Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy - Ah, the Eternal City: Romance, culture, food, history and fashion. You'll have to plan your time carefully as the sights of Rome are captivating and seemingly endless: the Colosseum and Forum, the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain and, of course the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel.You can't fit it all in one day (or even a week, to be honest). Be sure to spend at least a couple days enjoying the many pleasures Rome has to offer before you embark on your cruise conference.

Amalfi, Italy - The Amalfi coast has been called the greatest meeting of land and sea on earth. Situated in the Campania region between Sorrento and Salerno, Amalfi is one of the main towns, the other being Positano, on the world famous Amalfi Drive - known as the most romantic drive in Italy. The road is gouged from the side of rocky cliffs plunging into the sea. Erosion has contorted the rocks into mythological shapes and hollowed out fairy grottoes where the air is turquoise and the water an icy blue. During the Middle Ages, Amalfi was an independent maritime state with a population of 50,000. The ship compass was invented here in 1302. Approximately 10 miles away from Amalfi is the village of Ravello. An enchanting village with wonderful views and quiet lanes, Ravello boasts romantic gardens that showcase medieval ruins, and afford magnificent views of the entire Bay of Salerno.

Taormina, Italy - Taormina has long enchanted visitors with the beauty of its mountain and sea views. Be sure to discover the Teatro Greco, one of Sicily's most celebrated sights, beautifully preserved and boasting perfect acoustics - it's frequently used for operatic and theatrical concerts. Wander the twisting medieval streets of the town that inspired D.H. Lawrence and Truman Capote. Then take time out at a cafe on a sunny piazza, soaking up views of Mt. Etna in the distance

Valletta, Malta - Tiny Malta abounds in forts and temples. In Valletta, wander through the ornate Grand Master's Palace of the Knights of St. John. Within the thick walls of Medina, the Silent City (no cars), visit the serene Baroque cathedral.

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

Argostoli, Greece - Situated on the largest of the Ionion Islands on Kefalonia, Argostoli is perfect for nature and history lovers. Tour the ruins of St. George Castle, see loggerhead turtles feeding and take in sweeping views atop its cliffs.

Tirana (Durres), Albania -

Kotor, Montenegro - Looking at a map of Europe, you might be forgiven for missing Kotor — a tiny port in the already-tiny country of Montenegro. But from the moment your Kotor cruise docks, you'll enter a larger-than-life world of mighty forts and towering sea cliffs, the air filled with the refreshing smell of the ocean. On a Mediterranean cruise, you can explore the attractions inside Kotor's fortified Old City, one of the Mediterranean's best-preserved medieval towns. Don't miss the Cathedral of St. Tryphon, an ornate church first consecrated in 1166. Then, scale St. John's Fortress — the hilltop fortifications, dating back to the 6th century, offer the best views of the city, the harbor and the surrounding mountains.

Split, Croatia - The second largest city in Croatia, Split has many attractions but is best known for the many historical landmarks found within and around the walls of Diocletian's Palace and the 1700-year old harbour beneath it. The Old Town which comprises the palace is in a remarkable state of preservation. In addition, the Split-Dalmatia County has numerous museums, old churches and other archeological sites which make it an important cultural attraction. History, culture, scenic countryside and the sunny weather make Split a sought after destination for vacationers and water sports lovers.

Venice, Italy - Venice is possibly the most romantic place you'll ever visit. It seems almost redundant to describe the charms of Venice. The cafes of St. Mark's Square, Palazzo-lined canals plied by gondolas, the elegant Doge's Palace, the Bridge of Sighs and the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore: Venice is one impossibly beautiful sight after next. A great collection of Renaissance era art is housed at Gallerie dell'Accademia. Or, if you prefer modern art, Venice is home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. And, if you want to enjoy a truly special meal while here, visit one of the excellent restaurants of the Associazione dei Ristoranti della Buona Accoglienza.

Still not sure how you'll entertain yourself? Here's the New York Times' take on how to get the most out of your time in Venice (published June 12, 2014) 36 Hours in Venice