Sicily and Malta Sojourn with Magnificent Europe

Arrive in Catania, where we'll meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in Isola Bella, located just below the cliffs of Taormina. Later, join your fellow travellers at a delightful welcome dinner, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet your Tour Director.

Today visit Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, standing at approximately 3,350 metres in height. To the ancient Greeks, Mount Etna was the realm of Vulcan, the God of Fire, and the home of Cyclops, the one-eyed monster. Over 1,200 square metres of Etna’s surface is covered with solidified lava. You’ll explore the base of the volcano to witness some of these lava stones. Afterwards, delight in a winery lunch, combining the tantalising flavours of Sicilian cuisine, paired with the unique flavours of local wines produced from the fertile volcanic soils of the region.

Return to Taormina for a guided walking tour of this enchanting hilltop town. Visit the picturesque Duomo cathedral, dating back to the 13th century, whose carefully restored facade reveals an elegant blend of renaissance and baroque influences. Continue to the ancient Greek amphitheatre before enjoying a leisurely stroll through the old town’s charming, narrow streets. The evening is yours to relax at leisure.

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy time at leisure to relax and unwind. Later, journey to Cefalù, one of Sicily’s most captivating coastal villages. Nestled between a golden sandy bay and the dramatic granite outcrop of La Rocca, Cefalù offers an exquisite blend of natural beauty and history. Explore the historic centre and admire the striking Norman facade of Cefalù Cathedral, founded by King Roger II. Enjoy free time to wander the medieval streets before rejoining the coach for your transfer to Palermo. Settle into your hotel and spend the evening at leisure.

Today, explore the captivating city of Palermo, one of Sicily’s richest towns in terms of history and art. Discover its architectural treasures, including the eclectic styles of Palermo Cathedral, the magnificent Martorana Church, and the Cappella Palatina. A remarkable masterpiece of both historical and artistic significance, the Cappella Palatina stands as a powerful testament to the harmonious coexistence of diverse cultures and religions across centuries.

This afternoon, prepare for a memorable culinary indulgence.

Signature Experience – Sicilian Food Tasting

Savour the authentic flavors of Sicily with a curated lunch tasting. Discover local specialties as you immerse yourself in the island’s rich culinary traditions — offering a true taste of Sicilian culture.

This morning, travel to Monreale to visit its magnificent Cathedral and Cloister. The Cathedral of Santa Maria la Nuova and the Benedictine Cloister form part of the Arab–Norman Palermo Route, together with the cathedrals of Cefalù and Monreale, collectively recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Continue your journey to the Valley of the Temples, where you will explore this spectacular archaeological site, renowned for its remarkably preserved ancient ruins. Later, transfer to your hotel and enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant this evening.

After breakfast at your hotel, stop in Catania for an exclusive Signature Experience before continuing on to Syracuse. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Signature Experience – A Royal Encounter in Catania

Step inside the magnificent Palazzo Biscari for a truly memorable visit. Meet Prince Ruggero and explore the palace’s opulent interiors while learning about its rich history. Your experience concludes with a refined drink shared together, offering an intimate and unforgettable taste of Sicilian elegance.

Meet your local guide this morning for a guided exploration of Syracuse’s Archaeological Park. Founded by the Corinthians in 733 BC, the city later became the benchmark used by Thucydides to date the establishment of other Sicilian cities. Through Hellenistic and Byzantine eras, Syracuse flourished as the Greek capital of the western Mediterranean, before entering a period of decline following the Arab conquest of Sicily and the transfer of the capital to Palermo.

At the conclusion of the tour, return to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

After a leisurely morning, travel along the Mediterranean coast, pausing to explore the picturesque province of Ragusa. This region is renowned for its robust red wines, typically crafted from a blend of Nero d’Avola, Frappato and Pignatello grapes. On arrival in Ragusa, meet your local guide for a gentle walking tour through the Old Town. Stroll along a selection of narrow, winding streets and learn about the city’s ancient architecture, which sits in striking contrast to the modern part of city. Afterwards, enjoy time at leisure to explore further at your own pace.

Later, continue to the port town of Pozzallo to board the ferry to Malta. Relax on the crossing and enjoy the salty sea breeze as the Maltese coastline comes into view. Though small in size, Malta offers a vibrant contemporary Mediterranean lifestyle shaped by deep-rooted traditions. Often described as an open-air museum, the island reveals over 7,000 years of history set against the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. Check into your hotel, located in St. Julian's, a vibrant coastal town near Malta's capital, Valletta.

Discover Malta’s enchanting capital, Valletta—a UNESCO World Heritage city founded in 1566. Stroll along the vibrant Republic Street to St John’s Co-Cathedral, home to breathtaking baroque art and Caravaggio’s renowned masterpiece The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist. Admire St George’s Square and the Grandmaster’s Palace, then step inside Casa Rocca Piccola, a 16th-century noble residence brimming with history.

Savour lunch at a local restaurant before embarking on a traditional dhajsa boat cruise through the historic Grand Harbour, a site shaped by the Great Sieges of 1565 and 1942. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, soaking in Valletta’s timeless charm.

Take a short ferry to the charming nearby island of Gozo, celebrated for its scenic landscapes and distinctive character. Begin with a visit to the prehistoric Ggantija Temples, among the oldest free-standing structures in the world. Explore the historic Citadel in Victoria, pause at the picturesque Xlendi Bay, and browse local shops for handcrafted lace and woollen treasures.

Enjoy a light lunch accompanied by Gozitan wine at a traditional Maltese restaurant before returning to Valletta, where you can spend the evening at leisure.

Spend the day at leisure before an enchanting evening in Mdina, Malta’s former capital. The medieval city takes on a magical atmosphere at night, as lanterns illuminate its quiet, narrow streets. As you wander deeper, your guide will share the city’s hidden stories and nocturnal legends, including the mysterious White Lady of Mdina.

Signature Experience – Champagne on the Bastions

Raise a glass of champagne atop the Bastions, taking in breathtaking panoramic views of Malta, before concluding the evening with a memorable farewell dinner.

This morning, transfer to the airport and take an included flight to the vibrant city of Amsterdam. Board your new-generation river ship docked in the heart of the city and spend the rest of the day settling into your home for the next two weeks.

Spend the day in the Dutch capital on your preferred activity. Rejoin the ship in Utrecht and cruise towards Germany in the afternoon.

Freedom of Choice – Glass-Top Boat Canal Cruise 

Step aboard a glass-top boat and glide through Amsterdam's iconic maze of World Heritage-listed canals, admiring the unique gable facades of the buildings, and 17th-century architecture along the way - a tranquil way to experience the city.

Freedom of Choice – Culinary Discovery

Discover the culinary favourites of The Netherlands. See and taste a variety of Dutch delicacies as you visit local producers.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride 

Join a guided bike ride through the countryside to the village of Durgerdam before visiting the Street Art Museum.

Freedom of Choice – Keukenhof Gardens in Spring 

On select spring departures, you also have the option to visit Keukenhof Gardens. Explore more than 70 acres of world-renowned gardens and admire the spectacular display of more than seven million flowering bulbs in bloom, including colourful tulips.

This morning will be spent cruising through Germany. Spend time enjoying the range of facilities on board. Perhaps indulge in a spa treatment or relax on the Daystar Deck and read a book. Disembark in Andernach, where an exclusive Signature Experience awaits. 

Signature Experience – Namedy Castle

Princess Heide von Hohenzollern graciously welcomes APT guests into her home, Namedy Castle, a royal escape set near the Rhine River in Germany. After wandering through the castle and its manicured gardens, you’ll attend a cocktail party, where a pianist sets the mood.   

Today you’ll approach what is known as the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine River. Glide past crumbling ruins that cling to rocky cliffs and rolling hillsides marked with perfectly planted vineyards. Dock in Rüdesheim, one of Germany’s most revered cultural and historic cities. Here, you’ll set out on your chosen activity. 

Freedom of Choice – Gondola Ride

Glide over the emerald vineyards of the Rhine Valley in a gondola, enjoying stunning vistas. At the top, arrive at the Niederwald Monument, commemorating the unification of Germany in 1871.  

Freedom of Choice – Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum 

Take a tour of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. This eccentric and unique museum is home to a beautiful collection of fascinating automated musical instruments from all stages of history.

Freedom of Choice – Visit a Historic Wine Cellar 

Visit a historic wine cellar for a tasting of Rhine Valley wines. Discover why this location is one of Germany’s most well-known wine regions. 

This morning, delight in a relaxing cruise along the Main River before arriving in Miltenberg. Spared from the destruction of World War II, the town of Miltenberg is much like a time capsule, revealing what old-world village life was like in Germany before the war. Here, set out on your chosen sightseeing activity.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Walking Tour and Liqueur Tasting

Embark on a guided exploration of Miltenberg. Discover the town's remarkably preserved buildings and lively squares, offering a unique glimpse into Germany’s rich history. Then, visit one of Franconia's oldest wine cellars for a tasting of local liqueurs.

Freedom of Choice – Local Monastery Visit

Travel to the hills overlooking Miltenberg for a visit to a local monastery. Here, you'll meet with a Franciscan friar to hear about life in the monastery. You'll also sample some homemade sausages, cheese and bread before free time to wander through the gardens and vineyard.

Your day unfolds on your terms thanks to a choice of activities today.  

Freedom of Choice – Visit the Würzburg Residence 

Be enchanted by the immense architectural beauty of Würzburg as you stroll through this fascinating city to the Würzburg Residence. An 18th-century palace that once belonged to the Prince-Bishops of Würzburg, this regal building is home to a number of historic wonders. Inside, you’ll marvel at the intricate tapestries, gilded stucco work and ceiling frescoes by famed Tiepolo.

Freedom of Choice – Tastes of Franconia

Travel to the Volkacher Mainschleife, the largest wine-growing region in Franconia and home to one of the most famous Franconian whisky distilleries. Here, enjoy a guided tour and meet the whisky and winemaker to uncover the art of making whisky. Savour a tasting of their finest creations paired with freshly baked bread from a local bakery.

Freedom of Choice – Explore Rothenburg 

Travel to the walled town of Rothenburg and immerse yourself in medieval life. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the colourful houses. During free time, you may wish to visit Käthe Wohlfahrt’s ‘Christmas Village’, where you’ll find the largest selection of German Christmas decorations in the world. 

Freedom of Choice – Hike to Marienberg Fortress 

Enjoy a hike to Würzburg’s most visible landmark, Marienberg Fortress, an imposing castle overlooking the city, which boasts a fascinating history dating back many centuries.

This morning, your ship will arrive in World Heritage-listed Bamberg, another one of the few German cities that was not destroyed during World War II. As you explore the Old Town with a guide, you will discover a range of historic churches and buildings, including the town hall on the Regnitz River. Following your tour, rejoin your ship to cruise onto the Main-Danube Canal. 

This morning gives you the chance to choose your sightseeing activity. This afternoon, continue cruising along the Main-Danube Canal while indulging in a Bavarian beer, sausage and pretzel tasting on the Daystar Deck. Having taken 32 years to construct, the canal links the North and Black seas.

Freedom of Choice – Discover Nuremberg’s World War II Sites 

Journey through Nuremberg’s World War II sites, including the Reich Party Rally Grounds, the site of Hitler’s now infamous annual rallies that were held from 1927 to 1938.  

Freedom of Choice – Medieval History of Nuremberg Tour

Join a tour focused on Nuremberg’s medieval history. Discover medieval architecture, including the 900-year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle and the main market square, as well as its 14th century Gothic church.

Discover Regensburg on your chosen sightseeing activity today.  

Freedom of Choice – Explore Regensburg’s World Heritage-Listed City Centre

Set out on a guided tour to explore Regensburg's atmospheric World Heritage-listed city centre. With a history dating back to the Roman times, this incredible city was the first capital of Bavaria. Your tour will finish with a tasting at Regensburg’s historic sausage kitchen, thought to be one of the oldest working restaurants in the world. 

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride to the Walhalla Memorial 

Get active and take a guided bike ride to the Walhalla memorial. This neo-classical building sits above the Danube River and houses a hall of fame that honours notable politicians, artists, sovereigns and scientists from Germany’s past.

Take a guided tour of Salzburg before a Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Gaisberg Mountain Lunch and ‘Sound of Music’ Show 

Be welcomed by a Jagdhornbläser – a hunting horn blower – into a rustic, traditional restaurant on the Gaisberg mountain overlooking Salzburg. Enjoy a welcome drink as you soak in the scenery before savouring a delicious lunch, followed by a show featuring music from the classic film, The Sound of Music. 

Visit the spectacular Melk Abbey, one of the world’s most famous monastic sites. Then, it’s up to you how you get to the next port of call. In Dürnstein, perhaps view the ruins of the castle where Richard the Lionheart, the King of England, was imprisoned in 1192.

Freedom of Choice – Cruise Through the Wachau Valley 

Enjoy a cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley to Dürnstein, where you’ll roam its cobblestone lanes at your leisure.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride from Melk to Dürnstein 

Take a guided bike ride along the Danube River from Melk to Dürnstein and take in the beautiful scenery of Wachau Valley along the way. 

Arrive in Vienna and set out on a city tour. Take in the Austrian capital's many landmarks along the Ringstrasse, as well as St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore. This evening is set aside for your magical Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Cocktail Party and Private Performance at Vienna’s City Palace

After dinner, head to the princely family of Liechtenstein’s City Palace in the heart of Vienna, where we have arranged an exclusive cocktail party and private recital, just for you. A full orchestra will perform classical masterpieces by Mozart and Strauss. You will also be enchanted by an operatic recital. 

Head out on your choice of tours, then set sail for Hungary.

Freedom of Choice – Schönbrunn Palace Visit 

Delve into royal history as you wander the lavishly furnished rooms and beautiful gardens of the famous Schönbrunn Palace.  

Freedom of Choice – Visit Bratislava in Slovakia 

Tick another country off your list and journey to Slovakia’s Bratislava, where a mixture of 18th-century rococo design and communist era architecture make this a city of alluring contrasts. See some of the architectural landmarks that were built during the city’s time under communist rule. These include the UFO bridge, Slovak Radio building and Hotel Kyjev.

Freedom of Choice – Vienna Culinary Tour

Immerse yourself in Viennese cuisine on a culinary tour of Vienna's narrow streets. Visit a traditional cafe, try a classic Viennese sausage, and sample a sweet treat from one of the city's famous patisseries.

Choose your sightseeing option in Budapest today. The afternoon is yours at leisure to further explore. In the evening, join your fellow travellers for a farewell to remember. Enjoy a performance of Hungarian folk music while you indulge in local brandy, as well as artisan meats and cheeses.

Freedom of Choice – City Tour 

Set out on a city tour of Budapest and take in its historic monuments, including Heroes’ Square and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Freedom of Choice – Culinary Tour

Eat your way through Budapest as you embark on a tour of the Great Market Hall. Wander through this large indoor market and discover a variety of sausages, meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables.

Freedom of Choice – Fisherman’s Bastion 

Enjoy a funicular ride up to Castle Hill and take in the sweeping views over the river, then walk to Fisherman’s Bastion, a beautiful historical monument.

Your extraordinary European adventure concludes today. Following breakfast, say goodbye and be transferred to the airport.