Grandeur, 20 Nights Elegance In The Mediterranean ex Venice (Fusina) to Barcelona

Inspired by the past and reimagined for the future, Seven Seas Grandeur™ will personify our heritage of perfection.

Koper, Slovenia
With its captivating marina and red tiled roofs set against the deep blue of a summer day on the Adriatic, lovely Koper charms with its inviting cafes and old Venetian mansions harking back to its glory days as a jewel of Venice’s overseas empire. Around quaint Titov Square view the Praetorian Palace built in the Venetian Gothic style. Further afield, excursions include the phenomenal Skocjan Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or embark on a trip through the beautiful Slovenian countryside to the capital of Ljubljana followed by an unforgettable river cruise past picturesque historical buildings.

Dubrovnik, Croatia
Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik was founded in the 7th century by a group of refugees from Epidaurum (today’s Cavtat). It is known worldwide for its unique marble-paved squares, tall houses, steep-cobbled streets and fountains. The city walls, once used to as protection against its enemies, now keep motorists at bay in this picturesque town. UNESCO named the Old City a World Heritage Site, and Dubrovnik’s beautiful historic sites have been restored to their former glory.

Igoumenitsa, Greece
The port of Igoumenitsa is kind of like a Greek street musician’s accordion. It has expanded, contracted and even gone silent at different points, but over time has developed an authentic tone that reflects the spirit of its people. From its origins in the 4th century BC as an important town in the Kingdom of Thresprotia, to its complete destruction during World War II after it was occupied by Axis powers, Igoumenitsa keeps bouncing back. Its newest incarnation is as an important tourism port, welcoming guests from all over Europe who arrive on ferries to begin their Greek holidays. Let Igoumenitsa’s song welcome you too.

Argostoli, Greece
Discover charming Argostoli, flowing up from the turquoise bay along the sides of white limestone hills with its colorful fishing boats, vibrant open-air market and relaxing atmosphere. Visit the archaeological museum and explore the rich artifacts of the Mycenean culture. See the Venetian-built St. Georges Castle dating from the 16th Century in the nearby village of Kastro. Stroll through Vallianos Square in Argostoli browsing the stalls and shops to take home popular gifts and keepsakes including thyme honey, fine gold and silver jewelry, leather goods, and the excellent locally produced Robola Taoussi (white wine).

Valletta, Malta
Malta’s major port and capital, the entire city of Valletta was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. The centerpiece is the impressive 19th century Mosta Dome, visible from anywhere on the island, with its inlaid marble floor and the gilded, carved stone flowers set around the interior dome. For a tranquil afternoon, stroll the San Anton Palace Gardens, artistically laid out in Three Villages - Attard, Lija and Balzan. Or, for spectacular vistas, take a day tour to Dingli Cliffs, which offer striking views of the sea and rugged coastline. Valetta is also a portal to day trips to nearby Mdina, with its landmark Baroque Cathedral of St. John; and Rabat, the provincial township that was once part of the Roman city of Melita, where you can explore several fascinating archaeological digs.

Catania (Sicily), Italy
Destroyed by an earthquake in the 17th century, Catania has been beautifully restored and offers ancient churches, castles and amphitheaters, lush gardens and lovely palazzos to explore. Tour the 13th century Ursino Castle, which was situated along the coast until earthquakes and volcanic eruptions transformed the landscape. Drive inland through picturesque villages and explore Villa Romana del Casale, a 4th century villa and UNESCO World Heritage Site containing a complex collection of Roman mosaics considered one of the finest in the Roman world.

Palermo (Sicily), Italy
Palermo, the capital city of Sicily, was founded by the Phoenicians in the eighth century BC. Palermo remained a Phoenician city until the First Punic War, when Sicily fell under Roman rule. Palermo remains a jewel of the Mediterranean, and is Sicily’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. No visit to Sicily is ever complete without a visit to Palermo, a city that permits one not just to know this island but to begin to understand it.

Amalfi/Positano, Italy
Discover chic Positano with its relaxed, sophisticated air and white Moorish-style houses clinging to steep slopes around a sparkling bay filled with colorful fishing boats. Then visit enchanting Amalfi and admire the 12th-century Capuchin monastery and see the beautiful 11th-century Cathedral and cloister before exploring on your own. Browse Positano’s boutiques for the town’s locally made casual cotton clothes or search for unique souvenirs in Amalfi. Enjoy delicious fresh seafood and pasta or tempting pastries and espresso in a spectacular seaside, mountainous setting.

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
Whether enjoying the street performers at the Spanish Steps and people-watching over a fine glass of wine in colorful Trastevere, or taking in the historical and architectural glory that is Rome, visitors are spoiled for choice in this truly Eternal City. St. Peter’s Basilica is a full-day outing, featuring the Sistine Chapel and panoramic city vistas for those willing to climb to the top of the dome. Other landmarks not to miss include the renowned Trevi Fountain, the Coliseum, and Aventine Hill, which provides you with a grand view of the imposing remains of the Imperial Palaces and the Circus Maximus, of Ben Hur fame.

Portoferraio (Elba), Italy
Portoferraio is a charming port on the island of Elba in Tuscany. This lovely destination is literally a treasure trove, as gem stone collectors delight to find a vast variety of minerals and semiprecious-stones here. The islands claim to fame is being the home of Napoleon Bonaparte during his first exile. Visit his summer and winter residences, as well as the Chiesa della Misericordia to view Napoleon's death mask in the heart of Old Town. There you will also see the forts of Falcone and Stella.

Cinque Terre (La Spezia), Italy
Head out of town and discover the five stunning, colorful towns clinging to the cliffs along the coast. Hike along the trail connecting them or take a boat tour and see them from the water as ancient seafarers did. Go ashore and explore a picturesque town and its castle. Or visit intriguing Porto Venere, another colorful town rising above one end of La Spezia's harbor with breathtaking views and the lovely Church of San Pietro. It was once a playground and inspiration for poets from Dante to Byron and Shelly.

Nice (Villefranche), France
Nestled between Nice and Monaco, this low-key gem of the Côte d'Azur is one of the most picturesque medieval villages in France. Its charming Old Town cascades down from dense green hills like joyfully colored bougainvillea to a deep-blue harbor. Wander past cobbled stairways, film-set-perfect houses and potted flowers, every detail a delight. Discover the murals painted by writer, artist and film director Jean Cocteau on the walls of the 14th-century Chapelle St. Pierre. Visit the art gallery and museums of the 16th-century Citadelle St. Elme, taking in works by Picasso, Miro, Hartung and others. Or simply enjoy a superb meal at a harborside bistro in one of the prettiest places on earth.

Toulon, France
Explore bustling Toulon, with its fleets of naval ships, yachts and colorful fishing boats. Take the cable car to the top of Mount Faron and enjoy the amazing birds eye view of Toulon and the turquoise harbor. Learn about the town’s maritime history at the Museé de la Marine and about the Allied landing in Toulon at the Museé Memorial du Debarquement. Discover the maze of open-air markets and fountains in Old Town with its ancient cathedral, fragrant scents of herbs and olive oil, its restaurants, cafés and intimate boutiques. Take home designer fashions, fine jewelry, French perfumes and other Provencal mementos. Herbs de Provence, lavender, fine olive oil, and ceramics are popular.

Port-Vendres, France
Explore pretty Collioure, a favorite destination of Matisse, with its distinctive pinkish-beige houses, colorful harbor, winding streets and lovely church and nearby Elne with its impressive fortified cathedral and beautiful cloister. Or visit magnificent Carcassonne, a breathtaking fortified hilltop city of turrets, churches, stained glass and lovely squares resurrected from ruin in the 19th-century. Look for antiques, contemporary art and reproductions as well as local crafts. Try some tempting roast lamb or the catch of the day accompanied by local cheese and fruit with the appropriate wine.

Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Mallorca, also known as Majorca, is a wind-swept island with steep jagged cliffs and olive groves more than a thousand years old. Mallorca is an island of contrasts. To the south is a busy tourist area with hotels, bars, restaurants, shopping and dazzling night life. To the north are rocky valleys, sleepy villages shrouded in bougainvillea, and breathtaking views. Palma is dominated by the breathtaking Gothic Cathedral, located high above the waterfront on the site of a former mosque.

Ibiza, Spain
Ibiza is often called the "White Island" due to its abundance of whitewashed houses. Part of the Balearic Islands, it is covered with limestone hills and topped by lush pine forests. Winding lanes take visitors through cobbled streets to admire the stunning views across the bay or to a blissful calm amidst the action. Designer shops, fine restaurants, neighboring beaches and a thriving nightlife add to the excitement Ibiza has become world famous for.

Barcelona, Spain
One of Europe’s most visually stunning cities, Barcelona balances the medieval intimacy of its Gothic Quarter with the grace and distinction of the wide boulevards in the Moderniste Eixample. It was the home of architect Antoni Gaudí, whose Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Park Güell and Casa Milà are the most profound statements of Modernisme. View the splendid works at the Picasso Museum and the Miro Foundation, or discover Barcelona’s passionate ambiance at a flamenco show.