Why you should sample la dolce vita on an Italian cruise with MSC

The birthplace of the Renaissance and the Roman Empire, and home to arguably the best cuisine, art and architecture in the world, Italy offers La Dolce Vita – and then some.

From the Baroque beauty of the Trevi Fountain to Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring and cricked-neck-inducing Sistine Chapel, through to the Cappella Palatina of Palermo and UNESCO-listed Palazzi dei Rolli of Genoa, Italy is bursting with cultural riches and artistic heavyweights that make this country a European Virtuosa.

And the best way to experience it all? On a Mediterranean cruise with MSC Cruises, the Italian cruise line that brings you directly to the heart of these historic destinations. With easy itineraries, authentic onboard experiences and ships that sail right to the doorstep of Italy’s top cities, an MSC Italy cruise makes it easier than ever to live the Sweet Life.

Walk Rome’s cobbled streets from the ancient Colosseum to the fashionable Via Condotti, where Prada, Gucci and Dolce & Gabbana shine in shopfronts, and you’ll see why this gorgeous capital consistently ranks as one of the world’s greatest treasures.

– READ MORE: Insider’s guide to Rome, the Eternal City –

MSC Cruises offers a range of Mediterranean itineraries out of Civitavecchia, Rome’s historic port since AD 108. Just a couple of hours’ flight from the UK, the city is well worth exploring. Think Michelangelo’s 16th-century fort, the Vanvitelli fountain and ancient Taurine Baths.

Take the train or hop on an MSC excursion for a full-day Rome experience. The panoramic coach tour ticks off the Cestia Pyramid, Circus Maximus, Villa Borghese and Via Veneto before dropping you off near the Vatican for your own exploration.

Visit the Colosseum, where gladiators once fought wild animals in front of 50,000 spectators, then explore the Roman Forum and walk up Palatine Hill to see the ruins of Nero’s Circus Maximus – once the largest stadium in history.

In Vatican City, tour St Peter’s Square, St Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums, home to masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, van Gogh, Gauguin and Raphael.

Finish your day with a wish at the Trevi Fountain. Featured in Roman Holiday and visited by millions, this ornate Baroque beauty collects over €3,000 a day in coins – all donated to charity.

– READ MORE: I tried MSC’s newest mega ship – here’s what happened –

Off the coast of North Africa and shaped by waves of ancient civilisations, Sicily is a melting pot of cultures, colours and cuisine.

The bustling port of Palermo is packed with architectural gems and street food markets. The Cappella Palatina, designed in 1130, is a must-see: gold mosaics, carved marble floors and a stunning Arabic-style wooden ceiling.

Nearby, the fish market at Capo bustles with life and the grand Teatro Massimo opera house offers a cinematic touch – The Godfather Part III filmed its final scene here.

Want more history? The Ruins of Segesta are a short drive away. Walk among the Doric temple and Greek theatre, then visit the medieval town of Erice with its Norman castle and cobbled streets.

Prefer nature and coastal charm? Head to Cefalù, home to a gorgeous beach and the Arab-Norman Cathedral. The medieval town starred in Cinema Paradiso and is perfect for a wander – don’t miss the medieval washhouse carved out of rock.

– READ MORE: We’ve got the best beaches to visit in Sicily –

Known as La Superba, Genoa was a maritime powerhouse in the 12th and 13th centuries and still exudes faded grandeur and old-world charm.

Wander the caruggi – the narrow medieval alleyways of the old town – and emerge on Via Garibaldi, lined with opulent palaces. Many are now museums or galleries, forming the UNESCO-listed Palazzi dei Rolli.

Visit the Acquario di Genova, one of Europe’s largest aquariums, or stroll the lively harbour area before heading into the hills.

With an MSC excursion, you can visit the Riviera town of Santa Margherita Ligure, then hop on a boat to reach postcard-perfect Portofino. With pastel façades, designer boutiques and bobbing yachts, it’s the place to sip an espresso, people-watch and imagine you’re in a Dolce & Gabbana advert.

– READ MORE: Sailawaze guide to Genoa cruise port –