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Cruise to Italy in style with Saga

Italy. Where every cobblestone street tells a story, and each bite of pizza is a celebration of tradition.

This popular destination also boasts the highest number of UNESCO-listed sites worldwide, with landmarks spanning from the historic centre of Rome to the Amalfi Coast. Embark on a cruise to Italy with Saga and immerse yourself in a taste of the ‘dolce vita’, savouring the sweet life first-hand.

Cruises to Italy from the UK with Saga

Enjoy cocktails in Verandah restaurant

Straight from your doorstep, a chauffeur will be on hand to take you to your no-fly cruise around Italy. Throughout your getaway, indulge in small ship luxury where you can enjoy all-inclusive amenities and excursions. Plus, your own balcony awaits onboard for an exclusive vantage point to soak in the Mediterranean coastal landscapes.

Discover Italy’s Allure

Portoferraio in Elba Island, Italy

Saga’s Italy cruises offer curated itineraries featuring included excursions and leisure days for self-paced exploration. With the freedom to explore a variety of Italian ports, we’ve provided some inspiration so you can create your own Italian adventure.

Salerno’s Historic Treasures

Port-Vendres

As well as the gateway to the Amalfi Coast (more to come on that later), you can spend your time in the Old Town, strolling through alleyways past medieval architecture and the imposing Salerno Cathedral.

For something a little different, pay a visit to the Giardino della Minerva – a medicinal garden from the Middle Ages, featuring a diversity of aromatic plants and herbs.

Along the Water’s Edge of Savona

The port city of Savona

On the northwest coast of Italy, is Savona, showcasing an extensive seafaring past through its maritime museum.

Nearby, you can unwind by the Ligurian Sea at Bagni Vittoria Beach, or roam along the harbour to take in the breeze and observe the boats from a waterfront café.

Explore ‘Little Venice’: Livorno

Livorno Italy

Livorno’s historic district is characterised by a network of canals, inviting you to trace alongside them and across their bridges.

Also, worth experiencing on a cruise to Italy here, is browsing the lively central market to sample local delicacies such as Cacciucco: a warming, Livornese fish stew.

Ancient Roots of Sicily

Taormina Greek Theatre and Mount Etna in Sicily

Saga will also take you to cruise Sicily, the Mediterranean’s largest island, dominated by the active Mount Etna volcano.

Influenced by civilisations like the Greeks and Romans, the city of Syracuse on the eastern coast boasts ruins such as the Greek Theatre and Ear of Dionysius. West coast of the island, uncover Trapani – renowned for its salt production featuring windmills and salt mounds.

Sardinia’s Megalithic Marvels

The rooftops of Cagliari

Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, houses a well-preserved Roman amphitheatre which once hosted fierce gladiator contests.

Another ancient monument open to visitors, is the Bastion of Saint Remy. This doubles as an iconic limestone fortress and a viewpoint to enjoy panoramic vistas of the city and Gulf of Cagliari.

Napoleon’s footprints in Portoferraio

Portoferraio, Italy

Famously known as the location of Napoleon Bonaparte’s first exile, exploring one of his former residences (Palazzina dei Mulini and the Villa San Martino) is an essential part of a cruise round Italy stopping in Elba.

You could also take a leisurely walk by the Romanesque churches scattered across Portoferraio. Notable gems include The Church of Santo Stefano and the Church of San Giovanni.

The UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast

Sorrento, Amalfi coast

Saga has a range of Italy cruises, with a variety of included excursions such as Sorrento and Amalfi Views.

This adventure takes you to the clifftop resort of Sorrento overlooking the Bay of Naples. An amble through the historical centre will soon work up an appetite – ready for a three-course lunch at a local restaurant.

Then drive along the Amalfi Coast, capturing vistas of Positano fishing village. Absorb panoramas of fruit trees and colourful buildings clinging to the hillsides, and of course, the cliffs plunging into the azure waters of the Mediterranean.

Find out more about Saga cruises.

The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not held by Saga unless specifically stated.

The material is for general information only and does not constitute investment, tax, legal, medical or other form of advice. You should not rely on this information to make (or refrain from making) any decisions. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation.