Lead Pricing
| Interior | Outside | Balcony | Suite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Request Price | Request Price | Request Price | Request Price |
Art inspires. Awakens your emotions and stimulates your thoughts.
In the quiet calm of morning, your private veranda becomes a place of true inspiration. Surrounded by the magnificence of the dawning day, at one with the vista of sea and sky, in awe of nature and the vast beauty of this world. The shoreline of the next port slides closer and closer into view, and with it an undeniable anticipation of things to come and the promise of limitless possibilities.
Silversea creates exceptional ocean journeys with unique opportunities to explore remote ports-of-call from an intimate haven of incomparable luxury, each voyage a unique masterpiece. Discover genuine European expertise reflected in every detail, from our tranquil all-suite accommodation and uncompromising service to distinctive fine dining and a carefree all-inclusive philosophy.
Our guests hail from across the globe, yet share an appreciation for the spectrum of choice offered in Silversea’s array of exotic destinations and exclusive explorations ashore. By blending these elements together with enrichment experiences, each new port becomes more than a destination, it becomes a state of mind, transcending the traditional concepts of cruising. It is this distinction that has earned Silversea the reputation of World’s Best.
ALL-INCLUSIVE VALUE
COMPLIMENTARY BEVERAGES SERVED THROUGHOUT THE SHIP An extensive selection of fine wines, champagne, spirits, bottled water and soft drinks are yours to enjoy — all courtesy of Silversea.
IN-SUITE BEVERAGE CABINET STOCKED WITH OUR COMPLIMENTS Besides the chilled bottle of champagne that awaits you, every suite features a beverage cabinet stocked with your preferred assortment of complimentary beverages.
COMPLIMENTARY IN-SUITE DINING AND 24-HOUR ROOM SERVICE A formal dinner served course-by-course, a late-night snack, or a full breakfast delivered at your request — with no charge and no tipping.
COMPLIMENTARY SILVERSEA EXPERIENCE® A shoreside event exclusively for Silversea guests on select voyages. Recent outings have included dinner in the desert in Namibia and a concert at the ruins of Ephesus.
A FULL SPECTRUM OF ENTERTAINMENT AND ENRICHMENT Production shows, classical concerts, and folkloric performances. Multi-tiered show lounge. Lectures by world affairs experts, renowned authors and destination specialists.
COMPLIMENTARY TRANSPORTATION INTO TOWN Roundtrip transportation from the pier to the heart of town in most ports of call.
Silversea … The art of travel. The art of good living.
Your home away from home while you embrace the intrepid explorer within. The suite’s seating area has plenty of room to relax while you go over your notes, ready for the next adventure. Large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views, ideal for appraising the local wildlife.
One bedroom: 240 ft² / 22m²
Features
Butler service
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens
A choice of pillows
Plush Etro® bathrobe
Personalised stationary
Umbrella
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European brands
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Direct dial telephone(s)
Dual voltage 110/220 outlets
WiFi Internet access an hour per day
Flat-screen television(s) with Interactive Media Library
Large picture window providing panoramic ocean views
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with shower (some with tub/shower combination)
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Hair dryer
Writing desk
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda from where you can contemplate anything from the midnight sun to an antarctic sunrise.
Some Veranda Suites accommodate three guests (Suites going from 505 to 510
and from 605 to 610). The Deluxe Veranda Suite offers preferred central
location with identical accommodation to a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 295 ft² / 27 m² including veranda (49 ft²/ 4,5 m²)
Features
Butler service
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens
A choice of pillows
Plush Etro® bathrobe
Personalised stationary
Umbrella
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European brands
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Direct dial telephone(s)
Dual voltage 110/220 outlets
WiFi Internet access am hour per day
Flat-screen television(s) with Interactive Media Library
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with shower (some with bath/shower combination)
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Hair dryer
Writing desk
A Silversea signature, with a preferred central location, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming.Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda from where you can contemplate anything from the midnight sun to an antarctic sunrise.
The Deluxe Veranda Suite offers preferred central location with identical accommodation to a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 295 ft² / 27 m² including veranda (49 ft²/ 4,5 m²)
Features
Butler service
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens
A choice of pillows
Plush Etro® bathrobe
Personalised stationary
Umbrella
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European brands
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Direct dial telephone(s)
Dual voltage 110/220 outlets
Flat-screen television(s) with Interactive Media Library
WiFi Internet access an hour per day
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with shower (some with tub/shower combination)
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Hair dryer
Writing desk
With a room configuration that favours watching the sun rise from the comfort of your bed and losing yourself in the mesmerising seascapes, this suite is the perfect answer to adventure cruising. A large walk-in wardrobe, and an expansive living make the Medallion Suite a your home away from home on the high seas.
Medallion Suites accommodate three guests.
One bedroom: 437 ft² / 40.6 m² Including veranda (81 ft² / 7.6 m²)
Features
Butler service
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens
A choice of pillows
Plush Etro® bathrobe
Personalised stationary
Umbrella
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European brands
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Direct dial telephone(s)
Dual voltage 110/220 outlets
Unlimited WiFi Internet access
Flat-screen television(s) with Interactive Media Library
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Living room (with convertible sofa to accommodate an additional guest)
Sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with shower
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Vanity table with hair dryer
Writing desk
Bose® Sound Touch 30 with Bluetooth connectivity
Stylish and sophisticated with larger verandas, excellent for taking pictures and bird-watching. Situated midship, this suite is perfection in design and comfortable living. A huge walk in wardrobe, a beautiful marbled bathroom and a spacious living area completes the picture.
Silver Suites accommodate three guests.
One bedroom: 541 ft² / 52 m² Including veranda (92 ft² / 8 m²)
Features
Butler service
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens
A choice of pillows
Personalised stationary
Umbrella
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European brands
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Direct dial telephone(s)
Unlimited WiFi Internet access
Flat-screen television(s) with Interactive Media Library
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Living room (with convertible sofa to accommodate an additional guest)
Sitting area
Separate dining area
Marbled bathroom with shower; Silver Suite has two bathrooms with shower
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Vanity table with hair dryer
Writing desk
Bose® Sound Touch 30 with Bluetooth connectivity
Plush Etro® bathrobe
Dual voltage 110/220 outlets
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Stately. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for relaxing after a days’ exploring and looking through your photos. With lectures being streamed live to your room, this is the pinnacle of good living at sea. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedroom by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 736 ft² / 69m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,031 ft² / 96m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Butler service
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens
A choice of pillows
Plush Etro® bathrobe
Personalised stationary
Umbrella
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; bedroom two has additional veranda
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European brands
Bose® Sound Touch 30 with Bluetooth connectivity
Direct dial telephone(s)
Dual voltage 110/220 outlets
Flat-screen television(s) with Interactive Media Library
Living room with sitting area; bedroom two has additional sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; bedroom two has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath and separate shower; bedroom two has additional marbled bathroom with shower (no tub as indicated in diagram)
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s)
Illy® Espresso machine
Unlimited Premium Wifi
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. The ideal space for sharing stories with fellow explorers and new friends. With enough space to roam both in and outside, this suite is perfect relaxing and recounting the highlights of your day. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedroom by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 1,019 ft² / 95 m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,314 ft² / 122 m² including veranda
Images are intended as a general reference. Features, materials, finishes and layout may be different than shown.
SUITE FEATURES:
Butler service
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens
A choice of pillows
Plush Etro® bathrobe
Personalised stationary
Umbrella
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European brands
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Direct dial telephone(s)
Dual voltage 110/220 outlets
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat-screen television(s) with Interactive Media Library
Two teak verandas with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; bedroom two has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; bedroom two has additional sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; bedroom two has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath and separate shower; bedroom two has additional marbled bathroom with shower (no tub as indicated in diagram)
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s)
Illy® Espresso machine
Bose® Sound Touch 30 with Bluetooth connectivity
This stylish apartment offers the superlative in levels of space, comfort and service on board. A perfect mix of expedition experience with luxury lifestyle. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two bedroom by adjoining with a Vista Suite.
One bedroom: 587 ft² / 55 m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 827 ft² / 77 m² including veranda
Images are intended as a general reference. Features, materials, finishes and layout may be different than shown.
SUITE FEATURES:
Butler service
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens
A choice of pillows
Plush Etro® bathrobe
Personalised stationary
Umbrella
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European brands
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Direct dial telephone(s)
Dual voltage 110/220 outlets
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat-screen television(s) with Interactive Media Library
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; bedroom two has additional large picture window
Living room with sitting area; bedroom two has additional sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; bedroom two has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath and separate shower, plus a powder room; bedroom two has additional marbled bathroom with shower (no tub as indicated in diagram)
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s)
Illy® Espresso machine
Bose® Sound Touch 30 with Bluetooth connectivity
Stately. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for relaxing after a days’ exploring and looking through your photos. With lectures being streamed live to your room, this is the pinnacle of good living at sea.
Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedroom by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 736 ft² / 69m² including veranda (126 ft² / 12 m²)
Two bedroom: 1,031 ft² / 96m² including veranda (175 ft² / 16,5 m²)
Features
Butler service
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens
A choice of pillows
Plush Etro® bathrobe
Personalised stationary
Umbrella
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; bedroom two has additional veranda
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European brands
Bose® Sound Touch 30 with Bluetooth connectivity
Direct dial telephone(s)
Dual voltage 110/220 outlets
Flat-screen television(s) with Interactive Media Library
Living room with sitting area; bedroom two has additional sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; bedroom two has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath and separate shower; bedroom two has additional marbled bathroom with shower (no tub as indicated in diagram)
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s)
Illy® Espresso machine
Unlimited WiFi Internet access
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. The ideal space for sharing stories with fellow explorers and new friends. With enough space to roam both in and outside, this suite is perfect relaxing and recounting the highlights of your day.
Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedroom by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 1,019 ft² / 95 m² including veranda (145 ft² / 14 m²)
Two bedroom: 1,314 ft² / 122 m² including veranda (194 ft² / 18.5 m²)
Features
Butler service
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens
A choice of pillows
Plush Etro® bathrobe
Personalised stationary
Umbrella
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European brands
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Direct dial telephone(s)
Dual voltage 110/220 outlets
Unlimited WiFi Internet access
Flat-screen television(s) with Interactive Media Library
Two teak verandas with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; bedroom two has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; bedroom two has additional sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; bedroom two has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath and separate shower; bedroom two has additional marbled bathroom with shower (no tub as indicated in diagram)
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s)
Illy® Espresso machine
Bose® Sound Touch 30 with Bluetooth connectivity
This stylish apartment offers the superlative in levels of space, comfort and service on board. A perfect mix of expedition experience with luxury lifestyle.
Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two bedroom by adjoining with a Vista Suite.
One bedroom: 587 ft² / 55 m² incl. veranda (89 ft² / 8 m²)
Two bedroom: 827 ft² / 77 m² incl. veranda (89 ft² / 8 m²)
Features
Butler service
Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens
A choice of pillows
Plush Etro® bathrobe
Personalised stationary
Umbrella
BVLGARI® bath amenities, plus a choice of other European brands
iHome Radio / Alarm charging station (with USB cable or Qi wireless charging), NFC Bluetooth connectivity
Direct dial telephone(s)
Dual voltage 110/220 outlets
Unlimited WiFi Internet access
Flat-screen television(s) with Interactive Media Library
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; bedroom two has additional large picture window
Living room with sitting area; bedroom two has additional sitting area
Separate dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; bedroom two has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath and separate shower, plus a powder room; bedroom two has additional marbled bathroom with shower (no tub as indicated in diagram)
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s)
Illy® Espresso machine
Bose® Sound Touch 30 with Bluetooth connectivity
With 18-brand new Zodiacs, the only Relais & Chateaux restaurant in Antarctica and a pole to pole expedition itinerary, Silver Cloud really does break the ice between expedition and luxury.
After extensive refurbishment, Silver Cloud is the most spacious and comfortable ice class vessel in expedition cruising. Her large suites, her destination itineraries and her unparalleled service make her truly special. Her four dining options will tantalise your taste buds and as 80% of her suites include a veranda, watching a breaching whale or a few cavorting penguins has never been so personal. A limited number of guests in polar waters, mean that Silver Cloud has the highest space to guest and crew to guest ratios in expedition cruising. With her 18 zodiacs, 10 kayaks, possibilities are almost limitless with ship-wide simultaneous explorations.
Ship Profile & Stats
- Length: 514.14 ft
- Tonnage: 16,800 tonnes
- Maiden Voyage: 1994
- Refurbished: 2017
- Passenger Capacity (dbl): 254
- Crew Nationality: International
- Officer Nationality: European
- Dining Staff Nationality: International
- Ship Registration: Bahamas
Ship Facilities
- Zagara Spa
- Beauty Salon
- The Library
- Swimming Pool
- Shopping Boutiques
- The Panorama Lounge
- Explorer Lounge
- Dolce Vita Bar
- Hospital
- Fitness Centre
- La Terrazza Restaurant
- Photo Studio
- Lifts
- La Dame
- Laundrette
- The Restaurant
- The Grill
- Pool Bar & Grill
- The Connoisseur’s Corner
- Tor’s Observation Lounge
- Jogging Track
Cruise Itinerary
| Date | Activity | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02 Jun '21 | Athens (Piraeus) Greece |
10:30 PM | |
| 03 Jun '21 | Monemvasia, Greece |
06:30 AM | 12:00 PM |
| 04 Jun '21 | Itea, Greece |
08:00 AM | 12:30 PM |
| 04 Jun '21 | Nafpaktos, Greece |
04:30 PM | 08:00 PM |
| 05 Jun '21 | Ksamili, Albania |
11:30 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 06 Jun '21 | At sea | ||
| 07 Jun '21 | Sousse, Tunisia |
08:30 AM | 05:00 PM |
| 08 Jun '21 | Porto Empedocle, Italy |
07:00 AM | 09:00 PM |
| 09 Jun '21 | Trapani,Sicily Italy |
07:00 AM | 05:00 PM |
| 10 Jun '21 | Cagliari, Sardinia. IT |
07:00 AM | 12:30 PM |
| 11 Jun '21 | Bejaia, Algeria |
07:00 AM | 07:00 PM |
| 12 Jun '21 | At sea | ||
| 13 Jun '21 | Seville, Spain |
11:00 PM | overnight |
| 14 Jun '21 | Seville, Spain |
10:00 PM | |
| 15 Jun '21 | Portimao, Portugal |
12:00 PM | 06:00 PM |
| 16 Jun '21 | Lisbon, Portugal |
08:00 AM |
All itineraries and ports of call at the discretion of the cruise line subject to local weather conditions and may change without notice.
14 Night Cruise sailing from Athens (Pireaus) to Lisbon onboard Silver Cloud.
Seven countries in 14 days might seem like a lot, but this adventure is tempered by days at sea, making room for ample R&R. Leaving the iconic Acropolis in your wake, sail the Mediterranean Sea to the Iberian Peninsula looking for traces of ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and Venetian networks on your way. Hop from pretty islands and fabled shores to famous cities for a Mediterranean history lesson that you will never forget.
Highlights of this cruise:
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
A city of legend, civilisation and enduring culture, Athens is a majestic and magical urban sprawl. Extraordinary elegance and grace combine with grit and graft in Greece’s capital, where highways encase ruins from antiquity, and gleaming museums and galleries stand beside concrete sprayed with edgy street art. These contrasts enhance and elevate the wonders of this 2,500-year-old city, however, which can count notable contributions to philosophy, drama and democracy, among its global legacy. Piraeus’ giant port and naval base welcome you to the edge of the Athens’ urban area. From there it’s a simple jaunt to the centre. The majestic ancient citadel of the Acropolis dominates an elevated platform and is a constant presence as you explore the city. The wonderful remains of the columned temple of the Parthenon – which date back to the 5th century BC – stand here, representing the pinnacle of classical architecture.
Itea, Greece
Journey to the centre of the world, as you explore the ancient wonders of Delphi. The pretty orange dome of Itea’s church beckons you ashore, as you prepare to journey onwards to the location of some of the world’s most richly-woven mythology and history. Set on the slopes of the mighty Mount Parnassus, which looms high over the area’s vineyards, almond trees and olive groves, Delphi is a location that’s blessed with a dense tapestry of incredible heritage. Known as the naval of the world by the Ancient Greeks, mighty leaders would journey here to consult the famous oracle, before making decisions that would ripple across the world. Pilgrims visited the Oracle of Delphi for prophesies, which were said to be channelled directly from the god Apollo.
Ksamil, Albania
Albania is a country that has long played her cards close to her chest. Closed to foreigners for almost all of the 20th century, tourism here is still in its very early stages, which is good news for all those who want to truly experience Balkan authenticity at its grass roots. Ksamil is what Mediterranean coastlines should look like. Lush vegetation tops craggy cliffs and long ribbons of golden sand. Tiny islands are within easy swimming distance from the shore. Further along the shore, pretty cove beaches provide complete isolation for those who really do not want to be found. While Ksmil’s charms may centre on beach days and long-lazy lunches in the shade (be sure to try the mussels – a local speciality), those who want to venture further afield might like to stretch their legs and go to Butrint, about 5 km from Ksmil.
Porto Empedocle (Sicily), Italy
Porto Empedocle has long served as the port for Agrigento, the capital of the province of the same name. Located on Sicily’s southwest coast, ancient Agrigento was Akragas to the Greeks, who established the first settlement on a ridge between two rivers in 581 BC. Through massive trade with the Phoenician port of Carthage, the city rose to such wealth and power that Pindar called Agrigento “the most beautiful city built by mortal men”. Despite frequent attacks over the centuries, the city survived through the Roman era, the Middle Ages and into the modern age. Structures from all these eras stand side by side in Agrigento today. Much of the area has drastically changed due to the development of modern Agrigento. However, the historic town center, with its huddle of narrow, winding streets, still offers some sites worth exploring.
Trapani (Sicily), Italy
Surrounded by glowing turquoise waters and rugged coastline, Trapani invites you to explore western Sicily’s ruins, intense flavours, and sun-soaked leisure pursuits. Built on salt and tuna exports, Trapani is experiencing a renaissance, having been lovingly spruced up as a sailing capital, and an international airport bringing in visitors from far and wide. The town looks out over the Egadi Islands, gazing west to witness some of Siciliy’s most evocative sunset displays. Start exploring Trapani from its historic core, a dense network of alleys hosting a collection of small shops, restaurants and wine bars. You’ll encounter the Cathedral of San Lorenzo – where colourful artworks are spread below sweeping arches and a beautiful domed roof. Sicily feels like an island on the cusp of continents, and Trapani practically has one foot in Africa, as you soak in its pretty whitewash houses and fusion of foods and arts.
Cagliari (Sardinia), Italy
The serene sea approach to Cagliari is an exquisitely beautiful way to first lay eyes on the city’s mesmerising interplay of colour, spires and domed churches. Sat on Sardinia’s south coast, Cagliari is the island’s largest city, and a sun-blessed escape of beaches, architecture and Mediterranean food – where stress evaporates on contact. That first sight of Cagliari’s mosaic of architecture reveals much about the island’s history, and is a living document of the civilisations and influences that have passed through. Combining Byzantine churches with crumbling Roman ruins and Pisan towers, it’s an elegant, beguiling place to explore. Usher in the morning with a short, sharp espresso hit, before wandering along to San Benedetto market’s bustle, crammed full of overflowing heaps of local produce.
Bejaia, Algeria
Situated between the sea, a cape and a mountain, Bejaïa is one of Algeria’s prettiest cities. With a population of about 200,000 it is also the capital of Bejaïa province. The old town lies on the slopes of Mount Gouraya descending to the French sector along the sea. Main landmarks include a 16th-century mosque, a Spanish fortress, also from the 16th century, and an old Kasbah. The history of Bejaïa can be traced to the founding by the Carthaginians in the 1st century BC. From the 2nd to the 5th centuries the town was under Roman rule and flourished as a commercial and military center called Saldae. In the 12th century, Bejaïa became the capital of the Berber Hammadid dynasty only to be annexed one hundred years later into the Hafsid Empire of Tunis. During the Middle Ages, Bougie, as the town was known then, was a favorite pirate stronghold. Later followed a succession of Spanish and Ottoman rulers.
Seville, Spain
Whether you pronounce it Seville or Sevilla, this gorgeous Spanish town is most certainly the stuff of dreams. Over 2,200 years old, Seville has a mutli-layered personality; home to Flamenco, high temperatures and three UNESCO-World Heritage Sites, there is a noble ancestry to the southern Spanish town. Not forgetting that it is the birthplace of painter Diego Velazquez, the resting place of Christopher Columbus, the inspiration for Bizet’s Carmen and a location for Game of Thrones filming, Seville is truly more than just a sum of its parts. This city is a full on experience, a beguiling labyrinth of centuries old streets, tiny tapas restaurants serving possibly the best dishes you’ll taste south of Madrid and a paradise of Mudejar architecture and tranquil palm trees and fountain-filled gardens.
Lisbon, Portugal
A glorious mosaic of beauty, freedom and authenticity, Portugal’s capital is a stirring artwork of a city. Known for the seven hills it spreads across, and its stirring fado music, Lisbon is a pastel-coloured blend of houses and beautiful tile artworks – and this creative city strikes a perfect harmony between natural and manmade beauty. Stroll along Alfama’s steep, cobbled streets as you explore one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods – where each house and door could be its own photograph. Look for the decorative tiles, with the distinctive blues and whites of Azulejo ceramics, and visit the dedicated museum to learn more. Afterwards, wind up to São Jorge Castle, where views out across Lisbon’s red rooftops unravel. Just one of many majestic viewpoints, you can also seek out Miradouro da Graça for perhaps Lisbon’s finest panorama, with the copper-coloured suspension bridge stretching over sparkling water beyond the sea of buildings.