Adriatic Luxury with Silversea & the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.