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Italy Cruises
All-inclusive cruises to Italy from the UK
Set sail for the sun-dappled shoreline of Italy. Spend your days strolling around storied old towns, surround yourself with colourful local life and admire sweeping coastal vistas. Saga’s Italy cruises take you to a captivating collection of Mediterranean destinations. With stops in the vibrant port towns of Sicily, Sardinia and Portoferraio, your Italian cruise adventure is sure to be one that you won’t forget in a hurry.
Cruising to the Mediterranean on an all-inclusive cruise with Saga means that the holiday starts from the moment you leave the house. A chauffeur service, dining and drinks and rooms with private balconies are all included in the price of the cruise.
And to bring Italy to life, there’s a collection of included excursions and a choice of optional excursions to choose from. All that’s left for you to do is sit back and relax onboard as we take you to a string of incredible Italian locales. The dolce vita awaits.
Cruises to Italy
Where could you visit on your boutique cruise?
Cagliari
Arriving at the Sardinian capital by sea is one of the best parts about cruising to Italy. From the water, grand glistening palazzi, colourful domes and pastel-hued facades can be seen clinging to the rocky cliffs. Spend the day in Cagliari strolling along leafy boulevards, lingering over coffee in a terrace café and admiring views of the marina.
Livorno
Stop off at the cosmopolitan Tuscan city of Livorno during your cruise to Italy for a day of discovery. In the 17th century the city became a multicultural trading hub when it was declared a free port. Exploring the sights gives a glimpse into Livorno’s rich past as you explore its historic quarter, attractive waterways and grand Belle Epoque architecture.
Portoferraio
Elba’s capital, Portoferraio, provides a tantalising taste of the sights and sounds of Tuscany. Almost entirely surrounded by the sea, the city’s hilly streets are overlooked by three 16th-century forts, with Fort Falcone offering up sweeping coastal views. The town was also once the home of Napoleon; his former residences are now open for visitors.
Salerno
With a wealth of interesting history, from the 9th-century onwards, this ancient city was once the centre of the powerful Principality of Salerno. Spending the day here means visiting medieval churches and stopping off at vibrant trattorias in the city’s historic centre and strolling along its picturesque tree-lined coastal path.
Savona
The bustling seaport of Savona is ideal for a full day of exploring. Amble around the pleasant medieval core and admire gems such as the 16th-centry Savona Cathedral and the Priamar Fortress, which sits on a hill overlooking the port. Nearby, the city of Genoa with its historic architecture is an easy day trip away.
Syracuse
You’re never too far away from ancient history during a cruise around Italy. Founded by the ancient Greeks, the Sicilian city of Syracuse was the birthplace of the great mathematician, Archimedes. Syracuse has long been an integral place of power in the Mediterranean and today the UNESCO-recognized city centre with its Necropolis of Pantalica is a testament to this.
Top excursions on our cruises to Italy…
Embarking on an Italian cruise in 2024 with Saga provides the chance to explore a wealth of compelling destinations. Why not join one of our optional excursions to gain a deeper insight into the incredible list of cultural and historical sights that Italy has to offer?
Birthplace of the Renaissance
Italy cruises from UK wouldn’t be complete without spending a day in Florence. Stepping out into the romantic streets with a guide, you will embark on a day of discovery and learn all about the birthplace of the Renaissance. The trip begins with a visit to the Duomo. Today the cathedral’s brick dome remains the largest in the world. Step inside and be wowed by colourful 16th-century frescoes by Vasari and intricate marble paving. See the Baptistery with its breathtaking ‘Gate of Paradise’ – a door with ten bronze relief panels. Elsewhere in the historic core of Florence, admire the architecture of the Uffizi Gallery and the ornate Palazzo Borghese and stop off for an included lunch.
Catania City Walking Tour
Start your day of sightseeing with an introduction to Syracuse before proceeding to Catania. In this ancient city, nestled at the feet of Mount Etna, you will glimpse a collection of iconic sights, such as the Piazza Verga, Piazza Stesicoro and the Villa Bellini. The day continues with a guided walking tour of the attractive UNESCO-listed city centre beginning in the Piazza del Duomo, Catania’s central square, with its numerous university buildings and 18th-century town hall. Catania was rebuilt after being destroyed by an earthquake in 1693, and lava stone was used in many buildings by architect Giovanni Vaccarini. Spend free time in Catania browsing colours of local food markets or go on the hunt for souvenirs among its storied streets.
Discover Pompeii
Embark on a day to remember as you take a trip to the ruined Roman city of Pompeii. Located around a 60-minute coach ride from the pier, once you arrive in Pompeii you will be guided around the sights of the city by a knowledgeable guide. Walk in the footsteps of Pompeii’s ancient inhabitants as you explore the ruins of lavish villas complete with colourful frescoes, stop in at old bakeries and be amazed by intricate mosaic floors. When Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD it sadly spelled the demise of the city. Incredibly, the final moments of those who perished in the natural disaster have been preserved by the ash that blanketed the city and can be seen to this day.
Highlights Of Elba
Soak up the sunshine as you enjoy the highlights of Elba on this scenic drive through the island. Begin with admiring the breathtaking Bay of Biodola, home to one of the most famous beaches in Tuscany, and the village of Procchio. Continue along the coast to Porto Azzurro and take in views of villages that hug this dramatic stretch of coastline such as Lacona and Laconella. There’s free time to browse the charming streets of Porto Azzurro itself, which is overlooked by the Spanish-built fortress of Fort Longone. Round up your day with snacks and refreshments at a local bar.
Salt Flats of Molentargius
Immerse yourself in the vine-clad Sardinian countryside on this dreamy day trip. Leave the port behind and head off to soak up bucolic views as you make your way up to Monte Urpinu. The hill offers up a panoramic vista from its terrace – on one side, the Gulf of Angels and on the other, the old town. It’s then onwards to see the salt flats of Molentargius. This protected environment provides a paradise for several bird species, most famously including flamingos. The day continues being welcomed at a local winery for wine tasting accompanied by Sardinian specialities on a backdrop of vineyard views.
