Adriatic Autumn and Italy: 9 nights

Venice, Italy
The first settlement of the marshy islands in the lagoon was for protection from barbarian tribes that terrorized mainland farms and villages. Island living quickly led to the development of skills in handling boats, then ships. Maritime trade conducted by shrewd merchants brought great wealth, which permitted the building of palaces, churches and monuments. The city became the center of the vast Venetian empire, its name forever summoning visions of grandeur, magnificence, richness, graciousness and beauty. Although later linked to the mainland, first by a railway bridge built in 1848 and then by a motor causeway in 1930, this island city will always be considered the "Queen of the Sea." There are no cars in Venice; all transportation is by boat or on foot along the time-worn, cobblestone streets and across some 400 bridges that span the city's 177 canals. Enchanting Venice truly offers an atmosphere that exists nowhere else.

Pula, Croatia
Pula is a major Adriatic port and the largest city in Istria, Croatia. peninsula. Like the rest of the region, it is known for its mild climate, crystal clear sea, and unspoiled nature. The city has a long tradition of winemaking, fishing, shipbuilding, and tourism.

Sibenik, Croatia
Sibenik lies in the middle of the Croatian Adriatic Coast, at the mouth of the Krka River, one of the most beautiful karst rivers in Croatia. Limestone mountain crests, small valleys and striking plateaus characterize this scenic region. A picturesque town, Sibenik was originally built on a small island, surrounded by a high wall and towers. The historic old town of Sibenik is rich in cultural and historical monuments. The most representative among them is the famous Cathedral of Sibenik, an important architectural Renaissance building listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, Sibenik is the administrative, political, economic, social and cultural center of a county, which stretches 62 miles along the Croatian Riviera between the Zadar and Split.

Dubrovnik, Croatia
Founded in the 7th century, Dubrovnik rose to greatness as a merchant state, independent republic and cultural crossroads. The traffic-free Old Town has been called a Croatian Athens. This UNESCO designated World Heritage Site is a living museum of the ages with fortifications, chapels, monastic cloisters and Europe's second-oldest synagogue crowded into its ancient walls. Relax at a sidewalk café, listen to the chimes of the 14th-century bell tower or join the promenade down the palace-lined avenue known as the Stradun.

Kotor, Montenegro
One of the best preserved medieval towns of the Adriatic, Kotor is protected by UNESCO. Between 1420 and 1797, the area was under the rule of the Republic of Venice and the Venetian influence can be seen in its architecture. The Gulf of Kotor is sometimes called the southernmost fjord in Europe, although it is actually a submerged river canyon. The overhanging limestone cliffs of Orjen and Lovcen complete one of the Mediterranean's most beautiful landscapes.

Brindisi, Italy
Set on a peninsula between two arms of the Adriatic Sea, Brindisi was an important port of the Roman Empire, and later for the East India Company. In the 2nd century BC the Appian Way was built, linking the port to Rome, and a column near the harbor marks the end of that famous route. It is here that in 71 BC, the gladiator Spartacus led thousands of rebel slaves in an unsuccessful escape. Today visitors find Romanesque churches, a 13th-century castle and, in the surrounding Apulia region, remains of ancient Messapian culture.

Crotone, Italy
Crotone is a city in Calabria, southern Italy, on the Ionian Sea. Founded circa 710 BC as the Achaean colony of Croton, it was known as Cotrone from the Middle Ages until 1928, when its name was changed to Crotone. In 1994 it became the capital of the newly established Province of Crotone.

Messina, Italy
Messina is situated on the northeast point of Sicily. The rather narrow Straits of Messina separates this triangular-shaped island from the tip of the boot of Italy. You may choose to explore this ancient seaport on your own, or venture south to the hillside town of Taormina. Whatever you select as your option for today, be sure to include some time to sample the delicious food of the region along with some hearty, locally produced wine. As you will quickly learn, the Sicilian people are enthusiastic hosts, justifiably proud of their rich heritage.

Naples, Italy
There is saying among the Italians, "See Naples and Die," meaning that this city's splendor and magnificent vistas are so grand that life is not complete without visiting it. Whether you want to explore in the shadow of Mt. Vesuvius, experience the scenic wonders and hairpin curves of the Amalfi Drive, cruise across the bay to the fabled Isle of Capri, or shop for coral and cameos along Via Santa Lucia and in the Galleria Umberto, the passionate city of Naples has an attraction for every taste.

Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
Originally built by Emperor Trajan who had a villa here, Civitavecchia has flourished as a major port for Rome since the 13th century. Today it is an important ferry terminal and for many travelers the gateway to the Eternal City, Rome. The Renaissance fortifications that surround the harbor area were begun by Bramante and completed by Michelangelo in 1535.

Set sail from Venice on your 9 nights Adriatic Autumn and Italy cruise on Seabourn Spirit. Your 10 day cruise visits 9 different ports.

• All Meals
• Fine wine and spirits
• Gratuities, not expected or required
• Complimentary In-Suite Bar (stocked daily)
• Complimentary champagne upon arrival
• Fruit basket Replenished Daily
• Private ensuite
• Flat Screen TV for in-cabin entertainment
• Complimentary toiletries
• In cabin safe
• Exciting entertainment and activities
• Special guest entertainers
• Choice of Bars and Lounges
• Water Sports