The magic of Christmas shines through during this 7-night cruise in Italy. Naples will fascinate you with its historical monuments and exceptional archaeological sites, the Aeolian Islands offer you an extraordinary spectacle, and the ancient theatre of Taormina, with Mount Etna in the background, is truly admirable. Next, you will visit the legendary island of Capri, with its magnificent views over the Bay of Naples.

Don't forget the local crafts and Italian Christmas traditions, with the famous Neapolitan Christmas figurines on display in small shops and workshops in the old quarters of Naples or exhibited in beautiful nativity scenes. The pastori are true works of art, handmade and each one unique; here, the Christmas spirit reigns all year round.

Your itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Naples

Day 2: Naples

Day 3: Naples - Aeolian Islands - Milazzo

Day 4: Milazzo - Messina

Day 5: Messina - Vibo Marina

Day 6: Vibo Marina - Salerno

Day 7: Salerno - Naples

Day 8: Departure from Naples

Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN NAPLES

• Embarkation at 6 pm, where you’ll be warmly welcomed on board and shown to your cabin.
• Meet the crew during the presentation ceremony with a cocktail in hand, setting the tone for a friendly and unforgettable voyage.
• Savour a delicious dinner on board, prepared with care and local inspiration.
• Enjoy a lively evening of entertainment, the perfect start to your cruise experience.

Dinner included & overnight on board.

DAY 2: NAPLES

• In the morning, choose between two extraordinary archaeological sites (one excursion included).
  • Pompeii: Feel history come alive as you wander through its ancient streets, temples and villas adorned with exquisite mosaics; a moving journey back to the origins of civilisation.
  • Herculaneum: Like Pompeii, this Roman city was buried by the eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79. Explore its remarkably preserved houses, including the famous House of the Mosaic Atrium, a masterpiece of ancient design.
• In the afternoon, enjoy an included excursion: Naples.
  • Discover the city’s cultural treasures, from the Royal Palace to the charm of the old quarter.
  • Stroll along Via San Gregorio Armeno, famed for its artisans crafting nativity figurines year-round, and experience its magical atmosphere at Christmas.
  • Visit the Santa Chiara Cloister, home to an exquisite 18th-century nativity scene portraying daily life in historic Naples.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner included & overnight on board.

DAY 3: NAPLES - AEOLIAN ISLANDS - MILAZZO

• Morning at sea, cruising through the Aeolian Islands, a breathtaking archipelago rising from the cobalt-blue waters off Sicily’s northern coast.
• Comprising Vulcano, Lipari, Salina, Panarea, Stromboli, Filicudi and Alicudi, these UNESCO World Heritage islands captivate with their volcanic landscapes and mythic beauty. According to Greek legend, Aeolus, the god of the winds, once sought refuge here, giving the islands their name.
• In the afternoon, head for your included excursion in Tindari.
  • Visit the Sanctuary of the Black Madonna, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Gulf of Patti and the shimmering Tonnara di Oliveri lagoon.
• Afterwards, enjoy free time in Milazzo, a charming coastal town crowned by an impressive medieval citadel.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner included & overnight on board.

DAY 5: MESSINA - VIBO MARINA

• Morning cruising at leisure, taking in the serene beauty of the Italian coastline from the comfort of your ship.
• In the afternoon, enjoy an included excursion: Calabria.
  • Journey to the very tip of Italy’s “boot”, where the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas meet and the Strait of Messina separates the mainland from Sicily.
  • This ancient land, once part of Magna Graecia, still preserves age-old traditions and customs.
  • Discover Tropea, the “pearl of Calabria”, dramatically perched on a rocky promontory above the sea, its cliffs and narrow streets offering breathtaking views.
  • Conclude your visit with a tasting of delicious regional specialities, a true reflection of Calabrian hospitality.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner included & overnight on board.

DAY 6: VIBO MARINA - SALERNO

• Morning cruising, soaking up the gentle rhythm of the sea as your ship glides along the Italian coastline.
• In the afternoon, discover Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.
  • Discover Sorrento, a delightful town surrounded by fragrant orange and lemon groves, dramatically perched above the sparkling sea.
  • Enjoy a tasting of Limoncello, the region’s iconic lemon liqueur, before continuing along the Amalfi Coast, one of the most breathtaking scenic routes in the world.
  • Admire the pastel-coloured houses clinging to the cliffs, the succession of picturesque villages, and the timeless elegance of its seaside resorts.
• Gala evening on board, a refined celebration to round off your unforgettable journey.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner included & overnight on board.

Welcome aboard the MV La Belle de l'Adriatique for an unforgettable cruise through southern Italy. Built in 2007 and renovated in 2017, this ship has four decks (including a sun deck) and elegant décor, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings from a deckchair or the hot tub.

You will depart on the following dates:

Choose between a stay in a Lower Deck Cabin, a Main Deck Cabin, an Embarkation Deck Cabin or an Upper Deck Cabin.

Unpack your bags in the Lower Deck Cabin, which is well-appointed and has all the amenities you need for a pleasant stay on board.

Enjoy yourself in the Main Deck Cabin with a porthole, the ideal retreat with comfortable furnishings and elegant décor.

Be enchanted by the colours of the Embarkation Deck Cabin, and use a small window to admire the views of Italy from your cabin.

The Upper Deck Cabin (category C) offers a cosy atmosphere, allowing you to relax after spending time on the sun deck or on an excursion.

This is a full board stay. Your breakfast, lunch and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on the last day. Please see on site for details about your included drinks.

The sun deck is the ideal place to work on your tan under the Italian sun, with sun loungers and a hot tub.

The terrace at the rear of the ship will then enchant you with the Italian views slowly passing by.

Naples, the regional capital of Campania, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited urban areas in the world and embodies the true Italian spirit. With its UNESCO World Heritage city centre, vibrant culture, and rich history, Naples is a dynamic destination that offers a unique blend of the past and present. Famous as the birthplace of pizza and home to narrow, cobbled streets, the city is alive with the hustle and bustle of locals and visitors alike, making it an unforgettable Italian experience.

Must-sees:

• Pompeii & Herculaneum: Explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, where the remains of these Roman cities have been preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. See stunning mosaics, frescoes, and structures that offer a glimpse into Roman life.
• National Archaeological Museum: Visit one of the most important museums in Italy, housing an extraordinary collection of artefacts from the Roman world, including treasures from Pompeii and Herculaneum.
• Santa Maria delle Anime del Purgatorio ad Arco: This church, famous for its religious symbolism and unique crypt, offers an intriguing look at the local culture and spiritual heritage of Naples.

Culinary culture:
Naples is a culinary paradise, especially for food lovers. It is the birthplace of the iconic Neapolitan pizza, and the city is home to some of the most Michelin-starred restaurants in Italy. Head to Antica Pizzeria Port'Alba, widely regarded as the oldest pizzeria in the world, to savour a classic pizza Margherita. Beyond pizza, the city offers an abundance of street food, including sfogliatella, a delicious pastry filled with ricotta, and pizza margherita fresh from the wood-fired oven. For a real treat, enjoy a plate of pasta paired with local wines while soaking in the bustling atmosphere of the streets.

Dive deeper:
Naples offers not just a rich history but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture. From the majestic views of the Gulf of Naples to the lively atmosphere of the Lungomare, you’ll be surrounded by beauty and charm. Explore the historic centre, take in the stunning architecture, and visit the vibrant markets filled with local produce. For those with a love of art and history, Naples’ churches, palaces, and museums are brimming with fascinating stories and artworks.

Good to know:
Naples is well-connected by train to other Italian cities, making it an ideal base for exploring the region. The weather is typically Mediterranean, with warm summers and mild winters, making it perfect for year-round visits. The city is also renowned for its lively atmosphere, and visitors should take time to wander its narrow streets, sample the local delicacies, and immerse themselves in the Neapolitan way of life. 

Come with us to the enchanting Amalfi Coast in Italy's Campania region. You can expect to tower-high cliffs with breathtaking sea views, pastel-coloured cottages in charming villages and lots of special islets off the coast.

Discover Italian gastronomy in Positano, admire the stunning panoramas in Ravello, visit the historic and extraordinary Pompeii, stroll through idyllic Sorrento or discover the combination between history and modernity in Naples.

Amalfi itself is more than worth a visit, as is the picturesque islet Capri ... And all with the majestic Vesuvius volcano in the background.

The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily is a crossroads of civilisations, blending Greek, Byzantine, Arab, and Norman influences into its rich cultural tapestry. From ancient ruins to Baroque towns, and from rugged landscapes to vibrant culinary traditions, this is an island of endless discovery and charm.

Must-sees:

• Palermo Cathedral: A fusion of Arab-Norman architecture with Byzantine mosaics.
• Valley of the Temples: Ancient Greek ruins near Agrigento set amid olive groves.
• Mount Etna: Europe’s most active volcano, offering scenic hiking and wine-tasting opportunities.

Culinary culture:

Sicily’s cuisine reflects its diverse history, combining Mediterranean flavours with bold spices and textures. Indulge in arancini, golden rice balls stuffed with meat or cheese, and pasta alla Norma, a celebration of aubergine, tomato, and ricotta. Don’t miss the cassata or cannoli, two of the island’s most beloved desserts. For a truly local experience, visit Palermo’s bustling markets to sample panelle, fried chickpea fritters served in sandwiches.

Dive deeper:

Beyond the iconic sites, Sicily rewards those who linger with its lesser-known gems. Explore Licata, a peaceful coastal town famed for its fresh seafood and sandy beaches. Wander the medieval streets of Erice, perched atop a hill with breathtaking views. For art lovers, the mosaics of Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina reveal intricate glimpses of Roman life.

Good to know:

The currency is the Euro, and Sicily’s Mediterranean climate makes it a year-round destination, with spring and autumn offering the best weather. Public transport connects major cities, but renting a car is ideal for exploring remote areas. Sicilian hospitality is warm and welcoming, making every visitor feel at home.