Want to add a hotel stay or change your flights?
Just call our team of cruise specialists to help build your dream cruise holiday today!
Want to add a hotel stay or change your flights?
Just call our team of cruise specialists to help build your dream cruise holiday today!
Call to upgrade your holiday including
Call to upgrade your holiday including
The second-largest city in Crete and capital of the Homonym Prefecture, Chania is located in Minoan Kidonia at the end of the Homonym Gulf between the Akrotiri and Onicha peninsulas. Chania City is divided into two parts; the Old Town, which is comprised of several connected districts built around the old Venetian Harbour, and New Town, a larger, more modern city whose centre is situated next to, and south of, the Old Town. The Old Town is home to Venetian buildings and Turkish elements that combine to create a unique architectural style, and is considered to be the most beautiful urban district on Crete. It was once surrounded by old Venetian fortifications that separated it from the New Town; however, only the eastern and western parts remain today. Due to its compact size, Skiathos can be easily explored in just a single day.
Catania is an ancient port city on Sicily's east coast. It sits at the foot of Mt. Etna, an active volcano with trails leading up to the summit. The city's wide central square, Piazza del Duomo, features the whimsical Fontana dell'Elefante statue and richly decorated Catania Cathedral. In the southwest corner of the square, La Pescheria weekday fish market is a rowdy spectacle surrounded by seafood restaurants.
At first glance, it's hard to imagine that this resort destination was one of the world's great naval powers, and a sturdy rival of Genoa and Pisa for control of the Mediterranean in the 11th and 12th centuries. Once the seat of the Amalfi Maritime Republic, the town is set in a verdant valley of the Lattari Mountains, with cream-colored and pastel-hued buildings tightly packing a gorge on the Bay of Salerno. The harbor, which once launched the greatest fleet in Italy, now bobs with ferries and blue-and-white fishing boats. The main street, lined with shops and pasticcerie, has replaced a raging mountain torrent, and terraced hills flaunt the green and gold of lemon groves. Bearing testimony to its great trade with Tunis, Tripoli, and Algiers, Amalfi remains honeycombed with Arab-Sicilian cloisters and covered passages. In a way Amalfi has become great again, showing off its medieval glory days with sea pageants, convents-turned-hotels, ancient paper mills, covered streets, and its glimmering cathedral.
Sorrento may have become a jumping-off point for visitors to Pompeii, Capri, and Amalfi, but you can find countless reasons to love it for itself. The Sorrentine people are fair-minded and hardworking, bubbling with life and warmth. The tuff cliff on which the town rests is spread over the bay, absorbing sunlight, while orange and lemon trees waft their perfume in spring. Winding along a cliff above a small beach and two harbors, the town is split in two by a narrow ravine formed by a former mountain stream. To the east, dozens of hotels line busy Via Correale along the cliff—many have "grand" included in their names, and some indeed still are. To the west, however, is the historic sector, which still enchants. It's a relatively flat area, with winding, stone-paved lanes bordered by balconied buildings, some joined by medieval stone arches. The central piazza is named after the poet Torquato Tasso, born here in 1544. This part of town is a delightful place to walk through. Craftspeople are often at work in their stalls and shops and are happy to let you watch; in fact, that's the point. Music spots and bars cluster in the side streets near Piazza Tasso.
Italy's vibrant capital lives in the present, but no other city on earth evokes its past so powerfully. For over 2,500 years, emperors, popes, artists, and common citizens have left their mark here. Archaeological remains from ancient Rome, art-stuffed churches, and the treasures of Vatican City vie for your attention, but Rome is also a wonderful place to practice the Italian-perfected il dolce far niente, the sweet art of idleness. Your most memorable experiences may include sitting at a caffè in the Campo de' Fiori or strolling in a beguiling piazza.
As your journey commences, La Dolce Vita Orient Express departs from Rome Ostiense, embarking on an odyssey of luxury and indulgence. As night descends, immerse yourself in the culinary delights of the Italian-inspired dishes crafted by 3-Michelin starred Chef Heinz Beck. Delight in the flavours of seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, each dish a testament to Italy's rich gastronomic heritage.
As the sun rises on the second day of your journey aboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express, awaken to the enticing aroma of an Italian breakfast. Indulge in culinary delights, from freshly brewed espresso to delicate pastries, setting the stage for another day of exceptional experiences. Early morning, the train arrives in Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its iconic Sassi, ancient cave dwellings carved into the rugged landscape. Embark on a captivating city tour, delving into the rich history and cultural tapestry of this remarkable destination. For lunch, immerse yourself in the unique ambiance of a cave restaurant, where traditional flavors blend seamlessly with the rustic charm of Matera's ancient surroundings. As the afternoon unfolds, board the train for a journey filled with indulgence and elegance. Savor an Italian Aperitivo, a delightful prelude to the evening's festivities. As night descends, Le Grand Soir dinner awaits, where exquisite flavors and refined ambiance converge for an unforgettable dining experience. Allow yourself to be swept away by live music and entertainment, adding an extra layer of enchantment to the evening's proceedings. Night arrives, let the gentle rhythm of the train lull you into a night of blissful slumber, as you eagerly anticipate the adventures that await on the following day.
As the dawn breaks on the third day of your splendid journey aboard La Dolce Vita Orient Express, relish the delights of an Italian breakfast. Let the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the taste of artisanal pastries awaken your senses, preparing you for another day of enchantment. The train arrives in Pescocostanzo, a medieval city steeped in history and charm. Embark on a captivating visit, wandering through its ancient streets and uncovering hidden treasures around every corner. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of times gone by as you explore Pescocostanzo's medieval architecture and cultural landmarks. For lunch, indulge in a typical feast, savoring the flavors of traditional cuisine that have been passed down through generations. In the afternoon, as you board La Dolce Vita Orient Express, reflect on the memories made and the experiences shared during your journey through Italy's storied landscapes. Upon arrival at Rome Ostiense, carry with you the cherished memories of exquisite dining, cultural immersion, and luxurious travel aboard the La Dolce Vita Orient Express.
*This holiday is generally suitable for persons with reduced mobility. For customers with reduced mobility or any medical condition that may require special assistance or arrangements to be made, please notify your Cruise Concierge at the time of your enquiry, so that we can provide specific information as to the suitability of the holiday, as well as make suitable arrangements with the Holiday Provider on your behalf.
Accommodation | |
Return flights included (UK airports) | |
24-hour room service | |
Butler service in all suites | |
Shuttle service to and from ports and airport where available | |
Invite to Azamara's White Night party and buffet |
Entertainment | |
Gratuities included | |
Complimentary in-room spirits (applicable on plus staterooms & suites) | |
Self-service laundry | |
Additional amenities for Suite guests | |
A complimentary AzAmazing Evening excursion (selected sailings) |