Lead Pricing
| VI - Suite | B3 - Suite |
|---|---|
|
AU $11,400 per person
|
AU $14,700 per person
|
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.
A quiet sanctuary. The sitting area of the Vista suite has plenty of room to relax.
Large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views.
The perfect backdrop for breakfast in bed during the cruise.
One bedroom: 287 ft² / 27m²
Features
Large picture window providing panoramic ocean views
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda. Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone.
Some Veranda Suites on the Silver Whisper accommodate three guests.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm clock with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda. Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone.
Some Veranda Suites on the Silver Whisper accommodate three guests.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm clock with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda. Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone.
Some Veranda Suites on the Silver Whisper accommodate three guests.
Veranda 3 and 4 offer preferred central location with identical accommodation to Veranda 1 and 2.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm clock with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A Silversea signature, the Veranda Suite is spacious and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a furnished private teak veranda. Each spectacular sunset feels like it is yours alone.
Some Veranda Suites on the Silver Whisper accommodate three guests.
Veranda 3 and 4 offer preferred central location with identical accommodation to Veranda 1 and 2.
One bedroom: 345 ft² / 32m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Sitting area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm clock with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
One hour complimentary WiFi access per guest/per day
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dry cleaning and pressing service (fee applies)
A mark of distinction. Sumptuous. Spacious. Rich textures and panoramic views surround you with distinguished luxury.
An extravagant suite for an extravagant cruise.
One bedroom: 521 ft² / 49m² including veranda
Features
Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors
Living room with sitting area and dining area
Twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool bathtub
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Direct-dial telephone
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at Officer’s Table
Stylish and sophisticated. Separate dining and living rooms. Larger verandas. Situated midship.
Perfection in design for comfortable living.
Silver Suites accommodate three guests.
One bedroom: 653–701 ft² / 61–65m² including veranda
Features
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 double vanity, full-sized bath and separate shower
Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking system
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Stately describes the Royal suite. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining while you cruise. Enough living space to roam.The pinnacle of good living. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 967–1,007 ft² / 90–94m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,312–1,352 ft² / 122–126m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. Ideal for entertaining friends on your luxury cruise or enjoying a quiet dinner “at home”. Available as a one-bedroom suite configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 941–1,090 ft² / 87–101m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,286–1,435 ft² / 119–133m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
The name says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic, as is the Silver Whisper itself. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Vista Suite.
One bedroom: 919 ft² / 85m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,264 ft² / 117m² including veranda
SUITE FEATURES:
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional large picture window
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Unlimited Premium Wifi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Stately describes the Royal suite. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining while you cruise. Enough living space to roam.The pinnacle of good living. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 967–1,007 ft² / 90–94m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,312–1,352 ft² / 122–126m² including veranda
Features
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathroom with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. Ideal for entertaining friends on your luxury cruise or enjoying a quiet dinner “at home”.
Available as a one-bedroom suite configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 941–1,090 ft² / 87–101m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,286–1,435 ft² / 119–133m² including veranda
Features
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional veranda
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; Two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down
duvet covers
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
The name says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic, as is the Silver Whisper itself. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms (as illustrated) by adjoining with a Vista Suite.
One bedroom: 919 ft² / 85m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,264 ft² / 117m² including veranda
Features
Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors; Two-bedroom has additional large picture window
Living room with sitting area; Two-bedroom has additional sitting area
Separate dining area and bar
Twin beds or queen-sized bed; Two-bedroom has additional twin beds or queen-sized bed
Marbled bathrooms with double vanity, separate shower and full-sized whirlpool tub, plus a powder room; two-bedroom has additional marbled bathroom with full-sized bath
Walk-in wardrobe(s) with personal safe
Bang & Olufsen audio system
Radio/alarm with iPod docking station
Illy Espresso machine
Direct-dial telephone(s)
Refrigerator and bar setup, stocked with your preferences
Pratesi® fine bed linens and down duvet covers
Premium mattresses and a choice of pillows
Plush robes and slippers
Choice of European bath amenities
Vanity table(s) with hair dryer
Writing desk(s) with personalised stationery
Free WiFi
Flat screen TV(s)
Laundry service throughout the voyage
Wet cleaning and pressing throughout the voyage
Special chocolate welcome
Afternoon canapés upon request
Dinner at officer’s table
Dinner for two in La Dame, one evening per voyage
Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment
Complimentary interactive mobile content
The amenities of a grand resort. The charms of a stylish boutique hotel. Silversea’s Millennium Class ships Silver Whisper and sister ship Silver Shadow invite you to enjoy Silversea’s world-class accommodations, shipboard conviviality and warm, individualized service, paired with the enhanced spaces and amenities of a larger ship. Revel in the pampering treatments of an expanded wellness spa, shop the hottest trends from top designers at our shipboard boutiques, and enjoy dynamic full-scale productions in a multi-tiered show lounge. Silver Whisper luxury cruise ship has it all. Design your own schedule … or no schedule at all … Silver Whisper.
Ship Profile & Stats
- Length: 610 Feet
- Tonnage: 28,258 tonnes
- Maiden Voyage: 2001
- Refurbished: 2017
- Passenger Capacity (dbl): 382
- Crew Nationality: International
- Officer Nationality: European
- Dining Staff Nationality: International
- Ship Registration: Bahamas
Ship Facilities
- La Terrazza Restaurant
- Pool Bar
- The Connoisseur’s Corner
- The Bar
- The Show Lounge
- The Restaurant
- Swimming Pool
- Shopping Boutiques
- La Dames by Relais & Chateaux Restaurant
- Casino
- Conference / Card Room
- The Pool Bar
- Library
- Internet Cafe
- The Panorama Lounge
- Jogging Track
- Fitness Centre
- The Spa at Silversea
- Beauty Salon
- The Observation Lounge
- Lifts
Cruise Itinerary
| Date | Activity | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 May '21 | Athens (Piraeus) Greece |
07:00 PM | |
| 11 May '21 | At sea | ||
| 12 May '21 | Dubrovnik, Croatia |
08:00 AM | 11:00 PM |
| 13 May '21 | Korcula, Croatia |
08:00 AM | 02:00 PM |
| 14 May '21 | Venice, Italy |
08:00 AM | overnight |
| 15 May '21 | Venice, Italy |
04:00 PM | |
| 16 May '21 | Split, Croatia |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 17 May '21 | At sea | ||
| 18 May '21 | Valletta, Malta |
08:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 19 May '21 | At sea | ||
| 20 May '21 | Barcelona, Spain |
12:00 PM | overnight |
| 21 May '21 | Barcelona, Spain |
11:00 PM | |
| 22 May '21 | At sea | ||
| 23 May '21 | Malaga, Spain |
07:00 AM | 06:00 PM |
| 24 May '21 | Lisbon, Portugal |
06:30 PM | overnight |
| 25 May '21 | Lisbon, Portugal |
All itineraries and ports of call at the discretion of the cruise line subject to local weather conditions and may change without notice.
15 Night cruise sailing from Athens to Lisbon onboard Silver Whisper.
Enjoy well-loved destinations from unexpected angles. You may have already seen Gaudi’s buildings in Barcelona but do you know of intellectual paradise Palau Macaya? And yes, you probably have already taken a tram to Lisbon’s giddy heights, but have you ever spent the evening Fado dancing? Or swam in the Athens River? Or been to mass at St. Marks? Whatever the experience, live them all, because southern Europe is the gift that keeps on giving.
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. The nearby Acropolis Museum adds context to your visit and frames the broad views from its giant glass windows. Or rise up Mount Lycabettus, to be rewarded with perhaps Athens’ best panorama of the Acropolis sitting high over the city on its grand stage. See the marble horseshoe of the Old Olympic Stadium, where the first modern Olympics were held in 1896, for more of the city’s enduring legacy. Elsewhere, golden beaches and temples stretch out along the coastline, should you wish to explore a little further afield. Coffee is an art form to the Greeks, and it’s an unwritten rule that coffee time must never be rushed. So prepare to settle down for a couple of hours and lose yourself in a good chat. Feeling hungry – try traditional souvlaki made with sauces handed from generation to generation.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Croatia’s crowning glory rears up vertically from the tranquil waters of the Adriatic, and Dubrovnik’s daunting fortresses town is a truly imposing sight to behold. Encircled by chunky stone walls so thick and dramatic they could have been purpose-built as a film set, this city’s unmatched old town is the setting for countless films and shows – from Star Wars to Robin Hood, Game of Thrones and every production in-between seeking a truly authentic medieval flavour. This fantasy fortress’s walls – which are no less than 12-metres thick at places – are certainly not just for show, however. They kept Dubrovnik safe when it was a maritime republic and they were besieged as recently as 1991, when Serbian and Montenegrin forces attacked, as Yugoslavia broke apart. Fully restored now, the stone streets of the city take you through a beautiful mosaic of architectural splendour, baroque churches and splashing fountains.
Korcula, Croatia
Croatia’s fractured Adriatic coast is scattered with hundreds of islands – but few can match the elegant beauty of lovely KorÄula. Tucked away behind bustling Hvar, Croatia’s sixth-largest island is a little harder to reach, making for a more peaceful affair. Decorated with beautiful medieval fortifications, time stands still as you stroll narrow paths, cutting between the stone facades of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Hear the stomps of feet and clacks of swords rattling off of the walls, during traditional MoreÅ¡ka performances – an enchanting, authentic sword dance. Revelin Tower looms over the grand entrance to the walled old town – nicknamed Little Dubrovnik – which was built and fortified in 1485 to protect KorÄula. The island is also said to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, and his former house contains a narrow staircase leading to Marco Polo Tower, which peeks above the tight streets. The majestic Cathedral of St. Mark also rises high, and you’ll spot the gorgeous vaulted bell tower, framed between narrow alleyways. Climb to the top for views of the red roof cluster, and sparkling Adriatic below. A beautiful island to explore, its dark blanket of pine tree forest led to the Greek’s naming the island, Korkyra Melaina – or Black Corfu. Explore the gorgeous ring of coastline, which is lined with pebble beaches, sandy bays and hidden coves. Or, indulge in the island’s tastes – like luxurious olive oils and white wines grown from grapes including posip, and grk – cultivated only on this island.
Venice, Italy
Venice is a city unlike any other. No matter how often you’ve seen it in photos and films, the real thing is more dreamlike than you could imagine. With canals where streets should be, water shimmers everywhere. The fabulous palaces and churches reflect centuries of history in what was a wealthy trading center between Europe and the Orient. Getting lost in the narrow alleyways is a quintessential part of exploring Venice, but at some point you’ll almost surely end up in Piazza San Marco, where tourists and locals congregate for a coffee or an aperitif.
Split, Croatia
Bathing in the Dalmatian Coast’s generous sunshine, and overlooking sparkling, island-studded waters, Split is a city of romantic beauty, built around an extraordinary – still beating – historical heart. The setting may be spectacular, but it’s the Diocletian’s Palace – a Roman remain of incredible scale and detail that is truly bewitching. While immensely historic, Split hasn’t been afraid to move with the times, and the stone walls encasing the streets are alive with buzzy bars and quiet nooks, where bottles of red wine are uncorked and delicious meals devoured. With a natural backdrop of dramatic limestone mountains, and Croatia’s trademark scenic wonders all around, Split is a true heavyweight of the Adriatic. To enter Split’s Diocletian’s Palace is to step into a beautiful time warp. Head first to the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, where a hollow bell tower rockets up, puncturing the sky.
Valletta, Malta
Malta’s capital, the minicity of Valletta, has ornate palaces and museums protected by massive fortifications of honey-color limestone. Houses along the narrow streets have overhanging wooden balconies for people-watching from indoors. Generations ago they gave housebound women a window on the world of the street. The main entrance to town is through the City Gate (where all bus routes end), which leads onto Triq Repubblika (Republic Street), the spine of the grid-pattern city and the main shopping street. Triq Mercante (Merchant Street) parallels Repubblika to the east and is also good for strolling. From these two streets, cross streets descend toward the water; some are stepped. Valletta’s compactness makes it ideal to explore on foot. City Gate and the upper part of Valletta are experiencing vast redevelopment that includes a new Parliament Building and open-air performance venue.
Barcelona, Spain
The infinite variety of street life, the nooks and crannies of the medieval Barri Gòtic, the ceramic tile and stained glass of Art Nouveau facades, the art and music, the throb of street life, the food (ah, the food!)—one way or another, Barcelona will find a way to get your full attention. The capital of Catalonia is a banquet for the senses, with its beguiling mix of ancient and modern architecture, tempting cafés and markets, and sun-drenched Mediterranean beaches. A stroll along La Rambla and through waterfront Barceloneta, as well as a tour of GaudÃ’s majestic Sagrada FamÃliaand.
Malaga, Spain
Many tourists ignore the capital of the Costa del Sol entirely, heading straight for the beaches west of the city instead, although cruise-ship tourism now brings plenty of visitors to the city. Approaching Málaga from the airport, you’ll be greeted by huge 1970s high-rises that march determinedly toward Torremolinos. But don’t give up so soon: in its center and eastern suburbs, this city of about 550,000 people is a pleasant port, with ancient streets and lovely villas amid exotic foliage.
Lisbon, Portugal
Spread over a string of seven hills north of the Rio Tejo (Tagus River) estuary, Lisbon presents an intriguing variety of faces to those who negotiate its switchback streets. In the oldest neighborhoods, stepped alleys whose street pattern dates back to Moorish times are lined with pastel-color houses decked with laundry; here and there, miradouros (vantage points) afford spectacular river or city views. In the grand 18th-century center, calçada à portuguesa (black-and-white mosaic cobblestone) sidewalks border wide boulevards.