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Athens, Greece to Rome

Sail from Greek temples and along the scenic Amalfi coastline and explore the uncrowded islands of Corsica and Sardinia during this enchanting 14-day Mediterranean cruise. Learn how Monemvasia's founders hid an entire Medieval city from mainland raiders and sip delicious wines that made this region famous. Delve into the little-known details about living a Spartan existence in Sparta and Byzantine Medieval life in Mystras--a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Gythion. Wander Taormina's cobbled lanes and take in views of Mount Etna and nearby Naxo Bay over generous pours local of Sicilian Nero d'Avola wine. Linger late at an outdoor restaurant over sweet Limoncello and tiramisu indulgences during a Sorrento overnight stay. Overnight in Alghero, Sardinia, is a charming coastal city known for its Catalan heritage, medieval architecture, and stunning beaches along the Mediterranean Sea. Follow weathered Roman forum flagstones and the shadowy corridors of Rome's Colosseum. Venture inland from Bastia to the terraced vineyards of Oletta and Patrimonio for authentic Corsican hospitality, tart sheep cheeses, and hearty regional wines.

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Day 1: Athens, Greece

With 3,000 years of history, you can’t turn around in Athens without encountering the past. The Acropolis, a UNESCO site, the Plaka, and the Acropolis Museum are must-sees. But leave time if you can to climb Pnyx Hill for photos of the Parthenon at sunset, to buy your own set of Greek komboloi (worry beads), and to explore the metro stations that serve as mini-museums for the relics that are constantly being unearthed.

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Day 2: Monemvasia

This Gibraltar-like town tied to the mainland by a single thread of causeway holds treasures that are old even by Mediterranean standards, with town walls and several churches dating to the 12th century. Climb to the upper town for an up-close look at the castle and Agia Sophia, a Byzantine church. Wander the lanes of the lower town lined with Venetian mansions, many of which have been lovingly restored. Savor the sun on a smooth pebble beach.

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Day 3: Gythion

Cheerful pastel houses are littered among intriguing whitewashed lanes and staircases. Playful sculptures welcome you to the harbor’s cheerful shops, coffee houses, and waterfront cafés. This is a perfect place to enjoy a cup of rich coffee or a glass of ouzo while you watch the world go by. Or go exploring on an optional tour of Mystras, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Day 5: Messina (Taormina)

The cobblestone streets of Messina, Sicily, are the perfect launching point for an optional visit to nearby Taormina. Stroll along flower-filled streets in search of a delightful lunch or an artist’s palette of colorful gelati. The ancient Greek Theater is an ideal place to sit back and admire shimmering waters below and Mount Etna, languidly smoking in the distance.

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Day 6: Sorrento

UNESCO World Heritage Sites abound in Sorrento. Optional tours will take you to the archaeological areas of Pompeii and Torre Annunziata, or the 4^th century B.C. city of Herculaneum. Perhaps your choice will be a boat ride to Positano, the legendary home of the Sirens. Perched on a terrace on the spectacular Amalfi Coast, Sorrento offers exceptional views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.

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Day 7: Sorrento

UNESCO World Heritage Sites abound in Sorrento. Optional tours will take you to the archaeological areas of Pompeii and Torre Annunziata, or the 4^th century B.C. city of Herculaneum. Perhaps your choice will be a boat ride to Positano, the legendary home of the Sirens. Perched on a terrace on the spectacular Amalfi Coast, Sorrento offers exceptional views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.

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Day 8: Rome

In this enchanting city the past and present intersect in perfect harmony. Casually intermingled among ancient ruins and majestic cathedrals are the trappings of a modern metropolis: Skyscrapers,cafes, boutiques selling designer footwear. But of course what you seek first in the heart of Rome is its breathtaking history. A good place to begin is the Vatican, with its Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Works by Bernini, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Raphael are just a few of those on display, any one of which is worth hours of contemplation. Then the ancient ruins—Colosseum, Forum, Circus Maximus. And of course the Trevi Fountain for the obligatory coins promising your return to the Eternal City.

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Day 9: Bastia

As the principal port of Corsica, Bastia has vibrant historical neighborhoods with narrow streets and alleys between ancient shuttered buildings of the 18^th century. One of the main squares is the Place du Marche, home of a morning market and the impressive 16^th century Saint-Jean-Baptiste church. On the other side of the harbor sits the substantial citadel, the beautiful gardens of Jardin Romieu and the once very-elegant houses of the Terra Nova district.

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Day 10: Ajaccio, France

Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica, is a picturesque city on the island's west coast. Famously known as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, it boasts a rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore the Napoleon Museum and the 16th-century Ajaccio Cathedral. The city offers stunning Mediterranean views, beautiful beaches, and a charming old town with narrow streets and colorful buildings. Ajaccio's harbor is lively with boats and seafood restaurants.

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Day 11: Bonifacio, France

Bonifacio, located on the southern tip of Corsica, is renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs and medieval citadel. The town's ancient fortifications and narrow, cobbled streets offer a glimpse into its rich history. Bonifacio's picturesque marina is filled with colorful yachts and cafes, providing stunning views of the Mediterranean. Notable sites include the King of Aragon's Staircase, carved into the cliffside, the Old Town, and Sartene, an ancient hillside community dating back to the 16^th century.

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Day 12: Alghero, Italy

Alghero, Sardinia is a small ship exclusive. This charming coastal city in northwestern Sardinia, is often referred to as "Little Barcelona”. It features cobblestone streets, vibrant piazzas, and the imposing Alghero Cathedral. The city's old town, enclosed by ancient walls, is filled with lively markets, seafood restaurants, and boutiques. Alghero's coastline offers stunning beaches and clear, turquoise waters, and the nearby Neptune's Grotto, a spectacular sea cave, is a popular attraction. Alghero is also known for its coral jewelry; you’ll be able to find coral pieces constructed by local artisans in many of the shops.

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Day 13: Alghero, Italy

Alghero, Sardinia is a small ship exclusive. This charming coastal city in northwestern Sardinia, is often referred to as "Little Barcelona”. It features cobblestone streets, vibrant piazzas, and the imposing Alghero Cathedral. The city's old town, enclosed by ancient walls, is filled with lively markets, seafood restaurants, and boutiques. Alghero's coastline offers stunning beaches and clear, turquoise waters, and the nearby Neptune's Grotto, a spectacular sea cave, is a popular attraction. Alghero is also known for its coral jewelry; you’ll be able to find coral pieces constructed by local artisans in many of the shops.

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Day 14: Golfo Aranci, Italy

Golfo Aranci, located on Sardinia's northeastern coast, is a picturesque town known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. The town is surrounded by nature reserves, making it perfect for bird and marine life watching. Golfo Aranci is also a great spot for diving, snorkeling, and other water sports. The promenade is lined with seafood restaurants and cafes, offering delicious local cuisine.

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Day 15: Rome

In this enchanting city the past and present intersect in perfect harmony. Casually intermingled among ancient ruins and majestic cathedrals are the trappings of a modern metropolis: Skyscrapers,cafes, boutiques selling designer footwear. But of course what you seek first in the heart of Rome is its breathtaking history. A good place to begin is the Vatican, with its Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Works by Bernini, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Raphael are just a few of those on display, any one of which is worth hours of contemplation. Then the ancient ruins—Colosseum, Forum, Circus Maximus. And of course the Trevi Fountain for the obligatory coins promising your return to the Eternal City.