Overnight in Istanbul, Turkey

There’s a new aura of excitement in Istanbul these days, as this center of the Ottoman empire has become one of the world’s focal points for art, fashion, haute cuisine, and nightlife. Of course, there’s always an abundance of ancient monuments and grand mosques with stunning frescoes to see here, like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Head to any park and you’ll see why tulips have long been the symbol of this city.

Santorini, Greece

Whitewashed villages clinging to the sides of the sea cliffs have made the volcanic island of Santorini one of the most widely photographed places in the world.  The island’s charm and subtle mystery have even made it a target of speculation as the localtion of the lost city of Atlantis. 

Nice/Monaco (Villefranche), France

At the foot of the Alps is the jewel of the French Riviera. Luxuriate on long sandy beaches and terrace cafes. Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais. Savor pissaladis and caillettes on your cruise to Nice/Monaco.

Messina (Sicily), Italy

The third largest city on the island of Sicily, Messina welcomes cruise ship visitors with its lovely harbor, extraordinary architecture ( much of which miraculously survived a horrendous earthquake and tidal wave in 1908), and wonderful food. Stroll through Messina’s Piazza Cairoli taking in magnificent fountains and cathedrals, or sip Marsala wine at a sidewalk cafe.

Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy

How lucky to visit the Tuscan region, Florence & Pisa, resplendent in art and history. What’s even more fortunate is that all the main attractions in Florence are centrally located for the perfect walking tour. See Santa Croce, Piazza del Duomo and Michelangelo’s David.

Naples, Italy

Located on Italy’s stunning Amalfi coast, a city rich in history. A tour around Naples’ grand piazzas, cathedrals, and castles in the old center will take you back centuries. Pompeii is not too far either, a dashing city that boasts diverse cultural offerings and charming streets.