Name: Contrasts of Mediterranean Culture
Brand: Swan Hellenic
SKU: D2125082210

Itinerary

A feast for the senses, Sicily’s capital is an intoxicating and chaotic melting pot offering up centuries of history and a street food bonanza. Three bustling markets Capo, Bollaro and Vucciria await those ready to embrace Palermo for all that it offers. Narrow side streets lead to hidden palaces and churches along Via Maqueda. The Palazzo dei Normanni, once the seat of Sicilian kings during Norman rule, showcases the city’s past opulence.

The largest Aeolian Island, Lipari, has a landscape of lava quarries, shrubbery and cliffs. Lipari Town is a bustling port, its pastel buildings lining the harbour with numerous cafes and restaurants. Overlooking the harbour, the 16th-century Spanish-built fortified citadel and castle house ancient archaeological artefacts spanning thousands of years and various empires, some dating back as far as 6,000 years.

Lipari Island Tour And Winery

Optional

03 h 45 m

Work up an appetite with a sightseeing tour of of the island’s most panoramic viewpoints
Visit the underground barrique cellar, built in the traditional style of the region
Learn about the windcatcher’s thermal labyrinth and chimney used to create a natural air-conditioning system

Lipari Island Tour

Included

04 h 00 m

Discover the age-old practice of extracting volcanic materials like pumice and obsidian
Gaze out at the sparkling sea against a backdrop of red and grey volcanoes and lush green vegetation
Stop by the Cathedral of San Bartolomeo to admire its beautiful facade

Exclusive Boat tour to Vulcano Island

Optional

04 h 00 m

Enjoy the sail to Vulcano, passing by Faraglioni, the Grotta del Cavallo, the Spiaggia di Ponente and Vulcanello
Visit the village of Vulcano where the withe houses contrast with the volcanic surroundings
Swim in the clear waters of Aeolian Islands

Stromboli, a small island in the Aeolian archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea, is renowned as one of the globe's most active volcanoes, consistently erupting since 1932. The volcano's majestic cone emerges from the sea, crowned with fiery vents.

Giardini Naxos, on Sicily's east coast, is famed for ancient ruins and scenic beaches. Remnants of the Greek city of Naxos, including sacred precincts and temples, unveil its rich past. Nearby, Mount Etna stands as a reminder of nature's grandeur. Taormina, one of Italy's most beautiful cities, showcases Corso Umberto's charming streets, Viuzze's narrow lanes unveiling local handicrafts, and the Roman Theatre, a testament to ancient heritage.

Mount Etna Ascent

Optional

05 h 30 m

Take in the igneous landscapes when you arrive at the pinnacle of your trek up the volcano
Drive through the historic town of Naxos as well as Giarre, Santa Venerina and Zafferana
Accomplish the challenge of climbing the rugged, sloping terrain that soars up over 3,296 m above sea level

Boat Tour along the Coast

Optional

02 h 30 m

Enjoy incredible views of Mount Etna
Visit Capo Taormina and the Lover’s Cave
Swim in the beautiful clear waters of the bay

Taormina Highlights

Included

04 h 15 m

Take in the incredible views of Mount Etna and the surrounding waters
Pay homage to the ancient art of performance at the Roman Theatre Corso Umberto
Visit one of the many local handicraft shops that populate the small lanes, the Viuzze

The Godfather Tour - Afternoon departure

Optional

04 h 30 m

Visit the Cappuccini Church, whose crypt houses the so-called catacombs with 37 mummified bodies of friars and noble people who lived there in the 18th and 19th centuries
Stop in at several remarkable churches of the 15th and 16th centuries like Chiesa Madre, Santa Lucia and San Michele
Head to the village of Forza d’Agrò, overlooking the Arab-Norman castle of Capo Sant’Alessio and the coastline towards Messina

Founded by Greeks and later conquered by Romans in 266 B.C., Gallipoli on the Ionic coast stands as a gem in the Salentine peninsula. Its old town sits on an island, linked by a 17th-century bridge, alongside the 14th-century Angioino Castle. Charming streets with sea-facing churches, devoted to the Virgin Mary and St. Agatha (1629-1630), make it a unique coastal town. Gallipoli also serves as the gateway to Lecce and Otranto.

Discover Gallipoli on foot

Included

02 h 30 m

Walk in the heart of Gallipoli on a tiny island connected to the mainland by a 17th-century bridge. It is almost completely surrounded by defensive walls, built mainly in the 14th century.
Admire the numerous impressive Baroque churches and aristocratic palazzi, a testament to the town's former wealth as a trading port.

Otranto

Optional

04 h 30 m

Step inside Otranto's majestic cathedral and uncover the ancient floor mosaic, alongside the poignant remains from the 1480 Ottoman siege, offering a powerful glimpse into the village’s storied past
Marvel at the grandeur of the Castello Aragonese and be enchanted by the celestial Byzantine frescoes adorning the serene church of St. Peter, each landmark steeped in history and splendor
enjoy the pleasure of wandering through Otranto’s charming vistas at your own pace, absorbing the serene atmosphere of this Adriatic jewel

Wine & Oil Tasting In A Masseria

Optional

02 h 30 m

Discover the captivating history of Salento with a visit to the 18th-century underground oil mill and the magnificent subterranean "Wine Cathedral
Experience an authentic taste of Salento through a delightful aperitif featuring exquisite local wines, organic extra virgin olive oil, and much more
Enjoy a picturesque ride through Salento’s idyllic countryside

Monopoli, a medieval coastal town in Puglia, sits along the Adriatic Sea. Its walled old town, a labyrinth of winding alleys and whitewashed homes, is crowned by the ornate baroque cathedral with its soaring bell tower.. Brightly painted fishing boats offer fresh seafood from the harbour, while the lungomare seaside promenade is perfect for a stroll. Nearby attractions include the renowned Castellana Caves, and underground olive oil presses.

Alberobello & Coountryside

Included

05 h 30 m

Explore the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage site of Alberobello, renowned for its unique Trulli houses with distinctive whitewashed walls and conical grey roofs, and delve into the fascinating history behind these whimsical dwellings
Indulge in the flavors of Puglia with a visit to a traditional Masseria farmhouse, where you'll taste local specialties such as Apulian focaccia and regional wines, amidst the serene backdrop of verdant olive groves and picturesque countryside
Stroll through the storybook streets of Alberobello’s historic districts, Monti and Aia Piccola, discover the charming Trullo-shaped Church of Saint Anthony

Matera Sassi District With Lunch

Optional

09 h 00 m

Discover the awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage site of Matera with a guided tour through its ancient Sassi neighborhoods
Visit a beautifully preserved cave-house, complete with traditional furnishings, and gain insight into life in Matera during the 1960s
Marvel at the blend of ancient architecture and modern restoration that makes Matera so unique

Polignano & and the White Cliff

Optional

04 h 00 m

Discover the natural artistry of Polignano as you stand atop terraces carved by the sea into breathtaking marine caves, offering unparalleled views of the Adriatic and its coastal wonders
Wander through the vibrant heart of Polignano, where every street is a canvas of Mediterranean charm, bursting with colorful flora and steeped in history, leading to awe-inspiring grottoes and the iconic statue of Domenico Modugno

Dubrovnik is renowned for its immaculate medieval city walls that encircle the Old Town, offering views of red-tiled rooftops and the sea. Stradun, the main street, runs through the UNESCO World Heritage site. With a harmonious blend of architectural styles, from baroque to Renaissance, highlights include the Franciscan Monastery featuring a Romanesque cloister and the Rector's Palace, a splendid example of 15th-century Gothic-Renaissance design.

Dubrovnik Walking Tour

Included

03 h 00 m

Discover the pearl of the Adriatic by unlocking the essence of Dubrovnik
Visit the Dominican Monastery
Learn how the city became one of the most prosperous republics

Dalmatian Coast Highlights

Optional

07 h 00 m

See olive oil production in old fashioned way
Visit the “oyster capital” of Croatia
Taste the famous wines from the “Peljesac” peninsula

Dubrovnik Hills ATV Safari

Optional

04 h 30 m

Adrenalin-packed drive through countryside
Incredible panoramic views of Dubrovnik Old Town
Explore beautiful surroundings and untouched nature

Korcula Island & Wine Tasting

Optional

09 h 00 m

Enjoy a scenic drive to Orebic and a boat ride to Korcula Island
Korcula Old Town Walking Tour
Wine Tasting and lunch on Peljesac Peninsula

Kotor sits at the end of Boka Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site ringed by towering limestone cliffs. Its old town walls hide medieval cobblestone alleys, Romanesque churches like St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, and Kotor’s cats, said to be descendants of ancient seafaring felines. At 260m, the towering St John's Fortress overlooks town, and is accessed via a hike up 1,350 steps. Mount Lovcen looms over, accessible via serpentine road or cable car.

Kotor Walking Tour

Included

01 h 30 m

Explore narrow streets of Kotor Old Town
See the Cathedral of St. Tryphon, the icon of the city
Visit the Kotor Maritime museum

Hike & Picnic at Lovcen National Park

Optional

05 h 00 m

Admire the stunning panoramic views
Learn about the national park's monuments
Enjoy a picnic of traditional Montenegrin cheeses and hams

Blue Cave & Fisherman's Village Experience

Optional

06 h 00 m

See the beautiful sun shining blue up through the waters of the Blue Cave
Sail to Fisherman's Village
Have a delicious traditional 3 course lunch

Savina Hills Wines & Views

Optional

04 h 30 m

Admire the beauty of the Bay of Kotor during a scenic cruise along Kotor Bay
Visit Charming Herceg Novi
Discover the centuries-old traditions of wine making

Sights & Sounds of Boka Bay

Optional

02 h 30 m

Listen to the Private Guitar Duo Bulatovic – Nikcevic concert
Enjoy a cocktail with a view
Admire the beautiful coastline during the scenic boat ride

Gliding through the Bay of Kotor's narrow entrance is breathtaking. Ships cruise past Yugoslav submarine tunnels then the Verige, the bay's narrowest point. The island Church of Our Lady of the Rocks appears, its dome rising from the shimmering water, one of the Adriatic's most photographed sights. Perast, a postcard-perfect baroque village, comes into view with bell towers and red-roofed houses hugging the bay's edge.

Split's old town is dominated by the well-preserved Roman Emperor Diocletian's Palace, a remarkable Roman monument from the 4th century AD. The palace complex features a blend of elements from various periods, including marble halls, medieval streets, ancient cellars, Gothic palaces, Renaissance facades and the grand cathedral, originally Diocletian's mausoleum. Just beyond the palace gates, the bustling Riva promenade offers cafes and shops.

Split Walking Tour

Optional

02 h 30 m

Walk through the streets of the UNESCO site of Split Old Town
See the remains of the impressive Diocletian Palace
Travel through time as you explore 1,700 years of history

Split & Picturesque Trogir

Optional

04 h 30 m

Discover the Diocletian’s Palace Cellars and the narrow streets of Split
Visit the UNESCO Cathedral of St Lawrence in Trogir
Enjoy the views of beautiful architecture and soak in the charming atmosphere of both cities, Split and Trogir

Split & Ancient Salona

Included

04 h 00 m

Explore the Diocletian’s Palace Cellars
Admire the stunning bell tower at the Cathedral of St. Duje, the patron saint of Split
Experience the largest excavations from Roman times in Croatia

History of Art in Split

Optional

02 h 00 m

Visit the place which has a very important role in the cultural life of Dalmatians, the Croatian National Theater of Split
Exclusive backstage access to dressing room and sewing room
Stroll through the narrow streets of Split

Acclaimed for its lavender, agave lacemaking, wine and olive oil, the island of Hvar holds UNESCO recognition for its contribution to the Mediterranean Diet. Velo Grablje village was once Dalmatia's hub of lavender production, earning Hvar the nickname "Lavender Island." Exploring the island's old town, Stari Grad, one of Croatia's oldest towns, reveals Venetian palaces and squares, the Cathedral of St. Stephen and Hvar Arsenal.

Kayaking Pakleni Islands

Optional

03 h 45 m

Discover and explore beautiful hidden bays and beaches away from crowded areas
Enjoy the beautiful views of Pakleni Islands
Jump into the crystal clear water

Hvar Walking Tour

Optional

02 h 30 m

Discover Hvar's ancient Neolithic roots
Explore its rich history through empires
Witness Hvar's journey through different eras

Hvar Biking Adventure

Optional

04 h 30 m

The best way to see the island is on a bicycle
Admire the stunning countryside and coasts around you
Stops along the way for photos or to relax and take in the scenery

Rovinj old town, on Croatia's Istrian peninsula, is a picturesque maze of winding streets and pastel houses overlooked by St. Euphemia's Church. A popular destination, Rovinj's vibrant harbour is lined with seafood trattorias and bars, offering a glimpse of local culture. Southward, Lone Bay offers a pebbled beach for swimming and water sports. Offshore, the Rovinj archipelago's 14 islands feature Italianate architecture and windswept coastlines.

Historic Rovinj & Ancient Pula

Included

05 h 00 m

Discover the Church of St Euphemia in Rovinj
Feel the atmosphere at the Pula Roman Amphitheatre
Stroll through Pula's streets and the market

Adriatic Sea Adventure

Optional

04 h 15 m

Feel the adrenaline on this speed boat adventure
Cruise around Rovinj Archipelago, the Red Island and Lim Fjord
Enjoy some shellfish tasting and local wine

Venice, the capital of northern Italy’s Veneto region, is built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. It has no roads, just canals – including the Grand Canal thoroughfare – lined with Renaissance and Gothic palaces. The central square, Piazza San Marco, contains St. Mark’s Basilica, which is tiled with Byzantine mosaics, the Doge's Palace and the Campanile bell tower offering views of the city’s red roofs.

This itinerary provides general information about each destination. Also, please be aware that some of the venues and highlights mentioned may not be open or accessible on the day we visit. For the most accurate tour program, we recommend contacting your Swan Hellenic agent or travel agent closer to your departure date.

Choose

YOUR SUITE TYPE

View mode

Number of Guests:

Oceanview D4

20 m²

Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m²(215ft²) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

Oceanview M4

20 m²

Balcony D5

25 m²

Balcony Staterooms measure 25m² (269ft²) – including a 5m² (54ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

Balcony M5

25 m²

Balcony D6

25 m²

Junior Suite

32 m²

Junior Suites measure 32-36m² (344-388ft²) – including a 6m² (65ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two guests. They feature a king size bed, have a separate living room area, and luxurious en-suite bathroom.

Suite

41 m²

Suites measure 41m² (441ft²) – including a 5m² (54ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature a king size bed, and have a separate living room, with a flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and a walk-in shower.

From

—

per person

Add to waiting list

Premium Suite

41 m²

Premium Suites measure 41m² (441ft²) – including 8m² (86ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two guests. They feature a king size bed, separate living room, and flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and shower – and a walk-in wardrobe.