Viking Oceans
Italian Sojourn - 2027
We're Back At It!
As I began working on our future trips through the summer of 2025 I was looking for a trip to complete the year's plans. I received a brochure from Viking (yes, to ME!) and it was all about river deals, which was what I was looking for. But I couldn't find anything that I thought would interest Kim. When I turned to the final pages there were "additional" itineraries offered, including various ocean trips. When I saw that this itinerary, "The Italian Sojourn" was listed at a price that was CHEAPER than our next three river cruises I put the wheels in motion. Kim was quickly on board and we're so happy to say that our great friends Bob & Pam were on board as well. Here's to another exciting trip!
Day 1: July 10 - Travel to Rome
Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. For centuries, Rome ruled much of Europe, building a vast empire from the power of emperors. More than 2,500 years of history live in the city’s streets. Ancient structures recall those heady days when the cheers of 80,000 spectators roared from the Colosseum, citizens mingled in the Forum and senators asked the gods for guidance at the Pantheon. Along with the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica, this rich pocket of Italy is one of the world’s greatest repositories of history and civilization.
Day 2: July 11 - Naples, Italy
Naples boasts a long history in a stunning seaside setting and has long been a major center of Italian culture. The city was the seat of a powerful independent kingdom for 500 years. So great was its sway that it lured the region’s finest architects and artists. In the grand Piazza del Plebiscito, the grand and sweeping public square, the San Francesco di Paola Church flaunts a colonnaded facade reminiscent of the Pantheon in Rome, and the Royal Palace overlooks Neapolitans with statues of all the kings of Naples peering out from alcoves.
Day 3: July 12 - Sicily (Messina), Italy
Sicily has been shaped by countless civilizations, from Greek to Byzantine to Roman. When it fell under Spain’s purview in the 17th century, it was celebrated as one of Europe’s ten great cities. Surrounded by undulating mountains, orange and olive groves and vineyards are plentiful. During World War II, Messina was the destination of the unofficial “Race to Messina” between US General Patton and British Field Marshall Montgomery. In the end, Patton arrived just hours before his British comrade, receiving credit for securing Sicily.
Day 4: July 13 - Crotone, Italy
Crotone, according to Ovid, was named by Hercules himself in memory of a friend he had accidentally slain. Today, it is the capital of its eponymous province, a region known for its pristine waters, untouched mountains and vast forests. As the gateway to a landscape bestowed with great natural beauty, Crotone prides itself in its deep historical roots, which can be traced back to the 7th century BC in the city’s archaeological museum and the ruins of two redoubtable fortifications, the Castle of St. Charles V and Le Castella, situated on a small peninsula south of the city.
Day 5: July 14 - Bari, Italy
Located at the heel of Italy’s boot, Bari boasts a sunny, palm-lined promenade, romantic honey-toned balconied houses, welcoming courtyards, and Romanesque and baroque churches. It is pure pleasure to take in the distinct Mediterranean atmosphere of this picturesque port, with colorful fishing boats bobbing on the turquoise harbor. History and culture take center stage at the splendid Norman-Swabian Castle; the Romanesque Basilica of St. Nicholas, named for the city’s patron saint; and the Petruzzelli Theater, one of Italy’s most important opera houses.
Day 6: July 15 - Šibenik, Croatia
Šibenik is the oldest Croatian city on the Dalmatian Coast. The remarkable architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site spans the centuries, having witnessed the rise and fall of empires, from Byzantine to Venetian. In its remarkably preserved Old Town, narrow cobblestone streets lead past medieval houses and churches, all surrounded by four historic fortresses, including the imposing St. Nicholas Fortress. St. James Cathedral, built by several architects in the Gothic and Renaissance styles over a century, is the most important Renaissance structure in Croatia.
Day 7: July 16 - Venice (Chioggia), Italy
Chioggia is a charming fishing community located at the southern end of the Venetian Lagoon and steeped in age-old seafaring traditions. Its combination of canals, bridges and fishing boats have lent it the nickname “Little Venice.” Lined with shops, bars and restaurants, the main pedestrian street of Corso del Popolo exudes a lively atmosphere amid the aroma of delicious fresh seafood dishes. Chioggia shares a long history of cultural and economic ties with Venice, dating back to the Middle Ages, and is a scenic journey by water taxi from the capital of the Veneto region.
Days 8-11: Post Extension To Tuscany
Explore the delights of Tuscany, from its legendary cuisine and delicious wines to the Renaissance treasures of Florence, where the breathtaking works of Michelangelo, da Vinci and Brunelleschi took glorious shape and changed the world.
Day 8: July 17 - Tuscany
At the conclusion of your cruise, disembark your ship and transfer by motor coach to Tuscany. Stop for lunch at a farmhouse, then continue through the scenic Italian countryside. Upon your arrival, check in and enjoy dinner at your historic villa. Your Viking Tour Director is available to help you plan your time in Tuscany so you can make the most of your visit. (L, D)
Day 9: July 18 - Florence
This morning, drive to Florence for a walking tour of the city center, a UNESCO Site. See the Duomo as well as Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery, with its beautiful doors that Michelangelo called the “Gates of Paradise,” and more. After lunch, you will have free time to enjoy a gelato or espresso, shop, or explore the birthplace of the Renaissance. Then, proceed to a Tuscan winery, where you can tour the cellar and taste local wines before sitting down to a typical Tuscan dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 10: July 19 - Siena & San Gimignano
After breakfast, travel to the walled city of Siena, located in the heart of the Chianti wine region. On your walking tour, see the exterior of the exquisite marble cathedral, the beautiful Mangia Tower, the Town Hall, the Piazza del Campo and other historic sites. Then you will drive to the charming medieval village of San Gimignano and have lunch at a typical farm. Walk back in time as you explore the village’s ancient squares, narrow streets and elegant cistern built in 1273. (B, L, D)
Day 11: July 20 - Florence
Enjoy breakfast at your villa before you check out. Then, board your motor coach and transfer to the airport in Florence for your flight home. (B)