Mental Health and Gastroenterology

Venice (Ravenna), Italy - Located on the Adriatic coast in North-East Italy, Ravenna was briefly the capital of the Roman Empire and later the Italian capital of the Byzantine Empire. During this time, incredible mosaics were constructed throughout the city. Described as a symphony of color in Dante's Divine Comedy, Ravenna's well-preserved mosaics are some of the finest remaining in the Western world.

Split, Croatia - The second largest city in Croatia, Split has many attractions but is best known for the many historical landmarks found within and around the walls of Diocletian's Palace and the 1700-year old harbour beneath it. The Old Town which comprises the palace is in a remarkable state of preservation. In addition, the Split-Dalmatia County has numerous museums, old churches and other archeological sites which make it an important cultural attraction. History, culture, scenic countryside and the sunny weather make Split a sought after destination for vacationers and water sports lovers.

Dubrovnik, Croatia - Thick 16th-century stone walls encase the entire Old Town of Dubrovnik. But there are no boundaries on the endless adventures you’ll discover among its orange-roofed ramparts. With a made-for-TV appeal— Game of Thrones was actually filmed here— the city commands your attention with the perfectly preserved Rector’s Palace, elaborate Onofrio’s Fountain, and baroque St. Blaise’s Church, named after the city’s patron saint. You can browse museum collections showcasing Croatian artwork, period furniture and shipbuilding traditions. Stand in awe of the Franciscan Monastery library’s 30,000 volumes. Or to get your heart pumping, go cliff diving into the sea and kayak crystal blue waters, with the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ shimmering in the distance.

Kotor, Montenegro - Looking at a map of Europe, you might be forgiven for missing Kotor — a tiny port in the already-tiny country of Montenegro. But from the moment your Kotor cruise docks, you'll enter a larger-than-life world of mighty forts and towering sea cliffs, the air filled with the refreshing smell of the ocean. On a Mediterranean cruise, you can explore the attractions inside Kotor's fortified Old City, one of the Mediterranean's best-preserved medieval towns. Don't miss the Cathedral of St. Tryphon, an ornate church first consecrated in 1166. Then, scale St. John's Fortress — the hilltop fortifications, dating back to the 6th century, offer the best views of the city, the harbor and the surrounding mountains.

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

Messina, Sicily - A beautiful sheltered harbor is your gateway to Taormina, a small town at heart despite its major tourist attraction: the sublime Teatro Greco, offering panoramic views of the coastline and snow-capped Mt. Etna.

Salerno, Italy (Amalfi Coast) - Framed by Mount Vesuvius along a dramatic skyline, the 2,800 year-old port city of Naples is chock full of historical sites, churches, and museums that make it an incredible place for you to explore. And in the region where pizza was first invented, you know the food is going to be incredible. Just 35 miles down the coast, Salerno offers you a rich history but also boasts a marvelous collection of parks, natural wonders, and unique vantage points to take in the beauty of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Two cities. One incredible stretch of Italian coastline.

Portofino, Italy - Portofino, picturesquely situated in a narrow cove at the southeastern tip of a promontory might be the most beautiful place you'll ever see. A tiny port on Italy's northern coast, enchanting Portofino has long been popular with artists, actors and important people thanks to its beautiful setting. Abundantly blessed with agreeable climate and luxuriant vegetation, this "Pearl of the Mediterranean" should have a place on everyone's "bucket list." Fortunately for we in the know, it still remains unspoiled. 

La Spezia, Italy - Your overnight stay in La Spezia gives allows for unhurried adventures into the heart of Ligurian and Tuscan splendor without the usual rush. It’s your chance to craft a personal journey, whether that means a full-day immersion in Renaissance art or a leisurely two-day discovery of coastal and countryside charms.

With the luxury of time, allow the masterpieces of Florence blossom into a profound encounter. It is easily reached by direct train from La Spezia Centrale (approx. 1.5-2.5 hours) through picturesque Italian landscapes. Imagine a full day with Brunelleschi's magnificent Dome, the Uffizi's unparalleled artistic treasures, or Michelangelo's breathtaking David , perhaps even choosing an overnight stay in Florence itself for an intimate, magical experience of the city after hours. Nearby, Pisa’s iconic Leaning Tower, standing sentinel in the Piazza dei Miracoli alongside the Duomo and Baptistery , offers another captivating Tuscan highlight, reachable in under an hour by train from La Spezia Centrale , perfect for a focused visit or combined with Florence for a day of iconic sights.

Alternatively, or for your second day, the breathtaking Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is just minutes away by train from La Spezia Centrale or accessible by a scenic ferry from Molo Italia for stunning views of "vineyard terraces and charming buildings from the sea." Explore the "colorful buildings on a cliff" in ancient villages like Riomaggiore and romantic Manarola , discover the welcoming beaches of Monterosso , or fall for the charm of Vernazza, often called "the pearl of the Cinque Terre." The high-perched Corniglia offers sweeping, unforgettable panoramas. Consider dedicating your first day to Tuscany, returning to La Spezia for a delightful Ligurian dinner featuring fresh local seafood or pasta with fragrant pesto. Day two could then be devoted to the captivating Cinque Terre, followed by exploring La Spezia itself.

Don’t overlook La Spezia’s own authentic Italian charm. This "normal functioning city" invites you to wander its historic center, admiring elegant "Liberty" architecture in Piazza Verdi and browsing shops along Via del Prione. Visit the historic Castello di San Giorgio for panoramic views or the intriguing Naval Technical Museum. Immerse yourself in vibrant local life at the bustling Piazza Cavour food market (Mon-Sat), a true feast for the senses , or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the palm-lined harbor promenade, the Passeggiata Costantino Morin. For a deeper dive into local culture, consider a hands-on pesto making class, learning traditional Ligurian secrets from a local chef , or an authentic cooking experience in a local's home. For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the nearby Lunigiana region of northern Tuscany offers medieval villages like Pontremoli, with their stone bridges and cobbled lanes , and unique truffle hunting excursions, a cherished "cultural ritual."

This extended stay in La Spezia is an invitation to explore iconic landmarks without haste, discover hidden gems, taste authentic flavors at their source, and create deeply personal, unforgettable memories. Embrace this unique opportunity to tailor your Italian adventure.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy - Extraordinary architecture, millennia of turbulent history, magnificent basilicas concealing unimaginable riches, and ornate fountains splashing at the heart of sun-drenched piazzas await you just an hour from your final port of Civitavecchia. Art greets you on every corner in Rome, from elaborate statues to delicate frescoes. Consider extending your stay after disembarkation to fully explore the eternal city – stroll the ancient center where history comes to life as you discover the Colosseum, the Pantheon and the Roman Forum. Enjoy Italian café culture in Trastevere, where you can wander the narrow streets and soak up a sense of la dolce vita, or throw a coin into the baroque Trevi Fountain to guarantee your return to this vibrant, intoxicating city.

After your cruise concludes in Civitavecchia, you'll have easy access to Rome via regular train service or organized transfers. Whether you've just completed a journey through the Italian Riviera, explored the Greek Islands, or sailed from the ancient ramparts of Kotor, Montenegro, ending your cruise here offers the perfect opportunity to extend your European adventure in one of the world's most celebrated cities.