DAY 1: UK - Rome - Civitavecchia.
Fly to Rome where you will be met and transferred to Civitavecchia for embarkation on your ship, Costa Romantica. Your cruise is full board from dinner this evening until breakfast on day 8. (D)

DAY 2: Catania.
Relax on deck this morning as you cruise the glittering Mediterranean to Catania in Sicily. Arriving at lunchtime, you will have the rest of the day to explore this bustling, historic city and the island's local highlights. Founded in the 8th Century BC, Catania stands against the backdrop of brooding Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano, which towers to a height of 3,000 feet. Take an optional trip to see this extraordinary natural phenomenon close-up, driving along a scenic road through lush vineyards and stratified lava valleys to gaze at its other-worldly, multicoloured Silvestri Craters. Alternatively, why not take an optional trip to Sicily's most popular resort, Taormina? Crowned by a spectacular amphitheatre, this vibrant town is built on the plateau of Mount Tauro and is crammed with sights and delights, including its lovely Porta Messina and Palazzo Corvaja. (B, L, D)

DAY 3: Valletta.
Marvel at the beauty of Malta today as you sail into Valletta harbour to admire the glorious, dome-studded skyline, elegantly carved from rich, honey-coloured stone. Steeped in history and culture, Malta's capital is easy to fall in love with, thanks to its captivating stepped streets, sleepy ambience and sun-drenched monuments. Stroll around the beautiful 18th century Barracca Gardens, which command superb views over the city and visit the hallowed Cathedral of St John, where Caravaggio's masterpiece 'The Decapitation of St John' hangs. Later perhaps join an optional excursion to Mdina, Malta's one-time capital. This lovely, traffic-free walled city sits in the exact centre of the island and has beautiful medieval and Baroque gems to explore, trotting horse-drawn carriages and a timeless atmosphere. On your way, stop at Mosta to admire its gorgeous parish church, topped with one of the world's biggest domes, and Ta Qali, a typical Maltese village where you'll see handicrafts being made and get the chance to stock up with souvenirs. (B, L, D)

DAY 4: Gabes.
Today brings your first stop in North Africa with a visit to Gabes, a charismatic market town filled with colourful bazaars and famous for its henna production. Set around a magnificent bay, this intriguing town has a historic column-studded square and is known for its animated market selling hand-woven baskets, crafts and foodstuffs. After browsing the stalls, enjoy an optional trip through the surrounding rugged desertscapes to the traditional oasis villages of Chenini and Matmata, the latter an amazing Berber troglodyte underground village, used in the original 'Star Wars' movie and inhabited until the 1960s. (B, L, D)

DAY 5: Tunis.
The capital of Tunisia is a feast for the senses. One of the first inhabited locations on the Mediterranean, an optional tour takes in all of this bewitching city's best-known landmarks, including the beautiful Kasbah, the Seat of Government and the stunning Great Mosque with its soaring minarets. Wander around the tightly packed, colourful alleyways of its souk, where merchants and stallholders invite you to haggle over rich carpets, sun-dusted jewellery, exotic perfumes, aromatic spices and brightly embroidered fabrics. Alternatively, catch the chance to visit Carthage, one of the most prosperous cities of the ancient world until the Romans destroyed it in 146 BC. Now a collection of windswept ruins, this Phoenician city once competed with Rome for influence and recent archaeological excavations have unearthed priceless artefacts, which have secured it UNESCO World Heritage protection. Alternatively, enjoy an optional trip to Sidi Bou Said, a postcard-perfect village crowded with white-domed and blue-painted houses. (B, L, D)

DAY 6: Cagliari.
A shimmering, sun-kissed Mediterranean island, Sardinia is blessed with abundant natural beauty and a rich, varied history. Reaching Sardinia's largest port, Cagliari, on the south coast, take time to explore this lively, burgeoning town, which dates back to prehistoric times. An optional tour will take you to the hilltop, medieval Castello district, where you can wander along quaint, cobbled streets admiring architectural delights such as the magnificent Roman amphitheatre built in 2AD, the Citadel, the elaborate 17th century baroque Cathedral, the towers, the magnificent Bastion of San Remy and the Castle itself, which provides stunning views over the city. There is also time to take in modern Cagliari, from the elegant art nouveau villas to the impressive marina district. Alternatively, enjoy a trip to the archaeological site of ancient Nora. Originally built by the Phoenicians, the area also contains both Carthaginian and Roman ruins including baths, splendid mosaics, a theatre, and the church of St Ephisius. Partly destroyed by a natural disaster in 3AD, the site was partially submerged by the sea although some buildings and structures can still be seen just under the surface of the water. (B, L, D)

DAY 7: Ajaccio.
Experience the French Island of Corsica and its beautiful capital, Ajaccio, today. The birthplace of Napolean, Ajaccio is set on a stunning turquoise bay surrounded by white sandy coves and roads lined with olive and citrus trees. Admire rugged Mediterranean scenery as you explore the island on an optional tour perhaps heading to the childhood haunt of Napoleon Bonaparte, where a statue now stands to commemorate him, before visiting 'cemetery village' and the Genoese Tower on the Bloody Islands. Alternatively, follow a fragrant route lined with scented Maquis through the beautiful Corsican countryside and experience the island's stunning marine and mountain landscapes en route to the famous tortoise park, home to over 130 spices of tortoise and turtles. Later return to Ajaccio's Genoese-styled city centre for a stroll along the picturesque, cobbled streets and a visit to the cathedral, Charles de Gaulle Square, Palm Square and the Town Hall. (B, L, D)

DAY 8: Civitavecchia - Rome - UK.
Sail back to Civitavecchia today and disembark Costa Romantica. You will be taken to a restaurant in the St Peter's Square area of Rome for lunch, before transferring to the airport for your flight to the UK. (B, L)