll wander into a well-manicured park with a stately colonnade and fountain. It's also home to two of the city's finest museums, the Natural Museum and the Museum of Fine Art, both of which are well worth a stop.
Insider tip
If you've read "The Count of Monte Cristo," the name Chateau d'If might ring a bell. Visit this 16th-century castle to learn about the realities of prison life at the time of Dumas's novel. You can even take a boat here directly from the port.
Provence (Marseille), France, Blue mussels in bouillabaisse
Blue mussels in bouillabaisse

Local Cuisine

The signature dish of Marseille is without a doubt the savory bouillabaisse. This savory fish stew is packed with an array of local seafood, including clams, white fish, mussels or lobster, and the broth is flavored with fennel and pastis, a local licorice-flavored liqueur — dive in with a crusty baguette for the full experience.
Provence (Marseille), France, Soap bars at market
Famous soap from Marseille, France for sale at a market

Shopping

Le Panier, just north of the port, dates back to 600 BC. While its colored walls, narrow streets and sunny squares once made up one of the poorest districts of the city, today it's filled with trendy independent boutiques, craft shops and galleries. Cruise to Provence and look for handmade savon de Marseille, the traditional green or white soap made with olive oil that has been exported from Marseille for centuries.

Day 4: Nice, France

Day 4
Nice
Villefranche, France
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Nice (Villefranche), France, View of coast and hills
View of the coast of Nice, France with homes on the hills in the distance
Things to do in
Nice
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Although originally called "Nakaia," France's Nice is as delightful as its name suggests to English speakers. Take a bus or taxi into Nice's Old City to explore its history-spanning architecture and pristine French Riviera beaches with your Nice cruise. Or stick closer to Villefranche-sur-Mer, where your ship will dock, and take a day-trip to the mountaintop town of Eze. No matter how you spend your time in the de facto hub of France's Cote d'Azur, you'll enjoy the added benefit of being close to Italy, which means delectable pizza, fragrant espresso and the sounds of a second Romance language.
Nice (Villefranche), France, Waves crashing on beach
Eaves crashing on a beach in Nice, France

Hit the Beach

Not surprisingly, Nice is a great place for a day at the beach. Sun yourself at Beau Rivage along the Promenade des Anglais, where Nice's chic locals come to see and be seen, or walk a few minutes east or west or Villafranche-sur-Mer to find a quiet spot for a swim closer to the ship. The pristine Mediterranean waters instantly reveal why this place is known as France's Cote d'Azur — the Azure Coast.
Insider tip
Many of Nice's city beaches are rocky. Consider laying out on a couple thick towels, instead of your usual beach blanket.
Nice (Villefranche), France, Matisse Museum
The Matisse Museum in Nice, France

Go Back in Time

Stroll the streets of Nice's Vieille Ville to take a trip back in time. Visit monuments such as the Baroque-era Palais Lascaris and the city's 19th-century Russian Orthodox cathedral, or explore the bevy of museums — don't miss the one dedicated to Nice's prodigal son, artist Henri Matisse. You'll find Nice is more than just a pretty face.
Insider tip
While Nice is politically part of France, it has a long and proud Italian history as well. Don't be surprised if you hear Italian being spoken — and don't by shy to practice yours!
Nice (Villefranche), France, Botanical Garden
A cliffside botanical garden in Nice, France

View From Above

Take a day-trip to see a little more of France's Cote d'Azur. A particularly popular option is Eze, which is less than a half-hour away from Villefrance-sur-Mer by public bus. Cruise to Nice and walk from the main town up to its mountaintop fortress, which provides a priceless panorama of the entire French Riviera.
Nice (Villefranche), France, Nicoise Salad
A Nicoise salad on a white and blue plate

Local Cuisine

Nice is home to the popular salade nicoise, but the culinary delights here transcend cold starters. Stop at a street vendor and order a crispy socca chickpea pancake, or enjoy la daube nicoise, a slow-cooked beef stew soaked in rich red wine and served with tender gnocchi. You'll find some of the best eateries in the heart of the Vieille Ville with your Nice cruise.
Nice (Villefranche), France, Soap Crates
An assortment of scented soaps in wooden crates for sale in France

Shopping

Bring the flavors of Nice along with you after a stop Galleries Lafayette Gourmand, which also offers a wide selection of fines wines from France's nearby Provence region. Shop for postcards, keychains and other local kitsch at Coqueto, hunt down high-end Southern French soaps, or take in the fresh scent of Marche aux Fleurs Cours Saleya, one of France's largest outdoor flower markets.

Day 5: Genoa, Italy

Day 5
Genoa
Italy
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Genoa, Italy, De Ferrari Square
View of the De Ferrari Square and fountain in Genoa, Italy
Things to do in
Genoa
From 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
The birthplace of Christopher Columbus, Genoa is a medieval city that's made a splash in the modern world. Stumble upon architectural gems like the San Lorenzo Cathedral, with its black-and-white striped facade, and monumental squares like Piazza de Ferrari. The harborside aquarium is the second-largest in Europe — head there to see a bastion of biodiversity, complete with sharks, dolphins and penguins. The Lanterna is the city's main lighthouse, and the adjacent Museum will get you familiar with the history of the port and city. Walk among the colorful houses and cobbled streets, and poke your head into one of the excellent restaurants there for a Genoese specialty dish like pansotti, a ravioli-like pasta served with walnut sauce.
Genoa, Italy, Bigo Elevator
View of the Bigo Elevator in the Port of Genoa, Italy

See What's Under the Sea

Housed in a ship-like structure, the Genoa Aquarium is home to diverse species of jellyfish, stingrays and colorful fish in aquatic ecosystem displays. After you're done, head to the Galata Museum, which has a moored submarine, original artifacts and ships. Hop on the Bigo lift to be elevated to a full-circle view of Genoa.
Insider tip
From the port, you can walk to the historic center or take the train from Principe Station. A cab ride is about 10 Euro.
Genoa, Italy, Palace of St. George
Close up of the décor of the Palace of St. George in Genoa, Italy

History Al Fresco

In Genoa's historic center, pause and admire the fresco of St. George at Palazzo San Giorgio, one of the first banks in Europe. Take a whiff of the wave of aromas coming from the typical botteghe and street stands as you wander to the majestic Gothic Cathedral San Lorenzo. Visit the Columbus Museum, make your way to the Palazzo Ducale, then go up to the Grimaldi Tower to savor a spectacular view of the city.
Insider tip
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the city is best seen by foot and situated on a hill.
Genoa, Italy, Cinque Terre
View of a seaside village in Cinque Terre

On a Cliff's Edge

Close by, you can jump on the train to Monterosso and explore Cinque Terre (or the five cities). Adventure through these cliffside villages to find one of the very fine trattorie offering the freshest seafood accompanied by their local white wines.
Insider tip
The city is big, so prepare an itinerary beforehand.
Genoa, Italy, Faina Dish
A plate of faina

Local Cuisine

Genoa is home to the world-famous basil-based condiment pesto. But walnut sauce is the region's other great invention — enjoy it atop gnocchi or pansotti, a ravioli stuffed with greens and herbs. Stop by a street vendor for freshly fried calamari and anchovies or farinata, a flatbread made from chickpea flour. Seek out stoccafisso, cod prepared with pine nuts, olives, tomatoes and potatoes.
Genoa, Italy, Souvenir cat statues
An assortment of souvenir cat statues

Shopping

The historic district's carrugi, or cobblestone alleyways, are the place to go for shopping in Genoa. Peek into the old-school workshops where you can see artisans craft leather shoes and bags, gold jewelry and hand-tailored clothing. Look for a mezzaro genovese, a decorative tapestry based on the ornate shawls that came into Genoa from India during 18th-century trade. Playful cat statues are also a distinctive Ligurian trinket — you can find them here and in nearby Cinque Terre.

Day 6: Portofino, Italy

Day 6
Portofino
Italy
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Portofino, Italy Colorful Houses
Beautiful sunny day with colorful houses on the coast of Portofino, Italy
Things to do in
Portofino
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
The Italian Riviera's fishing village of Portofino has more to offer than the rows of brightly colored houses that made it famous — this coastal town is also a destination for nature lovers eager to explore. Cruise to Portofino and hike through the Regional Park: Its lushly forested coastal paths look down dramatic cliffsides to the Mediterranean below. Or head to Portofino Marine Reserve, where you can kayak on the crystal-clear waters, taking in views of the quaint village as you paddle by under the weathered cliffs. Then, people-watch in one of Portofino's quaint piazzas, or head to nearby Cervara Abbey, an ancient monastery turned into a terraced garden.
Portofino, Italy Regional Park
Promontory in Portofino regional park overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, in Portofino, Italy

Take a Hike

Grab your hiking boots and get ready for an adventure through Portofino Regional Park. The park is home to an extensive network of lush trails and coastal paths that overlook the Mediterranean Sea. You can hike through this unique environment during both the winter and summer, making it the perfect year-round activity for outdoor enthusiasts.
Portofino, Italy Church of St George
iew of Church of St. George (1154), Portofino, Italy

Village Views

Stretch your legs and climb to the top of the hill above Portofino. Here, you'll come to the Church of St. George, where you can take in sweeping views of the vibrant village below. Continue walking an additional 10 minutes, and you'll find yourself at Castello Brown, which overlooks the stunning bay, making it the premier spot to watch the boats come in and out of the harbor.
Portofino, Italy Marine Reserve
Small bay in the natural marine reserve, cala dell'oro, in Portofino, Italy

Dive Right In

The Portofino Marine Reserve stretches across the city and is home to a variety of marine life and is a must-see for divers. Cruise to Portofino and explore shipwrecks, natural walls and drop-offs, and come face to face with the flounder and octopus that call this part of the Mediterranean home.
Portofino, Italy Pesto Alla Genovese
Pesto alla genovese, Ligurian style pesto spaghetti with basil, in an eatery in Portofino, Italy

Local Cuisine

Come hungry to Portofino — home to Ligurian cuisine, the originator of some of Italy's most popular culinary exports. Sample pasta dressed in pesto alla genovese, with basil, pine nuts, cheese and garlic. Try fresh focaccia, eaten here like a pizza straight out of the oven. During your Portofino cruise, sink your teeth into a piece of branzino (European sea bass) baked under a mound of sea salt.
Portofino, Italy Fabrics
Scarves and fabrics for sale in a shop in Portofino, Italy

Shopping

Portofino is a dream destination for shopaholics. Luxury boutiques and upscale shops line the streets and piazzas. If buying Gucci or Salvatore Ferragamo in Italy isn't your thing, there are several lesser-known and less expensive shops in Piazza Martiri dell'Olivetta selling beautiful cashmere, which is commonly found in Portofino.

Day 7: Florence / Pisa, Italy

Day 7
Florence / Pisa
Livorno, Italy
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Florence - Pisa, Italy Duomo
The Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy
Things to do in
Florence / Pisa
From 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
One of Italy's oldest port cities, Livorno is a small but historically rich city. Check out the red-hued Fortezza Nuova, a 16th-century fortress, and the surrounding area known as Nuova Venezia ("New Venice"), and take a mini-sailboat ride through its charming canals. Cruise to Livorno and use the city as your jumping-off point to the beauty of Tuscany: Take the 30-minute drive to Pisa and snap a quintessential picture with the city's famous leaning tower. Or head to Florence — about an hour from Livorno by car or train — where you can see the unmistakable Duomo ("dome") and the Byzantine-style frescoes of Saint John's Baptistery.
Florence - Pisa, Italy Pisa Lungarno
Pisa Lungarno in Pisa, Italy

Respite by the River

Leave the tourist masses behind at the Leaning Tower on the Field of Miracles in Pisa and escape for a pleasant stroll along the banks of the Arno River. Admire the colors and architecture of the palazzi that line the southern riverside embankment, stop for a picnic with some simple focaccia bread, mozzarella and wine, and continue to Pisa's medieval heart north of the water.
Insider tip
Buy entry tickets in advance to save time at museums.
Florence - Pisa, Italy Palazzo Vecchio
Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, Italy

City Panorama

In Florence, hike up the 418-steps of the Torre d'Arnolfo tower, part of the Palazzo Vecchio. The fortress palace was built in the fourteenth century and is still Florence's seat of power. Inside, admire Michelangelo's Genio della Vittoria sculpture as well as several large paintings by other masters such as Giorgio Vasari.
Insider tip
There are ATMs everywhere, but some restaurants and shops accept cash only.
Florence - Pisa, Italy Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
Frontal view of the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella in Florence, Italy

Marble and Monasticism

Visit Florence's Basilica di Santa Maria Novella, with its eye-catching green-and-white marble facade. Inside the basilica, built between the 13th and 15th centuries, you'll find countless artistic masterpieces, such as the frescoes by Domenico Ghirlandaio. Continue through a side door into the vast, serene monastic complex.
Insider tip
The Uffiizi, Galeria dell'Accademia and most other state museums are closed on Mondays.
Florence - Pisa, Italy Vegetable Soup
A bowl of vegetable soup

Local Cuisine

Tuscans share a proud culinary tradition, with seasonal and sustainable quality ingredients sourced locally. Cruise to Livorno to sample a traditional bowl of earthy ribollita (bean, bread and vegetable soup) from a humble family-run eatery. Sample a bistecca alla fiorentina, or Florentine steak, cooked over roasted chestnuts to impart a smoky flavor. Or grab some salami, parmesan cheeses and biscotti for lunch from the Mercato Centrale.
Florence - Pisa, Italy Leather Diaries
Leather diaries for sale in Florence, Italy

Shopping

Ignore the souvenir shops around Pisa's tower and head to the main shopping streets Corso Italia and Borgo Stretto, where you'll find Italian fashion shops. In stylish Florence, homegrown designers include Guccio Gucci and Salvatore Ferragamo. During your Tuscany cruise, look for the workshops in the medieval alleys, with handcrafted jewelry and leather goods from shoes to purses.

Day 8: Rome, Italy

Day 8
Rome
Civitavecchia, Italy
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Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Roman Forum
The Roman Forum in Rome, Italy
Things to do in
Rome
Arrives at 5:00 AM
With 28 centuries of celebrated history, Rome holds the edge when it comes to unrivaled adventures. The city that sparked the world’s largest empire is very much alive today with a jumble of ancient ruins, world-renowned art and vivacious street culture. Here you can live la dolce vita, recalling the glory days of Ancient Rome and twirling forks full of pasta in a trattoria. Ride past centuries-old basilicas in a three-wheeled Ape Calessino, or stand in awe of paintings by Italian masters at Villa Borghese. Whether it’s Vatican City’s spiritual allure, Trastevere’s backstreet charms, or the Colosseum’s embattled legacy— The Eternal City endures with endless adventures.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Pantheon
The Pantheon in Rome, Italy

ANCIENT AND AMAZING

Walk through the heart of Ancient Rome. Start at the Colosseum, an enormous arena where gladiators once battled. Then meander around the Roman Forum’s timeworn ruins, past crumbling temples and basilicas. See where emperors lived on Palatine Hill— and enjoy an up-close view of the 2,000-year-old, well-preserved Pantheon church.
Insider tip
Conservative attire (no tank tops or shorts) is required when visiting Rome’s religious sites.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Piazza Navona
A fountain in Piazza Navona in Italy

ADVENTURE SQUARED

Roam around Rome’s piazzas, as each offers a unique perspective. Dine al fresco in Piazza Navona and climb The Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna. Wander cobbled alleys in bustling Trastevere and browse Campo de’ Fiori’s artisan stalls. Be sure to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain for good measure.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, Statues
Statues in the Vatican Museum

SACRED SPACES

Explore the Vatican Museums’ extraordinary collection of tapestries and classical statues. Step inside the Sistine Chapel and be awed by Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes. Then enter St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s largest churches, to stand under its enormous sky-piercing dome.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, Pizza and pasta
Pizza, pasta, and antipasta on a table in Rome

LOCAL CUISINE

Romans live to eat, whether it’s family-style or in a sidewalk café. For an authentic taste of Cucina Romana, try carciofi alla Romana (braised artichokes) or spaghetti alla carbonara. Enjoy panino (stuffed sandwiches) or thin-crusted Roman pizza. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of gelato. Then finish the night with a glass of white wine from the surrounding Lazio region.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, Colosseum Vatican Models
Minitature models of the Colosseum and Vatican

SHOPPING

Street stalls throughout the city are your best bet for souvenirs. Via Condotti offers a string of couture Italian designers. Browse artist studios along Via Margutta, or the indie artisan retailers of the Monti neighborhood. Porta Portese is the city’s largest flea market— and La Rinascente, the first department store.

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