It’s one picturesque destination after another as this voyage concentrates on the best of Italy during the initial week of the cruise. Browse the designer boutiques of Portofino. Behold the architectural and artistic glory of Florence and stroll the labyrinthine, medieval streets in Sicily’s passionate Taormina in the shadow of volcanic Mt. Etna. Next, you will arrive in Valletta, Malta’s lovely capital city that ironically seems quite Italian because of its many ornate Baroque palaces. Then, Greece takes center stage, beginning with Santorini, an island known for its stunning beauty and black-sand beaches. Another highlight is historic Rhodes, where a tour of its ancient Hellenic acropolis reveals fascinating ruins from the 2nd century B.C., including a fully restored stadium, temples and underground vaults.