8 Night Greece, Italy & Cyprus Cruise on Explorer of the Seas from Athens, Piraeus, Greece Bodrum Town in Turkey
The 8 Night Greece, Italy & Cyprus Cruise from Athens, Piraeus, Greece visits Santorini, Greece; Chania (Souda), Crete; Bodrum, Turkey; Limassol, Cyprus; Naples / Capri, Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy. Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.
Royal Caribbean Cruises
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8 Night Greece, Italy & Cyprus Cruise
Itinerary Overview
Explore Explorer of the Seas
Day 1 - Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Day 2 - Santorini, Greece
Day 3 - Chania (Souda), Crete
Day 4 - Bodrum, Turkey
Day 5 - Limassol, Cyprus
Day 6 - 7 - Cruising
Day 8 - Naples / Capri, Italy
Day 9 - Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
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Bodrum Town in Turkey
Bodrum Town in Turkey
This is your

8 Night Greece, Italy & Cyprus Cruise

Explore This Itinerary
Leaving from
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Onboard
Explorer of the Seas
Day Port
1
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Departs at 5:00 PM
2
Santorini, Greece
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
3
Chania (Souda), Crete
From 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
4
Bodrum, Turkey
From 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
5
Limassol, Cyprus
From 12:30 PM - 9:30 PM
6 - 7
Cruising
Day at sea
8
Naples / Capri, Italy
From 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
9
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
Arrives at 5:00 AM
*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.
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Your ship Explorer of the Seas

Your ship
Explorer of the Seas
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Explorer of the Seas the Perfect Storm
Explorer of the Seas the Perfect Storm
Get to know
Explorer of the Seas
This is not your average vacation. This is adventure in a bold new light — on the fleet-favorite Explorer of the Seas®. Soak up the sunshine and chill vibes at the adults-only Solarium. Indulge in authentic Tuscan cuisine at Giovanni’s Table. Then catch a jaw-dropping original production in the Main Theater, or dance the night away at Club Twenty. On this ship, there’s no wrong way to vacay.

ADVENTURE ON EVERY DECK

When you're not exploring unforgettable ports, you'll find plenty of thrills on deck. Scale the Rock Climbing Wall and try not to wipe out on the FlowRider® surf simulator. Or engage in a little friendly competition on the mini-golf course, before taking your adventure onto the ice skating rink.

FLAVORFUL FAVES

Say "Konnichiwa" to fresh-rolled sushi at Izumi, or "Buongiorno" to authentic Italian eats at Giovanni's Table. If it's prime meat you're craving, head to Chops Grille℠ for steakhouse offerings that are a cut above the rest. And for the ultimate sweet treat, order up a classic milkshake at Johnny Rockets®.

FLASHBACK FUN & DARING DANCE MOVES

Cap off each date night with an incredible show at the Main Theater, followed by a round of your favorite ice-cold brews, moonlight and island vibes poolside, and late-night dancing.

Day 1: Athens, Greece

Day 1
Athens
Piraeus, Greece
View Itinerary
Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Acropolis and Pathenon
View of the Parthenon atop the Acropolis in Athens, Greece
Things to do in
Athens
Departs at 5:00 PM
Athens offers a looking glass back in time into Greece's powerful ancient civilization. Art lovers, epicureans and history buffs will be delighted by the ancient ruins, museums and tavernas of this picturesque town. Just 10 minutes from the port, you'll find the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus, filled with sculptures from the Bronze Age to the Romans. Walk to the Zea Harbour to discover how the Hellenic Maritime Museum will bring to life the grandeur of ancient Greece's naval capacities. Jump onboard an Athens cruise and relax at the small harbor of Mikrolimano, enjoying a meal of grilled octopus and chilled white wine at a small restaurant overlooking the sea.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Agia Triada Church
The Agia Triada church in Greece

Take Me to Church

The Agia Triada is one of the finest examples of Byzantine-style churches in Greece. The Church of St. Nicholas, which overlooks the port, has a magnificent interior filled with orthodox icons, frescoes and sculptures.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Mikrolimano Harbour
Mikrolimano harbour in Greece

Mediterranean Romance

Part of the Castella district, Mikrolimano is the smallest and most picturesque port of Athens, making it perfect for a romantic afternoon. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade to take in the amazing views, then settle in a cafe or taverna for some fresh seafood or a refreshing drink with your cruise to Athens.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece. Decorative Vases
Various decorative Greek vases

Boats and the Bronze Age

The Naval Museum has exhibits that present ship building from ancient times to the present day. You will be fascinated by the Neosoikoi, the archaeological remains of the ship sheds where local craftsmen maintained and repaired the boats. Art lovers will have plenty to see at the Piraeus Archaeological Museum, from Bronze Age sculptures to classical Hellenistic pottery.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Grilled Octopus
Grilled octopus on a white plate with a lemon on the side

Local Cuisine

Try the local dishes prepared with sun-ripened tomatoes, eggplant, bell peppers and fresh seafood like mussels and grilled octopus. Look for trovolia, a typical fresh cheese to savor with marinated olives. Ask for recommendations on local wines — the most common white is lively, floral and aromatic Moschofilero, while the red of choice is Xinomavro, an indigenous grape with a bold, complex flavor.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Greek Souvenirs
An assortment of Greek souvenirs such as helmets and sculptures

Shopping

You may want to bring back home some of the typical liquors such as the anise-flavored Ouzo or the strong Tsipouro. Greek olives, spices and capers can be vacuumed-packed, making for convenient souvenirs. Look for locally made leather sandals, pottery and hand-painted ceramics. You'll find most shops in the Psyri district, not far from the Acropolis during your Athens cruise.

Day 2: Santorini, Greece

Day 2
Santorini
Greece
View Itinerary
Santorini, Greece Oia Houses
Scenic view of traditional cycladic houses on small street with flowers in foreground, in Santorini, Greece
Things to do in
Santorini
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Santorini is one of the world’s most popular islands, known best for its dramatic scenery, whitewashed villages and fiery volcanic activity. Here adventure bubbles above the Aegean Sea in the most bold and breathtaking ways. A cable car takes you to the capital of Fira, a bustling cliff-top town awash with old cathedrals, enthralling museum collections and cozy tavernas. Venture to the coast for a swim in the deep blue waters that lap red and black pebbled beaches. And peel back layers of lava and history among excavated Akrotiri. Whether it’s by bicycle, ATV or on your own two feet, exploring this Cyclades isle never fails to impress.
Santorini, Greece Volcano
Nea Kameni volcanic island in Santorini, Greece

VOLCANIC WONDERS

Explore the volcanic history and geology of Santorini, site of an immense eruption 3,500 years ago. Trek the rocky landscape of Nea Kameni, an island in the center of the Santorini caldera, to see its smoking craters. Then soak in the soothing hot springs of Palea Kameni.
Insider tip
Wear hiking boots or comfortable sneakers and plenty of sunscreen when hiking the caldera.
Santorini, Greece Byzantine Castle Ruins
Early morning in Byzantine Castle Ruins in Oia village, Santorini, Greece

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

Considered the island’s most picturesque village, Oia radiates authentic Cyclades charm. Meander along tiny paths squeezed between stark-white villas. Snap selfies with the blue-domed St. Gerasimos Church, and view Byzantine castle ruins. Or dine on Greek seafood in a waterfront taverna— also the perfect perch for watching Oia’s fabulous sunsets.
Insider tip
Don’t be in a rush— dining in Greece is a laid-back, drawn-out affair.
Santorini, Greece Grapes Vineyard
Bunch of white grapes in the vineyard in the Wine Museum of Thira, Santorini, Greece

THE GLASS HALF FULL

Indulge your taste buds in a delectable tasting journey among the island’s traditional wine cellars. Vineyards dapple Santorini’s countryside, and many are among some of Europe’s oldest. White Assyrtiko and red Mantilaria are both popular varietals— and be sure to sample Santorini’s beloved dessert wine, Vinsanto.
Santorini, Greece Raki
Alcohol drink Raki with anis on wooden board in Santorini, Greece

LOCAL CUISINE

Thanks to Santorini’s rich volcanic soil, the island has a solid reputation for producing fantastic wines and vegetables— fresh cherry tomatoes, fava beans and white eggplant included. Try egg-based sfougato and fried tomatokeftedes fritters, two Santorini specialties. Pick up melitinia cookies from a local bakery. And for an after-dinner drink, sip unsweetened, anise-flavored raki.
Santorini, Greece Small white and blue houses
Small white and blue house souvenirs in Santorini, Greece

SHOPPING

Ypapantis Street in Fira is known for its dozens of jewelry stores selling pieces inspired by ancient Greek and Byzantine designs. You’ll find local artwork in the galleries of Oia and books about the Cyclades in Atlantis Books. A bottle of Santorini wine or Canava ouzo makes for a tasty souvenir.

Day 3: Chania, Crete

Day 3
Chania
Souda, Crete
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Chania, Crete Boats Docked At A Pier
Boats docked at a pier in Chania, Crete
Things to do in
Chania
From 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Chania is rich in remnants of the past. Start your adventure in Crete's second-largest city at Venetian Harbor, the entry to the old port. Soak in the vibe while wandering the narrow streets lined with shops and waterfront restaurants serving local fare like zucchini fritters and sardines stuffed with herbs and sun-dried tomatoes. Then head to Souda Bay, a strategic commercial and military harbor since ancient times, where you'll find the Aptera Fortress and the oldest Ottoman building in Crete. Cruise to Crete and stop into Archeological Museum of Chania, with artifacts from neolithic to Roman times. Or splash around in the translucent waters of Fallasarna, a beach surrounded by olive groves.
Chania, Crete Ottoman Fortress
The exterior walls of the ottoman fortress in Crete

Active Archaeology

One of ancient Crete's most important city-states, Aptera sits on a hill just south of the bay, with two seaports at the entrance to Souda Bay. Check out this active archaeological site to learn about new discoveries that shed light on the most powerful city of western Crete during Minoan times.
Insider tip
Known as the "temple of gastronomy," the architecturally distinctive Chania Municipal Market is the place to discover local delicacies.Known as the "temple of gastronomy," the architecturally distinctive Chania Municipal Market is the place to discover local delicacies.
Chania, Crete Katholiko Monastery Ruins
The ruins of the Katholiko Monastery in Crete

Mountain Monasteries

Stroll the sandy beach at Stavros Bay, where Anthony Quinn danced in 1964's "Zorba the Greek." Explore the three monasteries — Agias Triada, Gouverneto and Katholika — set on this rocky peninsula. Discover Bear Cave on the footpath leading to Katholiko built into the cliff.
Insider tip
With a history dating back to around 2,200 BC, the Archaeological Museum housed in the Church of San Francesco stores artifacts dating from Neolithic to Roman times.
Chania, Crete Samaria Gorge
View of the Samaria Gorge in Chania, Crete

Hike to the Gorge

At 18 kilometers, Samaria is the longest of the many deep gorges that cut into Crete's mountains. The entrance is 42 kilometers south of Chania, and you can hike independently or with a guide. On the way, you might run into some kri kri, the wild goats found only on Crete. The gorge opens out to the black-sand beach at Ayia Roumeli.
Insider tip
Head to the Old Harbor, filled with wooden fishing boats and lined with cafes and restaurants, and to see remarkable changes of light throughout the day.
Chania, Crete Lobster With Vegetables
A plate with lobster served with vegetables in Chania, Crete

Local Cuisine

Restaurants with fresh seafood abound at the Chania waterfront. Local signatures of savory lamb, mini cheese pies and fresh vegetables also bring something special to the plate. And don't miss the dacos, a traditional Cretan bread served with tomato, mizithra cheese and rivers of virgin Cretan olive oil.
Chania, Crete Traditional Ceramic Dishes
Traditional ceramic dishes in Crete

Shopping

Chania's Old Town is packed with unique shops selling handmade ceramic kitchenware and decorations with classic geometric designs, one-of-a-kind jewelry made from pearl and coral — and of course, the local extra virgin olive oil, which is typically cold-pressed and retains distinctive flavors of green apple and fresh-cut grass. Take the time to explore the narrow, less-traveled streets to find both bargains and unique items during your Crete cruise.

Day 4: Bodrum, Turkey

Day 4
Bodrum
Turkey
View Itinerary
Bodrum, Turkey - view of the end of the day
Bodrum, Turkey - view of the end of the day
Things to do in
Bodrum
From 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
When Turkish history and culture meets the blue waters of the Aegean, magical things are bound to happen. Some travelers will begin right at the sea, whether that means lounging under an umbrella on the shimmering sands of Bodrum Beach or sipping Raki cocktails at a waterfront bar along Milta Bodrum Marina. If you want to work up a sweat before you relax, one of the best things to do in Bodrum, Turkey, is explore its ancient history. The 15th-century Bodrum Castle pairs sweeping views of the sea with impressive architecture and historical exhibitions, while Halicarnassus is home to an ancient city and mausoleum from the Greek period nearly 2,500 years ago. Restaurant or retail therapy is the perfect way to cap off any day in Bodrum. Tear into tender, grilled octopus, or shop Turkish mosaic lamps and olive oil products amid the raucous stalls of Bodrum Market.
The only thing better than Bodrum Castle's architecture is its Aegean views.
The only thing better than Bodrum Castle's architecture is its Aegean views.

Relish Regal Views

Welcome to 15th-century Bodrum Castle, where the only thing more impressive than the medieval lookout towers are the views of the sparkling sea you enjoy from atop. Follow up your survey of the fortress by descending into the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which provides an overview of shipwrecks just offshore and a collection of glass artifacts found in them.
Insider tip
Given Bodrum's popularity among UK tourists, you can almost always find someone here who speaks English.
Take a trip way back in time with a stroll through Halicarnassus Citadel.
Take a trip way back in time with a stroll through Halicarnassus Citadel.

Go Greek for the Afternoon

Head even further back in time when you set foot on the cobbled streets of Halicarnassus Citadel. Imagine yourself at a Greek performance in 350 B.C. when you climb up to the top of the site's intact amphitheater. Or, pay your respects at the sprawling mausoleum, where the local Anatolians who ruled present-day Bodrum on behalf of Greek imperial overlords are interred.
Insider tip
If you don't have any Turkish Lira on hand, most restaurateurs and shopkeepers are happy to accept Euros.
There are few more relaxing places in Turkey than Bodrum Beach.
There are few more relaxing places in Turkey than Bodrum Beach.

Soak up the Turkish Sun

Step into postcard-perfect scenery as your toes sink into the sun-warmed sands of Bodrum Beach. Take a dip in the still, crystalline waters lapping at the shore, or rent an umbrella or two, slather on the sunscreen and relax like never before. Order a shot of Raki, a distinctive local spirit that tastes like licorice, or order a milder Efes beer and say "cheers" to your beautiful day in Bodrum.
Insider tip
Bodrum is a popular jumping-off point for excursions into the Turkish islands and to Turkish coast destinations, such as Fethiye, Öludeniz and Antalya.
Bodrum is as much a culinary paradise as it is one for beaches.
Bodrum is as much a culinary paradise as it is one for beaches.

LOCAL CUISINE

When you work up an appetite, make your way to Milta Bodrum Marina, where you can enjoy views of majestic yachts reflecting in the water as you dine on fresh seafood and grilled meats. Choose locally caught izgara ahtapot (grilled octopus) served simply with a drizzle of olive oil and a wedge of lemon, or select a platter of grilled meats, kebabs and mezze appetizers for a more pan-Turkish culinary celebration.
Discount.Market in Bodrum
Discount.Market in Bodrum

SHOPPING

The main challenge of shopping at picturesque Bodrum Market? Getting out from behind the lens of your camera long enough to actually buy something! Traipse past colorful stalls, browse typical Turkish keepsakes, like colorful mosaic lamps and mysterious Nazar Boncuk evil eyes, or shop for products made with locally produced olives, including soaps and extra-virgin oils.

Day 5: Limassol, Cyprus

Day 5
Limassol
Cyprus
View Itinerary
Kourion Beach Coast, Limassol, Cyprus
Kourion Beach Coast, Limassol, Cyprus
Things to do in
Limassol
From 12:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Limassol offers ancient history, a wide variety of cuisine, Blue Flag beaches and some of the most beautiful coastline in the world. With a story that dates back to antiquity, the castle in the historic center is where Richard the Lionheart married, and it's from here that the entire town radiates. The surrounding area is a heady mix of restaurants, bars, nightclubs and shops. Cruise to Cyprus to find plenty of historical and cultural sites, including museums, churches and old shuttered houses that give you a view into the past. When you're ready to dust the sand off from the beach, head to the glamorous marina to discover how Limassol is much more than sun and sea.
Limassol, Cyprus Kolossi Clastle
Kolossi Castle, a former Cruisader stronghold on the edge of Kolossi village, in Limassol, Cyprus

Colossal Kolossi

Located about 11 kilometers from the city center, Kolossi Castle was built in 1210 by the Order of St. John of Jerusalem and acted as a stronghold for the city. During the Middle Ages, it stored reserves of sugarcane. While it is now partially in ruins, it stills bears its former owner's coat of arms and its three floors offer a one-of-a-kind look into the past with much to explore.
Insider tip
Limassol has plenty of sandy and rocky beaches within easy reach, including the main beach: Akti Olympion.
Limassol, Cyprus Ancient Amphitheatre
Ancient amphitheatre near Limassol, Cyprus

Antiquity Today

Considered the most impressive archaeological remains on Cyprus, much of what you discover at UNESCO-protected Kourion dates back to the Romans. This includes the Theater, the Forum, he Nymphaeum, the Public Baths, the House of the Gladiators and much more. The restored Greek Roman Theater is still in use today and offers unique acoustics as well as views of the city. While there are no guided tours of the ruins, there are plenty of information boards to read along the way.
Insider tip
Among the many churches you'll find in Limassol, the Agia Napa Church located in the center is the one to visit.
Limassol, Cyprus Medieval Castle
The medieval Limassol Castle in Limassol, Cyprus

Pottering Around Town

The Limassol Archaeology Museum is connected to Limassol Castle, and it traces the history and development of Cyprus from its prehistory roots through to Roman times. Much of what is on display was unearthed close by, including a number of items from Kourion. Part of the museum is dedicated solely to ancient Amathus, and for those who love to see pottery from throughout the ages, this is the place for you to visit during your vacation.
Limassol, Cyprus Greek Salad
Greek salad with fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, basil and olives, in Limassol, Cyprus

Local Cuisine

Local, as well as, international influences are found in Limassol cuisine, including a strong Asian influence. Local seafood, such as clams and mussels, play a big part in traditional eateries. For something light, start with a Greek salad with fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, basil and olives. With restaurants lining the waterfront as well as tucked away among the streets of the historic center, you'll find something to suit your palette.
Limassol, Cyprus Traditional Parasols
Limassol, Cyprus Traditional Handmade Lace Parasols in local souvenir shop in Limassol, Cyprus

Shopping

Head to Agiou Andreou Street for local items and Makarios Avenue for designer duds during your Cyprus cruise. Limassol has plenty to offer the inveterate shopper. Leather goods, olive oil, traditional lacework and glassworks are all of high quality and many are created using traditional methods.

Day 6 - 7: Cruising

Day 6 - 7
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Young Woman Climbing
Young Woman Climbing Up the Rock Wall
PLAY ANY WAY YOU LIKE
Symphony of the Seas Perfect Storm Boy Entering Slide
Perfect Storm Boy Entering Slide

The Perfect Storm℠

Up for adventure? Put on your brave face and get ready to race through twists, turns and next-level thrills on the boldest slides at sea. No matter which ship you sail on, The Perfect Storm℠ waterslides take excitement off the charts.
Scuba Certification Padi Diving a Class On Board
Padi Scuba Certification Diving Class

Scuba Certification

Gear up and get certified at sea during an underwater adventure lead by certified PADI® instructors.
Navigator of the Seas Adventure Ocean
Girl Playing with Dolls at Adventure Ocean

Adventure Ocean®

“Are we there yet?” is a thing of the past. We keep every kid entertained with games, events, age-appropriate activities and more in our award-winning youth program.
Vitality Spa Manicure Teen Nails
Vitality Spa Manicure Teen Nails

Spa & Fitness Center

A luxurious sanctuary offering signature treatments, medi-spa services, and a full-service salon to make you glow from the inside out. Browse our spa menu for pricing.

Day 8: Naples / Capri, Italy

Day 8
Naples / Capri
Italy
View Itinerary
Naples - Capri, Italy, Aerial View
An aerial view of Capri
Things to do in
Naples / Capri
From 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
With a skyline defined by towering Mount Vesuvis, Naples is a bustling Italian city brimming with beauty. Experience its rich neoclassical architecture at sites like Gesu Nuovo Church, with its lavish interior adorned with detailed frescoes, statues and gold inlay. Go even deeper into history at the San Gennaro catacombs, where Naples' first bishops were buried in the second century A.D. Walk along the Miglio Sacro ("Holy Mile") and people-watch your way through the cafes and shops of the Sanita district with a zuccherato (sweetened espresso) in hand. Jump onboard a Naples cruise and take the short bus ride to the base of Mount Vesuvius — it's an easy 20- to 30-minute hike will take you to the summit — and tour the ruins of Pompeii afterward.
Naples - Capri, Italy, Catacombs of San Gennaro
The Catacombs of San Gennaro in Italy

Go Underground

Interested in getting up close and personal with Naples' past residents? Head underground to visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro. These historic burial places are the oldest in the city and the largest in all of Southern Italy. Spend some time wandering around the different rooms to see how the rooms where the wealthy and poor were buried.
Insider tip
You won't be able to visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro without a guided tour, so be sure to book yours well in advanced.
Naples - Capri, Italy, Gesu Nuovo interior
The interior of the Gesu Nuovo in Italy

Church Bells Ring

Naples' churches are a great way to tour its architectural treasures, and most of them are concentrated in the old town center. Check out San Domenico Maggiore, with its impressive gold-gilded ceiling and interior. Inside Sansevero Chapel, you'll find a number of impressive Baroque statues and classical art. And don't miss the beautiful frescoes and peaceful vibe of Gesu Nuovo Church during your Capri cruise.
Insider tip
Wear comfortable shoes; you'll be doing a lot of walking over cobblestones while in the city.
Naples - Capri, Italy, Margherita pizza
A margherita pizza in Naples, Italy

Local Cuisine

Neopolitan-style pizza is Naples culinary gem. Grab a seat at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele, which has been serving up pizza since 1870, and order a slice of simple, classic margherita, topped with fresh basil, tomato sauce and local mozzarella di fiore. Cruise to Naples and head to Friggitoria Vomero for the town's best arancini — gooey, fried spheres of rice and cheese — or panzarotti, a mini-calzone stuffed with mozzarella, tomato and other ingredients like spinach or ham.
Naples - Capri, Italy, Traditional pots
Traditional pots at a shop in Italy

Shopping

Head to Via Toledo, the longest shopping street in Naples, which offers small boutiques and a huge department store. Continue down the road to Galleria Umberto I, a beautiful shopping gallery for some high-end souvenirs such as silk scarves and leather shoes to take back home.

Day 9: Rome, Italy

Day 9
Rome
Civitavecchia, Italy
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Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Roman Forum
The Roman Forum in Rome, Italy
Things to do in
Rome
Arrives at 5:00 AM
With 28 centuries of celebrated history, Rome holds the edge when it comes to unrivaled adventures. The city that sparked the world’s largest empire is very much alive today with a jumble of ancient ruins, world-renowned art and vivacious street culture. Here you can live la dolce vita, recalling the glory days of Ancient Rome and twirling forks full of pasta in a trattoria. Ride past centuries-old basilicas in a three-wheeled Ape Calessino, or stand in awe of paintings by Italian masters at Villa Borghese. Whether it’s Vatican City’s spiritual allure, Trastevere’s backstreet charms, or the Colosseum’s embattled legacy— The Eternal City endures with endless adventures.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Pantheon
The Pantheon in Rome, Italy

ANCIENT AND AMAZING

Walk through the heart of Ancient Rome. Start at the Colosseum, an enormous arena where gladiators once battled. Then meander around the Roman Forum’s timeworn ruins, past crumbling temples and basilicas. See where emperors lived on Palatine Hill— and enjoy an up-close view of the 2,000-year-old, well-preserved Pantheon church.
Insider tip
Conservative attire (no tank tops or shorts) is required when visiting Rome’s religious sites.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Piazza Navona
A fountain in Piazza Navona in Italy

ADVENTURE SQUARED

Roam around Rome’s piazzas, as each offers a unique perspective. Dine al fresco in Piazza Navona and climb The Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna. Wander cobbled alleys in bustling Trastevere and browse Campo de’ Fiori’s artisan stalls. Be sure to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain for good measure.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, Statues
Statues in the Vatican Museum

SACRED SPACES

Explore the Vatican Museums’ extraordinary collection of tapestries and classical statues. Step inside the Sistine Chapel and be awed by Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes. Then enter St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s largest churches, to stand under its enormous sky-piercing dome.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, Pizza and pasta
Pizza, pasta, and antipasta on a table in Rome

LOCAL CUISINE

Romans live to eat, whether it’s family-style or in a sidewalk café. For an authentic taste of Cucina Romana, try carciofi alla Romana (braised artichokes) or spaghetti alla carbonara. Enjoy panino (stuffed sandwiches) or thin-crusted Roman pizza. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of gelato. Then finish the night with a glass of white wine from the surrounding Lazio region.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, Colosseum Vatican Models
Minitature models of the Colosseum and Vatican

SHOPPING

Street stalls throughout the city are your best bet for souvenirs. Via Condotti offers a string of couture Italian designers. Browse artist studios along Via Margutta, or the indie artisan retailers of the Monti neighborhood. Porta Portese is the city’s largest flea market— and La Rinascente, the first department store.

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