Day 1 - Valletta, Malta

Arrive in Valletta, a World Heritage site known for its golden-hued baroque architecture. Settle into your cabin and take in the view as the ship cruises out of one of Europe’s loveliest harbors. (D)

Day 2 - Trapani, Sicily

On Sicily’s western coast, dock in Trapani and set out on your choice of three excursions. Journey to the hilltop village of Erice, once a retreat for Trapani’s wealthy families. On a guided walk, admire picturesque homes, castles, and gardens and take in views of the Sicilian coast far below. Alternatively, drive to the ancient city of Segesta to see a hillside Greek theater and a magnificent Doric temple that stands alone amid grassy slopes. Or delve into Trapani’s 2,000-year-old tradition of sea salt production, following the Via del Sale to saltworks, windmills, and wetlands and visiting the Salt Museum. Later, discover the dramatic history of Marsala on a walking tour, and sampling its namesake dessert wine during a tasting at a local winery. Instead, choose to visit Selinunte, a vast archaeological site with an Acropolis that affords incredible views. (B,L,D)

Day 3 - Palermo, Sicily

Spend today in Palermo, a city that still bears the vestiges of its many rulers, including the Carthagians, the Romans, the Arabs, and the Normans. On a panoramic city tour, discover its unique Arab-Norman architecture, built at the height of the city’s prosperity in the 12th century and recognized as a World Heritage site. Then set off on one of three excursions. Follow a guide through the mosaic-clad Capella Palatina, then travel through orchard-covered hills to see the spectacular Norman cathedral of Monreale. Or stroll Piazza Bellini to the Chiesa di Santa Maria dell’Ammiraglio Monreale to see its Byzantine mosaics, then delve into Palermo’s celebrated gastronomy at one of the city’s oldest food markets. Tour the Palazzo Conte Federico, where you’re hosted by Countess Federico herself, and enjoy a tasting of typical local street food. Or travel to the medieval port town of Cefalù for a walking tour including its Cathedral, covered in splendid painting and gold mosaics, and the excavations of Osterio Magno, where ancient edifices and ceramics from early Roman times have been discovered. (B,L,D)

Day 4 - Cagliari, Sardinia

Sail into the harbor at Cagliari at midday and set out to tour Sardinia’s rose-colored capital city. Stroll through wide piazzas bordered by baroque palazzi and churches, and ascend to the impressive hilltop fortress. Take in views from Monte Urpino, then journey to ancient Nora, once a thriving port under the Carthaginians and the Romans. On a tour of the remarkable ruins here, some of which are now submerged, learn about the innovative waterworks and drainage system designed thousands of years ago. 

Day 5 - At Sea

Enjoy a relaxing day at sea as you make your way across the western Mediterranean, taking advantage of the ship’s superb amenities and joining your Smithsonian Journeys Experts for lectures and informal discussions. Opt for a treatment in the spa or a workout at the fitness center. Meet new friends for coffee or a drink in the lounge, and, if the weather permits, go for a swim in the pool or read a book on the sundeck. (B,L,D) 

Day 6 - Mahon, Menorca, Spain

The easternmost of Spain’s autonomous Balearic Islands, Menorca is edged in beautiful beaches and rocky coves. Less developed than much of the archipelago, Menorca harbors the 4,000-year-old ruins of a Bronze Age Talayotic civilization. Take a walking tour of the lovely capital, Mahón, and learn about the island’s history under many different rulers—from the Moors to the British Empire—at the Menorca Museum.  Then venture to Torralba d’en Salord to explore its megalithic ruins, including unusual stone monuments known as taulas. (B,L,D)

Day 7 - Palma de Mallorca, Mallorca

Your next stop in the Balearics is Mallorca, the largest island, where limestone cliffs plunge into the sea and almond orchards and vineyards blanket the plains. Step into history on a tour of Palma de Mallorca, the cosmopolitan capital of the archipelago. Admire the Catalan Gothic architecture of the magnificent sandstone Palma Cathedral, constructed over 300 years beginning in 1230. (B,L,D)

Day 8 - Tarragona/Barcelona

After breakfast, disembark in Tarragona. Extend your stay to explore the town’s World Heritage-listed Roman sites, or transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)