By Daniel Casciato
Embarking on the second leg of our enchanting Western Mediterranean cruise, we found ourselves awestruck by Italy’s historic splendor and unrivaled beauty. (You can read Part 1 here.)
From the awe-inspiring artistry of Firenze (Florence) to the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the timeless allure of Roma (Rome) and the historical remnants of Pompeii, each stop we made was a journey through time, providing us with rich, unforgettable experiences. Here’s an account of our expedition through the land of the Romans, the Renaissance, and a stunning coastline.
Florence and Pisa
Breaking away from the larger, bustling tour groups, we opted for a more personalized experience as we explored the heart of the Renaissance – Florence. As we left the flat plains and journeyed into the rolling hills of Tuscany, we were met with the splendor of Florence.
We strolled through the city’s historical area, basking in the glory of the Florentine skyline and the city’s most iconic edifice, the Santa Maria del Fiore or the Florence Duomo.
Our hearts were captured by the charm of Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of the city, and the antiquity of the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge crossing the Arno River.
Our Florence expedition ended at the Square of Santa Croce, a place of reverence for the city’s illustrious citizens.
Navigating through the Tuscan hills, our next stop was Pisa’s Field of Miracles, a jaw-dropping spectacle of medieval artistry, including the iconic Leaning Tower.
As we toured around the remarkable site, we took time to absorb the historical atmosphere, admiring sites like the Cathedral and the Baptistery.
Am I doing this right?
Enjoying a Mango Gelato and a Limoncello Spritz
Panoramic Tour in Rome
The next day, we found ourselves immersed in the grandeur of Rome.
Our journey commenced with a venture into the Vatican City, home to the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica. As we ambled through the Basilica, Michelangelo’s marble masterpiece, the Pieta, left us spellbound.
Our journey through Rome unfolded as we were driven past iconic landmarks – the Pyramid of Cestius, the Colosseum, and the Circus Maximus.
We even had a chance to visit the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved structures from Ancient Rome.
Finally, in the heart of Rome, we found ourselves captivated by the resplendent beauty of the Trevi Fountain. As the largest Baroque fountain in the city and one of the most famous fountains in the world, the sight of this architectural masterpiece was truly magnificent. Legend has it that tossing a coin over your shoulder into the fountain ensures a return trip to Rome. The intricate sculptures of the fountain, coupled with the soothing sound of cascading water, provided a mesmerizing backdrop to our unforgettable day in the Eternal City.
Pompeii and Amalfi Coast
Our voyage through Italy ended on a thrilling note with a visit to the ancient city of Pompeii and the stunning Amalfi Coast. In Pompeii, we had a chance to step back in time and visualize life in 79 AD, all remarkably preserved under the volcanic ash of Mount Vesuvius.
After exploring Pompeii’s rich history, we found ourselves driving along the breathtakingly beautiful Amalfi Coast. Our stop in the charming resort of Vietri sul Mare was the perfect ending to our Italian adventure. With its narrow streets, multiple churches, and striking views, it was the epitome of Italian charm.
As we conclude this 2-part series on our unforgettable Western Mediterranean cruise, I reflect on the incredible experiences my family and I shared. From the magnificent palaces and gothic cathedrals in Spain and France, the stunning landscapes and timeless architecture of Italy, to the poignant historical significance of Pompeii, and the unparalleled beauty of the Amalfi Coast, every moment was steeped in discovery and delight.
We delved into the rich tapestry of cultures, feasted on the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, marveled at iconic landmarks, and connected with the soul of these beautiful lands. This journey was more than just a holiday; it was an opportunity to broaden our horizons, enrich our knowledge, and create lifetime memories.
As the famous French novelist Gustave Flaubert once said, “Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” Our cruise voyage was a humbling and inspiring adventure that reminded us of the vastness and diversity of our world. We returned home not only with cherished memories and spectacular photos but also with an enriched understanding and appreciation of our world.
Safe travels!
