Trace the coast of the Italian Riviera on this luxury cruise with visits to medieval towns, colourful hilltop villages and magnificent islands.
In Santa Margherita, explore its stunning castle, built in 1550, stroll the scenic city square lined with colorful palaces, or venture to nearby Portofino, the playground of the rich and famous. Portovenere's brightly-coloured houses hug the harbour below the spectacular Castello Doria, and a trip up the hill rewards with panoramic views of the Gothic-era San Pietro Church, rugged cliffs, and scenic harbour.
With an overnight in Livorno, you’ll be at the gateway to Florence’s classics and Pisa’s famous leaning tower. In Portoferraio, on Elba, visit Napoleon’s villas and perhaps take a cable car climb to the top of scenic Mount Capanne. In Olbia, or “happy town,” must-sees include the medieval San Simplicio basilica and the Museo Archeologico di Olbia which houses with artefacts from Roman warships and exhibits dating to the 8th century BC.
AZ795 Operated by Azamara
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Italy Intensive Voyage Itinerary
Day 1 - Nice (France)
Embark ship in Nice.
Day 2 - Santa Margherita (Italy)
Admire the awe-inspiring scenery as you stroll through Santa Margherita, with its 16th-century castle and main city square lined with colourful palaces. Perhaps join the optional excursion to the seaside town of Rapallo accompanied by a connoisseur of Ligurian cuisine or enjoy a kayaking trip along the Italian Riviera.
Day 3 - Portovenere
Portovenere's colourful buildings cling to the cliffside in a dramatic setting. Optional excursions include a pesto-making lesson, wine tasting in Cinque Terre and a guided hike on Palmaria Island.
Day 4-5 - Livorno
From Livorno perhaps take the opportunity to visit Florence, renowned for its Renaissance architecture. See Michelangelo's magnificent David, and the Uffizi Gallery. Alternatively, head to Pisa, home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Or join the optional excursion into the Tuscan countryside for a delicious wine and tomato tasting experience. There is an included AzAmazing Evening event in Livorno - an operatic performance by sensational sopranos in the Goldoni Theatre.
Day 6 - Portoferraio (Elba)
Learn all about the history of Elba and how Napoleon was exiled here for ten years. Why not climb to the top of Medici Fortress or ride a cable car to the peak of Mount Capanne. There is the chance to join a cooking class to learn how to produce delicious local cuisine or visit the home of a family who have lived on the island for generations.
Day 7 - Olbia (Sardinia)
Olbia's long history dates back to the 8th century BC. Optional excursions include wine tasting at a celebrated winery followed by a visit to charming Porto Cervo, or a trip around the island on a thrilling 4x4 adventure.
Day 8 - Civitavecchia (Italy)
Disembark ship in Civitavecchia.
For navigational reasons the Captain of the ship reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary.