A cruise along the western coast of Italy features so much culture, natural beauty, and fine cuisine that no Royal Holiday vacationer could hope to enjoy it all in one visit. Fortunately for cruisers, most Western Mediterranean cruise itineraries typically include stopovers to at least one of the beautiful ports of call along the Italian coast. Following are a few of the most visited and memorable destinations.
La Spezia
Located on the Ligurian coast of northwestern Italy, La Spezia is a place of incredible natural beauty. The entire area is large protected parkland – and rightly so. The seaside cliffs and mountains provide stunning scenery and make for excellent hiking excursions. Le Spezia is perhaps best known as a major launching point for tours into Cinque Terre, a series of five unique fishing villages that are each known for gorgeous water, colorful buildings clinging to the cliffsides, and individual character.
Civitavecchia
The port of bustling Rome, Civitavecchia is a cruiser’s doorway into the pulsing heart of Italy. From here, visitors can plan excursions to see all the grand sights of Italy’s capital city, including the Pantheon, the Vatican, the Colosseum, and countless museums and archeological sites. Of course, the shopping and dining opportunities are nearly endless here, as well, giving cruisers more than a few chances to experience la dolce vita in true Italian style.
Naples
In the shadow of the famous Mt. Vesuvius, Naples is considered the urban heart of southern Italy. This ancient city hosts the fascinating National Archaeological Museum, which exhibits an unparalleled collection of Roman sculpture, mosaics, murals, and other artwork. From Naples, one can also tour Cumae, the first Greek colony on the Italian peninsula, and Lago d’Averno, the lake across which the fabled River Styx was discovered in ancient Greek myth.
Palermo
A busy, chaotic city on the island of Sicily, visitors here will experience a different slice of Italy. The contrast can be bewildering: parts of the city haven’t been rebuilt since they were bombed in World War II, while others have grown into ultra-posh and exclusive neighborhoods. However, the city is dense and easy to stroll around, giving visitors plenty of time to take in the many beautiful churches, palaces, museums, and cafes.
