Viking Oceans Cruises – Italian Sojourn (Croatia, Italy) 8 Days

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. For centuries, Rome ruled much of Europe, building a vast empire from the power of emperors. More than 2,500 years of history live in the city’s streets. Ancient structures recall those heady days when the cheers of 80,000 spectators roared from the Colosseum, citizens mingled in the Forum and senators asked the gods for guidance at the Pantheon. Along with the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica, this rich pocket of Italy is one of the world’s greatest repositories of history and civilization.

Naples, Italy
Naples boasts a long history in a stunning seaside setting and has long been a major center of Italian culture. The city was the seat of a powerful independent kingdom for 500 years. So great was its sway that it lured the region’s finest architects and artists. In the grand Piazza del Plebiscito, the grand and sweeping public square, the San Francesco di Paola Church flaunts a colonnaded facade reminiscent of the Pantheon in Rome, and the Royal Palace overlooks Neapolitans with statues of all the kings of Naples peering out from alcoves.

Shore Excursions – Scenic Naples
Duration: 3 hours   
Discover the highlights of Naples, a major center of Italian culture, during a scenic drive. Naples was the location of a powerful independent kingdom for 500 years, luring the region’s finest architects and artists, yet its history stretches back thousands of years. See evidence of its rich past, from Greek and Roman monuments to Renaissance splendors. Embark on a coastal drive to Mergellina, a residential area that has long offered Neapolitans a respite from city life. Admire the many beautiful villas and enjoy photo stops that offer stunning views of the gulf and the city. Return to the city center to explore Piazza del Plebiscito on your own, perhaps the grandest public square in the city with the former Royal Palace of Naples overlooking its bustling square. You will also see the imposing medieval fortresses of Egg Castle and New Castle, before returning to your ship.

Shore Excursions – Naples on Foot
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes 
Discover the history of one of the world’s oldest cities during a guided walk. Set off on foot, passing historic monuments and through bustling squares. View Castel Nuovo, an imposing fortress that served as a residence for the kings of Anjou and Aragon, and the Spanish Viceroys of Naples. Step inside the 19th-century Galleria Umberto, a popular stop for Neapolitans to while away an afternoon as they linger over coffee. Head toward the Piazza Trieste and Trento and see the San Carlo Theater. Stroll through the pedestrian Piazza del Plebiscito, flanked by the Royal Palace of Naples and the Church of St. Francis. Along the way, pause for refreshments at a sidewalk café, so you can enjoy a Neapolitan pastry and espresso while soaking up the atmosphere of this vibrant city. Cap your tour with free time to explore on your own, before returning to your ship.

Sicily (Messina), Italy
Sicily has been shaped by countless civilizations, from Greek to Byzantine to Roman. When it fell under Spain’s purview in the 17th century, it was celebrated as one of Europe’s ten great cities. Surrounded by undulating mountains, orange and olive groves and vineyards are plentiful. During World War II, Messina was the destination of the unofficial “Race to Messina” between US General Patton and British Field Marshall Montgomery. In the end, Patton arrived just hours before his British comrade, receiving credit for securing Sicily.

Shore Excursions – Messina & Its Treasures
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes   
Marvel at the architectural and artistic treasures held dear by the Sicilians of Messina. Meet your local guide for a short drive to the heart of Messina’s historic center. See the expansive Piazza Municipio, the Via Garibaldi and the Piazza Cairoli, the heart of Old Town. Drive along the Via Cannizzaro to view the university, court of law, and picturesque Corso Cavour. Continue along the north coast of Messina, which offers stunning vistas over Ganzirri Lake and the Capo Peloro. The saltwater lakes are used by fishermen to breed clams and mussels, which feature heavily in the local cuisine. Next, return to the pier to begin your guided walk. You will stroll to Cathedral Square and view the astronomical clock; it features one of the most extraordinary mechanical marvels in the world. After you will walk back to your ship.

Crotone, Italy
Crotone, according to Ovid, was named by Hercules himself in memory of a friend he had accidentally slain. Today, it is the capital of its eponymous province, a region known for its pristine waters, untouched mountains and vast forests. As the gateway to a landscape bestowed with great natural beauty, Crotone prides itself in its deep historical roots, which can be traced back to the 7th century BC in the city’s archaeological museum and the ruins of two redoubtable fortifications, the Castle of St. Charles V and Le Castella, situated on a small peninsula south of the city.

Shore Excursions – Crotone On Your Own
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes      
Explore the ancient culture of Crotone at your leisure. Travel by motor coach to Piazza Pythagoras, an homage to the Greek mathematician and Crotone resident. Set off on a self-guided exploration on foot. See Piazza Duomo and admire the 9th-century cathedral. Journey into alleys and see the archaeological wall and Immaculate Conception church, where a storyteller will share the secret of eternal youth. Meet Pythia, the High Priestess of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, who welcomes you at the National Archaeological Museum. Make your way to Charles V Castle, where you are greeted by Pythagoras and one of his daughters. Local staff will be on hand to assist you at various points around the city and to help you make the most of your visit. Explore the main square and market before returning to your ship. Note: On Sundays, the market is closed; alternatively, you will be offered a tasting of locally prepared foods.

Bari, Italy
Located at the heel of Italy’s boot, Bari boasts a sunny, palm-lined promenade, romantic honey-toned balconied houses, welcoming courtyards, and Romanesque and baroque churches. It is pure pleasure to take in the distinct Mediterranean atmosphere of this picturesque port, with colorful fishing boats bobbing on the turquoise harbor. History and culture take center stage at the splendid Norman-Swabian Castle; the Romanesque Basilica of St. Nicholas, named for the city’s patron saint; and the Petruzzelli Theater, one of Italy’s most important opera houses.

Shore Excursions – Bari Walking Tour
Duration: 3 hours 
Set out on foot to discover Bari, a hidden gem along the Puglian coast. Board your motor coach and enjoy a scenic drive toward Bari, with views of the Adriatic Sea. As you pass through the city, you will see landmarks, including Teatro Margherita and the Fortino di Sant’Antonio. Alight your coach and explore more of the city on foot, beginning at the most beloved of Bari’s churches, the Basilica of St. Nicholas. Also known as Santa Claus, St. Nicholas is the city’s patron. When his remains were brought to Bari in 1087, they inspired an influx of pilgrims that infused the city with wealth. See the saint’s relics, then head to the old town’s two main squares, Piazza del Ferrarese and Piazza Mercantile. Enjoy a tasting of traditional orecchiette, an ear-shaped pasta, accompanied by cacioricotta cheese and tomatoes, before returning to your ship.

Šibenik, Croatia
Šibenik is the oldest Croatian city on the Dalmatian Coast. The remarkable architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site spans the centuries, having witnessed the rise and fall of empires, from Byzantine to Venetian. In its remarkably preserved Old Town, narrow cobblestone streets lead past medieval houses and churches, all surrounded by four historic fortresses, including the imposing St. Nicholas Fortress. St. James Cathedral, built by several architects in the Gothic and Renaissance styles over a century, is the most important Renaissance structure in Croatia.

Shore Excursions – Šibenik Promenade
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes      
Explore the sights of Šibenik and visit St. James Cathedral—the jewel of the Dalmatian coast. You will meet your knowledgeable local guide and make your way to the center of the Old Town on foot. Here, the baroque Church of St. Francis stands on the site of the monastery and church founded in 1229, and incorporates some of its original structure. Continue on to the square of John Paul II, where you will see the grand exterior of Šibenik’s theater, and the Gothic-Renaissance Church of St. Ivan, an important center for religious and cultural life in the city. Then, you will have the chance to visit St. James Cathedral—a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. Started in 1430, the basilica’s construction spanned over a century and reflects the move from Venetian-Gothic to Tuscan-Renaissance. After your visit, return to your awaiting ship.

Venice (Chioggia), Italy
Chioggia is a charming fishing community located at the southern end of the Venetian Lagoon and steeped in age-old seafaring traditions. Its combination of canals, bridges and fishing boats have lent it the nickname “Little Venice.” Lined with shops, bars and restaurants, the main pedestrian street of Corso del Popolo exudes a lively atmosphere amid the aroma of delicious fresh seafood dishes. Chioggia shares a long history of cultural and economic ties with Venice, dating back to the Middle Ages, and is a scenic journey by water taxi from the capital of the Veneto region.

Shore Excursions – Scenic Chioggia by Foot
Duration: 1 hour      
Explore lively Chioggia, set at the southern end of the Venetian Lagoon, during a brief walking excursion. One of Italy’s largest fishing communities and known as “Little Venice,” Chioggia exudes Italian charm, from its intriguing layout to its elegant palaces and colorful houses overlooking the canals. Transfer by boat to the Ponte di Vigo, where you will begin your tour admiring the views overlooking the lagoon. Set out with your guide through the narrow, cobblestone calli (“streets”) and learn about Chioggia’s history. See the 14th-century church of Saint Domenico and the fishing boats that line the nearby canal; the Gothic-style Palazzo Grassi, the Goldoni Palace and the St. Andrew Tower Clock—the second-oldest clock in the world. Cap your journey at the impressive Chioggia Cathedral, the most sacred building in the village, before returning to your ship at your leisure.

Shore Excursions – At a Glance: St. Mark’s Square
Duration: 6 hours 15 minutes  
View this fabled city from the Venice Lagoon’s languid, stunning waters and explore legendary St. Mark’s Square. First, explore “La Serenissima” (The Most Serene) via a leisurely cruise, passing magnificent waterside palazzos and piazzas and peering down the lapping, narrow canals that weave their way into the city’s medieval corridors. Disembark at the landing pontoon next to Palazzo Cornoldi, meet your guide and take a short walk to beautiful St. Mark’s Square, crossing the four elegant bridges that link the waterfront. After a short orientation tour, enjoy free time to visit the splendid Gothic-Byzantine St. Mark’s Basilica and its grand Campanile bell tower and admire the Doge’s Palace and other nearby attractions. Enjoy a gelato here, sip an espresso—at your own expense—or just soak in the medieval ambience. From Cornoldi Pier, board a boat for the return trip to your ship.

Venice (Chioggia), Italy
Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions.