Land Program

Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to the hotel. After check-in, you’ll have time to get settled in before joining your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. (D)

Note: if you wish to spend more time in Milan, ask your Personal Vacation Manager about the optional hotel extension – which will add one or two nights to your Milan hotel stay.

Castello Sforzesco

After breakfast at your hotel, set off to learn more about this fascinating city that is part cutting-edge fashion, part historical and part trendy. Our first stop will be at the Castello Sforzesco, the most famous castle in Milan. Built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan, it was once one of the largest citadels in Europe. We will then continue to the famous Duomo. This extravagant Gothic cathedral took over six centuries to complete, as construction started in 1386 and was not completed until 1965. It is the second largest church in Europe, behind St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, but its most impressive feature is arguably the 135 marble spires that crown the white decorative façade. Finally, we will pass by the popular Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls. The Galleria is often nicknamed “Il Salotto di Milano”, due to its numerous shops and importance as a common Milanese meeting and dining place. You will then enjoy some free time to enjoy the city and have lunch on your own.

Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie

This evening, you’re in for a treat! An impressive visit to one of the most important and striking art works of Italian art history will be arranged for our group. We will have the opportunity to view one of the most extraordinary masterpieces of Italian art: the “Last Supper” painted by Leonardo da Vinci in 1495. The fresco, now housed in the refectory of St. Mary of the Graces’ Monastery, has gone through many restorations throughout the years. The Church and Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, the home of Leonardo’s Last Supper, has been listed as part of UNESCO’s Worldwide Heritage since 1980 and is an exceptional work of human creativity and genius. After our visit, we will then sit down to dinner at a local restaurant. (B, D)

Lake Como

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you will be transported by coach from bustling Milan to the peaceful, almost fairy-tale setting of Lake Como, only 1.5 hours away. At the foot of the Alps, this magical place has attracted the wealthy for hundreds of years. Their opulent villas and gardens dot the peaceful shoreline of glacial waters, set against a dramatic mountainous landscape. Our first stop will be at the town of Bellagio, a small jewel located on the promontory that separates the two southern branches of Lake Como. It is one of the most glamorous and romantic destinations in Lombardy and Italy. In fact, the well-known “Pearl of Lake Como” is home to a colorful historic center, beautiful gardens, charming neighborhoods and much more. After the visit, board your private motorboat to see snow peaked mountains and luxury lakeside villas from the water and reach the town of Como. After a brief walking tour, we will sit down to lunch at a local restaurant. After a tranquil visit to the lake region, we will transfer back to Milan for an evening at your leisure. (B, L)

Balsamic Vinegar

This morning we will transfer from Milan to Ravenna. This route takes us through the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region and the towns of Parma, known for its Parmesan cheese and prosciutto de Parma, and Modena, known for its balsamic vinegar. A stop will be made at a local cheese factory, where you’ll learn about how the famous cheeses are made and enjoy a tasting of the world-renowned Parmigiano Reggiano. We will then visit the town of Modena for a walking tour and lunch at a local restaurant before visiting a balsamic vinegar factory for a tasting. After a day of delicious taste-testing, we will then continue to Ravenna. Check in to the hotel and then join the group once more for a delicious farewell dinner. (B, L, D)

Church of San Vitale in Classe

Ravenna is known as the “mosaic city” because of the stunning 5th-6th century mosaics that decorate the walls of its churches and monuments. After breakfast, we will enjoy a walking tour of some of most important and impressive monuments of Ravenna. We’ll see the Church of San Vitale in Classe, decorated by the most important Byzantine mosaics, and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a little temple built by the Empress of The Western Roman Empire. After the morning tour we will transfer to the port, where you will board the Celebrity Constellation for an 11-night cruise to Rome. (B)

Sponza Palace

After breakfast on board, disembark and set off with your local guide on the most exclusive shore excursion in Dubrovnik. First, you will tour the pedestrian-only Dubrovnik Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Center. Along the way, stop and admire the exteriors of the Sponza Palace, notable for its column courtyard with elaborate stone carvings, the Church of Saint Blaise, Onofriou’s Fountain, and more. You’ll also have a chance to visit the Dominican Monastery Museum with its Renaissance masterpieces, the famous Franciscan Monastery built in 1360 with its Romanesque cloister, and the collection of relics in gold and silver located in the Cathedral’s Treasury.

grape brandy

After boarding our private coach, depart the town for a scenic drive to Cilipi Village. Here, you will visit a Family Village Estate, situated in the green and fertile Konavle Valley in an old stone block of houses that is well-blended with its surroundings. The building’s oldest part is several centuries old, and the authentic interior illustrates rural life. The family has lived in their traditional style home for generations, working the land, producing grape brandy, olive oil and wine in the same way that their ancestors did. This is a great opportunity to see how people have lived in this verdant valley for centuries, exploring the garden and viewing the family’s large collection of implements and wine barrels. Your gracious host and chef will present local specialties, mostly home-grown, that will be prepared and cooked just for you! Using the traditional Peka, an iron bell covered with hot coals, he will prepare several of the menu items such as the local Prsut, a smoked ham, bread and the main course. Wine from their own vineyards will be expertly paired with this delicious meal. As you settle into your meal, a pleasant ambience of local music and traditional folklore will commence, making you feel right at home. Return to your ship with a new appreciation for the area and its people. (L)

Enjoy breakfast onboard, then disembark the Celebrity Constellation and transfer to the airport for your return flight home. Optional 2 night Rome hotel extension available, see “special offers” section for details.

Port Highlights

Zadar, Croatia

Zadar, Croatia: Located on the Dalmatian coast of the Adriatic Sea, Zadar is a Roman-era city with a modern and youthful vibe. Stroll along its beautiful tree-lined promenade. Start at The Sea Organ, an art installation consisting of 35 pipes cut into the promenade. Soothing chords become a cacophony when the waves are choppy, creating an unpredictable concert orchestrated by the sea. Classical sights include the Roman forum, of which only a few columns and an altar remain.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia – Exclusive Shore Excursion: Your Enrichment Journey package includes an exclusive shore excursion in Dubrovnik. For a full description, see the “Land Program Details” section above.

Split, Croatia

Split, Croatia: Lined with palm trees, this Adriatic seaside town is also a cultural mecca. Within the walls of the Diocletian Palace, you’ll discover historical buildings, numerous museums, the National Theatre and a collection of old churches. Culture, beauty, natural wonder–your Split cruise has it all. The mixture of old and new is very pronounced here. Everywhere there are signs and evidence left behind from the city’s previous conquerors namely the Romans and Austro-Hungarians and there is no better place to view them than in Split’s Old City.

Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor, Montenegro: The town’s history dates back before the epic age of Homer, but it’s the medieval wonders in Old Kotor that draw acclaim today. Marbled avenues meander with no apparent order, and, even for locals, it’s quite common to get turned around. The good news is, few places are more fun to get lost in than Kotor. Cruises to Montenegro would not be complete without sampling the local cuisine. Fresh seafood is always on the menu and the “domestic fish thick soup” is a tradition not to be missed. Old churches, shops, and bars line the avenues, and don’t be surprised to wander upon a charming piazza right out of the blue.

Sicily (Messina), Italy

Sicily (Messina), Italy: Located in northeastern Sicily on the slopes of the Peloritani Mountains, Messina is an ancient place with a fascinating history. Walk by the ruins of the Santa Maria Alemanna Church, built in 1220 A.D. You’ll also want to see the Duomo, a Romanesque and Norman cathedral that includes a display of artifacts in its treasury.

Naples, Italy

Naples, Italy: Start with a trip into the basement of the San Lorenzo Maggiore church where you’ll find a partially excavated Roman market and a little deeper, just below the Roman ruins, you’ll find remnants from the Greeks to discover. And in the region where pizza was first invented, you know the food is going to be incredible. Whether you’re looking for a thin, wood-fired Margherita pie, spaghetti alle vongole or a zeppole dusted with confectioner’s sugar, Naples and her bountiful edible treasures is sure to please.

Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy

Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy: Located in central Italy and the capital of the Tuscany region, Florence is the birthplace of history’s most important cultural and intellectual awakening–the Renaissance. There’s so much to see and appreciate on your cruise to Florence. Whether standing in awe of Brunelleschi’s red cathedral dome on Piazza del Duomo or contemplating Michelangelo’s sublime hand in any of his masterworks, you will know that you are in the presence of one of the world’s great cities. The breathtaking scenery and all the romance conjured by the city’s streets, bridges, and buildings will not disappoint.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy: Civitavecchia was settled in 108 A.D. by the Emperor Trajan and has since served faithfully as a gateway to Rome, the capital of Italy. Once the center of the Ancient World from which emperors ruled over nearly all of western civilization, Rome is still a cultural mecca. Only a few cities in the world can boast such a well-preserved level of architecture, art, and religious iconography. There’s an enormous wealth of culture and history to discover on a cruise to Rome.

Land Program

Itinerary 2 Map

Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to the hotel. After check-in, you’ll have time to get settled in before joining your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. (D)

Note: if you wish to spend more time in Milan, ask your Personal Vacation Manager about the optional hotel extension – which will add one or two nights to your Milan hotel stay.

Castello Sforzesco

After breakfast at your hotel, set off to learn more about this fascinating city that is part cutting-edge fashion, part historical and part trendy. Our first stop will be at the Castello Sforzesco, the most famous castle in Milan. Built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan, it was once one of the largest citadels in Europe. We will then continue to the famous Duomo. This extravagant Gothic cathedral took over six centuries to complete, as construction started in 1386 and was not completed until 1965. It is the second largest church in Europe, behind St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, but its most impressive feature is arguably the 135 marble spires that crown the white decorative façade. Finally, we will pass by the popular Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls. The Galleria is often nicknamed “Il Salotto di Milano”, due to its numerous shops and importance as a common Milanese meeting and dining place. You will then enjoy some free time to enjoy the city and have lunch on your own.

Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie

This evening, you’re in for a treat! An impressive visit to one of the most important and striking art works of Italian art history will be arranged for our group. We will have the opportunity to view one of the most extraordinary masterpieces of Italian art: the “Last Supper” painted by Leonardo da Vinci in 1495. The fresco, now housed in the refectory of St. Mary of the Graces’ Monastery, has gone through many restorations throughout the years. The Church and Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, the home of Leonardo’s Last Supper, has been listed as part of UNESCO’s Worldwide Heritage since 1980 and is an exceptional work of human creativity and genius. After our visit, we will then sit down to dinner at a local restaurant. (B, D)

Lake Como

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, you will be transported by coach from bustling Milan to the peaceful, almost fairy-tale setting of Lake Como, only 1.5 hours away. At the foot of the Alps, this magical place has attracted the wealthy for hundreds of years. Their opulent villas and gardens dot the peaceful shoreline of glacial waters, set against a dramatic mountainous landscape. Our first stop will be at the town of Bellagio, a small jewel located on the promontory that separates the two southern branches of Lake Como. It is one of the most glamorous and romantic destinations in Lombardy and Italy. In fact, the well-known “Pearl of Lake Como” is home to a colorful historic center, beautiful gardens, charming neighborhoods and much more. After the visit, board your private motorboat to see snow peaked mountains and luxury lakeside villas from the water and reach the town of Como. After a brief walking tour, we will sit down to lunch at a local restaurant. After a tranquil visit to the lake region, we will transfer back to Milan for an evening at your leisure. (B, L)

Balsamic Vinegar

This morning we will transfer from Milan to Ravenna. This route takes us through the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region and the towns of Parma, known for its Parmesan cheese and prosciutto de Parma, and Modena, known for its balsamic vinegar. A stop will be made at a local cheese factory, where you’ll learn about how the famous cheeses are made and enjoy a tasting of the world-renowned Parmigiano Reggiano. We will then visit the town of Modena for a walking tour and lunch at a local restaurant before visiting a balsamic vinegar factory for a tasting. After a day of delicious taste-testing, we will then continue to Ravenna. Check in to the hotel and then join the group once more for a delicious farewell dinner. (B, L, D)

Church of San Vitale in Classe

Ravenna is known as the “mosaic city” because of the stunning 5th-6th century mosaics that decorate the walls of its churches and monuments. After breakfast, we will enjoy a walking tour of some of most important and impressive monuments of Ravenna. We’ll see the Church of San Vitale in Classe, decorated by the most important Byzantine mosaics, and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a little temple built by the Empress of The Western Roman Empire. After the morning tour we will transfer to the port, where you will board the Celebrity Constellation for an 11-night cruise to Rome. (B)

Sponza Palace

After breakfast on board, disembark and set off with your local guide on the most exclusive shore excursion in Dubrovnik. First, you will tour the pedestrian-only Dubrovnik Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Center. Along the way, stop and admire the exteriors of the Sponza Palace, notable for its column courtyard with elaborate stone carvings, the Church of Saint Blaise, Onofriou’s Fountain, and more. You’ll also have a chance to visit the Dominican Monastery Museum with its Renaissance masterpieces, the famous Franciscan Monastery built in 1360 with its Romanesque cloister, and the collection of relics in gold and silver located in the Cathedral’s Treasury.

grape brandy

After boarding our private coach, depart the town for a scenic drive to Cilipi Village. Here, you will visit a Family Village Estate, situated in the green and fertile Konavle Valley in an old stone block of houses that is well-blended with its surroundings. The building’s oldest part is several centuries old, and the authentic interior illustrates rural life. The family has lived in their traditional style home for generations, working the land, producing grape brandy, olive oil and wine in the same way that their ancestors did. This is a great opportunity to see how people have lived in this verdant valley for centuries, exploring the garden and viewing the family’s large collection of implements and wine barrels. Your gracious host and chef will present local specialties, mostly home-grown, that will be prepared and cooked just for you! Using the traditional Peka, an iron bell covered with hot coals, he will prepare several of the menu items such as the local Prsut, a smoked ham, bread and the main course. Wine from their own vineyards will be expertly paired with this delicious meal. As you settle into your meal, a pleasant ambience of local music and traditional folklore will commence, making you feel right at home. Return to your ship with a new appreciation for the area and its people. (L)

Enjoy breakfast onboard, then disembark the Celebrity Constellation and transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

Port Highlights

Zadar, Croatia

Zadar, Croatia: Located on the Dalmatian coast of the Adriatic Sea, Zadar is a Roman-era city with a modern and youthful vibe. Stroll along its beautiful tree-lined promenade. Start at The Sea Organ, an art installation consisting of 35 pipes cut into the promenade. Soothing chords become a cacophony when the waves are choppy, creating an unpredictable concert orchestrated by the sea. Classical sights include the Roman forum, of which only a few columns and an altar remain.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia: Established 1,300 years ago on the far southern tip of the Dalmatian Coast, this city once rivaled Venice in terms of its importance. Take a walking tour to the Dominican Monastery and marvel at the finest collection of Renaissance paintings, including a painting by Titian. Prepare to be riveted when first laying eyes on the old walled city on your cruise to Dubrovnik. This land has had many invaders including the Greeks, Romans, Slavs, Romans, Hungarians, and French, to name a few, and it has resulted in a fiercely independent citizenry with dynamic cultural influences.

Split, Croatia

Split, Croatia: Lined with palm trees, this Adriatic seaside town is also a cultural mecca. Within the walls of the Diocletian Palace, you’ll discover historical buildings, numerous museums, the National Theatre and a collection of old churches. Culture, beauty, natural wonder–your Split cruise has it all. The mixture of old and new is very pronounced here. Everywhere there are signs and evidence left behind from the city’s previous conquerors namely the Romans and Austro-Hungarians and there is no better place to view them than in Split’s Old City.

Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor, Montenegro: The town’s history dates back before the epic age of Homer, but it’s the medieval wonders in Old Kotor that draw acclaim today. Marbled avenues meander with no apparent order, and, even for locals, it’s quite common to get turned around. The good news is, few places are more fun to get lost in than Kotor. Cruises to Montenegro would not be complete without sampling the local cuisine. Fresh seafood is always on the menu and the “domestic fish thick soup” is a tradition not to be missed. Old churches, shops, and bars line the avenues, and don’t be surprised to wander upon a charming piazza right out of the blue.

Sicily (Messina), Italy

Sicily (Messina), Italy: Located in northeastern Sicily on the slopes of the Peloritani Mountains, Messina is an ancient place with a fascinating history. Walk by the ruins of the Santa Maria Alemanna Church, built in 1220 A.D. You’ll also want to see the Duomo, a Romanesque and Norman cathedral that includes a display of artifacts in its treasury.

Naples, Italy

Naples, Italy: Start with a trip into the basement of the San Lorenzo Maggiore church where you’ll find a partially excavated Roman market and a little deeper, just below the Roman ruins, you’ll find remnants from the Greeks to discover. And in the region where pizza was first invented, you know the food is going to be incredible. Whether you’re looking for a thin, wood-fired Margherita pie, spaghetti alle vongole or a zeppole dusted with confectioner’s sugar, Naples and her bountiful edible treasures is sure to please.

Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy

Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy: Located in central Italy and the capital of the Tuscany region, Florence is the birthplace of history’s most important cultural and intellectual awakening–the Renaissance. There’s so much to see and appreciate on your cruise to Florence. Whether standing in awe of Brunelleschi’s red cathedral dome on Piazza del Duomo or contemplating Michelangelo’s sublime hand in any of his masterworks, you will know that you are in the presence of one of the world’s great cities. The breathtaking scenery and all the romance conjured by the city’s streets, bridges, and buildings will not disappoint.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy: Civitavecchia was settled in 108 A.D. by the Emperor Trajan and has since served faithfully as a gateway to Rome, the capital of Italy. Once the center of the Ancient World from which emperors ruled over nearly all of western civilization, Rome is still a cultural mecca. Only a few cities in the world can boast such a well-preserved level of architecture, art, and religious iconography. There’s an enormous wealth of culture and history to discover on a cruise to Rome.

Cartagena, Spain

Cartagena, Spain: Bring you to a beautiful old port city in the southeastern region of Murcia, on the Mediterranean coast. Although Cartagena is relatively small, it’s packed with fascinating historical buildings that reflect the city’s multi-layered past. In the space of a day, you could see a Roman amphitheater, a Phoenician sailing boat, and a Moorish palace, and still have time for tapas in a waterfront restaurant.

Malaga, Spain

Malaga, Spain: In Southern Spain along the Costa del Sol, Malaga is quietly and steadfastly making a name for itself as an unforgettable place to enjoy life, get up close and personal with art and historic sights, and see breathtaking scenery along the way. Plus, Spanish tapas and a strong coffee culture contribute to a rapidly booming foodie scene for both hole-in-the-wall joints and upscale, special occasion dining. Malaga strikes just the right balance of artistic and coastal, making it a relaxed and luxurious vacation destination for all ages and interests.

Ponta Delgada, Azores

Ponta Delgada, Azores: Your ship will pull into port right by the city and you’re a short walk away from the whitewashed buildings, arches, and waterfront promenade that make this city so visually appealing to visitors. Beyond the city center of Ponta Delgada is much to explore. A Ponta Delgada cruise port of call is the gateway to the lush nature of São Miguel, which is the largest island in the Portuguese Azores archipelago. São Miguel has cloud forests, volcanoes, crater lakes, botanical gardens, and pretty beaches next to dramatic cliffs.

Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda

Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda: The perfect opportunity to discover this beautiful island destination in depth. Fringed by pale pink beaches and clear, turquoise seas, Bermuda has many faces. Fascinating naval history, golf on velvet-green gold courses, pretty villages where stone houses are festooned in tropical blooms, hiking trails, art galleries, and coral reefs are just a few, and they’re all within easy reach of the historic dockyard where your ship will be moored.

Nassau, Bahamas

Nassau, Bahamas: Let Nassau introduce you to a relaxed life in the Bahamas, where this capital city bursts with bright colors, incredible opportunities for swimming and diving, and culinary experiences that include some of the world’s top seafood and rum. Sunny, tropical fun awaits you, whether you’re taking it easy onshore or shopping the day away at Nassau’s famous Straw Market.