Sirena - May 25, 2024

Civitavecchia is just moments from Rome, Italy's Eternal City. One of the most geographically perfect ports in the world, Civitavecchia boasts a number of compelling area attractions. Stroll through the streets of the medieval town of Tarquinia. View the resplendent Madonnina at the Resort of Pantano.

From Livorno, your path leads through the rolling green hills of Tuscany to Florence, the flower of the Renaissance. The creative explosion happened right here, with masterworks by Michelangelo, Brunelleschi and Botticelli now landmarks of daily life. Ufizzi, Academmia, il Duomo: the art treasures of a golden age are commonplace to blessed Florentines. Livorno also serves as the gateway to Pisa, home of the famous leaning tower.

Often called the "Pearl of the Riviera," this charming hideaway on the Ligurian Sea is a favorite vacation spot of many wealthy Europeans. Once a quiet fishing village, Portofino is now best known for its chic boutiques, wonderful outdoor restaurants, and beachside cliffs that are speckled with pastel-colored villas. An optional day trip by boat lets you explore the picturesque coastline villages of Paraggi and Santa Margherita.

The world's most famous casino (a must see even if you do not gamble), glittering nightlife, first-class dining and shopping, make it one of the world's most glamorous destinations. The casino is an elaborate Italianate structure capped by four towers and a copper-tin roof.

The most populated city in France after Paris, Marseille has all the sights and sounds of a Mediterranean melting pot, which it has been ever since the Phocaean Greeks invaded around 600 B.C. Its industrial docks rub shoulders with the picturesque old harbor, the Vieux Port, founded by the Greeks 2,600 years ago. Packed with colorful fishing boats and yachts, the Vieux Port is the heart of Marseille.

Barcelona is the cultural heartland of Spain, yet its first language is Catalan, the native tongue of the proudly independent Catalonia region. Stroll down the shady, tree-lined Ramblas between street musicians and elegant bistros. Then perhaps visit the venerable Gothic cathedral, Picasso Museum or enjoy the architectural genius of Antonio Gaudi's Church of the Holy Family.

A Mediterranean port, Alicante has exports of wine, oil, cereals, fruit, and esparto from the fertile surrounding region. Metallurgical and chemical industries as well as fishing and waterfront tourism are important. The Romans had a naval base on the site. The town was permanently recaptured from the Moors about 1250.

The city of Almeria is located at the foot of a mountain range which is crowned by the magnificent Alcazaba, an Arab fortress built by the Calph of Cordoba. Almeria was a port of influx of ancient civilisations. Its Phoenician name was - Uci, Its Roman name was - Portus Magnus and its Moorish name was - "Almeriya", until it was conquered by Ferdinand and Isabella in 1489. True historians will appreciate the Almeria Museum which contains numerous objects discovered by the well-known Belgian mining engineer, Louis Siret.

The "Gateway to Africa," located at its northwestern tip, Tangier is a fashionable resort that retains all of its age-old mystery and excitement. French and Islamic influences meet and merge in this fascinating old city. Mosques and minarets overlook the shadowy streets of the bazaar, while the higher part of town, with its broad boulevards and lovely parks, looks down on the ocean.

In Portimao, a fishing port since Roman times, you can sample fresh local seafood in harborside cafes, climb among huge, oddly-shaped rocks carved by waves or journey to Sagres, where Prince Henry's school of navigation still stands on a rocky promontory pointing toward the beckoning Atlantic.

Lisbon is many cities, from the cobbled alleys of the Alfama district to the broad Parisian style avenues at its heart. View it all from the heights of St. George's Castle. Belem's Monument to the Discoveries recalls the seafaring past, while nearby Sintra's storybook palaces, and the seaside resort of Caiscais, have different tales to tell.

The walled inner town of St. Malo dominates the view as you sail into the harbour of this historic city, making this ancient naval port one of France's top tourist attractions. It is possible to walk the perimeter of the inner town on the ramparts on top of the walls. The walk not only gives fine views of St. Malo itself but also up the valley of the Rance towards Dinard and out over the numerous off shore islets.

Falmouth is located in the Carrick district of Cornwall, England. The town is perched on a peninsula, and has long been an important center of trade. Falmouth is a popular resort and sailing area, boasting sandy beaches, fair climate, and a spacious harbor. Try to swim the width of the English Channel, if you dare.

Arriving at Waterford is spectacular. It is a big event for this small town and the people warmly welcome you. Tour its famous crystal factory and watch how it's done. Or, enjoy a drive across Ireland's scenic countryside.

Discover the relics of old Ireland on a port call to Dun Laoghaire, located only 15 minutes from Dublin. In Dublin, visit Trinity College and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Tour the emerald countryside of Portmamock, and visit nearby Malahide Castle, or see the magnificent Powerscourt Estate in County Wicklow. Save time, too, for Dublin's colorful pubs, or a visit to the world-renowned Guinness brewery.