From Italy’s Cultural Heartlands to the Legendary Mediterranean
Welcome to Italy and to Milan. As the capital of the Lombardy region, Milan has been a seat of power since the Roman era and today stands as Italy’s creative and commercial heartland, as celebrated for its Baroque palaces and Gothic cathedral as for the fashion houses and design studios that have shaped global culture for generations. You will enjoy a three-night stay here, with time to settle in and begin absorbing this endlessly rewarding city.
This evening, meet your Tour Director and fellow guests over a welcome dinner – the perfect introduction to the warmth of northern Italian hospitality and the discoveries that lie ahead.
An hour north of Milan, Lake Como reveals an entirely different Italy. Cradled between steep forested mountains and reflecting the light of the southern Alps, this glacial lake has been a place of retreat for aristocrats, artists, and statesmen since Roman times – Pliny the Younger owned two villas on its shores in the 1st century AD.
Scenic Enrich
Your Scenic Enrich experience brings you across the lake by private cruise to visit Villa del Balbianello, set on a dramatic wooded promontory above the water. Built in 1787 by Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini on the site of a 13th-century Franciscan monastery, the villa passed through remarkable hands before being bequeathed to the Italian Environment Fund – among its last private owners was Guido Monzino, the explorer who led the first Italian expedition to summit Everest in 1973, whose art collection and expedition memorabilia still fill the interiors.
Milan reveals its depth today in three of the world’s most extraordinary cultural sites. The Duomo Cathedral, begun in 1386 under Duke Gian Galeazzo Visconti, took nearly six centuries to complete – its roofline of 135 spires and 3,400 statues the work of craftspeople across 25 generations. Nearby, Teatro alla Scala, opened in 1778, remains the defining stage of Italian opera – it was here that Verdi’s Nabucco premiered in 1842, its chorus becoming an anthem of Italian unification.
The day’s most intimate encounter awaits at Santa Maria delle Grazie, where Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper (1495–1498) captures the moment Christ declares one of his Apostles will betray him – twelve expressions of shock and grief frozen in a composition of enduring psychological power. The afternoon is yours to explore Milan freely.
Departing Milan this morning, your journey west into Piedmont begins at Casa Martini in Pessione – the historic headquarters of Martini & Rossi, founded in 1863 when Alessandro Martini and master winemaker Luigi Rossi set out to create a vermouth unlike any other. Your guided visit traces the history of vermouth from its origins through to the production process, concluding with a tasting of selected Martini expressions.
You’ll spend the next two nights is in Turin, the elegant former capital of the Kingdom of Sardinia. Baroque boulevards lined with 18 kilometres of covered porticoes, stately Savoy palaces, and some of the finest café culture in Europe make Turin one of Italy’s most rewarding and often underestimated cities.
Today you’ll begin your day at Museo Egizio, founded in 1824 around the extraordinary Drovetti Collection and today considered the second most important collection of Egyptian antiquities in the world after Cairo, with more than 40,000 artefacts spanning 4,000 years of history. A guided visit to the Royal Palace of Turin then traces the history of the House of Savoy across chambers that formed the centre of Italian royal power for more than three centuries, within a UNESCO World Heritage-listed ensemble of Savoy residences.
Your city walking tour leads through Piazza Castello and past the façades of Palazzo Madama and Palazzo Reale, along the arcaded Via Po, and into the aristocratic grandeur of Piazza San Carlo – known for its twin Baroque churches and the historic cafés that have served the city’s intellectuals and aristocracy since the 18th century.
The road south leads to Bologna, the food capital of Italy – a reputation earned through centuries of genuine culinary achievement in a region that gave the world Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, mortadella, fresh egg pasta, and balsamic vinegar. On arrival you check in to your hotel for a two-night stay, in a city whose medieval towers, arcaded streets, and vibrant market culture make it one of Italy’s most characterful and rewarding destinations.
Scenic Enrich
Your Scenic Enrich experience takes you behind the scenes of one of Italy’s most revered traditions. At an authentic prosciutto producer, you discover a process requiring up to 24 months of salting, air-drying, and patient maturation – a craft that connects every slice to centuries of accumulated knowledge and pride.
This morning you venture just outside Bologna to Maranello, home of the Museo Ferrari. Founded by Enzo Ferrari in 1947, Ferrari has pursued a singular vision across eight decades – to build the finest and most emotionally compelling cars in the world. The museum brings that story to life through championship Formula 1 machines, legendary road cars, and archival film and photography tracing the brand from its origins to the present day.
Scenic Freechoice: Back in Bologna this afternoon, choose the discovery that suits you best:
An authentic Italian cooking class mastering fresh pasta and regional Bolognese traditions with a local instructor.
A street food journey through the Quadrilatero – Bologna’s medieval market district, its lanes lined with traditional salumeria, cheese shops, and delicatessens that have been nourishing the city for centuries.
Travelling like a local today, you’ll board a high-speed train from Bologna to Rome. Covering 350 kilometres in under three hours, you’ll see Tuscany’s rolling hills give way to the ancient volcanic landscape of Lazio before Rome announces itself on the horizon.
Known as the Eternal City, Rome is a place where 28 centuries of continuous habitation have produced the greatest concentration of Western cultural heritage on earth – ancient forums, Renaissance churches, and Baroque fountains coexisting with designer boutiques and the easy rhythm of modern Italian life.
This evening, you’ll gather with your fellow guest for a farewell dinner, celebrating the journey and the remarkable discoveries shared along the way.
After breakfast, you’ll travel from Rome to Civitavecchia, an ancient port dating back to the 2nd century. Here, by the Roman Dock and the 16th century Michelangelo Fort, you’ll board your next-generation Scenic Discovery Yacht, Scenic Ikon, for the next leg of your journey. Upon boarding, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the Captain and crew with a glass of Champagne. Settle into your spacious suite and meet your personal butler, then step out on deck to toast the beginning of your voyage as you sail away from this historic harbour.
Stand out on your private balcony as you sail into Bonifacio this morning. The town appears perched on soaring limestone cliffs, offering breathtaking views over the Mediterranean and a most memorable arrival. Step ashore to explore the atmospheric old town, with its winding lanes, historic buildings and relaxed Corsican charm. Whether you're enjoying the panoramic vistas from the ancient citadel or strolling the picturesque marina, Bonifacio promises a delightful blend of history, culture and coastal beauty.
This morning you’ll arrive in Porto Cervo, at the heart of the spectacular Costa Smeralda on the Italian island of Sardinia. Built as a millionaire’s playground by Prince Aga Khan in the 1960s, Porto Cervo oozes sophistication with high-end boutiques, stylish restaurants, glamorous nightclubs, world-class golf courses and tennis clubs, and many sumptuous hotels. Your ultra-luxury yacht will look right at home amongst the stylish superyachts in the harbour and you can keep your eyes peeled for celebrities or royalty as you explore.
A small resort town with a huge reputation, Sorrento is known as the land of lemons and orange groves. It’s the birthplace of limoncello liqueur and a gateway to the spectacular Amalfi Coast. One of Italy’s most romantic cities, it was first discovered by famed writers like Byron, Keats and Dickens in the 18th and 19th centuries. Perched on cliffs that plunge into the deep blue of the Mediterranean, it’s a place of peaceful alleyways, pastel-coloured buildings, grand villas and luxury hotels.
Spend the day in the city of Syracuse on the Ionian coast of the island of Sicily, a tapestry of lush citrus orchards, golden stone buildings and sparkling blue seas. Explore the remnants of ancient civilisations in the Archaeological Park of Neapolis, where the Greek Theatre and Roman Amphitheatre stand as testaments to the city's rich past. Stroll through the charming streets of Ortigia, the historic heart of Syracuse, with its baroque architecture and bustling markets. Indulge in authentic Sicilian cuisine at waterfront trattorias, savouring local delicacies like arancini and cannoli.
A jewel of the Mediterranean, Valletta is Europe’s smallest capital. In 2018 it was honoured as the European Capital of Culture by the European Union, a celebration of the richness of its culture and the diversity of the modern city. Built by the Knights of the Order of St John in the 16th century, Valletta’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed walls encircle a beautifully preserved centre where Baroque architecture, chic galleries, and vibrant gastronomy come together in perfect harmony.
Today, explore the timeless charm of Valletta, from iconic landmarks to hidden treasures nestled in its historic streets. As your yacht departs this evening, admire the golden glow of the city’s ancient fortifications, an unforgettable farewell to a truly enchanting destination.
Today is a day to rejuvenate and enjoy the exceptional comforts of your yacht as you sail towards Greece. Take advantage of the many on board amenities and luxurious spaces as you lounge by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment, or sample delicious cuisine at one of the numerous dining venues.
Feel free to join in any of the activities or entertainment options available throughout the day or simply unwind with a good book and soak in the ever-changing views of the open sea.
Chania, the capital of Crete until the 1970s, boasts a rich history dating back more than 5,000 thousand years, with influences from civilisations such as Minoan, Venetian and Ottoman. Its charming maze-like Old Town is known for its picturesque harbour, narrow cobblestone streets, and well-preserved Venetian and Turkish architecture. Spend the day exploring historic landmarks like the 16th-century lighthouse, the dusky pink Mosque of Kioutsouk Hasan and the Byzantine walls.
After days of exploration, enjoy some much-needed relaxation on board your yacht. Savour a delicious meal at one of the inviting culinary experiences or simply feel at ease as you enjoy your favourite included beverages throughout the day. For those curious about life at sea, make the most of the open bridge policy to meet the navigation officers and learn more about your yacht’s remarkable state-of-the-art capabilities.
This evening, enjoy live entertainment in the elegant theatre, or retreat to your suite for a more private experience. Dine in the comfort of your suite and enjoy a nightcap delivered by your butler, with a curated selection of included premium beers, wines, cocktails and spirits.
The shores of a new continent beckon this morning as you sail into North Africa. The ancient city of Alexandria is a bustling, captivating Mediterranean gem just hours from Cairo. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, it became a beacon of knowledge with its Great Library and Lighthouse, and continues to enchant with its storied heritage.
For an extraordinary experience, journey inland to Cairo to marvel at the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx - timeless symbols of Egypt’s grandeur.
Delve deeper into Alexandria’s vibrant history and culture with a second day to explore this ancient city. Though many of its wonders have been subsumed by the sea over the centuries, you can still feel the power of its magnificent past. Choose from a selection of Scenic Freechoice options to uncover more of its wonders.
As your voyage draws to a close, today you can relax and savour the luxurious comforts of your next-generation Discovery Yacht. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences you’ve shared while enjoying your favourite spaces one last time.
Whether you choose to lounge by one of the pools, indulge in a spa treatment#, or simply soak in the ocean views with your favourite drink in hand, make the most of this peaceful day before you reach your next destination.
Famed for its medieval architecture and rich history, the Greek island of Rhodes sits in the sparkling Aegean Sea close to the coast of Turkey. Its well-preserved medieval Old Town is a designated World Heritage site, resplendent with cobblestone streets, ancient walls and the impressive Kastello - Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights. Rhodes also boasts a fascinating hybrid of Greek, Ottoman and Italian influences, that you can experience through its diverse architecture, cuisine and culture.
This morning, arrive at the island of Mykonos, Greece, a cosmopolitan Cycladic gem known for its iconic windmills and distinctive architecture. Founded as a port in the 11th century BC, it boasts pristine beaches, whitewashed buildings and vibrant bougainvillea climbing along winding streets. Discover picturesque churches, savour authentic Greek cuisine in lively waterfront cafés, and immerse yourself in the island’s rich history and spirited charm.
Your Signature Yacht Cruise concludes this morning in Piraeus, where you’ll disembark and be transferred to Athens airport. Considered the birthplace of Western civilisation, Athens is a vibrant tapestry of history and modernity. Standing sentinel above the city is the famous Acropolis, a fortified hill dominated by the Parthenon, atmospheric ruins of a white marble temple built during the height of the ancient Greek Empire.
After one final delicious breakfast on board your next-generation Discovery Yacht, bid farewell to the crew and your fellow guests, with memories of a truly extraordinary Mediterranean voyage.
Please book your flight to depart out of Athens after 01:00 PM.
# Spa treatments and services at additional cost. Daily activities may be subject to change; please consult your Daily Wonder for updates. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.
^Experiences on board our helicopters and submersible are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions.
Helicopter not operational in France. Submersible not operational in Europe.
The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.
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At Scenic, we create exceptional journeys to every corner of the world. You will enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences, indulgent truly all-inclusive luxury, and a world class crew who will ensure every detail is cared for to the Nth Degree. With more than three decades of experience, the loyalty of our Scenic guests reflects our dedication to always placing you at the heart of everything we do. With Scenic, you'll find this is worldwide discovery truly in a class of its own. Across our 5-star luxury river cruises on custom-built Scenic Space-Ships, and 6-star ultra-luxury voyages on board Scenic Eclipse, The World’s First Discovery Yachts™, it is more than taking our guests to exceptional destinations around the world. Our truly all-inclusive philosophy enables our guests to be immersed in their chosen destination, indulge in an unparalleled level of luxury, and relax knowing everything is taken care of.