Civitavecchia to Athens

All roads lead to Rome, and with good reason - this city is one of the world’s most thrilling, offering unmatched history along every street. An evocative, inspiring and utterly artistic capital of unrivalled cultural impact, Rome is a city of back-to-back landmarks, which will take you on an exhilarating journey through the ages. This may be one of the world’s oldest cities, but it’s well and truly lived in. The ruins are punctuated with murmuring cafes, and the outdoor seating of restaurants sprawls out across piazzas, enticing you to sample tangles of creamy pasta and crispy pizzas. Rome’s incredible Roman Forum is littered with the ruins of its ancient administrations, which have stood firm for 2,000 years, since the times when the area was the centre of the Western world. Few sites are more simultaneously beautiful and haunting than that of the storied Colosseum, which looms deep into Rome’s rich blue sky. Take a tour to learn details of the grisly goings-on within. The best way to experience Rome is to wander its streets, gelato in hand. There is a lot to see here - whether it’s the domed spectacle of the Pantheon, or the elaborate flowing waters and artistry of the Trevi Fountain. Vatican City is an astonishing, colossal display of Catholic grandeur, while the Spanish Steps – crowned by the Trinità dei Monti church – offer a beautiful spot to gather and soak up the lively atmosphere of this humming city. With so much on the to-do list, you’ll relish the breaks you take, enjoying simple pleasures like a strong espresso, or fresh pasta with tomato sauce and ripped basil.

The legend of the Siren Parthenope Naples' foundation is not only shrouded in one but two legends, all having one 'person' in common: the siren Parthenope. She and her sisters, Leucosia and Ligaea, are the three resident sirens of the Galli Islands, with their "shores all bleached with human bones and debris", who lured sailors with their enchanting voices and music, only for them to run aground and perish. Parthenope was precisely this magical, murderous voice, while Leucosia and Ligaeus played the flute and citara. The first legend is linked to Ulysses, the first man not to succumb to the siren's call, thanks to Circe's advice. Curious but not mad, he ordered his sailors to plug their ears with wax and tie him firmly to the mast. In this way, he was able to enjoy the pleasure of hearing the music and songs without paying a high price. There are different stories here, some claiming that Parthenope fell in love with Ulysses, others not. In any case, the three sisters, in despair and humiliation, threw themselves into the sea and died. If you are surprised to read that, keep in mind that we're talking about sirens from Antiquity, young women transformed into half-woman half-bird monsters, punished by the goddess Demeter for not having stopped Hades, the god of the Underworld, from kidnapping their mistress Persephone (and daughter of Demeter). Mermaids with fish tails only appeared in the Middle Ages. So, Parthenope and her sisters perished. Their bodies were carried by the sea to Terina for Ligaea and Licosa for Leucosia. Parthenope's body was carried by the waves to the island of Megaride, Naples, where the Castel dell'Ovo stands today. She gave her name to the town and the inhabitants worshipped her, making her the town's patron saint. Another legend exists, from the 19th century. A centaur - Vesuvius - fell madly in love with our siren Parthenope, provoking the jealousy of Zeus. In revenge, he turned the centaur into a volcano. In despair, Parthenope committed suicide and her body washed up in Naples, allowing her to be close to her lover in death. Today there are three fountains dedicated to her: the Fontana delle Zizze (Neapolitan for 'nipples') beside Corso Umberto I with its winged mermaid, a second on the Piazza Jacopo Sannazzaro in Piedigrotta and a third, modern, near the shops at the Central Station. Naples is still referred to as the "Parthenopean city".

Hugging a long, sweeping bay, Giardini Naxos welcomes you ashore to some of Sicily’s most scenic and historic sites. Naxos was the first Greek settlement on Sicily, and it is surrounded by remarkable remains and swirling mythology. With a long arc of sun-soaked golden sand, you can kick back by the waves - and cool off with a dip into the sea's refreshing embrace. Up above the seaside revelry, the spectacular Taormina hillside town perches - containing rich Roman and Greek history. Visit to encounter one of Sicily’s best views, as you look down over the rejuvenating blue of the sea, and the looming backdrop of Mount Etna rising in the distance. The majestic, honey-coloured Greek theatre is a highlight, standing before the distant loom of the volcano. Head towards the puffs of cloud, and wisps of smoke, that gather around the peak of Sicily’s mighty volcano, which is among the most active in Europe. Arrive through vineyards, thriving in this fertile soil, before taking the 1,737-metre incline to the summit of the legendary mountain of fire, across fields of solidified lava flows. Known to the Greeks as the home of the God of Fire, and the one-eyed Cyclops, the mountain continues to amaze and awe with its restless power. Vineyards carpet the scenery - interrupted by occasional cactai and citrus groves – and produce some of Sicily’s most refined flavours. Enjoy a glass of wine on Giardini Naxos’ seafront, and toast your time on these rich Sicilian shores

Perched high on the imposing Sciberras Peninsula, Valletta immediately presents its massive, protective walls and vertical bastions to visitors arriving by sea. Rising to 47 metres in places, the fortifications protect lavish palaces, grand domes and illustrious gardens. Built by the Knights of St John on the narrow peninsular, Valletta is a compact, richly historical treasure trove of Baroque wonders. Ascend to reach the restful, flower-filled Upper Barrakka Gardens, where cannons fire and boom in salute at noon each day, sending echoing cracks of noise out across the waves below. Recognised as 2018’s European Capital of Culture, Valletta is a fascinating and dense haven of history and intrigue. A busy, bustling capital, the breathtaking St John’s Cathedral - commissioned in 1572 - is almost concealed among its narrow streets. The relatively modest exterior is counterpointed by a staggeringly opulent, gold-leaf bathed interior, containing a Caravaggio masterpiece - the shadowy vision of the Beheading of St John. Cinematic and magnificent, Valletta has served as a filming location for Game of Thrones - but real epic history abounds on this rocky isle too. From the prehistoric and megalithic sites of the Hypogeum of Paola and Tarxien, to the fascinating War Museum at Fort St Elmo. Mdina also waits nearby, and the former medieval capital is a striking contrast to the island’s main city. Cars are barred from its streets, and it offers endlessly atmospheric old-time wanders. With a strategic positioning in the Mediterranean, Malta is a jewel that many have wrestled for over the centuries. Independence from Britain was finally achieved in 1964, but the close allegiance remains evident, with English recognised as an official language, cars driving on the left, and red post boxes and telephone gleaming in Malta’s sunshine.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Enter Souda Bay to land on Greece’s largest island and explore the sun-soaked charms of this fascinating land of legends landscapes and luxuries. Packed with beautiful beaches and rich maritime history Souda Bay’s huge natural harbour is a spectacular entrance opening up the treasures of Crete’s many well-stocked museums rich archaeological sites and charming Venetian fishing towns. The massive natural harbour of Souda Bay also makes the site an interesting spot for military history - with a huge NATO base here as well as the Souda Bay War Cemetery which honours Allied soldiers of World War II. Soak up some Mediterranean sunshine by heading straight to one of the luxurious white sand beaches - where you can recline to a soundtrack of fizzing waves and dine with sparkling sea views stretching out before you. Explore olive groves producing golden oil and savour the deep fruity flavours. The island's renowned wineries also invite you to sample lovingly-crafted Vilana grape wines. Rethymnon’s old town and star-shaped seafront fortress are impressive sites to explore or you can head to Akrotiri to discover the Arkadi Monastery's role in the Cretan resistance - and visit the site where the Greek flag was hoisted high into the sky by rebels in 1897. Crete retains its independent spirit but has gathered countless influences over its history. The island’s most beautiful Venetian port - Chania - is close by and its picturesque old town and collage of historical influences are a highlight of any trip.

Greece’s first capital remains the escape of choice for Athenians, who weekend here to indulge in the town's gorgeous seaside setting. One of the country's most romantic towns, the warm colour palette and tempting, island-sprinkled waters, pull on plenty of heartstrings. With perfect beaches, crystal clear waters for swimming, and evocative fortress-capped mountains, Nafplion is a sun-soaked Greek beauty. A gorgeous blend of Greek, Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman influences, stroll the seafront promenade and soak up the ambience in tavernas and bars. Head into the warren of an old town, which is full of narrow streets, neoclassical architecture and pink-flowered trees drooping over walls. Located on the hill that towers over Nafplion, Palamidi Fortress is a Venetian castle built in 1714, and its steep walls flow dramatically down the slope. If you're feeling brave, a slog of 857 steps will take you to the top to see beautiful views across Nafplion and the Argolic Gulf. Acronafplia fortress is Nafplion's oldest castle, and its walls enclosed the entire town until the 13th century. Just offshore, the Venetian Bourtzi fortress rises on a tiny islet, a short boat ride away across the glistening waters. Venetians built this harbour fortress to protect the town before it later housed the official executioner. Today its hardy walls shake to music, during its summer festival, and the castle enjoys a gorgeous view back over the waves to the town's humming waterfront. Ancient cities like Corinth lie close by, recovered and unearthed after being wiped from history by immense earthquakes.

Beautiful sea crisp white beaches and charming medieval villages add character and colour to this gorgeous Greek Island. Part of the Cyclades group of islands visit the capital Ermoupoli to discover a network of picturesque narrow streets and winding alleyways - dotted with fancy old Venetian mansions and elegant domed churches. The colourful town cascades down to an open waterfront of pine-trees and beautiful views. Head to the sparkling marbled central square overlooked by the Town Hall and surrounded by a celebrated collection of neoclassical buildings facing up across narrow streets. A town of peeking bell towers and cobalt-blue domed churches - stop by the Church of the Assumption which treasures an original El Greco wonder inside. Further up you'll find the small monastery-sprinkled medieval village of Ano Syros. Settled on a hill it offers a glorious view down over the port and white dwellings of Ermoupoli below. You can visit Capuchin Monastery which was built in the 16th century to help the underprivileged. Encounter the Vamvakaris Museum dedicated to Markos Vamvakaris a famous rebetiko musician born here in 1905. Of course Syros is also surrounded by plenty of blissful beaches if you'd rather hit the sands. Finikas beach is nearby and a long luxurious stretch complete with sunbeds and umbrellas. Perfect for catching some sun and shade and watching the blue seawater twinkling.

Bodrum, Turkey Spread out between two crescent bays, Bodrum exudes an "artsy" ambiance. With its gleaming white houses and colorful flower gardens it is one of the prettiest resorts on the South Aegean coast. Recently, it has become very popular with the jet set crowd, while at the same time maintaining an intimate air; there are strict zoning laws preventing over development. Bodrum's main draws are pristine beaches, a busy yachting center and historic sites - a great combination to attract those sailing the Aegean Sea. Bodrum was known in antiquity as the site of Halicarnassus, a city whose origin dates back as far as 1000 BC. It was known for its splendid mausoleum, an enormous white marble tomb that King Mausolus had planned for himself. It was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Although the structure was obliterated by the ravages of time, archaeologists have arranged models and drawings at the site to provide an idea of what the mausoleum looked like. Bodrum was also the birthplace of Herodotus, who wrote the first comprehensive world history. Today's major cultural attraction is the massive Castle of St. Peter. In particular, the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, housed in the castle complex, should not be missed. Please Note: For your convenience, shore excursions offered for this port of call are available to reserve in advance at www.silversea.com until (DATE), as well as offered for purchase on board, unless otherwise noted in the description. Going Ashore in Bodrum Pier Information The ship is scheduled to anchor off Bodrum. Guests will be taken ashore via the ship's tenders. The pier is within a short walking distance to the Castle of St. Peter and the town. Taxis can be found at the end of the pier for trips farther afield. Shopping Bodrum is easy to get around on foot. From the center square, small streets fan out, lined with shops selling arts and crafts, leather articles, jewelry and carpets. Artists display their works along the harbor front. There is also a market offering a variety of clothing and goods in addition to local produce. Most shops are open throughout the day and until late in the evening. The local currency is the lira. Cuisine Bodrum has no lack of places to eat, but in general is not famous for its food. Your best bet is to sit in one of the sidewalk cafés and have a light meal, drinks or coffee while people-watching. Typical local appetizers consist of a selection of mezes; the main course may include grilled meat or fish. Turkish wines will round out your meal nicely. Other Sights The Theater Cut into the rock of the hillside behind the town, the theater's location provides a splendid view of the town and the castle. Mausoleum of Halicarnassus Once among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, all that is left today are a jumble of masonry and tumbled columns. The site includes an exhibition gallery, which features bits of sculpted marble, models of Halicarnassus and the Mausoleum in addition to various diagrams and plans. Its location is a short way inland from the shore of the western bay. Private arrangements for independent sightseeing and trips farther afield may be requested through the Tour Office on board.

The seahorse-shaped Patmos is a Greek island of stunning seascapes and immense cultural significance.Whether you’re religious or not there is something of the divine in this gorgeous island - a place of sanctuary fringed by crystal-clear waters and blissful beaches. Sleepy whitewash towns gleam in the strong sunshine while cats slink between the crumbling walls of this ruggedly beautiful island. High on the hillside above the cobalt-blue bay you’ll find the sacred chapel where an exiled John of Patmos is said to have entered the Cave of the Apocalypse and prophesied of the end of the world’s fire and brimstone – a striking juxtaposition with the peaceful serenity of the calm location. Higher up you’ll find the 11th-century Monastery of St. John which offers spectacular views of the island’s mounds curving around like a scorpion’s tail. It stands watching over the island like a fortified crown. Sun-wrinkled black-robed monks climb the streets up to this World Heritage site where bells peel out melodically. Inside vaulted chambers and stunning frescoes tell stories amid the striking religious iconography. Chora’s incredible narrow streets - moulded white - are an enchanting place to lose your bearings spreading below the monastery. Elsewhere blissful beaches stretch out across the coastline or this remote Greek island’s curves can be admired while bobbing offshore in a sailboat.

Indulge in idyllic island life, as you take your fill of superb foods and wines, and soak in endless views of sweeping turquoise seascapes and pretty whitewash buildings. Known for its lively nightlife and rejuvenating, care-free outlook, Mykonos is a dazzlingly beautiful island escape. The secret is well and truly out, but nonetheless, Mykonos has managed to retain the enduring, exclusive allure that first drew celebrities like Brigitte Bardot to its star-studded shores. True to its roots, Mykonos is a rich land of culture, tradition and swirling legend, and the island is said to be built on the frozen bodies of giants slain by Hercules and to have been the legendary battleground between Zeus and the Titans. Head out onto the crystalline waters to seek out serene islands, hit perfect beaches, or venture into the labyrinth of Mykonos Town. White facades, red roofs and cobalt blue shutters add to this lively town’s appeal. Explore narrow streets housing studios – where artisans piece together mosaics - and plenty of restaurants and bars offer sanctuary. Head to Little Venice for a waterfront view of one of the island’s famed sunsets, and to enjoy an aperitif of the favourite aniseed liqueur, ouzo. Boasting numerous attractive sandy coves, a wealth of top-notch restaurants, and rich cultural appeal, it’s little wonder that Mykonos is one of the most popular Greek Islands. Discover this jaw-droppingly scenic island paradise, watched over by its iconic huddles of picturesque windmills.

A city of legend, civilisation and enduring culture, Athens is a majestic and magical urban sprawl. Extraordinary elegance and grace combine with grit and graft in Greece's capital, where highways encase ruins from antiquity, and gleaming museums and galleries stand beside concrete sprayed with edgy street art. These contrasts enhance and elevate the wonders of this 2,500-year-old city, however, which can count notable contributions to philosophy, drama and democracy, among its global legacy. Piraeus' giant port and naval base welcome you to the edge of the Athens' urban area. From there it's a simple jaunt to the centre. The majestic ancient citadel of the Acropolis dominates an elevated platform and is a constant presence as you explore the city. The wonderful remains of the columned temple of the Parthenon - which date back to the 5th century BC - stand here, representing the pinnacle of classical architecture. The nearby Acropolis Museum adds context to your visit and frames the broad views from its giant glass windows. Or rise up Mount Lycabettus, to be rewarded with perhaps Athens' best panorama of the Acropolis sitting high over the city on its grand stage. See the marble horseshoe of the Old Olympic Stadium, where the first modern Olympics were held in 1896, for more of the city's enduring legacy. Elsewhere, golden beaches and temples stretch out along the coastline, should you wish to explore a little further afield. Coffee is an art form to the Greeks, and it's an unwritten rule that coffee time must never be rushed. So prepare to settle down for a couple of hours and lose yourself in a good chat. Feeling hungry - try traditional souvlaki made with sauces handed from generation to generation.