Hop on the city ferry from Gare Maritime to La Seyne to see the massive ships and 17th-century fortifications before taking a guided tour of the historical naval cemetery and the Baie du Lazare. Then it's time to take a six-minute, 584-meter tide to the top of Mont Faron, which features the ruins and remnants of towers and forts that were once lookouts to the sea. Here, you'll also find a sanctuary for wildcats and plenty of hiking trails.

Head to the Place Foch in the old town center to get a feel for the true Ajaccio. A statue of Napoleon stands in the center, surrounded by local cafes and restaurants that offer typical Corsican dishes like veau aux olives (veal with olives) or agneau corse (Corsican lamb). Top off your evening by sipping a chestnut liquor while watching the sunset on the dock.

Experience la dolce vita in The Eternal City— recalling the glory days of Ancient Rome and twirling forks full of pasta in a trattoria. Stand in awe of paintings by Italian masters at Villa Borghese. Soak up Trastevere’s backstreet charms. Discover Vatican City’s spiritual legacy. Or ride past centuries-old basilicas in a three-wheeled Ape Calessino.

The third-largest Italian city and one of the oldest in Europe, Naples combines deep history and modern verve. Check out the extravagant Royal Palace of Naples, the former home of the royal family, with its beautiful tapestries and frescoes. People-watch from a streetside cafe in the Sanita district with a glass of wine and slice of classic margherita pizza.

Messina is the coastal jewel of northern Sicily. Let yourself get a little lost in the city, as you wander the streets taking note the of the history embedded in its architecture. See the famous Messina Cathedral — its dome has stood since 1551. Stroll among neoclassical and Art Nouveau sculptures at the Camposanto. And check out the Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, a 12th-century church that offers a unique example of Norman architecture, blending Arab, Byzantine and Roman elements.

While at sea, take time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, dine at any of the onboard restaurants or explore the thrills on each deck until we arrive at the next destination.

Discover enchanting Ravenna — once the capital of the Western Roman Empire and a thriving hub for craftsmen, artists and master masons. This charming seaside port is a haven for lovers of art and architecture boasting a staggering 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Which makes it an excellent place to spend a couple of days exploring after your cruise. Wander through majestic churches and impressive palaces that showcase some of the world’s finest Christian mosaics. Plus, take advantage of your proximity to Venice and Bologna — both less than 2-and-a-half hours by car. Stroll through the iconic St. Mark’s Square and ride a gondola beneath the Rialto Bridge in Venice. Or eat your way around the Mercato Delle Erbe and catch amazing views from the top of Asinelli Tower in Bologna. Visiting Ravenna gives you the opportunity to go off the beaten path and to visit Venice’s famous canals or Bologna’s enchanting streets. The cruise might have ended, but there are still some great activities to enjoy in the area. If you flew into this port, be mindful of your departure flight time and plan accordingly.