Summary
Short description
Explore the Continent in consummate style
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The British Airways Sale is now on, with savings to a wide range of destinations from the USA and Canada to Asia and the Middle East. Book by 3 October 2023.
Highlights
- Cruise the Aegean Sea in style aboard Silver Moon
- Explore the ancient and natural wonders of Italy, Malta and Croatia
- Take it all in with a choice of included, expert-led excursions
- Stay at one of Venice’s finest hotels
- End with a journey to savour on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
In Brief
- 1 Night Rome
- 2 Nights Sorrento
- 1 Night Siracusa
- 1 Night Valletta
- 1 Night At sea
- 1 Night Kotor
- 1 Night Bari
- 1 Night Dubrovnik
- 1 Night Hvar
- 1 Night Zadar
- 4 Nights Venice
- 1 Night Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
In pictures
About
Recommended for:
Bucket-list holidays | History & culture | Ocean cruise | Rail journey
This not-to-be-missed ultra-luxury rail and cruise holiday will see you explore the Continent in consummate style. It all begins with a Mediterranean voyage aboard Silversea’s superb Silver Moon, bringing you first from Rome’s historic treasures to lemon-scented Sorrento and the volcanic beauty of Sicily. It’s then just a short hop to the Malta and its UNESCO-listed capital, followed by the coastal delights of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast with its pretty old towns and sun-kissed islands before your arrival in Venice. But that’s not the end as, following a four-night stay in one of the city’s finest hotels, you’ll board the famous carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to begin an unforgettable journey across Europe.
Day by day itinerary
Day
1
Fly to Rome
Begin your holiday in style with included UK airport lounge access before your flight to Rome. On arrival in the Italian capital, you’ll be met and transferred to Civitavecchia and the luxurious Silver Nova to begin your Mediterranean cruise. Of course, you might choose to arrive early and spend some time in the city, taking in the historic treasures of its Roman past. Otherwise, take the chance for a first taste of life on board the ship, enjoying the first of your included dining experiences or perhaps splashing out on a treatment at the spa.
Stay: Silver Moon
Meals: D
Days
2-3
Sorrento
Having sailed overnight, you’ll arrive in Sorrento on Italy’s idyllic Amalfi Coast. Backdropped by green hills and scented lemon groves, traditional towns tumble down steep cliffs towards the Mediterranean’s deep blue. A selection of included shore excursions will see you explore the region in depth, perhaps taking in ancient Pompeii at the foot of the cloud-wisped cone of Mt. Vesuvius or enjoying a scenic drive along the famed Blue-Ribbon Road. Alternatively, indulge your love of fine Italian food with a tasting at the Michelin-rated Quattro Passi Restaurant and cellars.
Stay: Silver Moon
Meals: B L D
Day
4
Sicily
Spend today on the island of Sicily, making port in honey-hued Siracusa – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Again, there’s a selection of included tours to choose from, taking in the likes of Mount Etna and Catania, beautiful Ortygia Island or Siracusa itself. Alternatively, join a guided hike through Vendicari Nature Reserve or upgrade for a full day of private island exploration in the company of an expert guide.
Stay: Silver Moon
Meals: B L D
Day
5
Valletta
Approaching Valletta by sea, you’ll gain a spectacular perspective of its looming fortifications which form the outer defences of the city’s World Heritage-listed old town. It’s the atmospheric setting for a number of today’s optional shore excursions, which take in everywhere from the Grand Master’s Palace to the impressive Fortress City itself. Otherwise, why not take a local’s look at the bustling Mdina, so atmospheric after sundown, or head further afield to explore Malta’s picturesque gardens or take an island-wide sightseeing tour.
Stay: Silver Moon
Meals: B L D
Day
6
At sea
After a busy few days, enjoy some relaxing time at sea and the chance to fully enjoy all the luxurious facilities onboard Silver Nova, from its fine-dining restaurants to its sumptuous spa. Head out on deck to spot passing wildlife, soak up some of the world-class entertainment or simply head the pool deck to read a book and work on your tan.
Stay: Silver Moon
Meals: B L D
Day
7
Kotor
The fortified town of Kotor boasts a spectacular, imposing staging that few can match. Kotor's warren-like streets drip with history. Under Venetian influence for four centuries, the city's UNESCO World Heritage Site old town invites you to wander amid atmospheric stone-clad streets, overlooked by a sea of terracotta roofs and the double towers of the cathedral. Learn of the city's extensive heritage on the waves, in the dedicated maritime museum that is contained within Grgurina Palace. If you’re up for an aerobic challenge, tackle the 1,350 steps up the steep walls to St John's fortress. The views over the gorgeous bay make the arduous slog worth it, as you rise past the city's eye-catching 15th-century church bell tower.
Stay: Silver Moon
Meals: B L D
Day
8
Bari
This historic port town that invites you on a journey through everyday life in Italy’s unpretentious south-east. Explore further afield to immerse yourself in Puglia’s beauty and cultural wonders - or simply soak up the atmosphere roaming the crooked streets of Bari’s old town - Bari Vecchia - where matriarchs roll out sheets of pasta in open doorways, footballs rattle along dusty streets, and sun-wrinkled old men lay out hands of cards. The photogenic old town’s streets are crowned by the chalky white Cattedrale di San Sabino, where vaulted archways, mosaics and a large rose window await. Puglia’s whitewashed ancient villages, stunning beaches and laid-back, down-to-earth approach to life means you’ll most likely want to explore further than just Bari. The incredible cave dwellings of Matera are also easily within your grasp, as is Polignano a Mare’s spectacularly scenic narrow wedge of beach. Surrounded on three sides by steep terraces of rock, and full of snorkelers admiring the sights below the crystal-clear water, it’s a truly stunning place to bathe in the glow of the Italian sun.
Stay: Silver Moon
Meals: B L D
Day
9
Dubrovnik
With its imposing battlements and terracotta-roofed old town surrounded by impossibly turquoise seas, medieval Dubrovnik has set the scene for many a Hollywood blockbuster. Today, it’s yours to explore with the likes of guided city tours introducing you to this Croatian gem’s storied past. For an insider’s look at the city’s film-star good looks, a Game of Thrones tour will bring you to some of the best-known filming locations. Alternatively, head outside the city for a countryside visit, or splash out on an upgraded kayak trip beneath the city walls.
Stay: Silver Moon
Meals: B L D
Day
10
Hvar
One of the most popular of the island escapes in the Adriatic, Hvar is a glorious idyll of hidden coves, electric blue waters and quietly contented port towns. In recent years, it’s gathered something of a reputation as a party island; embrace the energy, exuberance and fine dining, or sidestep the hedonism to explore a richly refined, rural and historic island – utterly spoiled with sunshine, and hidden beaches. There’s also rich Medieval history – the sleepy town of Stari Grad is said to be Croatia’s oldest, dating back to 384 BC.
Stay: Silver Moon
Meals: B L D
Day
11
Zadar
Zadar is a glorious mesh of cultural and architectural influences – the Venetians, Austrians, French and Italians all left their mark on this fun and flamboyant city. Take in the best of it on a walking tour, combining winding laneways with grand cathedrals. There’s even the option to add on a liqueur tasting, pairing cherry brandies with delicious local cakes. Beyond the city, Krka National Park remains within easy reach, as does Vrana Lake with its historic paths, abundant birdlife and marvellous ocean views en route.
Stay: Silver Moon
Meals: B L D
Days
12-15
Venice
Arrive in Venice this morning, where you’ll disembark and transfer to the luxurious Baglioni Luna – one of the city’s finest hotels. Then, spend three whole days relaxing and exploring Italy’s floating city at your own pace, perhaps taking in the likes of The Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Square, taking a gondola ride or simply taking in the unique atmosphere accompanied by a gelato or Bellini cocktail – a Hemmingway favourite.
Stay: Baglioni Hotel Luna, Venice (Deluxe)
Meals: B
Day
16
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Today marks yet another trip highlight in this extraordinary adventure. Having checked out of your hotel, a private transfer will see you to Santa Lucia station where you’ll board the famous blue-and-gold carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Then, accompanied by the very best in fine dining and white-glove service, you’ll begin one of the world’s great rail journeys, a romantic overnight passage to Paris via Rome and Florence. Then transfer to Eurostar for your onward connection to London.
Stay: Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Deluxe)
Meals: B L D
Day
17
Arrive in London
Wake this morning in your private cabin or suite to a delicious Continental breakfast as the landscapes of France rush past. Then, after brunch served in one of the art-deco dining cars, you’ll disembark in Paris and board the Eurostar for the final leg of the journey into London St Pancras.
Meals: B L
Map
Pricing
Any element of this cruise can be adjusted to suit your needs. Just contact us to find out more.
Accommodation rating:
17-day luxury rail & cruise holiday
from £10,760 pp incl. flights
26 August 2024 departure
Special Offer
Early booking offer : Save up to £1,030 pp.
Book by: 30 September 2023
Cruise includes
- Scheduled flight from London to Rome
- Private transfer from Rome airport to ship
- 11-night cruise aboard Silver Moon
- Multiple restaurants, diverse cuisine, open-seating dining
- Beverages in-suite and throughout the ship, including champagne, select wines and spirits
- 1 Shore Excursion per port, per day
- Onboard entertainment
- Onboard gratuities
- Unlimited Complimentary Wifi
Post Cruise
- Private transfer from ship to Venice hotel
- Four nights at the 5-star Baglioni Hotel Luna or similar with daily breakfast
- Private transfer from hotel to Venice station
- Overnight Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train from Venice to London via Paris (Eurostar from Paris to London St Pancras station)
Terms & Conditions
Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin/double room; prices are subject to availability and possible change; normal booking conditions apply.
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