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 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: At sea.
Time to relax aboard your cruise ship, Costa Romantica, as you sail towards the exotic shores of the Aegean. Perhaps lounge on deck enjoying the flawless panoramas or enjoy some of the many facilities and activities offered on board. (B, L, D)

DAY 4: Marmaris - Rhodes.
Your first port of call this morning is Marmaris, Turkey's biggest resort, set in a glorious, sweeping turquoise bay, surrounded by dramatic pine covered mountains. Enjoy free time to relax on the beach, explore Suliman's impressive 16th century castle, or perhaps head to the modern marina, which brims with chic shops, eateries and a bustling bazaar. Later, sail to the Greek island of Rhodes, an idyllic haven sprinkled with glistening sugar cube villages, flower-filled landscapes and a rich historical heritage. Choose between a large selection of optional tours including the serene Valley of the Butterflies, a lush gorge filled with millions of colourful Kalimorfa Butterflies, or head to the magnificent Acropolis at Lindos, for cliff-top ruins of temples, stairways, porticos and monuments originally built in 3AD. Most optional tours end the afternoon with a stroll amidst the medieval beauty of Rhodes Old Town, taking in Amboise Gate, the Roman statues of the Grand Master's Palace, and impressive facades lining the Street of the Knights. Other options include a journey to Mount Smith for spectacular panoramic views of the island or a trip to one of the beaches for an afternoon's sun bathing, scuba diving or snorkelling. (B, L, D)

DAY 5: Heraklion.
Experience the classical beauty of Crete today as you sail into Heraklion Harbour, a port surrounded by impressive, ancient fortress walls built to protect the Old City. Spend today exploring Heraklion, the capital of Crete, home to Knossos, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Join an optional excursion to view the Minoan ruins and learn about the legend of the Labyrinth, where Theseus did battle with the Minotaur. Marvel at the intriguing Minoan culture before heading to Heraklion Museum, home to a priceless exhibition of artefacts from ancient Crete and the Minoan civilisation. There is also a chance to visit other Minoan sites at the Palace of Phaistos. Dominating the Messara Valley, the hilltop ruin features courtyards, theatres and dwellings, and affords panoramic views over the pretty landscape below. Alternatively, enjoy an optional visit to the delightful village of Kritsa, followed by the picturesque coastal town of Aghios Nikolaos, where you are free to take a stroll on the beach or relax at one of the nearby cafés. (B, L, D)

DAY 6: Piraeus for Athens.
A classical gem, the city of Athens is home to some of the most important ancient monuments in the world. Enjoy an optional half-day excursion this morning and wonder at the magnificent architecture of the Acropolis. Built during the Age of Pericles, the splendour of the Greek civilisation is still very much apparent in the Parthenon, the Porch of Caryatides and the Temple of Athena. After a tour of the highlights, there may also be an optional visit to the impressive archaeological museum, before heading into the modern city centre of Athens. Alternatively, spend the morning enjoying an optional scenic drive along the Saronic Gulf to lovely Cape Sounion, where you will visit the spectacular Temple of Poseidon. Return to your cruise ship for lunch before setting sail this afternoon. (B, L, D)

DAY 7: At sea.
Relax on board today and enjoy the ship's many amenities as you sail the confluence of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas en route to Civitavecchia. (B, L, D)

DAY 8: Civitavecchia - Rome - UK.
Reaching Civitavecchia this morning, you will disembark Costa Romantica and be taken to a restaurant in the St Peter's Square area of Rome for lunch, before being transferred to the airport for your return flight to the UK. (B, L)