Deluxe Kabine Deck 3
19 m²
2
Auf dieser Kreuzfahrt ist die Bordsprache ausschließlich Englisch.
In Zusammenarbeit mit Smithsonian Journeys.
Diese Kreuzfahrt gehört zu einer besonderen Auswahl von PONANT Reisen, die speziell für englischsprachige Gäste konzipiert wurden. Neben den gewohnten Elementen einer PONANT Reise, umfassen die aufgeführten Preise für diese Kreuzfahrten Transfers zum und vom Schiff, Vorträge und Diskussionen an Bord mit Weltklasse-Experten, und einen Landausflug oder eine Aktivität in jedem Hafen, bei denen die Gäste die Sehenswürdigkeiten und vieles mehr entdecken und in die unbekannte Kultur eintauchen können.
Diese 8-tägige Reise in Sizilien und Süditalien an Bord der Le Bougainville führt zu den eindrucksvollsten Stätten des Mittelmeers aus der Antike, dem Mittelalter und der Renaissance und bietet gleichzeitig ausgiebige Möglichkeiten, die Speisen und Weine zu probieren, die diesen Teil der Welt für seine Küche berühmt gemacht haben. Da es so viel zu sehen und zu tun gibt, ist die Route so ausgelegt, dass Sie möglichst viel Zeit an Land verbringen können.
Reisebeginn ist in Valletta, Malta. Die erste Station auf Sizilien ist Syrakus, wo Sie Ortygia, das antike Zentrum dieser einst mächtigen griechischen Kolonie, und den umfangreichen archäologischen Park der Stadt besuchen können. Machen Sie eine Weinprobe in einer nahe gelegenen Weinkellerei oder nehmen Sie an Ausflügen teil, die die Erkundung historischer Stätten mit der Verkostung sizilianischer Arancini, Käsesorten, Salami, Brot und Desserts verbinden.
Der wunderschöne Ferienort Taormina thront hoch auf einer Klippe über dem Ionischen Meer und beherbergt ein beeindruckendes griechisches Theater, ein römisches Odeon, Gebäude, in denen sich die arabische und die normannische Kultur vermischen, sowie Villen, die von europäischen Adligen im 18. und 19. Jahrhundert erbaut wurden. Es ist auch Ihr Tor zum Ätna und den Weinbergen, die auf den reichen vulkanischen Böden seiner Hänge gedeihen.
Reggio di Calabria auf der anderen Seite der Meerenge von Messina beherbergt das Archäologische Nationalmuseum von Magna Graecia und die weltberühmten Bronzestatuen von Riace. In der Umgebung, sowohl an der Küste als auch in den Bergen im Landesinneren, gibt es eine Reihe von faszinierenden Schlössern und viele Weingüter. Während Ihrer Zeit hier können Sie die Normannenburg in Vibo Valentia oder die Aragonesische Burg im Dorf Pizzo besuchen. Bei jedem Ausflug können Sie eine Vielzahl lokaler Spezialitäten genießen, darunter die einheimischen Zitrusfrüchte Bergamotte und die Eis- und Fruchtspezialität Tartufo.
Vom Hafen von Agropoli etwa 30 Meilen südlich der Amalfi-Halbinsel aus können Sie nach Paestum fahren, das im 6. Jahrhundert v. Chr. von den Griechen gegründet wurde. Die dorischen Tempel dieser bedeutenden archäologischen Stätten Italiens zählen zu den am besten erhaltenen antiken Bauwerken im Mittelmeerraum. Die Region um Agropoli ist berühmt für die Herstellung von Mozzarella di Bufala Campana. Sie haben die Gelegenheit, bei der Herstellung zuzusehen und das Endprodukt zu kosten.
Zu einem Besuch in Neapel gehört die Erkundung von Pompeji, wo die Zeit nach der Zerstörung durch den Ausbruch des Vesuvs im Jahr 79 n. Chr. stehen blieb. Keine andere Stätte fängt das Alltagsleben im frühen Römischen Reich so eindringlich ein. Weitere Ausflugsziele sind Herculaneum, das das Schicksal von Pompeji teilte, und ein landwirtschaftlicher Betrieb in der Nähe von Sorrent, wo Sie Ihre eigene Version der vielleicht berühmtesten Speise der Region, neapolitanische Pizza, herstellen können.
Den letzten Tag verbringen Sie in der Ewigen Stadt Rom, wo Sehenswürdigkeiten wie das Kolosseum, der Trevi-Brunnen, die Spanische Treppe, der Vatikan und die Villa Borghese mit Kostproben von Street Food und authentischer hausgemachter Pasta um Ihre Aufmerksamkeit konkurrieren.
Die Reise endet in Livorno, dem Tor zur Toskana.
Ref : VL0545US - EG080924
Eine speziell auf englischsprachige Reisende zugeschnittene Reise. Gespräche mit Experten, Transfers vor und nach der Kreuzfahrt und ein Landausflug in jedem Anlaufhafen sind inbegriffen Spannende...
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Für mehr Sicherheit wählt PONANT Flüge aus und kümmert sich um Ihre Transfers für Ihre Reise sowie um Landbesuche vor und nach dem Ausschiffen.
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*Preis pro Person auf Basis einer Doppelkabine. Dieser Preis gilt vorbehaltlich Verfügbarkeit und basiert auf der Auslastung des jeweiligen Schiffes. Die Kabinenkategorie, für die dieser Preis gilt, ist möglichweise nicht mehr verfügbar
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Denny Imbroisi
As is often the case in Italy, cooking was a family affair for Denny Imbroisi. For Denny, it began at the age of 14 in the kitchen of his father, who introduced him to traditional recipes in Mantua. His first preparation was candied tomatoes made of beautiful fruit ripened in the sun, olive oil from Italian terroirs, simple motions, and an ancestral recipe.
Denny then continued his journey in the first Italian restaurant to obtain two Michelin stars, San Domenico in Imola, where he learned the art of creating fresh pasta with rigor and precision. He then discovered modern cuisine at Corrado Fasolato in Venice before leaving Italy for France.
Denny perfected his skills for two years in the southern French town of Menton with chef Mauro Colagreco (now a three-Michelin-star chef and winner of the first World’s Best Restaurant award), while accompanying Chef Colagreco on his travels and discovering different herbs and flowers that they picked together every morning in the restaurant’s garden. Denny then met William Ledeuil (a one-Michelin-star chef in Paris) and worked in his restaurant Ze Kitchen Galerie for two years. There he discovered new textures, combinations of flavors, and cooking methods. This rich learning experience allowed Denny to join the French edition of Top Chef, a culinary marathon where his inventiveness and technique made him a formidable competitor.
At the end of the competition, Denny was 24 years old and joined the famous Jules Verne restaurant at the Eiffel Tower as a sous chef under the famed French Chef Alain Ducasse. In addition to learning the classic fundamentals of French gastronomy, Denny also joined a large team of 30 people and gained business acumen, including in cost management.
As a culmination to his previous restaurant experience, Denny embarked on a new adventure in 2015 by opening of his signature restaurant, IDA, located in the 15th arrondissement of Paris, where he offers gourmet cuisine based on the seasonality of products and a perfect combination of Italian flavors and French techniques. Eager to share Italian cuisine and promote traditional recipes from different regions, Denny then opened his second restaurant, EPOCA, in October 2017, and his third, MALRO, in 2019.
In his restaurants, Denny offers authentic, generous cuisine with unique and comforting flavors in spaces that promote community and true joie de vivre.
Language spoken: French, Italian
Photo credit: Alban Couturier
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
For men:
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
For men:
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
HEALTH CARE:
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT Aktivitäten
Smithsonian Journeys
Smithsonian Journeys ist das Reiseprogramm der Smithsonian Institution, eine bedeutende US-amerikanische Forschungs- und Bildungseinrichtung, das aus 21 Museen, dem National Zoological Park, Bildungszentren, Forschungseinrichtungen, Kulturzentren und Bibliotheken besteht. Die Kreuzfahrten in gemeinsamer Kooperation stützen sich auf die Ressourcen von Smithsonian, die auf eine 175-jährige Geschichte zurückblicken, und bieten bemerkenswerte Experten und Erfahrungen. Diese Reisen beziehen insbesonders die lokalen Kulturen mit ein und tauchen tiefer in die Geschichte, Küche, Sprache, Umwelt und Tierwelt eines Reiseziels ein. Seit mehr als 50 Jahren ist Smithsonian Journeys in der Kultur verwurzelt und konzentriert sich auf das Eintauchen und Entdecken von Kulturen - mit dem Ziel, Gäste zu inspirieren und zu einem tieferen Verständnis der Orte beizutragen.
Vorbehaltlich des Widerrufs im Falle von höherer Gewalt
Einschiffung 08.09.2024 von 16:00 bis 17:00
Abfahrt 08.09.2024 um 18:00
Die vollständig zum UNESCO-Weltkulturerbe erklärte Hauptstadt Valletta erstreckt sich über eine Halbinsel im Nordwesten von Malta. Vom Tritonbrunnen bis zum Fort St. Elmo biete die Stadt ebenso vielen majestätischen Straßen wie treppenförmig angelegten Gassen. Die farbigen Loggien und die verzierten Erker der hohen Wohngebäude begleiten Sie bei Ihrer Entdeckungstour, die selten von Autos gestört wird. Besichtigen Sie den mit Wappen und Fresken geschmückten Großmeisterpalast. Die St.-Johannes-Kathedrale sowie die seit dem 16. Jh. die Stadt schützenden Wehrmauern gehören auch zu den bedeutendsten Bauwerken der Stadt. Die in Terrassen angelegten Gärten von Barraca verleihen Ihrem Rundgang eine grüne und blühende Note.
Ankunft 09.09.2024 am frühen Vormittag
Abfahrt 09.09.2024 am späten Nachmittag
Mit den zerklüfteten Felsküsten, den endlosen Stränden, dem Ätna, der bedrohlich wie ein Patriarch über seiner Insel thront, und den blühenden Gärten auf den Hügeln präsentiert Sizilien seine Landschaften wie ein Ladenbesitzer, der seine Schätze feilbietet. Cicero beschrieb sie als die „schönste Stadt der Welt“, einst war Syrakus eine der bedeutendsten Städte Siziliens, die es in ihrer Glanzzeit sogar mit Athen aufnehmen konnte. In der zentralen Stadt des antiken Griechenlands lebten zahlreiche Zivilisationen, von denen jede ihre Spuren hinterließ. Dank der Einflüsse der arabischen, römischen, normannischen, byzantinischen und spanischen Kulturen zeichnet sich Syrakus heute durch eine außergewöhnliche Palette an Düften, Farben und Aromen aus.
Ankunft 10.09.2024
Abfahrt 10.09.2024 am frühen Abend
Der an der Ostküste Siziliens in der Provinz Messina gelegene Badeort Taormina gilt als Saint-Tropez der Insel: Kulturerbe, lauschige Strände und Luxus-Shopping haben sich hier vereint. Sie können das 300 Meter über dem Wasser befindliche mittelalterliche Zentrum besichtigen, dessen Terrassen einen freien Blick auf das Mittelmeer eröffnen. Ein weiteres Zeugnis der Vergangenheit der Stadt sind die Ruinen des griechisch-römischen Theaters. Diese äußerst gut erhaltene Stätte zieht Besuchern an, die von der natürlichen Schönheit des Ortes oberhalb einer türkisfarbenen Bucht fasziniert sind.
Ankunft 11.09.2024
Abfahrt 11.09.2024 am späten Nachmittag
An der Südspitze des italienischen Stiefels hütet Reggio di Calabria das östliche Ufer der Straße von Messina. Von der Uferpromenade Lungomare aus bieten sich wunderschöne Ausblicke auf das nur etwas über 3 km entfernte Sizilien und den Ätna. Die Stadt wurde nach dem Erdbeben von 1908 schachbrettartig wieder aufgebaut und besticht mit ihrer Jugendstil- und Belle Époque-Architektur. Der Duft von Bergamotte verrät, dass diese Königin der Zitrusfrüchte hier in Konditorwaren und Parfumerie verarbeitet wird. Unerlässlich ist ein Besuch des Archäologie-Museums, eines des bedeutendsten von Italien. Es zeigt die berühmten Bronzestatuen von Riace, wunderschöne griechische Heldenstatuen aus dem 5. Jahrhundert v. Chr., die 1972 unweit der Stadt auf dem Meeresgrund gefunden wurden.
Ankunft 12.09.2024 am frühen Vormittag
Abfahrt 12.09.2024 am frühen Abend
Die italienische Gemeinde Agropoli in der Provinz Salerno in Kampanien liegt an der Küste von Cilento, am Tyrrhenischen Meer. Die wunderschöne Küste, die unberührte Natur und eine faszinierende Geschichte, die bis in die Antike zurückreicht, werden Sie verzaubern. Der Apennin (vom keltischen Wort „Pen“, felsiger Gipfel) das Rückgrat der italienischen Halbinsel, bildet den majestätischen Hintergrund der Landschaft mit vielen kleinen Buchten. Die herrlichen Strände der Bucht von Trentova tragen zum Ruf der kleinen Stadt als geschätzter Badeort bei.
Ankunft 13.09.2024
Abfahrt 13.09.2024 am späten Nachmittag
Neapel, Hauptstadt des schönen Kampaniens, stellt eine ungewöhnliche Stadt dar, italienischer als Italien. Deren vom Vesuv überragter Golf zählt zu den größten Wunderwerken der Welt. Von den Griechen erbaut, dann von den Römern besetzt, bewahrt die Stadt noch heute das Gedächtnis dieser antiken Zeiten, von denen das Castel dell’Ovo untrennbar bleibt. Aber Neapel hat eine noch vibrierendere und authentischere Seite: enge Gassen, an den Fenstern aufgehängte Wäsche, Gemälde von Caravaggio an den Wänden einer Kirche, ständiger dumpfer Lärm einer nie schlafenden Stadt. Ein überwältigender Ort, den man besichtigen und genießen muss ... Nehmen Sie doch ein Stück Pizza Margherita.
Ankunft 14.09.2024 am frühen Vormittag
Abfahrt 14.09.2024 am späten Nachmittag
Die zwischen dem Tyrrhenischen Meer und den Tolfabergen auf einer etruskischen Stätte erbaute Stadt Civitavecchia strahlt Dolce Vita aus. Als moderne Stadt mit hoher Lebensqualität verbindet sie Kunst und Geschichte. So können Sie prachtvolle historische Stätten wie das Fort Michelangelo oder die Kathedrale des Heiligen Franziskus von Assisi besichtigen. Die ungefähr 80 km von Rom entfernte Stadt ist ein schönes Eingangstor zur italienischen Hauptstadt.
Ankunft 15.09.2024 am frühen Vormittag
Ausschiffung 15.09.2024 um 08:00
An der ligurischen Küste ist Livorno das Tor zur Toskana, eine Region, die für ihre archäologischen Stätten, ihre Schätze der Renaissance, ihre malerischen Hügellandschaften und ihre Lebenskunst bekannt ist. Die Ankunft der Medici im 16. Jahrhundert fällt mit dem Aufschwung der Stadt zusammen, die sich zu einem der wichtigsten Mittelmeerhäfen entwickelte. Ein kosmopolitischer und multireligiöser Ort, der kulturelle Vielfalt perfekt verkörpert. Die in dieser Epoche erbauten Festungen Fortezza Vecchia und Fortezza Nuova sind Zeitzeugen seiner Bedeutung. Am Fuße des neuen Forts erstreckt sich das zauberhafte Quartier Nuova Venezia mit kleinen Kanälen und Gässchen, die zum Flanieren und zum Entdecken der architektonischen Stätten einladen, zum Beispiel zu einem Besuch der wunderschönen Kirche Santa Caterina im toskanischen Barockstil.
Colonized by the Greeks in the 8th century B.C., Syracuse became one of the most powerful and prestigious cities of the ancient world, rivaling even Athens. Your exploration of the ruins of this flourishing civilization begins, after a 15-minute drive, with a guided tour of Syracuse's extensive archaeological park, where you will visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus, used for contests between gladiators and wild beasts; the Altar of Hieron, constructed in the 2nd century B.C. to celebrate the Greek victory over Persia at the Battle of Plataea; the Latomie of Paradise, huge caverns once used as prisons; the Orecchio (Ear) of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo; and the 15,000 seat Greek Theater, one of the largest in the Hellenic World, first constructed in the 5th century B.C. and successively enlarged.
From the archaeological area, continue to the Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum, the largest and most complete in Sicily and one of the best collections in all of Europe. It houses materials found in Sicily from prehistoric times through the Romans, but focuses mainly on the civilization of the Greek colonial period.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Colonized by the Greeks in the 8th century B.C., Syracuse became one of the most powerful and prestigious cities of the ancient world, rivaling even Athens. Your exploration of the ruins of this flourishing civilization begins, after a 15-minute drive, with a guided tour of Syracuse's extensive archaeological park, where you will visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus, used for contests between gladiators and wild beasts; the Altar of Hieron, constructed in the 2nd century B.C. to celebrate the Greek victory over Persia at the Battle of Plataea; the Latomie of Paradise, huge caverns once used as prisons; the Orecchio (Ear) of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo; and the 15,000 seat Greek Theater, one of the largest in the Hellenic World, first constructed in the 5th century B.C. and successively enlarged.
Leaving Syracuse, drive through the Sicilian countryside into the hills overlooking the Ionian Sea to Casa Bianca Lentini, one of the best farm-to-table agriturismo houses in the region, where you will be warmly welcomed by the Notarbartolo family and treated to an extraordinary meal prepared onsite from entirely locally-sourced products.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Southeastern Sicily, particularly the area around Noto, is the original home of the famous Nero d'Avola, a deep red grape that produces a bold, fruity wine. This excursion takes you to one of the leading vineyards producing this wine, for a tour of the estate and a tasting of several of vintages.
Enjoy a panoramic tour of Syracuse before departing the city to travel southward along the coast to Avola, the seaside town that gives its name to the grape, and then inland to the Zisola Winery. Situated on a hill with views over the nearby baroque city of Noto, the estate includes about 60 acres of vines, cultivated in the albarello tradition of 'bush-training', which allows for a density of over 2,000 vines per acre.
Your guided tour begins in the vineyards, where you will learn more about the labor-intensive system of pruning that requires countless hours of work per acre—but produces a very high yield. You then then move to the barrel cellar in the main building, where you are treated to a tasting of 3 wines, paired with a variety of mezze from the region.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Noto has origins in the ancient past, having been founded in the 5th century B.C. during the period of Greek colonization, but it was destroyed in a massive earthquake in 1693. The subsequent rebuilding of the city according to 18th-century ideas of architectural design and town planning has made Noto the quintessential example of Sicilian Baroque. The town is built on terraces connected by monumental flights of steps and is filled with churches and palaces with varying degrees of embellishment but sharing a common architectural theme.
Upon arrival, walk across the Public Gardens, where busts of the artists who contributed to Noto’s urban culture and style are on display. The centrally located and resplendent Cathedral has been restored following the earthquake of 1990. You will also visit other impressive buildings, including the Churches of St. Domenico and St. Charles, the Ducezio Palace, and Villadorata Palace. Noto was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO, and the United Nations provides financial support for the ongoing reconstruction of the town’s monuments.
At the end of your walking tour of this beautiful town, stop at a local bar specializing in gelato and sorbet, where you will sample some of the treats for which Noto is famous – especially a granita with brioche and coffee.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Ortygia, a tiny island just off the coast, is the original center of the ancient city of Syracuse. Meet your guide at the pier and begin your exploration on foot of this tangle of narrow streets that open onto splendid piazzas.
At the Piazza Pancali discover the 6th-century B.C. Temple of Apollo, the oldest Doric temple in Sicily. Next, walk through the food market and delight in the sounds and smells as you discover a vast selection of the region’s produce, meats, seafood, and cheeses.
Walk along the Corso Matteotti and through Archimedes Square en route to the stunning Piazza del Duomo. As the name suggests, this is the site of the Cathedral of Syracuse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as is the entire city. Originally built in the 5th century B.C. as a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena and later turned into a Christian Basilica, it features a Baroque façade, constructed during the restoration following the 1693 earthquake.
End at the Fountain of Arethusa, one of Ortygia’s most beautiful monuments, reflecting the legend that the nymph Arethusa was turned into a beautiful spring by Artemis to help her escape the pursuit of a crazed lover.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Taormina is perched on the side of Mount Tauro, offering superb views of the Mediterranean Sea, Isola Bella, and a snow-capped Mt. Etna in the background. A maze of narrow streets enlivened by the vibrant colors of bougainvillea and oleanders, Taormina's beauty and strategic location have attracted many different civilizations over the centuries, all of which have left their mark on the town: It is home to theaters and a gymnasium from the Greek period, an Odeon and baths from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, traces of a Byzantine past, and villas built as retreats for the European aristocracy of the 18th and 19th centuries.
This excursion begins with a visit on foot to Taormina's historic center. Cross the famous Corso Umberto to discover numerous monuments from several eras, and admire Porta Catania, the Cathedral, Piazza IX Aprile, and Palazzo Corvaja. Take the time at Teatro Antico, the Ancient Greek Theater, to appreciate this remarkable legacy of earlier cultures. The theater was built by the Greeks in the 3rd century B.C. and almost completely rebuilt by the Romans as a gladiatorial arena. It is the second largest theater in Sicily, after the one in Syracuse. Because of its size and acoustic quality, it is still in use to host festivals and concerts in the summer. Seated on the stone terraces, the audience can enjoy the performance while admiring a breathtaking view of the sea, Mount Tauro and Etna in the background.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Board you coach for a drive up the winding roads that work their way along the slopes of Mt. Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe. Begin with a drive through the small town of Naxos, which was found by Greek colonizers in the 8th century B.C., and then pass the town of Giarre and the villages of Santa Venerina and Zafferana en route. Your destination on Mt. Etna is the Crateri Silvestri area, a collection of inactive craters that were formed during a massive eruption in 1892. From here, the views across the Gulf of Catania and the vineyards clinging to the mountainside are breathtaking .
From this scenic spot, continue to the Benanti Winery, Monte Serra Estate, where you will join members of the staff for a visit to the vineyards and a tour of the estate's historic oak barrel room.
A typical Sicilian lunch will be served, accompanied by samples of several of the winery’s finest vintages—a leisurely introduction to some of the delights of Sicilian cuisine.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
The port city of Catania, about 30 miles south of Taormina, is Sicily's economic and commercial hub. Its old town in the center of the city, rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1693, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting some of the most exuberant late-Baroque architecture to be found anywhere in Europe—particularly the Cathedral and the Palazzo Biscari.
On arrival in Catania, you will walk along the city's main street, passing both of these spectacular buildings, but your true destination is the authentic center of the city: the Mercato del Pesce, Catania's famed street market. As the name suggests, there is an abundance of seafood of every description on sale here, but just about any other sort of food you can imagine is also available—oranges and almonds from nearby orchards, roasted peppers, cured meats, fresh vegetables, cheeses, breads. The sights, sounds, and smells are absolutely exhilarating. You will certainly want to sample some arancini, Sicily's emblematic street food of fried rice balls filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. And a cannoli or two from one of the patisseries would be the perfect end to your experience of Catania's food scene.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Reggio Calabria, located at the very tip of the Italian Peninsula, is the site of the earliest Greek colony—the first outpost in what the Romans called Magna Graecia, "greater Greece." Today it is home to the magnificent Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia, one of the best collections of ancient artifacts in the world.
The highlight of the collection is undoubtedly the celebrated Riace Bronzes, sculptures of two larger-than-life Greek warriors dating from the 5th century B.C. that were found in 1972 in the waters off Calabria’s Ionian coast. The statues are perhaps the finest surviving examples of Greek bronze statues of the Classical period. It is believed that they were crafted by Athenian sculptors after the victory over the Persians at the Battle of Marathon (490 B.C.), and dedicated at Delphi.
From the museum, travel northward along the coast to the village of Scilla, situated at the northern entrance to the Strait of Messina. Homer described this ancient spot as home to the nymph-turned-sea-monster who devoured six of Odysseus's crew during his journey home from Troy. Today, Scilla is a resort town where you will visit Ruffo Castle, a fortress built by the Dukes of Calabria on a promontory overlooking the Strait, and the small fishing village of Chianalea. Descending from the castle, enjoy wandering through Chianalea's narrow streets, many of which lead to terraces that jut into the sea, and others that are lined with ancient fountains, churches and palaces. You will have time at leisure for a bit of shopping before returning to the ship.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Reggio di Calabria is a major center for growing bergamot, the bitter fruit harvested primarily for the essential oils extracted from its skin. Used extensively as an ingredient in perfumes and as an element of Earl Grey tea, bergamot is also used in aromatherapy and is frequently touted for its medicinal properties—particularly its apparent ability to lower cholesterol levels. Because of these many uses and because the climate of Reggio Calabria is ideal for its growth, bergamot processing is a significant element of the local economy. Significant enough to have prompted the establishment of a museum to celebrate it.
Your excursion begins with a leisurely stroll along Reggio's famous waterfront before driving to the Museo Nazionale del Bergamotto, where you will be introduced to the history of the production of bergamot in Calabria and explore a remarkable collection of machines for pressing and processing the fruit, many of them invented locally. Proceeding through the exhibit, you arrive at a workshop for a presentation on the myriad uses of bergamot and enjoy a sampling of some of the many products, including refreshments, made from bergamot juice and oil.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
A drive north from Reggio along the coast passes through a number of small towns that share a tortuous history of being prizes fought over in a succession of wars between foreign empires until they were finally brought together as part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861. The village of Pizzo, situated on a cliff overlooking the Gulf of Saint Euphemia, is one of those towns.
The earliest records of Pizzo are from 14th-century, when it was a small fishing village with a community of monks. By the 15th century, it had a castle, built by the Aragonese, which still dominates the town. Your guided walking tour of Pizzo's historic center offers stunning views over the gulf, especially from the vantage of the central Piazza della República.
It is here, in one of the many gelaterias, where you will stop to sample the pride of Pizzo—a rich hazelnut and chocolate gelato invented by a local vendor to capture the essence of a decadent truffle. This dessert is so closely identified with the town that it is known throughout Italy as tartufo di Pizzo. Enjoy some time at leisure before returning to your ship in Reggio.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
A drive north from Reggio passes through a number of towns that share a tortuous history of being prizes fought over in a succession of wars between foreign empires until they were finally brought together as part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861. The city of Vibo Valentina was one of those towns.
Now the capital of the province with the same name, Vibo is home to a massive Norman Castle that houses an excellent Archaeological Museum. Serious excavations began here in 1921 under the direction of famed archaeologist Paolo Orsi, and the museum now displays artifacts dating to as early as the 7th century BC. Enjoy a guided tour of the collections, which include ancient Greek pottery, bronze basins and helmets, gold jewelry, and fragments from a large Doric temple. The castle’s imposing height also offers sweeping views over the sea below toward the Aeolian Islands.
Continue your drive north along the coast to Lamezia Terme and the Statti Winery. The Statti family have been producing wine, olive oil, and cheeses on these lands since the 18th century, and they will warmly welcome you to their estate, show you around the vineyards and the winery, and then serve a meal of Calabrian specialties, including various olive oils, salamis, cheeses and wines—many from their own farms.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
The region surrounding the small port of Agropoli, in what is now Campania, contains some of the best farm land in Italy, and that may well be why ancient Greeks settled here in the 6th-century B.C. The town these people founded, which they named Poseidonia, in honor of the Greek god of the sea, was renamed Paestum in the 4th-century B.C. and became one of the most important cities of Magna Graecia.
Situated along trade routes and surrounded by fertile land, the city grew quickly into a thriving agricultural and maritime center. Its wealth at the height of its prosperity is attested by the three magnificent Doric temples— the Temple of Neptune, Temple of Ceres, Temple of Hera—that dominate the site to this day. In addition to these three well-preserved temples, the excavations at Paestum have revealed the ruins of residential buildings and a forum. The fine on-site museum displays millennia-old frescoes, ceramics, and the truly remarkable mural paintings from the so-called Tomb of the Diver—examples of extremely rare ancient Greek painting.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
The region surrounding the small port of Agropoli, in what is now Campania, contains some of the best farm land in Italy, and that may well be why ancient Greeks settled here in the 6th-century B.C. It is certainly why this corner of Campania has become famous for the production of mozzarella cheese. Your excursion begins with a short drive to an antique mozzarella dairy that prides itself on using only milk produced by buffalos on the farm. See traditional Campania DOP buffalo mozzarella in the making, and sample the product along with focaccia and tomatoes.
The fertile land in this region is also part of the reason that ancient Greeks settled and founded Paestum, one of the most important cities of Magna Graecia, growing quickly into a thriving agricultural and maritime center. Its wealth at the height of its prosperity is attested by the three magnificent Doric temples— the Temple of Neptune, Temple of Ceres, Temple of Hera—that dominate the site to this day. In addition to these three well-preserved temples, the excavations at Paestum have revealed the ruins of residential buildings and a forum. The fine on-site museum displays millennia-old frescoes, ceramics, and the truly remarkable mural paintings from the so-called Tomb of the Diver—examples of extremely rare ancient Greek painting.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Situated near the coast beneath the volcano, Pompeii was destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D. and buried under a dense layer of ash and pumice, which preserved a remarkable number of buildings and artifacts that reveal the beauty and grandeur of Pompeii's public spaces, temples and villas.
Pompeii was a prosperous provincial city with a population of perhaps 20,000, and served as a retreat for wealthy patricians escaping the turmoil of Rome. Following Vesuvius's eruption, the site was left buried until the middle of the 18th century, when treasure hunters discovered how much of the city had been preserved. Excavations begun then continue to this day, and new sites and artifacts are constantly being uncovered. Your guided tour will pass through grand houses designed around an inner garden and decorated with mosaics and frescoes. You will discover ancient baths, temples, theatres, markets, and a huge forum. You will encounter plaster casts of the bodies of men, women, children, and animals, who died in the cataclysm. And you will see inscriptions on walls everywhere: notices of wine sales, apartment vacancies and upcoming theater performances and gladiator fights, as well as political slogans, personal love notes, and invitations to sexual encounters.
After the visit to Pompeii, travel to Mt. Vesuvius to tour one of its many wineries. The characteristics of the volcanic soil and a unique microclimate make the slopes of Vesuvius one of Italy's most interesting wine producing regions. You will be guided through the production area and the cellars by a member of the staff who will explain their processs, and then you will sit down to a lunch of local fare, paired with a selection of wines, including Lacryma Christi White, Red and Rose, Aglianico, and Falanghina, as well as an Apricot grappa.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Spend the day exploring Pompeii and Herculaneum, the Roman towns that were destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Situated near the coast beneath the volcano, both towns were buried under a dense layer of ash and pumice, which preserved a remarkable number of buildings and artifacts that reveal the beauty and grandeur of the public spaces, temples and villas of these towns.
Pompeii was a prosperous provincial city with a population of perhaps 20,000, and served as a retreat for wealthy patricians escaping the turmoil of Rome. Following Vesuvius's eruption, the site was left buried until the middle of the 18th century, when treasure hunters discovered how much of the city had been preserved. Excavations begun then continue to this day, and new sites and artifacts are constantly being uncovered. Your guided tour will pass through grand houses designed around an inner garden and decorated with mosaics and frescoes. You will discover ancient baths, temples, theatres, markets, and a huge forum. You will encounter plaster casts of the bodies of men, women, children, and animals, who died in the cataclysm. And you will see inscriptions on walls everywhere: notices of wine sales, apartment vacancies and upcoming theater performances and gladiator fights, as well as political slogans, personal love notes, and invitations to sexual encounters.
Following lunch at a local restaurant, travel to nearby Herculaneum, a much smaller site than Pompeii, but where buildings and paintings are even better preserved. The mosaics at Casa del Nettuno de Anfitrite, for example, exhibit intense, vibrant colors. And at the two-story House of the Deer, paintings and furnishings reveal wealth and an opulent lifestyle that would rival the villas of Roman senators. Private baths and fountains are virtually untouched by decay.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Your excursion begins with a scenic drive southward along the coast to Sorrento, where you visit one of the agriturismo farmhouses that populate this region of Campania. See an olive press at work turning the fruit into EVOO; watch as Campania DOP buffalo mozzarella is made; and then attend a pizza making class, followed by a lunch of bruschetta, olives, wine, and the pizza you have made, and finished with a taste of the limoncello liqueur for which Sorrento is famous.
On the return to Naples, stop in Pompeii, to explore its fabled archaeological site, the result a catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D., which buried the city under a dense layer of ash and pumice, at the same time preserving buildings and artifacts that reveal the beauty and grandeur of Pompeii's public spaces, temples and villas.
Pompeii was a prosperous provincial city with a population of perhaps 20,000, and served as a retreat for wealthy patricians escaping the turmoil of Rome. Following Vesuvius's eruption, the site was left buried until the middle of the 18th century, when treasure hunters discovered how much of the city had been preserved. Excavations begun then continue to this day, and new sites and artifacts are constantly being uncovered. Your guided tour will pass through grand houses designed around an inner garden and decorated with mosaics and frescoes. You will discover ancient baths, temples, theatres, markets, and a huge forum. You will encounter plaster casts of the bodies of men, women, children, and animals, who died in the cataclysm. And you will see inscriptions on walls everywhere: notices of wine sales, apartment vacancies and upcoming theater performances and gladiator fights, as well as political slogans, personal love notes, and invitations to sexual encounters.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
This walking tour along Spaccanapoli—the long and straight main street that runs through Naples's historic city center—includes Piazza del Gesù, the center of this UNESCO World Heritage site; Piazza San Domenico Maggiore and the 13th-century church of the same name; and San Gregorio Armeno, famous for the beautifully crafted nativity scenes produced by the artisans whose shops line the street.
But the real purpose of strolling through these areas it to taste some of the marvelous street foods for which Naples is known. Moving from piazza to piazza, you will sample Neapolitan cuoppo, paper cones filled with a variety of fried foods (fish, mozzarella, zucchini, eggplant, potato, etc.) accompanied by a beer or soft drink; Pizza a portafoglio (wallet pizza) a small pie, folded over on itself and wrapped in paper so that it can eaten while standing or walking; and Sfogliatella, the iconic Neapolitan pastry shell of many layers of thin, flaky dough filled with a mixture of ricotta, semolina, and lemon zest.
After this culinary indulgence, enjoy a bit of time at leisure for independent exploration and shopping before returning to the pier and your ship.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Set out on a comprehensive exploration of Rome's iconic landmarks, from the ancient grandeur of the Colosseum to the charming beauty of its squares and fountains.
From the pier in Civitavecchia, meet your guide and transfer 90 minutes to Rome. Upon arrival in Rome, journey back to the days of the Gladiators with a visit to the incredible and imposing Colosseum, also known as Flavian Amphitheater. Learn about its history, architecture, and the events that took place within its walls. Enter this elliptical amphitheater, still the largest in the world, and see hundreds of rows of marble seats, at one point accommodating up to 55,000 spectators for fierce Gladiatorial games. Discover the long neglected subterranean passageways and holding chambers used by the competitors.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then drive to the city center to start your walking tour of the Eternal City. Stroll through Piazza di Spagna and admire the Spanish Steps, then proceed to Trevi Fountain where you’ll get the opportunity to toss a coin and ensure your return to the Eternal City. Proceed to the Pantheon (outside only) and marvel at its impressive dome. Conclude your walking tour at Piazza Navona, known for its exquisite fountains and Baroque architecture. Reboard your coach and return to Civitavecchia, reflecting on the day's experiences and sights.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Set out on an immersive exploration of Vatican City's cultural treasures, followed by leisure time in Rome for shopping and personal exploration.
From the pier in Civitavecchia, meet your guide and transfer 90 minutes to Rome. Explore the Vatican Museums, home to an extraordinary collection of artworks spanning centuries. Marvel at masterpieces by renowned artists as you journey through the museum's galleries. Visit the Sistine Chapel, renowned for Michelangelo's breathtaking frescoes, including the iconic "Last Judgment."
After lunch at a local restaurant, continue your tour by walking to St. Peter's Square, where you'll admire the grand colonnade, symbolizing the far-reaching embrace of the Catholic Church. Visit St. Peter's Basilica and wonder at its Italian High Renaissance architecture and three-aisled Latin cross.
Depart from Vatican City and drive through Rome to Piazza del Popolo (The People’s Square). Enjoy some free time for shopping and self-exploration in the city center. Meet your guide and return to Civitavecchia by coach.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Enjoy a delightful blend of culinary exploration and leisure time in the Eternal City.
From the pier in Civitavecchia, meet your guide and transfer 90 minutes to Rome. Begin your three-hour culinary tour in the historic city center. Explore the narrow streets of Rome's historic district, starting at Via del Portico d'Ottavia in the Jewish Quarter. Sample delicacies such as fried codfish and Pizza Bianca with mortadella, accompanied by a glass of local wine.
Continue your culinary adventure at Campo de Fiori, a bustling food market known for its seasonal delicacies. Sample more local specialties and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the market.
After your food tour, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore the city on your own. Then, meet your guide in the late afternoon and return to Civitavecchia by coach.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.Inklusivleistungen im Überblick
Französische Lebenskunst, aufmerksamer Service, feinste Gourmetküche, Freizeitangebote, Spa: Unsere Kreuzfahrten schenken wertvolle Momente voller Ruhe und Entspannung, Abenteuer und Entdeckung. Und mit unserer Vielzahl an bereits inkludierten Leistungen wird aus Ihrer Zeit an Bord eine richtige Auszeit vom Alltag.
SAVOIR VIVRE INKLUSIVE
PONANT has organized the following included program for you, which starts the day of embarkation.
Included Features:
Not included:
Notes:
Gourmet & Wein
Freuen Sie sich auf raffinierte Speisen und von Sterneköchen kreierte Köstlichkeiten, begleitet von erlesenen Weinen, die von den talentiertesten Sommeliers ausgewählt werden. Sie teilen ihre Leidenschaft für die Tischkunst mit Ihnen und verwöhnen Sie bei Gala-Dinners, Verkostungen, Workshops und spannenden Vorträgen. Ganz besondere Aufmerksamkeit gilt den Weinen, die Ihnen auf den Gastronomie- und Önologie-Kreuzfahrten angeboten werden: eine exklusive Weinkarte, sorgsam zusammengestellte Menüs, bei denen Wein und Speisen perfekt harmonieren. Freuen Sie sich auf perfekt durchdachte Ausflüge in Städte mit einem reichen Kulturerbe sowie auf privilegierte kulinarische und önologische Höhepunkte.
Lektor
An Bord Ihres Schiffes bieten Ihnen ausgewählte Lektoren kulturelle und historische Einblicke, damit Sie noch mehr über Ihr Reiseziel erfahren können: den Ursprung der lokalen Traditionen, die Geschichte symbolischer Orte, berühmte Persönlichkeiten und historische Helden... Die Experten begleiten Sie während der gesamten Kreuzfahrt, an Bord und bei den Ausflügen an Land, um ihr Know-how und ihre Einsichten mit Ihnen zu teilen.
Unsere Zusatzleistungen
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a specially designed program.
Day 1 – Valletta, Malta
Arrive at Malta International Airport. You will be met at the exit of the Arrivals hall. Look for the PONANT-SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS sign or a sign with your name on it. Transfer from the airport to The Grand Hotel Excelsior (or similar) and check in. Official check-in time is 3:00 p.m.
A local representative will be present at the hospitality desk in the afternoon to welcome you and answer any questions you may have.
Join your fellow travelers for a welcome cocktail reception this evening. An independent dinner is at your leisure.
Day 2 – Valletta | Embarkation
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. After check-out, depart on a walking excursion of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Valletta, Malta’s fortified capital city located on a hilly peninsula between two natural harbors. Visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens to enjoy panoramic views over the Grand Harbor. Proceed to the 16th-century St. John’s Co-Cathedral and view Carravaggio’s famous masterpiece, The Beheading of St. John the Baptist, during an inside visit. Walk to the Magisterial Palace, today serving as the office of the president of Malta. Here, visit the state rooms and the tapestry chamber.
Board your coach and drive to a local vineyard. Enjoy a wine tasting of some of the country’s most delicious wines. Proceed to a historic local restaurant for a lunch of traditional Maltese specialties. The chef will speak to you about Maltese cuisine and introduce the dishes that you will eat.
After lunch, reboard your coach and drive to the Hagar Qim Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple complex dates to 3600 BC and is in a beautiful location on a cliff overlooking the sea. After a guided visit, transfer to the ship for embarkation.
Your hotel:
The Grand Hotel Excelsior has a stunning location, overlooking Marsamsett harbor and Manoel Island. The hotel is just steps from the capital city of Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its historic wonders, including St. John’s Co-Cathedral, are all within easy walking distance. The hotel boasts 433 rooms and suites combining classic and contemporary design, as well as several retaurants and lounges.
Your program includes:
Your program does not include:
Please note:
Hotel contact information:
Grand Hotel Excelsior
Great Siege Road
Valletta FRN1810
Malta
Telephone: +356.2125.0520
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 530
Preis pro Person auf Basis einer Doppelkabine. Dieser Preis gilt vorbehaltlich Verfügbarkeit.
Colonized by the Greeks in the 8th century B.C., Syracuse became one of the most powerful and prestigious cities of the ancient world, rivaling even Athens. Your exploration of the ruins of this flourishing civilization begins, after a 15-minute drive, with a guided tour of Syracuse's extensive archaeological park, where you will visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus, used for contests between gladiators and wild beasts; the Altar of Hieron, constructed in the 2nd century B.C. to celebrate the Greek victory over Persia at the Battle of Plataea; the Latomie of Paradise, huge caverns once used as prisons; the Orecchio (Ear) of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo; and the 15,000 seat Greek Theater, one of the largest in the Hellenic World, first constructed in the 5th century B.C. and successively enlarged.
From the archaeological area, continue to the Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum, the largest and most complete in Sicily and one of the best collections in all of Europe. It houses materials found in Sicily from prehistoric times through the Romans, but focuses mainly on the civilization of the Greek colonial period.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Colonized by the Greeks in the 8th century B.C., Syracuse became one of the most powerful and prestigious cities of the ancient world, rivaling even Athens. Your exploration of the ruins of this flourishing civilization begins, after a 15-minute drive, with a guided tour of Syracuse's extensive archaeological park, where you will visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Augustus, used for contests between gladiators and wild beasts; the Altar of Hieron, constructed in the 2nd century B.C. to celebrate the Greek victory over Persia at the Battle of Plataea; the Latomie of Paradise, huge caverns once used as prisons; the Orecchio (Ear) of Dionysius, an enormous grotto with extraordinary echo; and the 15,000 seat Greek Theater, one of the largest in the Hellenic World, first constructed in the 5th century B.C. and successively enlarged.
Leaving Syracuse, drive through the Sicilian countryside into the hills overlooking the Ionian Sea to Casa Bianca Lentini, one of the best farm-to-table agriturismo houses in the region, where you will be warmly welcomed by the Notarbartolo family and treated to an extraordinary meal prepared onsite from entirely locally-sourced products.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Southeastern Sicily, particularly the area around Noto, is the original home of the famous Nero d'Avola, a deep red grape that produces a bold, fruity wine. This excursion takes you to one of the leading vineyards producing this wine, for a tour of the estate and a tasting of several of vintages.
Enjoy a panoramic tour of Syracuse before departing the city to travel southward along the coast to Avola, the seaside town that gives its name to the grape, and then inland to the Zisola Winery. Situated on a hill with views over the nearby baroque city of Noto, the estate includes about 60 acres of vines, cultivated in the albarello tradition of 'bush-training', which allows for a density of over 2,000 vines per acre.
Your guided tour begins in the vineyards, where you will learn more about the labor-intensive system of pruning that requires countless hours of work per acre—but produces a very high yield. You then then move to the barrel cellar in the main building, where you are treated to a tasting of 3 wines, paired with a variety of mezze from the region.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Noto has origins in the ancient past, having been founded in the 5th century B.C. during the period of Greek colonization, but it was destroyed in a massive earthquake in 1693. The subsequent rebuilding of the city according to 18th-century ideas of architectural design and town planning has made Noto the quintessential example of Sicilian Baroque. The town is built on terraces connected by monumental flights of steps and is filled with churches and palaces with varying degrees of embellishment but sharing a common architectural theme.
Upon arrival, walk across the Public Gardens, where busts of the artists who contributed to Noto’s urban culture and style are on display. The centrally located and resplendent Cathedral has been restored following the earthquake of 1990. You will also visit other impressive buildings, including the Churches of St. Domenico and St. Charles, the Ducezio Palace, and Villadorata Palace. Noto was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO, and the United Nations provides financial support for the ongoing reconstruction of the town’s monuments.
At the end of your walking tour of this beautiful town, stop at a local bar specializing in gelato and sorbet, where you will sample some of the treats for which Noto is famous – especially a granita with brioche and coffee.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Ortygia, a tiny island just off the coast, is the original center of the ancient city of Syracuse. Meet your guide at the pier and begin your exploration on foot of this tangle of narrow streets that open onto splendid piazzas.
At the Piazza Pancali discover the 6th-century B.C. Temple of Apollo, the oldest Doric temple in Sicily. Next, walk through the food market and delight in the sounds and smells as you discover a vast selection of the region’s produce, meats, seafood, and cheeses.
Walk along the Corso Matteotti and through Archimedes Square en route to the stunning Piazza del Duomo. As the name suggests, this is the site of the Cathedral of Syracuse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as is the entire city. Originally built in the 5th century B.C. as a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena and later turned into a Christian Basilica, it features a Baroque façade, constructed during the restoration following the 1693 earthquake.
End at the Fountain of Arethusa, one of Ortygia’s most beautiful monuments, reflecting the legend that the nymph Arethusa was turned into a beautiful spring by Artemis to help her escape the pursuit of a crazed lover.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Taormina is perched on the side of Mount Tauro, offering superb views of the Mediterranean Sea, Isola Bella, and a snow-capped Mt. Etna in the background. A maze of narrow streets enlivened by the vibrant colors of bougainvillea and oleanders, Taormina's beauty and strategic location have attracted many different civilizations over the centuries, all of which have left their mark on the town: It is home to theaters and a gymnasium from the Greek period, an Odeon and baths from Roman times, buildings blending Arab and Norman cultures, traces of a Byzantine past, and villas built as retreats for the European aristocracy of the 18th and 19th centuries.
This excursion begins with a visit on foot to Taormina's historic center. Cross the famous Corso Umberto to discover numerous monuments from several eras, and admire Porta Catania, the Cathedral, Piazza IX Aprile, and Palazzo Corvaja. Take the time at Teatro Antico, the Ancient Greek Theater, to appreciate this remarkable legacy of earlier cultures. The theater was built by the Greeks in the 3rd century B.C. and almost completely rebuilt by the Romans as a gladiatorial arena. It is the second largest theater in Sicily, after the one in Syracuse. Because of its size and acoustic quality, it is still in use to host festivals and concerts in the summer. Seated on the stone terraces, the audience can enjoy the performance while admiring a breathtaking view of the sea, Mount Tauro and Etna in the background.
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Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Board you coach for a drive up the winding roads that work their way along the slopes of Mt. Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe. Begin with a drive through the small town of Naxos, which was found by Greek colonizers in the 8th century B.C., and then pass the town of Giarre and the villages of Santa Venerina and Zafferana en route. Your destination on Mt. Etna is the Crateri Silvestri area, a collection of inactive craters that were formed during a massive eruption in 1892. From here, the views across the Gulf of Catania and the vineyards clinging to the mountainside are breathtaking .
From this scenic spot, continue to the Benanti Winery, Monte Serra Estate, where you will join members of the staff for a visit to the vineyards and a tour of the estate's historic oak barrel room.
A typical Sicilian lunch will be served, accompanied by samples of several of the winery’s finest vintages—a leisurely introduction to some of the delights of Sicilian cuisine.
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Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
The port city of Catania, about 30 miles south of Taormina, is Sicily's economic and commercial hub. Its old town in the center of the city, rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1693, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting some of the most exuberant late-Baroque architecture to be found anywhere in Europe—particularly the Cathedral and the Palazzo Biscari.
On arrival in Catania, you will walk along the city's main street, passing both of these spectacular buildings, but your true destination is the authentic center of the city: the Mercato del Pesce, Catania's famed street market. As the name suggests, there is an abundance of seafood of every description on sale here, but just about any other sort of food you can imagine is also available—oranges and almonds from nearby orchards, roasted peppers, cured meats, fresh vegetables, cheeses, breads. The sights, sounds, and smells are absolutely exhilarating. You will certainly want to sample some arancini, Sicily's emblematic street food of fried rice balls filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. And a cannoli or two from one of the patisseries would be the perfect end to your experience of Catania's food scene.
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Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Reggio Calabria, located at the very tip of the Italian Peninsula, is the site of the earliest Greek colony—the first outpost in what the Romans called Magna Graecia, "greater Greece." Today it is home to the magnificent Museo Nazionale della Magna Grecia, one of the best collections of ancient artifacts in the world.
The highlight of the collection is undoubtedly the celebrated Riace Bronzes, sculptures of two larger-than-life Greek warriors dating from the 5th century B.C. that were found in 1972 in the waters off Calabria’s Ionian coast. The statues are perhaps the finest surviving examples of Greek bronze statues of the Classical period. It is believed that they were crafted by Athenian sculptors after the victory over the Persians at the Battle of Marathon (490 B.C.), and dedicated at Delphi.
From the museum, travel northward along the coast to the village of Scilla, situated at the northern entrance to the Strait of Messina. Homer described this ancient spot as home to the nymph-turned-sea-monster who devoured six of Odysseus's crew during his journey home from Troy. Today, Scilla is a resort town where you will visit Ruffo Castle, a fortress built by the Dukes of Calabria on a promontory overlooking the Strait, and the small fishing village of Chianalea. Descending from the castle, enjoy wandering through Chianalea's narrow streets, many of which lead to terraces that jut into the sea, and others that are lined with ancient fountains, churches and palaces. You will have time at leisure for a bit of shopping before returning to the ship.
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Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Reggio di Calabria is a major center for growing bergamot, the bitter fruit harvested primarily for the essential oils extracted from its skin. Used extensively as an ingredient in perfumes and as an element of Earl Grey tea, bergamot is also used in aromatherapy and is frequently touted for its medicinal properties—particularly its apparent ability to lower cholesterol levels. Because of these many uses and because the climate of Reggio Calabria is ideal for its growth, bergamot processing is a significant element of the local economy. Significant enough to have prompted the establishment of a museum to celebrate it.
Your excursion begins with a leisurely stroll along Reggio's famous waterfront before driving to the Museo Nazionale del Bergamotto, where you will be introduced to the history of the production of bergamot in Calabria and explore a remarkable collection of machines for pressing and processing the fruit, many of them invented locally. Proceeding through the exhibit, you arrive at a workshop for a presentation on the myriad uses of bergamot and enjoy a sampling of some of the many products, including refreshments, made from bergamot juice and oil.
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Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
A drive north from Reggio along the coast passes through a number of small towns that share a tortuous history of being prizes fought over in a succession of wars between foreign empires until they were finally brought together as part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861. The village of Pizzo, situated on a cliff overlooking the Gulf of Saint Euphemia, is one of those towns.
The earliest records of Pizzo are from 14th-century, when it was a small fishing village with a community of monks. By the 15th century, it had a castle, built by the Aragonese, which still dominates the town. Your guided walking tour of Pizzo's historic center offers stunning views over the gulf, especially from the vantage of the central Piazza della República.
It is here, in one of the many gelaterias, where you will stop to sample the pride of Pizzo—a rich hazelnut and chocolate gelato invented by a local vendor to capture the essence of a decadent truffle. This dessert is so closely identified with the town that it is known throughout Italy as tartufo di Pizzo. Enjoy some time at leisure before returning to your ship in Reggio.
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Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
A drive north from Reggio passes through a number of towns that share a tortuous history of being prizes fought over in a succession of wars between foreign empires until they were finally brought together as part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1861. The city of Vibo Valentina was one of those towns.
Now the capital of the province with the same name, Vibo is home to a massive Norman Castle that houses an excellent Archaeological Museum. Serious excavations began here in 1921 under the direction of famed archaeologist Paolo Orsi, and the museum now displays artifacts dating to as early as the 7th century BC. Enjoy a guided tour of the collections, which include ancient Greek pottery, bronze basins and helmets, gold jewelry, and fragments from a large Doric temple. The castle’s imposing height also offers sweeping views over the sea below toward the Aeolian Islands.
Continue your drive north along the coast to Lamezia Terme and the Statti Winery. The Statti family have been producing wine, olive oil, and cheeses on these lands since the 18th century, and they will warmly welcome you to their estate, show you around the vineyards and the winery, and then serve a meal of Calabrian specialties, including various olive oils, salamis, cheeses and wines—many from their own farms.
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Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
The region surrounding the small port of Agropoli, in what is now Campania, contains some of the best farm land in Italy, and that may well be why ancient Greeks settled here in the 6th-century B.C. The town these people founded, which they named Poseidonia, in honor of the Greek god of the sea, was renamed Paestum in the 4th-century B.C. and became one of the most important cities of Magna Graecia.
Situated along trade routes and surrounded by fertile land, the city grew quickly into a thriving agricultural and maritime center. Its wealth at the height of its prosperity is attested by the three magnificent Doric temples— the Temple of Neptune, Temple of Ceres, Temple of Hera—that dominate the site to this day. In addition to these three well-preserved temples, the excavations at Paestum have revealed the ruins of residential buildings and a forum. The fine on-site museum displays millennia-old frescoes, ceramics, and the truly remarkable mural paintings from the so-called Tomb of the Diver—examples of extremely rare ancient Greek painting.
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Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
The region surrounding the small port of Agropoli, in what is now Campania, contains some of the best farm land in Italy, and that may well be why ancient Greeks settled here in the 6th-century B.C. It is certainly why this corner of Campania has become famous for the production of mozzarella cheese. Your excursion begins with a short drive to an antique mozzarella dairy that prides itself on using only milk produced by buffalos on the farm. See traditional Campania DOP buffalo mozzarella in the making, and sample the product along with focaccia and tomatoes.
The fertile land in this region is also part of the reason that ancient Greeks settled and founded Paestum, one of the most important cities of Magna Graecia, growing quickly into a thriving agricultural and maritime center. Its wealth at the height of its prosperity is attested by the three magnificent Doric temples— the Temple of Neptune, Temple of Ceres, Temple of Hera—that dominate the site to this day. In addition to these three well-preserved temples, the excavations at Paestum have revealed the ruins of residential buildings and a forum. The fine on-site museum displays millennia-old frescoes, ceramics, and the truly remarkable mural paintings from the so-called Tomb of the Diver—examples of extremely rare ancient Greek painting.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Situated near the coast beneath the volcano, Pompeii was destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D. and buried under a dense layer of ash and pumice, which preserved a remarkable number of buildings and artifacts that reveal the beauty and grandeur of Pompeii's public spaces, temples and villas.
Pompeii was a prosperous provincial city with a population of perhaps 20,000, and served as a retreat for wealthy patricians escaping the turmoil of Rome. Following Vesuvius's eruption, the site was left buried until the middle of the 18th century, when treasure hunters discovered how much of the city had been preserved. Excavations begun then continue to this day, and new sites and artifacts are constantly being uncovered. Your guided tour will pass through grand houses designed around an inner garden and decorated with mosaics and frescoes. You will discover ancient baths, temples, theatres, markets, and a huge forum. You will encounter plaster casts of the bodies of men, women, children, and animals, who died in the cataclysm. And you will see inscriptions on walls everywhere: notices of wine sales, apartment vacancies and upcoming theater performances and gladiator fights, as well as political slogans, personal love notes, and invitations to sexual encounters.
After the visit to Pompeii, travel to Mt. Vesuvius to tour one of its many wineries. The characteristics of the volcanic soil and a unique microclimate make the slopes of Vesuvius one of Italy's most interesting wine producing regions. You will be guided through the production area and the cellars by a member of the staff who will explain their processs, and then you will sit down to a lunch of local fare, paired with a selection of wines, including Lacryma Christi White, Red and Rose, Aglianico, and Falanghina, as well as an Apricot grappa.
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Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Spend the day exploring Pompeii and Herculaneum, the Roman towns that were destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Situated near the coast beneath the volcano, both towns were buried under a dense layer of ash and pumice, which preserved a remarkable number of buildings and artifacts that reveal the beauty and grandeur of the public spaces, temples and villas of these towns.
Pompeii was a prosperous provincial city with a population of perhaps 20,000, and served as a retreat for wealthy patricians escaping the turmoil of Rome. Following Vesuvius's eruption, the site was left buried until the middle of the 18th century, when treasure hunters discovered how much of the city had been preserved. Excavations begun then continue to this day, and new sites and artifacts are constantly being uncovered. Your guided tour will pass through grand houses designed around an inner garden and decorated with mosaics and frescoes. You will discover ancient baths, temples, theatres, markets, and a huge forum. You will encounter plaster casts of the bodies of men, women, children, and animals, who died in the cataclysm. And you will see inscriptions on walls everywhere: notices of wine sales, apartment vacancies and upcoming theater performances and gladiator fights, as well as political slogans, personal love notes, and invitations to sexual encounters.
Following lunch at a local restaurant, travel to nearby Herculaneum, a much smaller site than Pompeii, but where buildings and paintings are even better preserved. The mosaics at Casa del Nettuno de Anfitrite, for example, exhibit intense, vibrant colors. And at the two-story House of the Deer, paintings and furnishings reveal wealth and an opulent lifestyle that would rival the villas of Roman senators. Private baths and fountains are virtually untouched by decay.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Your excursion begins with a scenic drive southward along the coast to Sorrento, where you visit one of the agriturismo farmhouses that populate this region of Campania. See an olive press at work turning the fruit into EVOO; watch as Campania DOP buffalo mozzarella is made; and then attend a pizza making class, followed by a lunch of bruschetta, olives, wine, and the pizza you have made, and finished with a taste of the limoncello liqueur for which Sorrento is famous.
On the return to Naples, stop in Pompeii, to explore its fabled archaeological site, the result a catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D., which buried the city under a dense layer of ash and pumice, at the same time preserving buildings and artifacts that reveal the beauty and grandeur of Pompeii's public spaces, temples and villas.
Pompeii was a prosperous provincial city with a population of perhaps 20,000, and served as a retreat for wealthy patricians escaping the turmoil of Rome. Following Vesuvius's eruption, the site was left buried until the middle of the 18th century, when treasure hunters discovered how much of the city had been preserved. Excavations begun then continue to this day, and new sites and artifacts are constantly being uncovered. Your guided tour will pass through grand houses designed around an inner garden and decorated with mosaics and frescoes. You will discover ancient baths, temples, theatres, markets, and a huge forum. You will encounter plaster casts of the bodies of men, women, children, and animals, who died in the cataclysm. And you will see inscriptions on walls everywhere: notices of wine sales, apartment vacancies and upcoming theater performances and gladiator fights, as well as political slogans, personal love notes, and invitations to sexual encounters.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
This walking tour along Spaccanapoli—the long and straight main street that runs through Naples's historic city center—includes Piazza del Gesù, the center of this UNESCO World Heritage site; Piazza San Domenico Maggiore and the 13th-century church of the same name; and San Gregorio Armeno, famous for the beautifully crafted nativity scenes produced by the artisans whose shops line the street.
But the real purpose of strolling through these areas it to taste some of the marvelous street foods for which Naples is known. Moving from piazza to piazza, you will sample Neapolitan cuoppo, paper cones filled with a variety of fried foods (fish, mozzarella, zucchini, eggplant, potato, etc.) accompanied by a beer or soft drink; Pizza a portafoglio (wallet pizza) a small pie, folded over on itself and wrapped in paper so that it can eaten while standing or walking; and Sfogliatella, the iconic Neapolitan pastry shell of many layers of thin, flaky dough filled with a mixture of ricotta, semolina, and lemon zest.
After this culinary indulgence, enjoy a bit of time at leisure for independent exploration and shopping before returning to the pier and your ship.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Set out on a comprehensive exploration of Rome's iconic landmarks, from the ancient grandeur of the Colosseum to the charming beauty of its squares and fountains.
From the pier in Civitavecchia, meet your guide and transfer 90 minutes to Rome. Upon arrival in Rome, journey back to the days of the Gladiators with a visit to the incredible and imposing Colosseum, also known as Flavian Amphitheater. Learn about its history, architecture, and the events that took place within its walls. Enter this elliptical amphitheater, still the largest in the world, and see hundreds of rows of marble seats, at one point accommodating up to 55,000 spectators for fierce Gladiatorial games. Discover the long neglected subterranean passageways and holding chambers used by the competitors.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then drive to the city center to start your walking tour of the Eternal City. Stroll through Piazza di Spagna and admire the Spanish Steps, then proceed to Trevi Fountain where you’ll get the opportunity to toss a coin and ensure your return to the Eternal City. Proceed to the Pantheon (outside only) and marvel at its impressive dome. Conclude your walking tour at Piazza Navona, known for its exquisite fountains and Baroque architecture. Reboard your coach and return to Civitavecchia, reflecting on the day's experiences and sights.
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Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Set out on an immersive exploration of Vatican City's cultural treasures, followed by leisure time in Rome for shopping and personal exploration.
From the pier in Civitavecchia, meet your guide and transfer 90 minutes to Rome. Explore the Vatican Museums, home to an extraordinary collection of artworks spanning centuries. Marvel at masterpieces by renowned artists as you journey through the museum's galleries. Visit the Sistine Chapel, renowned for Michelangelo's breathtaking frescoes, including the iconic "Last Judgment."
After lunch at a local restaurant, continue your tour by walking to St. Peter's Square, where you'll admire the grand colonnade, symbolizing the far-reaching embrace of the Catholic Church. Visit St. Peter's Basilica and wonder at its Italian High Renaissance architecture and three-aisled Latin cross.
Depart from Vatican City and drive through Rome to Piazza del Popolo (The People’s Square). Enjoy some free time for shopping and self-exploration in the city center. Meet your guide and return to Civitavecchia by coach.
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Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.
Enjoy a delightful blend of culinary exploration and leisure time in the Eternal City.
From the pier in Civitavecchia, meet your guide and transfer 90 minutes to Rome. Begin your three-hour culinary tour in the historic city center. Explore the narrow streets of Rome's historic district, starting at Via del Portico d'Ottavia in the Jewish Quarter. Sample delicacies such as fried codfish and Pizza Bianca with mortadella, accompanied by a glass of local wine.
Continue your culinary adventure at Campo de Fiori, a bustling food market known for its seasonal delicacies. Sample more local specialties and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the market.
After your food tour, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore the city on your own. Then, meet your guide in the late afternoon and return to Civitavecchia by coach.
Inbegriffen
Preise je nach Verfügbarkeit, gelten pro Person. Vorreservierung ab zwei Monaten bis sieben Tage vor Beginn der Kreuzfahrt direkt bei Ihrem PONANT Reiseberater oder über Ihr Reisebüro, je nach Verfügbarkeit.On this post-cruise you will extend your encounter with Italian history and cuisine from Sicily and the south into the heart of Tuscany—exploring iconic monuments of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance from a home base in one of Italy's most elegant resorts. Visit or revisit the Renaissance glories of Florence and the medieval architecture of Siena and San Gimignano during the daytime, and retreat to the comforts of Castello del Nero in the evenings. Lunches are taken at award-winning organic farms and wineries, while dinners are at the hotel, including the farewell dinner at Michelin-starred La Torre.
Day 1 – Livorno | Florence | Castello del Trebbio | Castello del Nero Hotel & Spa
After breakfast aboard, enjoy a drive through Tuscany to Florence, where you will be met by an expert guide for a walking tour of the city's most important landmarks. Begin at the Piazza del Duomo, site of the massive Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, whose dome, built by Brunelleschi, is the defining feature of the Florentine skyline. Also in the Piazza are Giotto's Bell Tower and the Baptistery, whose famous doors, known as the "Gates of Paradise," were designed by Lorenzo Ghiberti.
Continue to the Piazza della Signoria, the historical political center of Florence. In addition to the city's town hall (Palazzo Vecchio), Piazza della Signoria is also an open-air museum of sculpture, including Cellini’s Perseus holding up the head of Medusa, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabine Women, and a replica of Michelangelo’s David.
A short walk brings you to Ponte Vecchio, the only bridge in Florence to escape destruction during World War II. Today, it continues to host goldsmiths and silversmiths and their shops, as it has since the 17th century.
The final stop on your guided tour is Piazza di Santa Croce and the Franciscan Basilica that dominates this large square. Built by a succession of famous Florentine architects including Brunelleschi, Vasari, Giotto and Donatello, it is also the burial site for Michelangelo, Machiavelli, and Galileo.
Lunch at the Hotel Brunelleschi is followed by a scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside to reach Castello del Trebbio, a winery and agritourism estate in the heart of the Chianti Rufina region. Following a guided tour of the castle's medieval cellars, enjoy a tasting of wines from the vineyard before completing the day's journey at Castello del Nero Hotel & Spa, situated in the rolling hills of Tuscany halfway between Florence and Siena.
Dinner this evening is at the hotel's Pavilion restaurant, overlooking the spectacular hills, vineyards and olive groves of the castle.
Day 2 – Castello del Nero Hotel & Spa | Siena | San Gimignano | Castello del Nero Hotel & Spa
After your breakfast in the hotel, join your guide for a brief drive to Siena, often described as Italy's best-preserved medieval city. Your guided tour of this lovely hilltop town begins with a visit to the Church of San Domenico, founded in 1125 and closely identified with St. Catherine of Siena. Her chapel here features frescoes by the 16th-century artist Giovanni Antonio Bazzi, Il Sodoma. Continue to the spectacular Gothic-Romanesque Piazza del Duomo, home to Siena's massive Cathedral, which was built between 1136 and 1382 on the site of an ancient Roman temple. At Piazza del Campo, one of Italy's most beautiful squares, you will be surrounded by elegant palaces, before ending your tour at Palazzo Pubblico, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that continues to serve as the Town Hall, where you will enjoy some time at leisure.
Depart Siena and drive toward San Gimignano, stopping along the way at Fattoria Poggio Alloro for lunch. The estate, which is dedicated to strictly organic agriculture, is famous for its traditional Tuscan cuisine, almost all of which is made from the produce of the farm itself.
After lunch, proceed to the walled hilltop of San Gimignano, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1990 because of its "feudal atmosphere and appearance," which it owes in large part to 14 medieval towers, built partly as fortification, and partly as a demonstration of the wealth of their owners. This afternoon, you will have ample time to explore the city center on your own, long after the large crowds of tourists have gone.
Return to your hotel, where dinner this evening is in the Michelin-starred restaurant La Torre.
Day 3 – Castello del Nero Hotel & Spa | Homeward
Start the day with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before transferring by coach to Florence airport for flights homeward.
Your hotel:
Castello Del Nero is situated among the rolling hills of Tuscany, in the world-famous Chianti wine region. The hotel's 50 rooms are spacious— some with original eighteenth-century frescoes—overlooking the surrounding hills, woods, and lawns. There are three dining venues at Castello Del Nero: Michelin-starred La Torre, casual La Taverna, and the 'al fresco' Pavilion. Each dining venue uses carefully sourced produce from around the Tuscan region, which is showcased in nourishing, flavorful menus.
Your program includes:
Your program does not include:
Please note:
Hotel contact information:
COMO Castello del Nero Hotel & Spa
Strada Spicciano 7,
50028 Barberino Tavarnelle,
Tuscany, Italy
Phone: +39 055 806470
Email: castellodelnero@comohotels.com
Gesamtpreis inkl. Steuern- und Gebühren : € 3'320
Preis pro Person auf Basis einer Doppelkabine. Dieser Preis gilt vorbehaltlich Verfügbarkeit.