Mediterranean & the Monaco Grand Prix with Silversea

Your Silversea Chauffeur Service will meet you at your front door in the UK to transfer you to the airport for your flight to Rome. Upon arrival, you’ll be privately transferred to the Silver Spirit to embark your 12-night voyage.

Stay: Silver Spirit (Deluxe)

Your Italian adventure begins in earnest today as you arrive in Sorrento, taking in the colourful facades of its famous houses on the cliffs in the Bay of Naples. Choose from 15 shore excursions as you explore Sorrento, the perfect base for this corner of Italy. Whizz along the curvy roads of the Amalfi Coast or take a leisurely jaunt across to the island of Capri. If you’d rather explore Sorrento itself, there’s plenty to enjoy. It’s a rustic fishing town, with Piazza Tasso as its central point for the locals. Wander the Corso Italia to discover boutiques, museums, bars, and restaurants, or spend a relaxing day on the small beach admiring the fishing boats in the harbour.

You can also visit the historic site of Pompeii, where the now-docile Mount Vesuvius once erupted, wiping out this ancient city. Wander the stone slab streets as you make your way through the humbling site, from the theatre to the sprawling ancient forum, delicately recovered from below the volcanic ash. When you’re ready for a lunch break, be sure to order a glass of local wine, imbued with rich flavour by the volcanic soil. 

Stay: Silver Spirit (Deluxe)

Naxos was the first Greek settlement on Sicily, and as such, you’re sure to encounter some of Sicily’s most historic sites today—not to mention some of the best views anywhere. With the staggering blue of the sea and the incredible backdrop of Mount Etna, Giardini Naxos will imprint itself on your mind. If you’re in search of relaxation, kick back by the waves and take a dip in the waters of Naxos’s sweeping bay. Alternatively, ascend into the hillside town to immerse yourself in Greek and Roman history. The honey-coloured Greek theatre, which stands impressively before the distant loom of Mount Etna, is worth a visit.

Speaking of Mount Etna, you may want to visit Sicily’s mighty volcano itself. You’ll arrive through vineyards, learning about the fertile volcanic soil, and make the 1,737-metre incline to the summit of this legendary mountain of fire, one of Europe’s most active. Before you go, enjoy a glass of wine on the seafront to toast your time on Sicily’s rich shores.

Stay: Silver Spirit (Deluxe)

Take a detour into Malta to explore Valetta, recognisable by its imposing protective walls. Valetta is a compact city, full to the brim of Baroque wonders. Ascend to the flower-filled Upper Barrakka Gardens, discover St John’s Cathedral from its concealed location in the narrow streets, or explore the prehistoric and megalithic sites of the Hypogeum of Paola and Tarxien. Valetta has also served as a filming location for Game of Thrones, so you may recognise it from the screen.

Cars are barred from the streets, so it’s perfect to explore on foot, taking in this Mediterranean jewel to learn why so many have fought for it over the years. You’ll also feel close to home; while independence from Britain was achieved in 1964, there’s still a close alliance. English is Malta’s official language, they drive on the left side of the road, and you may even spot familiar red post boxes and telephone boxes.

Stay: Silver Spirit (Deluxe)

Back to Sicily you sail, this time to the rugged coastline of Trapani. This stop gives you the chance to delve into Sicily’s ruins, flavours, and leisure pursuits.

Trapani is experiencing a bit of a renaissance, having been spruced up as a sailing capital and being aided by the addition of an international airport. Trapani almost feels as though it has one foot in Africa, with its whitewashed houses and fusion of flavours. Explore from the city’s historic core, taking in the array of restaurants, wine bars, and shops, and be sure to view the impressive art on display at the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. For fun in the sun, visit Favignana, the largest beach on the Egadi Islands.

Along with an African influence, Trapani also has ties to the Greek. Visit rich archaeological sites nearby for evidence of this connection, like Selinus and Segesta. You can also view pyramids of white salt at the Riserva Naturale Saline di Trapni e Paceco, a famous symbol of this area’s history of sea salt production. You may even be able to spot pink flamingos in the salt pans below. 

Stay: Silver Spirit (Deluxe)

Catch up on some “you time” onboard the Silver Spirit today. Visit the spa, catch up on your reading, go whale watching, or simply enjoy the sunshine out on the deck.

Stay: Silver Spirit (Deluxe)

Move into Tuscany as you arrive at the stacked waterfront of Porto Santo Stefano. Once a summer escape for Rome’s most elite citizens, Porto Santo Stefano is closer to Rome than Florence. The waterfront buzzes with cafes and visitors, and you may spot pink flamingos and herons strolling through the lagoon. Luxury yachts are docked in the harbour, alluding to the area’s long-standing glamour. Along with the glitz and glamour, there’s also history worth learning. The city was heavily bombed during World War II, and the damage lingers. Thankfully, the Spanish Fort was spared, dating to the Napoleonic Wars and offering views over the terracotta roofs of the old town.

This region is perfect for a variety of pursuits: wild hikes, sunny beach days, or simply taking in the beauty of the waterfront. Seafood lovers should indulge here since the area is famous for its fishing and cuisine. You may also want to visit the Piazza dei Rioni for zesty lemon gelato. If sailing is your bag, set out for the coves or island-hop to Giglio and Giannuti, making time for a stop at Porto Ercole, where the body of the Old Master, Caravaggio, was discovered.

Stay: Silver Spirit (Deluxe)

Portofino is exactly what comes to mind when you think of the Italian Riviera, such is its glamour. This protected area is home to some of Italy’s most staggering scenery, best viewed from the deck of a sailing boat. For the most authentic experience, sail out to the Gulf of Tigullio. Spot white villas in the green hillsides, encased by vineyards and olive groves, as you move through the tranquil blue waters, and on land, settle into the shade with an aperitivo on the Piazzetta.

Coming ashore into Portofino itself, you’ll find busy terrace bars and restaurants with—you guessed it—more incredible sea views. As you explore, you’ll discover gifted artisans crafting their wares and viewpoints such as the lemon-shaded Church of San Giorgio, the perfect spot to take in the jumble of Portofino from above.

Stay: Silver Spirit (Deluxe)

However you choose to spend your day in Tuscany proper, you’re sure to be taken with this artistic centre. Livorno is a historic port on the coast of Tuscany, acting as a gateway to the region’s sun-drenched beauty, world-renowned flavours, and famous fine art. Livorno itself is home to Piccolo Venezia (Little Venice), so named for its canals and small marble bridges. If you choose to stay here, you’ll be kept busy by the tempting dining options and bustling market, but many choose to go beyond Livorno to explore the marvels that await inland.

Of course, Tuscany is famous for its wine, so you may choose to spend the day visiting wineries—and it would be a day well-spent. In Prato, you can discover an impressive history of textiles. Visit the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, or venture to Florence to take in renaissance beauty and historic artworks such as Michelangelo’s David, a true masterpiece in a majestic city.

Stay: Silver Spirit (Deluxe)

You’ve arrived at the high-octane big show, the Monaco Grand Prix. With two days to enjoy the spectacle, take in the Formula One engines zooming round hairpin bends in good company. This event, the standout of Formula One experiences, is frequented each year by the likes of Hollywood celebrities and royal visitors.

The actual race takes place on the streets of Monte Carlo, bringing the city’s normal business to a screeching halt. The locals take this as a chance to shut down work and schools, giving in to the party-filled atmosphere that takes over the principality during these four days.

If you want to take some time away from the bustling crowds, we recommend a visit to the neighbouring village of Eze. Its medieval streets will feel a world away from the buzz of the Grand Prix. Another option is Nice, a short drive away, offering an authentic look into the French Riviera with a chilled glass of rosé to complete the perfect picture.

Stay: Silver Spirit (Deluxe)

Come down from the rush and buzz of the Grand Prix with a day to relax onboard the Silver Spirit, once again enjoying the fabulous dining options and perhaps one last visit to the spa.

Stay: Silver Spirit (Deluxe)

Your exciting voyage comes to an end in Barcelona. Once you’ve docked and disembarked, you’ll be privately transferred to the airport for your flight back to the UK. On arrival back on British soil, your Silversea Chauffeur Service will take you safely home.

If you’d like to arrange some extra time in Barcelona, our experts can make this happen for you. We wouldn’t blame you for extending your time here, such is the allure of the art, food, and music, along with the sheer pulsating energy of this Spanish city.