Experience 5 star luxury cruising aboard the elegant Queen Victoria to the most romantic locations across the West Med, featuring Barcelona, Naples & Amalfi Coast, French Riviera, Tuscany (Florence, Pisa, Livorno), Sicily, Corsica, Mallorca, Valencia and Sardinia. These 9 incredible ports-of-call and an enchanting stay in Rome will live with you forever. Experience Cunard’s legendary luxury aboard the sophisticated Queen Victoria. Escape the everyday on this much-loved cruise liner and immerse yourself in superior levels of refinement. Celebrate the ancient history of the Roman Empire and live the Roman dolce vita with a stay in the historic centre of Rome and a tour. Live the cultured Spanish good-life in extraordinary Barcelona. Fall in love with Naples and the glamorous Amalfi Coast; encounter Mount Vesuvius volcano and excavated Pompeii. Surrender to the allure of the French Riviera and its glamorous coastline. Immerse yourself in the visual and culinary delights of France’s famous Provence region (Marseille and Toulon). Indulge in the visual and culinary delights of Italy’s remarkable Tuscany region and the magic of Florence, Pisa, Livorno or Cinque Terre. Enjoy a seductive Sicilian adventure. Lose yourself in the dreamy French Mediterranean island of Corsica, with its Italian feel. Be spellbound by Spain’s dazzling Balearic Islands and Mallorca. Explore the Spanish capital Madrid, captivating Valencia or San Jose Caves. Explore the dazzling charm and captivating history of Alghero, Sardinia's seaside jewel. Experience 5 star luxury onboard this iconic ship. Everything is included in this amazing value package, premium luxury cruise, flights, Rome hotel, Rome touring and personalised transfers. Themes include: Europe, Europe Cruise, Mediterranean, Lazio, Madrid, Catalonia, Departs from Rome, Ocean Cruise, Returns from Naples. + Show more

Package Includes

Return international flights to Rome (premium airline)
15 Day Mediterranean Cruise (9 ports of call)
3 Nights Rome hotel (superior 4 star)
Rome flexi-tour
Meet and greet personalised return transfers (port, hotel and airport)
Relaxed boutique sized luxury ship (Queen Victoria, 1035 cabins)
Sophisticated cosmopolitan cruising
All meals onboard the Queen Victoria
Includes daytime activities, evening entertainment, Broadway style big shows, unlimited snacks

Highlights

Rome (Civitavecchia, Italy) Barcelona (Spain) Sicily (Messina, Italy) Naples (Italy) Amalfi Coast & Pompeii (Italy) Tuscany, Florence & Pisa (Livorno, Italian Riviera) Marseille (Toulon, France) Mallorca (Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain) Valencia & Madrid (Spain) Sardinia (Alghero, Italy) Corsica (Ajaccio, France)

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Descriptions

Amazing Experiences

• Stay in the historic centre of Rome with flexi-tour

• Be energised by the eternal city of Rome

• Cultured Spanish good-life of Barcelona

• Dazzling Amalfi Coast, Naples, Pompeii & Capri

• Glamorous French Riviera

• France’s famous Provençe region (Toulon, Marseille)

• Italy's treasured Tuscany region (Florence, Pisa, Livorno)

• Italy’s alluring Sicily

• Dreamy French Mediterranean island of Corsica

• Spain’s spectacular Mallorca (Balearic Islands)

• Sophisticated Madrid & Valencia

• Sardinia’s history & azure waters (Alghero)

• Cruise the Strait of Messina (between Sicily and Calabria)

• Cunard Queen Victoria legendary 5 star luxury

DAY 1 Depart Australia for Italy

Today we depart for Rome, Italy. Fly on a premium award-winning airline like Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Etihad Airways, Emirates, Qantas or British Airways (subject to availability). Enjoy the attentive cabin service, regular meals and onboard entertainment system.

DAY 2 Arrive in Rome

You will be personally met at Rome Airport by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to your central Rome hotel. You can relax and use the rest of the day to explore your hotel and its facilities, perhaps take a stroll around this iconic city.

Home to more World Heritage protected cultural sites than any other country on Earth, Italy’s immense cultural wealth is beautifully complemented by its stunning landscapes, iconic cuisine, sophisticated cityscapes and unparalleled collection of classical art. Epicentre of the Roman empire and birthplace of the Renaissance, ancient monuments permeate contemporary Italian landscapes, from the canals of Venice to the golden shores of Sicily.

Meet and greet personalised arrival transfer, overnight Rome hotel

DAY 3 Tour Rome

Your first two full days in Rome are flexi-tours, so you can tour at your own pace, visiting places of most interest to you. Relax into Rome time with a choice of included touring options to suit your mood.

Feel the energy and excitement of the eternal city of Rome. Italy’s hot-blooded capital is one of the world’s most romantic and charismatic cities. Immerse yourself in its vibrant fashionable street life, ancient monuments and awe-inspiring art. Ancient icons such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon recall the city’s golden age as the capital of the world, while monumental basilicas and picturesque piazzas compete with baroque facades and neighbourhood trattoria speak to the cities unrivalled complexity. Embrace the thoroughly intoxicating contemporary chic Roman lifestyle.

Your flexi-tour includes a circular driving tour, stay on for the whole tour enjoying our guide’s entertaining commentary or get-off at any one of 8 incredible stops and re-join our next circular tour bus at your leisure. It also includes our special digital walking tours.

Discover the Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Colosseum, Vatican City, Roman Forum, Piazza Navona and and Trevi Fountain (coins at the ready). Explore Rome’s 3,000 year old cityscape, adorned with historic art and abuzz with modern culture. The city is awash with priceless treasures. Ancient statues adorn world-class museums; Byzantine mosaics and Renaissance frescoes dazzle in art-rich churches; baroque facades flank medieval piazzas; impressive fountains add a baroque flourish to the city's captivating streets. Discover the simple pleasures of Roman life.

The circular hop-on hop-off tour and our special digital walking tours are included – so tour as much as you like or simply take it easy.

Coach tour, overnight Rome hotel

DAY 4 Explore Rome

Make the most of your second flexi-tour today to discover more of Rome.

You’ll be spoilt for choice with compelling attractions like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Vatican City, The Pantheon, Arch of Constantine, Roman Forum, Centro Storico, Santa Maria Maggiore, Piazza Navona, Villa Borghese Gallery and Gardens, the Catacombs and Via Appia Antica. Maybe experience some of the best shopping in Europe, browsing stylish Roman boutiques or relax with an espresso.

A visit to Rome is as much about lapping up the dolce vita lifestyle as gorging on art and culture. Idling around picturesque streets, whiling away hours at streetside cafes and people-watching on pretty piazzas are all central to the Roman experience. One of Rome’s great joys is losing yourself in the narrow cobblestone streets that make up Centro Storico.

In the evening, fashionable people descend on the city’s bars and cafes for a sociable aperitivo (drink with snacks) and trattorias hum with activity. Eating out is one of Rome's great pleasures and the combination of romantic alfresco settings and superlative food is a guarantee of good times. For a truly Roman meal, head to a boisterous pizzeria or neighbourhood trattoria. To finish off, what can beat a gelato followed by a shot of world-beating coffee?

The circular hop-on hop-off tour and our special digital walking tours are included. Our special digital walking tours can include tours like: ‘Rome of the Emperors', 'Secret Rome', 'Squares & Fountains' and 'La Dolce Vita'.

Coach tour, overnight Rome hotel

DAY 5 Board Queen Victoria

This morning you will be transferred to the port of Civitavecchia to board the iconic Queen Victoria. Experience Cunard’s ultimate 5 star cruise experience, aboard this sophisticated cruise liner. Queen Victoria will delight you with her special appeal, where elegance and unique features combine flawlessly with outstanding hospitality.

Step aboard Cunard's Queen Victoria and immerse yourself in an environment where luxury and tradition blend seamlessly. With her sophisticated décor, sumptuous dining options and expansive facilities, Queen Victoria offers an experience unlike any other. Indulge in the tranquillity of the Royal Spa, enjoy evenings of dazzling entertainment in the Royal Court Theatre and savour gourmet cuisine across an array of elegant restaurants. Her attentive crew is dedicated to providing impeccable service and ensuring every moment of your voyage is perfect. From the majestic grandeur of the Queen's Room ballroom to the intimate charm of the Commodore Club, Queen Victoria sets the stage for a truly unforgettable voyage. Explore the ship as we set sail through the sparkling Mediterranean, north along the Italian coast through the intoxicatingly blue Ligurian Sea.

Meet and greet personalised transfer, dinner, overnight Queen Victoria

DAY 6 Explore Tuscany, Florence & Pisa (Livorno, Italian Riviera)

Your Tuscan adventure starts early today. Discover this magical region, with the opportunity to experience jewels like Florence, Pisa and Cinque Terre.

Made famous by numerous great painters, Tuscany is the essence of old Italy. Birthplace of Renaissance art and architecture and famous for its olive oil, wine and artisan pasta, its lyrical landscapes will leave you mesmerised. Golden wheat fields, enchanting olive groves and undulating vineyards adorn the hillsides and valleys, as medieval hilltop villages soar up from amidst the cypress trees.

Perhaps journey through Tuscany’s iconic countryside to its famous capital city of Florence. It’s the cradle of the Renaissance culture, it’s romantic, enchanting and completely irresistible. Learn about the legacy of the Medicis and see the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, featuring Michelangelo’s ‘David’. See the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Ponte Vecchio. Perhaps witness the legendary 800 year old Leaning Tower of Pisa. At Cinque Terre, colourful houses and vineyards cling to steep terraces along some of the most dramatic coastal scenery on the planet. Made up of five ingeniously constructed fishing villages, harbours are filled with fishing boats and trattorias turn out seafood specialties along with the Liguria region’s famous sauce, pesto. Or simply relax within the heart of Livorno as it whispers tales of maritime adventures. Stand watch at the Old Fortress, cruise the Venice Quarter, stroll the charming waterfront promenade, try a slice of Italian life at the Central Market or delve into a delicious bowl of Caccciucco (fish stew).

Arrive into Livorno at 7am for a full day before setting sail again at 7pm. You can spend an exciting day exploring Tuscany your own way or take an optional tour like Florence At Your Leisure ($147), Full Day Tuscan Countryside and Wine Tasting ($337), Florence and Pisa ($337), Lucca and Pisa On Your Own ($82), Discover Livorno and Bolgheri Wine Experience ($241), Fascinating Florence with a Tuscan Tasting ($97), Pisa At Your Leisure ($120), Private Tuscany Cycling Tour ($400), Private Pisa and Cinque Terre ($360), Private Siena and San Gimignano Highlights Tour ($135) or Private Volterra and San Gimignano Highlights Tour ($135).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight Queen Victoria

DAY 8 Explore French Riviera & Provençe (Toulon, France)

Our next port-of-call is in the glamourous French Riviera and the quintessential French region of Provençe. They are alluring, sun-drenched and seductive. You can choose to explore Toulon, Provence, Marseille (France’s second city) or find your own special spot on the French Riviera (Côte d'Azur).

Founded by the Greeks over two and a half millennia ago, Marseille is a unique port city set amidst the lyrical landscapes of France’s Provençal region. Exuberantly multicultural, this is a city of vibrant and colourful culture, history, seaside castles and neo-Byzantine churches, where fishmongers sell their catch along the boat-lined quay of the Vieux-Port; the spectacular hilltop basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde towering overhead.

Provence seems to sum up everything enviable about the French lifestyle: fantastic food, hilltop villages, legendary wines, bustling markets and a balmy climate. Provence is renowned for its stunning variety of landscapes - from fields of lavender, ancient olive groves, clifftop roads, maquis-cloaked hills to snow-tipped mountains. The flavours of Provence are irresistible, where cuisine has truly become an all-consuming passion.

Nestled along the sparkling French Riviera, Toulon is a hidden gem bathed in the warm, golden light of the Provencal sun. Its bustling harbour is brimming with graceful yachts and historic naval vessels, while the vibrant market of Cours Lafayette evokes a sense of rustic charm that is uniquely French.

Arrive into Toulon at 7am for a full day before setting sail again at 7pm. You can spend an exciting day exploring Toulon, Provence or Marseille your own way or take an optional tour like Private Bandol Country ($205), Private Half-Day of Marseille ($151), Private Hyeres, Le Lavando and Saint Tropez ($88) or Private Provence: Le Castellet, Cassis and Marseille ($84).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight Queen Victoria

DAY 10 Explore Mallorca (Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain)

Cruise through postcard perfect Balearic Islands, a stunning archipelago off eastern Spain, to Mallorca. A Mediterranean island paradise of breathtaking beauty and diversity, Mallorca boasts a sun-drenched patchwork of mountain scenery, hilltop monasteries and medieval towns with an exquisite coastline of white sand beaches and picture perfect azure coves. Beyond the charming hinterland and postcard bays, the capital city of Palma de Mallorca provides a delightful dose of culture and architecture with a magnificent Gothic Cathedral as its centrepiece.

The town of Palma is visually magnificent, culturally spoiled, historically fascinating, geographically blessed and a playground of the elite. Explore the crooked medieval streets lined with aristocratic mansions; galleries packed with the work of renowned artists; a broad bay bristling with the masts of splendid yachts; restaurants mixing it with the great innovators of modern Spanish food; and endless acres of shopping.

Arrive into Mallorca at 8am before setting sail again at 6pm. You can spend a wonderful full day exploring Palma your own way or perhaps take one of the optional tours like Adventure Trekking ($163), Private Caves of Drach and Porto Cristo ($147), Private Discover Palma and Cathedral ($54), Private Jewish Majorca Discovery ($103), Private Palma on Foot and by Boat ($85), Private Secrets of Jewish Majorca Walking Tour ($142), Private Soller and Valldemosa ($88) or Private Valley of Soller and Palma ($88).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight Queen Victoria

DAY 11 Explore Valencia or Madrid (Spain)

Today you could discover the sophistication of the Spanish capital Madrid, surround yourself in the traditions of captivating Valencia or explore Albufera National Park, a vast freshwater lagoon and estuary with spectacular wildlife and the San Jose Caves. Immerse yourself further in Spanish sophistication, passion and devotion to living the good life, where food and wine are a national obsession.

The cosmopolitan city of Madrid exudes passionate Spanish spirit. It is renowned for its vibrant creative culture, innovative cuisine and legendary nightlife, Madrid is home to a vivacious metropolitan lifestyle and some of the finest art galleries in Europe. This sophisticated city boasts imperial architecture, bustling plazas, vibrant street markets, plentiful rooftop bars, luscious green parks and seriously good museums. It’s a mesmerising fusion of tradition and history blended with modern urban living. Madrid is not only one of Europe’s most popular cities, it has evolved into one of its richest culinary capitals. This is the late-night city of Dalí and Hemingway, Ronaldo and Picasso. Madrid carries one simple message - this city really knows how to live. Discover the grand boulevard of Paseo del Prado , the renowned Plaza de Cibeles or the Calle de Alcalá (Madrid's longest street) as well as the Gran Vía and the centrally located Plaza de España on your way to San Miguel Market. Enjoy a pleasant stroll to see some of the city's other main highlights - pass through the Plaza Mayor - Madrid's beating heart - and the Calle de Santiago. See the Calle Mayor (main street), Puerta del Sol square in Madrid's historical centre and the adjoining Carrera de San Jerónimo as well as the elegant Plaza de Atocha, Avenida Barcelona and the Calle del Méndez Álvaro.

Today you could explore Valencia, Spain’s third largest city, a magnificent mix of grand old architecture and remarkable futuristic structures. A city of captivating contrasts and birthplace of the original Paella Valenciana, Valencia is part oldtown, part 21st century metropolis; always innovating yet fiercely proud of its history and traditions. The inner city is made up of an eclectic collection of Modernist, Gothic and Romanesque architecture and an assortment of trendy inner-city neighborhoods, while the picture-perfect old town retains its quaint Mediterranean charm. Perhaps admire the futuristic stylings of the City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de las Artes y Ciencias) straight out of a sci-fi film. Be astounded by the contrast as you approach the magnificent Valencia Cathedral ‘Our Lady of Valencia’, consecrated in 1238. Admire the ornate architecture uniting Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles - pause to marvel at the statues, the decorations, the mesmerising painted ceiling, and the frescoes adorning the chapels. Maybe visit Our Lady of the Forsaken Basilica, a 17th-century inspiration featuring a spectacular domed ceiling with stunning frescoes and breathe in the splendour of Valencia’s magnificent squares and beautiful avenues as you soak up the city’s spellbinding energy.

Albufera National Park is a natural wonderland - a vast freshwater lagoon and estuary in a protected wildlife park where you can perhaps partake in a leisurely boat ride across the glistening waters, gliding past rice fields, beaches and a Mediterranean pine forest. Be delighted by the local wildlife including flamingos, stilts, herons and terns. Perhaps visit the spectacular San José Caves, a spellbinding geological wonder – the world's longest navigable underground river, the San José, flows through this huge cave complex which can be explored via a small boat into the various chambers of these spectacular caves.

Arrive into bustling Valencia at 8am for a day of discovery before setting sail again at 6pm. You can spend an extraordinary day exploring glorious Valencia or passionate Madrid your own way or perhaps take an optional tour like Valencia and Sagunto Highlights ($163) or Private Half Day Valencia ($37).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight Queen Victoria

DAY 12 Explore Barcelona (Spain)

It’s easy to see why visitors fall in love with this enchanting beach city filled with remarkable architecture and a boundless cultural scene. Recognised as one of the most attractive cities in Europe, the Catalan capital has a cosmopolitan international vibe. There is so much to do and see - museums, the 'Old Town', art galleries, sun-drenched beaches, incredible cafes and some of the best shopping in Europe. The renewed Park Guell features the spectacular quirky design typical of Anton Gaudi all with panoramic city views.

Barcelona's architectural treasures span 2000-plus years, but many of its more modern additions are it’s most famous. The Modernisme movement and Antoni Gaudí’s has greatly influenced the face of Barcelona architecture. Barcelona’s bright light and mood has also long inspired artists, including Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró (with major museums here devoted to their works).

You’ll savour mealtime. The Catalan region has a long and celebrated tradition of cooking with simple, flavourful ingredients like seafood and jamón (cured ham) which are transformed into remarkable delicacies often served in spectacular settings. Maybe learn how to prepare the perfect paella and mix the tastiest sangria in a cooking class.

Make the most of this exciting city. Perhaps relax at the famous city beaches, shop at La Boqueria market (still bustling since medieval times), ride the cable car to the castle, experience FC Barcelona soccer at Camp Nou or maybe eat Tapas and dance Flamenco!

Arrive into Barcelona at 7am before setting sail again at 6pm. You can spend an exciting day exploring Barcelona your own way or perhaps take an optional tour like Barcelona Highlights ($105), Park Guell and Sagrada Familia with Tower ($210), Barcelona by Land, Sea and Air ($120), Barcelona & Montserrat ($223), Montserrat Morning Tour ($127), Secret Food Tour in Barcelona ($183), Gothic Walking Tour ($60), Cava, Tapas, and Barcelona Vineyard ($165) or Montserrat Monastery and Farmhouse with Lunch ($247).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight Queen Victoria

DAY 14 Explore Sardinia (Alghero, Italy)

Sardinia, a true Mediterranean gem, unfolds in a tapestry of rugged landscapes, turquoise waters and ancient traditions. The Emerald Coast beckons with pristine beaches and glamorous resorts, while the ancient streets of Cagliari whisper tales of Phoenician and Roman legends. Nestled on the island’s rugged coastline, magnificent Alghero is a captivating blend of azure seas and golden sands with its labyrinth of cobblestone streets echoing secrets of the Catalan past. Medieval walls encircle the Old Town, creating an incredible backdrop for its Gothic architecture and vibrant piazzas. The aroma of freshly caught seafood and local culinary delights wafts through the air, inviting you to indulge in the rich tapestry of flavours.

Perhaps meander through the cobbled streets of this medieval port town (lined with vibrant buildings, shops and eateries) or explore the imposing Alghero Cathedral. You could discover the wonders of Cape Caccia (sheer cliffs scattered with marine caves) including Neptune's Grotto (a mesmerising excursion into a world of stalactites and stalagmites) or be awestruck by the stunning beaches of Le Bombarde and Lazzaretto (crystal-clear waters and soft golden sands). Maybe indulge in a local wine tasting tour, experiencing the region’s famed Vermentino and Cannonau wines or enjoy a hike or bike ride in the Porto Conte Regional Park, a haven of biodiversity.

Arrive into Alghero at 7am before setting sail again at 6pm. You can spend a wonderful full day exploring Sardinia or perhaps take one of the optional tours like Alghero & Bosa (105), Church of San Francesco & Nuraghe Palmavera ($85), Castelsardo ($90), Cruise of the Gulf of Alghero ($165), Easy Alghero & Cape Caccia ($110) or Cape Caccia & Wine Tasting ($145).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight Queen Victoria

DAY 15 Explore Corsica (Ajaccio, France)

Corsica is a dreamy Mediterranean island that will awaken your senses and leave you feeling truly alive. With its rugged mountains, crystal-clear waters and unspoiled natural beauty, Corsica is a place of contrasts and contradictions that will surprise and delight you at every turn. Birthplace of Napoléon Bonaparte, the island’s capital of Ajaccio sits proudly on the golden sands of the west coast - its trendy waterfront promenades giving way to the distinctive ancient laneways that make up the old town.

Part of France since 1768, Corsica retains a distinctly Italian feel. The island's dramatic coastline is a sight to behold, with rugged cliffs that plunge into the deep blue sea with hidden coves inviting you to explore. The beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world, with powdery sand and warm turquoise waters perfect for swimming. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Ajaccio, the crown jewel of Corsica, and let your senses be swept away. Unwind in the tranquil cobalt blue waters or walk along the cobblestone streets of the old town where vibrant colours and a vivacious culture collide - while the grand Ajaccio Cathedral highlights the enchanting atmosphere that will captivate your heart. History and heritage permeate Ajaccio – perhaps take a trip through time to learn more about Napoléon Bonaparte - the legend and his legacy. The island's interior is a wild and untamed landscape, with snow-capped mountains, dense forests and rolling hills. You can explore hidden valleys, discover ancient monuments, and marvel at the breathtaking views from the island's highest peaks. Corsica is also a place of culture and history, with a rich heritage that is evident in the island's architecture, cuisine, and way of life. Taste the island's famous charcuterie and cheeses, which are renowned throughout France and beyond. But perhaps the most magical thing about Corsica is the way it touches the soul. The island's rugged beauty and unspoiled landscapes have a way of inspiring and rejuvenating the spirit, filling you with a sense of wonder and awe.

Arrive into Ajaccio at 8am for a full day before setting sail again at 6pm. You can spend an exciting day exploring the beautiful island of Corsica your own way or take an optional tour like City Tour ($81), Sightseeing Tour Around Vizzavona Forest ($76), A walk Through History & Napoleon’s Heritage ($60), Corsican Flavours ($116) or Views of Corsica by Helicopter ($349).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight Queen Victoria

DAY 17 Explore Sicily (Messina, Italy)

Today embark on your Sicilian adventure and be seduced by this gorgeous island. Acclaimed by poets and prized by ancient civilisations, the island of Sicily and its dazzling diversity is remarkably beautiful; golden sand beaches, towering mountains and ancient cultural treasures stand watch over some of the Mediterranean’s most pristine waters.

Messina greets you with true Sicilian hues glowing golden against the glistening Ionian Sea and it’s sweeping boulevards of ornate turn-of-the-century buildings. Explore the nearby stunning coastal towns and villages, like trendy Taormina, and the famed active volcano of Mount Etna. Immerse yourself in the Sicilian culture, natural beauty and ancient historical sites.

Founded by the Greeks, this thriving town also exudes the influences of Roman, Byzantine and Arab empires. See the typical local feluccas boats going up and down the Strait catching massive swordfish. Messina’s specialties of swordfish, cannolo with ricotta and granita are celebrated by connoisseurs across Italy, experience their famous lemon granita (shaved ice) or mezza con panna al caffè. Local seafood delicacies don’t get any fresher than at Ganzirri.

Taormina is spectacularly perched on the side of a mountain. It’s one of Sicily's most popular summer destinations, a chic town popular with affluent travellers and those wanting a taste of Sicilian dolce vita. It’s magical, mythical atmosphere has enchanted famous visitors from all over the world for a century. See its Greek-Roman theatre, wander along the perfectly preserved Medieval streets, admire its dramatic views of Mount Etna and live the Sicilian dream.

Sicily is presided over by Mount Etna, Europe's tallest and most active volcano and a focal point of Greek Mythology. It’s an incredible place to visit, with an impressive cable-car. At 3326m, it dominates Sicily’s landscape with a massive brooding presence.

Arrive into Messina at 8am for a full day of discovery before setting sail again at 6pm. You can spend a fascinating day exploring incredible Sicily your own way or perhaps take an optional tour like Taormina and the Blue Grotto ($258), Castelmola and Taormina ($148), Highlights of Taormina and Castelmola ($148), Best of Taormina ($133), Taormina and Savoca with The Godfather ($163), Taormina and Isola Bella ($210), Taormina and Etna with The Gold of the Gods ($202), Castelmola and Etna Winery ($253), Messina Walking Tour ($67), Etna Wine Experience ($268), Private Ruins of Tindari and the Black Madonna ($165), Private Land of the Godfather ($172) or Private Taormina and Castelmola ($120).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight Queen Victoria

DAY 18 Explore Naples, Amalfi Coast & Pompeii (Italy)

Our next port-of-call is Naples, where the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, Pompeii and Capri awaits – it doesn’t get any more Italian.

Naples is authentic, high-octane energy, a place of soul-stirring art and unimaginable panoramas. This alluring city abounds in creativity, architecture, history, legends, shopping and glorious food. It’s a heady mix of modern vitality and a palpable 2nd millennium B.C. history that permeates every edgy alleyway with the dormant Mount Vesuvius volcano providing a picture-postcard backdrop. Explore the vibrant historical centre set around an incredible harbour bay, discover architectural landmarks, masterpiece artworks, and sumptuous food.

The Amalfi Coast dazzles with its iridescent coloured grottos where mountains plunge into the sea in a nail-biting vertical scene of precipitous crags. Seemingly endless picture-perfect turquoise seas and cinematic piazzas with pastel-coloured cascades of villages abound. The stunning coastal town of Sorrento is at the western gateway to the Amalfi. This truly romantic and handsome clifftop destination was a compulsory stop on the 19th-century 'Grand Tour'. Still today it’s renowned for it’s high-pedigree hotels amid plunging cliffs that cut through the heart of the historical core.

Pompeii is Europe's most compelling archaeological site. This ancient Roman city was buried under pumice and ash during the Mount Vesuvius volcanic eruption of 79 AD. Today, Pompeii looks frozen in time, offering glimpses of fossilised communities, preserved baths, crumbling columns and fabulous frescoes. Pompeii, set against the majestic (and now dormant) Mount Vesuvius, is the only archaeological site in the world that provides a complete picture of an ancient Roman city.

Capri is beautiful – seriously beautiful. You’ll find Capri’s glamorous culture with just short boat trip across the Bay of Naples. Steep cliffs rise majestically from an impossibly blue sea; elegant villas drip with wisteria and bougainvillea; even the trees seem to be carefully manicured.

Arrive into Naples at 7am for a day of discovery before setting sail again at 7pm. You can spend a memorable day exploring incredible Naples at your own pace – or perhaps take one of the optional tours like Pompeii ($120), Sorrento & Amalfi Coast ($190), Capri ($200), Herculaneum ($120), Ischia Sightseeing & Thermal Baths ($210), Sorrento & Local Wine Tasting ($100), Memories of Naples: Borbonic Tunnels & Pompeii with Pizza Lunch ($150), Mount Vesuvius & Pompeii Adventure: Hike to the Summit of Mt Vesuvius ($155), Naples Eating Italy Foodie Walking Tour ($120), Pompeii, Sorrento & Cheese Tasting ($145), The Island of Procida ($160), Walking Tour with Borbonic Gallery & Pizza Tasting ($75), Mozzarella Cheese Tasting & Tour of Paestum Ruins ($120), Pompeii & Time on your Own in Sorrento ($125), Sorrento & Amalfi Coast Cruise ($210) or Ultimate Bay of Naples: Pompeii, Positano & Amalfi Coast ($325).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight Queen Victoria

DAY 19 Arrive in Rome, fly home

Time to say goodbye to your fellow voyagers and friendly cruise hosts as your sensational Mediterranean adventure draws to an end. You will be personally met at the port by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to the airport for your flight home. Arrivederci, Italia!

Meet and greet personalised departure airport transfer

DAY 20 Arrive home

Enjoy the attentive service on your premium airline flight home.

Days at Sea

Enjoy thoroughly memorable days at sea aboard this 5 star cruise-liner where luxury and tradition blend seamlessly. Take advantage of Queen Victoria’s delicious and varied dining venues, comprehensive activities, relaxing resort facilities and exciting entertainment as we cruise through the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. The memories of your incredible cruise through the breathtaking destinations and wonders of the Med will last with you forever. Days not listed above are spent at sea on your floating luxury home.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight Queen Victoria

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West Mediterranean Cunard Cruise with Rome Stay

20 Day Cruise Package

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* Starting holiday costs, per person, for 2 people sharing, on selected travel dates (off-peak). Travel on other dates attracts a surcharge. As prices vary based on travel dates, be flexible with dates to get the best deals! Itinerary and vehicle types subject to change without notice. Subject to limited availability at these prices, after which higher prices apply, book now. Some governments and service operators have travel requirements. Your included flights advised via email with 24 hours to select alternative flights, routing, airline or dates (alternatives may be at a higher price). Included flights may not be the most direct routing. Arrive earlier/stay longer for specified airports only. Stop-overs are not possible. Subject to Booking Conditions, ' see Important Information before booking. © DISCOVER AUSTRALIA Booking Code: mp587