Combine our Essence of Italy tour with an 8 day west Mediterranean premium cruise to Barcelona, the French Riviera, Italian Riviera and Mallorca. We explore the stunning landscapes, fashionable cityscapes, unparalleled classical arts, diverse cuisine and bold wines of Italy – tour Rome, Venice, Florence, Tuscany, Pisa, Orvieto and more. Cruise to Spain’s Barcelona, the French Riviera and Cannes (Monaco), La Spezia (Italian Riviera), Mallorca and Portofino (Genoa, Milan). Celebrate the ancient history of the Roman Empire and live the dolce vita Roman good life with a stay in the historic centre of Rome with a flexi-tour. Indulge in the cultured Spanish good-life of Barcelona. Experience the glitz and glamour of the spectacular French Riviera at Cannes, Monaco or Nice. Be spellbound by Spain’s dazzling Balearic Islands and Mallorca. Experience the floating masterpiece of Venice in true style onboard a classic speedboat (just like James Bond). Immerse yourself in the visual and culinary delights of Italy’s remarkable Tuscany region and the magic of Florence, Pisa and Cinque Terre. Discover the hilltop enchantment of Orvieto, where stone lanes lead through layers of history and the magnificent Duomo rises like a jewel from the heart of the city. Marvel at the Italian Riviera’s dreamy seaside gem of Portofino. Uncover Rome’s authentic hidden gems on a special walking tour of the cobbled backstreets of Trastevere and Roman Ghetto. Connect to the essence of Italy and a passion for life, beyond the iconic pasta, Vespas, Ferraris, pizza and fashion. Explore the epicentre of the Roman empire and birthplace of the Renaissance. Immerse yourself in this incredibly diverse land. Discover the instantly recognisable and our special hidden gems. Explore the seemingly limitless wealth of attractions of Italy. History is all around you as we encounter the everchanging landscapes, cultures, stories, art, architecture, cuisines and wines. Experience authentic Mediterranean hospitality onboard this magnificent luxury ship. Uncover the real Italy with HolidayMax’s immersive touring. Everything is included in this amazing value package, escorted touring, premium luxury cruise, flights, hotels and transfers. Themes include: Lazio, Veneto, Catalonia, Lombardy, Departs from Rome, Luxury Coach, Ocean Cruise, Returns from Milan. + Show more

Package Includes

Return international flights to Rome (premium airline)
8 Day Spain, French Riviera and Italy Cruise (5 ports of call)
7 Day Essence of Italy Escorted Tour
World-class luxury ship (spectacular upscale)
Travel by modern large coach
Tour leader and host, with local guides
5 Nights Rome Hotel (quality 4 Star)
2 Nights Tuscany region Hotel
2 Nights Venice area Hotel
5 breakfasts, 2 dinners
Rome flexi-tour
Meet and greet personalised return transfers (port, hotel and airport)
Stylish Upscale Ship (MSC Grandiosa, 2421 cabins)
Sophisticated cosmopolitan cruising (elegant Mediterranean vibe)
All meals onboard the MSC Grandiosa
Includes onboard daytime activities, evening entertainment, Broadway style big shows, unlimited snacks

Highlights

Rome (Italy) Venice (Italy) Barcelona (Spain) Tuscany (Italy) Mallorca (Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain) Cannes & Monaco (French Riviera) Portofino & Milan (Genoa, Italy) Florence (Italy) Leaning Tower of Pisa Florence & Pisa & Cinque Terre (La Spezia, Italy)

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Descriptions

Amazing Touring Experiences

• Experience Rome, Venice, Florence, Tuscany, Pisa & Orvieto

• Discover Rome your way with flexi-tours

• Enjoy a free flexi-day to explore Venice your way

• Relish free time in Florence

• Special walking tour of hidden Rome, with local guide

• Walking tour with local guide in Florence

• Authentic Italian Welcome Dinner in Rome

• Traditional dinner in a Venice Island restaurant

• Classic speedboat tour through Venice canals

• Italian Wine Tasting in Tuscany

• Funicular ride, steep hillside railway

• Floating masterpiece of Venice

• Romance of Florence

• Leaning Tower of Pisa

• Ancient hilltop town of Orvieto

• Plus more immersive excursions and experiences...

Incredible Cruise Destinations

• Upscale luxurious ship, state-of-the-art

• Cruise through the sparkling West Mediterranean

• Cultured Spanish good-life of Barcelona

• Glamorous French Riviera (Cannes, Monaco, Nice)

• Italy's treasured Tuscany region (La Spezia, Florence, Pisa, Cinque

Terre)

• Spain’s spectacular Mallorca (Balearic Islands)

• Dreamy Italian Riviera, Portofino and fashionable Milan (Genoa)

• Be energised by the eternal city of Rome

• Authentic Mediterranean hospitality onboard luxury ships...

DAY 1 Depart Australia for Italy

Today we depart for Rome, Italy. Fly on a premium award-winning airline like Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Etihad Airways, Emirates, Qantas or British Airways (subject to availability). Enjoy the attentive cabin service, regular meals and onboard entertainment system.

DAY 2 Arrive in Rome

You will be personally met at Rome Airport by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to your central Rome hotel. You can relax and use the rest of the day to explore your hotel and its facilities, perhaps take a stroll around this iconic city.

Home to more World Heritage protected cultural sites than any other country on Earth, Italy’s immense cultural wealth is beautifully complemented by its stunning landscapes, iconic cuisine, sophisticated cityscapes and unparalleled collection of classical art. Epicentre of the Roman empire and birthplace of the Renaissance, ancient monuments permeate contemporary Italian landscapes, from the canals of Venice to the golden shores of Sicily.

Meet and greet personalised arrival transfer, overnight Rome hotel

DAY 3 Tour Rome

Your first two and a half days in Rome are flexi-tours, so you can tour at your own pace, visiting places of most interest to you. Relax into Rome time with a choice of included touring options to suit your mood.

Feel the energy and excitement of the eternal city of Rome. Italy’s hot-blooded capital is one of the world’s most romantic and charismatic cities. Immerse yourself in its vibrant fashionable street life, ancient monuments and awe-inspiring art. Ancient icons such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon recall the city’s golden age as the capital of the world, while monumental basilicas and picturesque piazzas compete with baroque facades and neighbourhood trattoria speak to the cities unrivalled complexity. Embrace the thoroughly intoxicating contemporary chic Roman lifestyle.

Your flexi-tour includes a circular driving tour, stay on for the whole tour enjoying our guide’s entertaining commentary or get-off at any one of 8 incredible stops and re-join our next circular tour bus at your leisure. It also includes our special digital walking tours. Your HolidayMax local host is full of ideas and local knowledge, so that you can get the most out of your time here.

Discover the Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Colosseum, Vatican City, Roman Forum, Piazza Navona and Trevi Fountain (coins at the ready). Explore Rome’s 3,000 year old cityscape, adorned with historic art and abuzz with modern culture. The city is awash with priceless treasures. Ancient statues adorn world-class museums; Byzantine mosaics and Renaissance frescoes dazzle in art-rich churches; baroque facades flank medieval piazzas; impressive fountains add a baroque flourish to the city's captivating streets. Discover the simple pleasures of Roman life.

The circular hop-on hop-off tour and our special digital walking tours are included – so tour as much as you like or simply take it easy.

Coach tour, overnight Rome hotel

DAY 4 Explore Rome

Make the most of your second flexi-tour today to discover more of Rome.

You’ll be spoilt for choice with compelling attractions like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Vatican City, The Pantheon, Arch of Constantine, Roman Forum, Centro Storico, Santa Maria Maggiore, Piazza Navona, Villa Borghese Gallery and Gardens, the Catacombs and Via Appia Antica. Maybe experience some of the best shopping in Europe, browsing stylish Roman boutiques or relax with an espresso.

A visit to Rome is as much about lapping up the dolce vita lifestyle as gorging on art and culture. Idling around picturesque streets, whiling away hours at streetside cafes and people-watching on pretty piazzas are all central to the Roman experience. One of Rome’s great joys is losing yourself in the narrow cobblestone streets that make up Centro Storico.

In the evening, fashionable people descend on the city’s bars and cafes for a sociable aperitivo (drink with snacks) and trattorias hum with activity. Eating out is one of Rome's great pleasures and the combination of romantic alfresco settings and superlative food is a guarantee of good times. For a truly Roman meal, head to a boisterous pizzeria or neighbourhood trattoria. To finish off, what can beat a gelato followed by a shot of world-beating coffee?

The circular hop-on hop-off tour and our special digital walking tours are included. Our special digital walking tours can include tours like: ‘Rome of the Emperors', 'Secret Rome', 'Squares & Fountains' and 'La Dolce Vita'.

Coach tour, overnight Rome hotel

DAY 5 Hidden Gem Walking Tour & Welcome Dinner

This morning, Rome is at your disposal for your final morning of flexi-touring. Spend an inspirational morning soaking up the sights, culture and cuisine of the Eternal City before meeting up with your tour leader this afternoon. Discover more famous landmarks and attractions or jump aboard the circular hop-on hop-off tour and return to one of your favourite neighbourhoods to delve even deeper into the local sights and culture. Perhaps find a quaint alfresco café and enjoy an espresso and a morning maritozzo as you watch the locals go about their daily life - or while away a few hours in a world-class museum or gallery. Maybe enjoy a leisurely brunch at a local trattoria, savouring traditional Roman dishes or spend some time exploring the Aventine Hill - home to the peaceful Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) and the keyhole view of St. Peter's Basilica. The circular hop-on hop-off tour and our special digital walking tours are included – so tour as much as you like this morning or simply take it easy.

This afternoon, meetup with your tour leader and get to know the rest of your fellow travellers on our fully escorted Essence of Italy Tour. Discuss the special activities that lie in store over the next week.

We then embark on a very special walking tour with a local guide to uncover the hidden gems of Rome on a revealing journey through the cobbled backstreets of Trastevere and the historic Roman Ghetto. Vibrant and eclectic Trastevere is a picturesque maze of narrow lanes, ivy-clad buildings and lively piazzas filled with locals. As we wander through the bohemian heart of Rome, you'll feel the artistic pulse of the city. Discover hidden chapels, marvel at the stunning Basilica of Santa Maria and soak in the colourful atmosphere where local artisans thrive. Trastevere is a world away from Rome’s iconic attractions, its authentic rustic charm will capture your imagination, transporting you back to Rome of the past. As we stroll through one of Europe’s oldest Jewish Quarters, you’ll step into a vibrant world rich in heritage. Roman Ghetto’s ancient synagogues, traditional kosher eateries and historic landmarks whisper their story along the Tiber River. Our expert local guide will bring the captivating stories of these authentic Roman streets to life.

In the evening we all enjoy a special Italian Welcome Dinner at a local Roman restaurant in Trastevere featuring traditional pasta and authentic desserts.

Coach tour, walking tour, dinner, overnight Rome hotel

DAY 6 Rome to Pisa to Tuscany

Today we travel to the spectacular Tuscany region. From ever enchanting Florence to the olive groves and vineyards of Chianti, Tuscany is the essence of old Italy. Birthplace of Renaissance art and architecture and famous for its olive oil, wine and artisan pasta, its lyrical landscapes will leave you mesmerised. Golden wheat fields, silver olive groves and undulating vineyards adorn the hillsides and valleys, as medieval hilltop villages soar up from amidst the cypress trees.

Our Italian interlude unfolds with an indulgent Tuscan wine tasting experience - where ancient vineyards whisper tales of sun-soaked Sangiovese and other renowned varieties nurtured by the fertile Tuscan soil. Each sip reveals the rich terroir of this iconic region, crafting an unforgettable journey through the nuanced flavours and aromas of Tuscan wines, some of which may be the renowned Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

The afternoon brings us to the legendary 800 year old Leaning Tower of Pisa. This compelling small city is best known for an architectural venture gone very wrong. The leaning tower is one of the most memorable sights in Europe and one of the seven medieval wonders of the world. Enjoy some free time here to ensure you capture the best images possible for your inspirational collection. The Leaning Tower, glistening in marble white, is a truly fascinating sight to behold; radiating wonder over the breathtaking Campo dei Miracoli. Galileo once taught at the elite local University, which today bestows a vivacious student edge to the city’s glorious portfolio of gorgeous Romanesque buildings, Gothic churches and Renaissance piazzas.

From here, we journey to our accommodation amongst the rolling hills of Tuscany. Enjoy free time to discover the wonders of Tuscany this evening.

Wine tasting, overnight Tuscany hotel

DAY 7 Tuscany to Florence

This morning we make our way to Tuscany’s mesmerising capital of Florence for an immersive walking tour with our local guide. It’s the cradle of the Renaissance culture, it’s romantic, enchanting and completely irresistible. Learn about the legacy of the Medicis and see the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, featuring Michelangelo’s ‘David’. See the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Ponte Vecchio.

The breathtaking terracotta-tiled dome of the Duomo cathedral rises up above narrow cobbled streetscapes, dotted with 15th and 16th century palazzi, medieval candle-lit chapels, marble basilicas and fresco-clad churches. Artistic and architectural masterpieces lay in wait at every turn; from Botticcelli’s The Birth of Venus to Michelangelo’s ‘David’ in the Piazza della Signoria.

Whilst in Florence we have the chance to indulge in the authentic flavours of Tuscany on a highly recommended optional tour, savouring a special traditional lunch experience. Let the rich flavours and aromas of freshly prepared, locally sourced ingredients and regional wines combine to create a culinary journey through the heart of Tuscan gastronomy.

Enjoy free time here this afternoon to explore more of this intoxicating city. You could begin at the iconic Uffizi Gallery - home to an unparalleled collection of Renaissance masterpieces by artists like Botticelli and Michelangelo, stroll across the Ponte Vecchio - a historic bridge adorned with jewellery shops, or savour the charm of the Oltrarno district - known for its artisan workshops. Perhaps return to soak up more of the breathtaking beauty of the Florence Cathedral, with its mesmerising dome designed by Brunelleschi or simply relish a refreshing gelato in Piazza della Signoria, surrounded by the splendid sculptures of Loggia dei Lanzi as you delight in the artistic streetscapes of the cultural gem that is Florence.

We return to our accommodation this afternoon with free time to celebrate our quintessential Tuscan experience. As the sun sinks behind the cypress-dotted hills, the evening is yours to embrace.

Today you can explore Florence yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like a Taste of Tuscany ($83). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, walking tour, overnight Tuscany hotel

DAY 8 Tuscany to Venice

With our hearts full of the romance of Tuscany we continue on to Venice, a city built on more than 100 small islands that are lined with splendid Renaissance and Gothic palaces. It has no roads, just canals like the famous Grand Canal. The central square, Piazza San Marco, contains St. Mark’s Basilica, which is tiled with Byzantine mosaics, and the Campanile bell tower offering views of the city’s famous red roofs.

This afternoon, we make our way into the heart of Venice with our HolidayMax tour host to enjoy a canal tour aboard a classic speedboat (just like in a James Bond movie). Enjoy free time to explore and find out why this is such a famous city. Stroll along the canals and ancient narrow laneways, see the instantly recognisable Rialto Bridge, St Mark's Square, the Bridge of Sighs and the Doge's Palace. A fairy-tale city of dreamlike canals, winding cobbled footpaths and fuchsia-pink sunsets, Venice makes a habit of exceeding even the grandest of expectations. The Illustrious Grand Canal reflects atop its waters centuries of Venetian architecture enroute to Piazza San Marco, where St. Mark’s Basilica and the Campanile bell tower offer breathtaking views over this famous city.

Perhaps embark on the optional activity to fully immerse yourself in the magic of Venice at night. Or simply relax with an espresso in one of the many piazzas watching the world go by.

As twilight settles over the canals, we come together for a memorable Venetian dinner — a celebration of flavour, friendship, and the timeless beauty of La Serenissima.

You can explore Venice and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like Venice by Night ($70). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, classic speedboat transfers, dinner, overnight Venice area hotel

DAY 9 Explore Venice

Today enjoy a free day to experience Venetian life at your own pace, visiting places of most interest to you. The main city is small and compact, so you can easily wander from end to end. Explore the canals, sit and relax in the vibrant small squares, browse the chic shops and high-end boutiques, go cafe-hopping, indulge in a gastronomic extravagance or spend time immersing yourself in the fascinating Venetian history, art and culture. With over 400 bridges and endless laneways, one of the best things to do is to just wander… and get lost in Venice.

Perhaps spend the day discovering somewhere in detail, like Gallerie dell’Accademia, Tintoretto's Heaven on Earth, Basilica di San Marco, Palazzo Ducale, Opera at Teatro La Fenice, La Biennale di Venezia, Punta della Dogana or Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta. Maybe explore one of the other Venetian islands, like Murano, Lido, San Giorgio Maggiore or Torcello, each with their own character but distinctly Venice. Try to find Venice’s best Tiramisu (the decadent Italian cake dessert). It was invented in Venice in the 1960s and its secret recipe has been preserved by local restaurants and bakeries, with over 25 different kinds.

Discover the Venetian pleasures of la bea vita (the beautiful life): the wake-up call of the gondoliers' ‘Ooooeeeee!’, a morning spritz in a sunny campo (square), lunch in a vibrant bacaro (bar) and the fuchsia-pink sunsets that have inspired centuries of artists. Your HolidayMax tour leader is full of ideas and local knowledge, so that you can get the best out of your special time here.

Today is a free flexi-day so you have the choice of activity to suit your mood. You can explore Venice and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like the Venice Gondola Ride ($63) or Venetian Spirit: Murano Glass & Spritz ($49). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Venice area hotel

DAY 10 Venice to Orvieto to Rome

Today we make our way back to illustrious Rome via a volcanic rock plateau amidst the verdant Umbrian countryside. Here we find the small clifftop city of Orvieto featuring a classic medieval centre of winding laneways, brown stone houses and cobbled piazzas. Beneath the rock, an underground network of caves attests to the city’s Etruscan roots, while in the old town, visitors flock to the breathtaking 13th century Duomo di Orvieto; one of Italy's greatest Gothic churches adorned with exquisite frescoes. We ascend to Orvieto’s picture-perfect historic centre aboard a scenic funicular, rising gently up the cliffs as the patchwork hills of Umbria stretch out below, arriving near the ancient city walls and fortress gate. We delight in free time to explore. Discover the magic of Orvieto at your own pace — from the Duomo’s grandeur and the spectacular views to quiet piazzas lined with cafés.

From here we enjoy one final drive through iconic Italian countryside to the eternal city of Rome. This evening is yours to revel in the joys of this historic city. Maybe head to the trendy Testaccio district for aperitivo, indulging in the local tradition of pre-dinner drinks and snacks before savouring a leisurely dinner at a local trattoria showcasing bold Roman flavours. Perhaps round off your evening with a relaxing stroll along the Tiber River, relishing the romantic ambiance of the illuminated bridges that showcase Rome's timeless beauty, as you reminisce over your enchanted Italian adventure.

Breakfast, funicular ride, overnight Rome hotel

DAY 11 Board the MSC Grandiosa

This morning you will be transferred to the historic port of Civitavecchia to board the magnificent upscale cruise liner MSC Grandiosa. Experience premium cruising on this modern luxurious ship designed to deliver the ultimate contemporary cruise experience.

This spectacular ship boasts a wide array of state-of-the-art facilities and entertainment. Relax into the sophisticated European vibe surrounded by stylish ultra-modern Italian design, savouring the indulgent first-class hospitality. Enjoy fine food designed by highly acclaimed Michelin star chefs. Experience world-class entertainment and Broadway-style shows. The exquisite MSC Grandiosa features a breathtaking grand promenade, a broad range of friendly dining venues and generous public spaces.

Relax in your cabin and explore MSC Grandiosa as we set sail into the sparkling Mediterranean, westwards through the intoxicatingly blue Tyrrhenian Sea.

Breakfast, meet and greet personalised arrival transfer, dinner, overnight MSC Grandiosa.

DAY 12 Day at Sea

Enjoy a special day aboard this premium cruise-liner cruising the azure waters of The Med. Take advantage of MSC Grandiosa’s delicious dining options, great facilities, comprehensive activities and exciting entertainment as we sail through the Mediterranean Sea on your journey to Spain’s Balearic Islands.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Grandiosa

DAY 13 Explore Mallorca (Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain)

Cruise through picture-postcard Balearic Islands, a stunning archipelago off eastern Spain, to Mallorca. A Mediterranean island paradise of breathtaking beauty and diversity, Mallorca boasts a sun-drenched patchwork of mountain scenery, hilltop monasteries and medieval towns with an exquisite coastline of white sand beaches and picture perfect azure coves. Beyond the charming hinterland and postcard bays, the capital city of Palma de Mallorca provides a delightful dose of culture and architecture with a magnificent Gothic Cathedral as its centrepiece.

The town of Palma is visually magnificent, culturally spoiled, historically fascinating, geographically blessed and a playground of the elite. Explore the crooked medieval streets lined with aristocratic mansions; galleries packed with the work of renowned artists; a broad bay bristling with the masts of splendid yachts; restaurants mixing it with the great innovators of modern Spanish food; and endless acres of shopping.

Arrive into Mallorca at 9am for a full day before setting sail again at 9pm. You can spend a magical day exploring Palma or perhaps take one of the optional tours like From Castles to Cathedrals ($114), Protectours: Get to Know Palma on Foot ($89), Dragon’s Caves, Treasures of the Deep & Pearl Factory ($116) or Visit Soller & Ride through Mountains on a Vintage Train Ride ($178).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Grandiosa

DAY 14 Explore Barcelona (Spain)

It’s easy to see why visitors fall in love with this enchanting beach city filled with remarkable architecture and a boundless cultural scene. Recognised as one of the most attractive cities in Europe, the Catalan capital has a cosmopolitan international vibe. There is so much to do and see - museums, the 'Old Town', art galleries, sun-drenched beaches, incredible cafes and some of the best shopping in Europe. The renewed Park Guell features the spectacular quirky design typical of Anton Gaudi all with panoramic city views.

Barcelona's architectural treasures span 2000-plus years, but many of its more modern additions are it’s most famous. The Modernisme movement and Antoni Gaudí’s has greatly influenced the face of Barcelona architecture. Barcelona’s bright light and mood has also long inspired artists, including Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró (with major museums here devoted to their works).

You’ll savour mealtime. The Catalan region has a long and celebrated tradition of cooking with simple, flavourful ingredients like seafood and jamón (cured ham) which are transformed into remarkable delicacies often served in spectacular settings. Maybe learn how to prepare the perfect paella and mix the tastiest sangria in a cooking class.

Make the most of this exciting city. Perhaps relax at the famous city beaches, shop at La Boqueria market (still bustling since medieval times), ride the cable car to the castle, experience FC Barcelona soccer at Camp Nou or maybe eat Tapas and dance Flamenco!

Arrive into Barcelona at 8am before setting sail again at 5pm. You can spend an exciting day exploring Barcelona or perhaps take an optional tour like Barcelona Highlights: Gaudi, Montjuic & Shopping Delights ($101), Protectours: Explore the Gothic Quarter on Foot with Gastronomy and Shopping ($78), Sagrada Familia & Gaudi’s Bests Buildings ($190), Gaudi’s Masterpieces: Parc Guell and La Pedrera ($190), Highlights of Barcelona and Visit to Montserrat Monastery ($162) or Highlights of Barcelona & Pueblo Espanol ($112).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Grandiosa

DAY 15 Explore Cannes & Monaco (French Riviera)

Today experience one of the world’s most famous and beautiful coastlines, packed with exclusive towns, gorgeous beaches, luxury hotels, designer bars and splendid belle époque villas. From the see-and-be-seen beaches and boardwalks of Cannes, Monaco and Nice to the lavender fields of Grasse and the medieval villages of Èze, there's a whole host of places to discover along the glistening French Riviera.

Explore this favoured playground of celebrities and the well-heeled. The glamorous resort village of Cannes is renowned for its international film festival, rich and famous and picture perfect Mediterranean coastline; its premier Boulevard de la Croisette is adorned with immaculate hotels and designer boutiques. Home to the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, with a collection of picturesque islands just off the coast, Cannes epitomises the warmth and allure of the French Riviera. Perhaps visit the Principality of Monaco (world’s second-smallest country, after the Vatican). The spectacular home of the Formula One Grand Prix street race has been a magnet for high-rollers and hedonists since the early 20th century. In Monaco, visit the residence of the Prince of Monaco, take in the sweeping vistas from a viewpoint overlooking the spectacular harbour, and visit the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo. Maybe experience the pure Mediterranean magnetism of Nice with its hybrid of French and Italian culture and an ambiance and history all its own.

Arrive into Cannes at 9am for a full day before setting sail again at 7pm. You can spend a relaxing day exploring the French Riviera or perhaps take one of the optional tours like Discover Nice, the Stylish Capital of the Cote D’Azur ($99), Soak up the French Riviera in Cannes and Saint-Raphael ($116), Experience the High Life in Monaco ($158), Cannes and Antibes: Two Glamorous Towns on the Cote D’Azur ($120) or Protectours: Be Dazzled by the Cinematic Charm of Cannes ($79).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Grandiosa

DAY 16 Explore Portofino & Milan (Genoa, Italian Riviera)

Today explore the western end of the famed Italian Riviera coast, where the Alps and the Apennines cascade into the sea. Italy’s gateway to the glorious Italian Riviera, Genoa is home to the largest medieval city in Europe - a fascinating maze of winding alleyways, Renaissance palaces and historic architecture. Perhaps discover the splendour of Portofino or the allure of Milan.

Southeast of the city, the picture-perfect exclusive fishing village of Portofino is etched into the mountainside; a stunning collection of pastel-coloured buildings hiding the affluent by day and overlooking the crystal clear aqua-marine harbour below. This charming Italian Riviera village is the perfect place to enjoy a beverage overlooking a super-yacht lined harbour, to stroll the high-end boutiques, feast at a seafood restaurant or wander the beautiful cobbled square. Milan is the global fashion capital and home of Italian design - a fast-paced metropolis where world class shopping, Michelin star cuisine and a treasure trove of art and culture come together in an inimitable confluence. Gaze in awe as the epic Duomo di Milano cathedral exudes Gothic splendour upon the city’s otherwise futuristic skyline and trendy locals for whom style is an art form.

Arrive into bustling Genoa at 8am for a full day of exploration before setting sail again at 6pm. You can spend an exciting day discovering the Italian Riviera at your own pace or perhaps take one of the optional tours like Protectours: A Segway Adventure Around Town ($152), A Scenic Bus Tour of the City’s Finest Sights ($71), Exploring Elegant Milan ($165), A Trip to Italy’s World Class Aquarium ($87), Navigate the City’s Storied Centre on Foot ($112) or Behind the Scenes at Italy’s Largest Aquarium ($106).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Grandiosa

DAY 17 Explore Tuscany, Cinque Terre & Pisa (La Spezia, Italian Riviera)

Your Tuscan adventure starts early today. Discover this magical region, with the opportunity to experience jewels like Florence, Pisa and Cinque Terre.

Amidst the spectacular coastal scenery and charming postcard villages of the eastern end of the Italian Riviera, the striking port city of La Spezia offers an authentic look into one of the region’s lesser known tourist destinations. Exuding the unique charm of a working port city; palm-lined promenades and fertile citrus parks give way to the winding streets, cosy trattorias and colourful balconies of the old town.

Perhaps travel through Tuscany’s spectacular countryside to its famous capital city of Florence. It’s the cradle of the Renaissance culture, it’s romantic, enchanting and completely irresistible. Learn about the legacy of the Medicis and see the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, featuring Michelangelo’s ‘David’. See the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Ponte Vecchio. Perhaps witness the legendary 800 year old Leaning Tower of Pisa. At Cinque Terre, colourful houses and vineyards cling to steep terraces along some of the most dramatic coastal scenery on the planet. Made up of five ingeniously constructed fishing villages, harbors are filled with fishing boats and trattorias turn out seafood specialties along with the Liguria region’s famous sauce, pesto.

Arrive into La Spezia at 7am for a full day before setting sail again at 6pm. You can spend a memorable day visiting Tuscany, Cinque Terre or Pisa or perhaps take one of the optional tours like The Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Square of Miracles ($162), A Day Trip to Florence ($201), “Cinque Terre” on Your Own ($185), Medieval Marvels and Wine Tasting in Lucca ($218), Kick Back at a Viareggio Beach Club ($152), A Tour of Cinque Terre Villages and Lunch ($317), In and Around the Cinque Terre: Portovenere and Monterosso ($224), Exploring the “Sixth Village” of the Cinque Terre: Portovenere ($101) or A Bucket List Day Trip to Florence and Pisa ($218).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Grandiosa

DAY 18 Arrive in Rome, depart Italy for Australia

Time to say goodbye to your fellow voyagers and friendly cruise hosts as your Essence of Italy adventure and Spain & France Mediterranean cruise draws to an end. You will be personally met at the port by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to the airport for your flight home. Arrivederci, Italia!

Breakfast, meet and greet personalised departure airport transfer

DAY 19 Arrive home

Enjoy the attentive service on your premium airline flight home.

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