Smithsonian Journeys Travel Catalog (Mar. 2024)

EUROPE

SOUTHERN EUROPE

17 A Circumnavigation of Sicily

18 Inside Sicily NEW!

19 Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily: Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights NEW!

20 Southern Italy and Sicily

21 Northern Italy: The Lake District, Tuscany, and the Dolomites

22 Highlights of Italy

24 Italy’s Lake District

25 Italy’s Apulia

26 Italy’s Amalfi Coast

28 Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean

29 Classical Greece

30 Cruising the Aegean: Turkey and the Greek Isles NEW!

31 Legendary Turkey and the Turquoise Coast

32 Cruising the Dalmatian Coast and the Ionian Sea

33 Portrait of Portugal: Lisbon, Porto, and a Douro River Cruise

34 Treasures of Southern Spain and Portugal

35 Across Northern Spain and Portugal

36 Living in Portugal: A Stay in Lisbon NEW!

37 Living in Spain: A Stay in Andalusia

38 Living in Italy: A Stay in Florence

41 Walking the Camino de Santiago: An Active Journey NEW!

68 Cruising the Mediterranean: Sicily, Sardinia, and Mallorca NEW!

68 Lisbon to the Canary Islands by Sea: Spain, Morocco, and the Atlantic Isles NEW!

68 Cruising Southern Spain and Portugal

69 Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea

112 Spain’s Andalusia

CENTRAL WESTERN EUROPE

38 Living in France: A Stay in Aix-en-Provence

43 A Danube River Cruise

44 Cruising the Rhine and Moselle Rivers NEW!

45 Treasures of the Alps

46 Holiday Markets: A Rhine River Cruise

47 Great European Journey

49 A River Cruise through Burgundy and Provence

50 Paris: The African American Experience

51 A Seine River Cruise: Paris to Normandy

52 France Through the Ages

53 Normandy

112 Europe’s Great Rivers

112 Old World Europe

112 The Life and Work of van Gogh in France

NORTHERN EUROPE

54 England’s Lake District

55 Smithsonian at St Andrews, Scotland NEW!

56 Prehistoric Mysteries of England and Ireland

57 The Emerald Isle

58 Scotland’s Treasures

59 Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea

60 Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage

61 Cruising the Norwegian Fjords

62 A Stay in Holland NEW!

63 Waterways of Holland and Belgium

64 Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea

65 Northern Lights Over Finland: Helsinki and Lapland NEW!

66 Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice

67 Adventure in Iceland

112 Heart of Scotland

112 Mystery Lover’s England

112 County Clare

OTHER EUROPE

27 Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba

40 France and Spain’s Basque Region

42 Pearls of Croatia and Slovenia

48 Prehistoric Caves of France and Spain

69 Lisbon to London: Cruising Europe’s Western Shores

THE AMERICAS

NORTH AMERICA

71 Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage

72 Bryce, Zion, and the Grand Canyon

72 Treasures of Yosemite

72 The Northern Rockies

72 Yellowstone in Winter

72 Yellowstone and the Tetons

72 Alaska’s Natural Wonders: Denali to Kenai Fjords

74 A Voyage Along the Great Lakes

76 Voyage Along the St. Lawrence: From Quebéc to the Canadian Maritimes

77 Seascapes of the Canadian Maritimes

78 Costa Rica Treetops and Trails: An Active Journey NEW!

79 Cruising the Caribbean’s Windward Islands

80 Panama and Costa Rica by Sea

112 Smithsonian at the Toronto International Film Festival

SOUTH AMERICA

81 Cruising the Amazon Waterways NEW!

82 Legendary Peru: Andean Culture and Inca Treasures

83 Machu Picchu and the Galápagos

84 Chile Earth and Sky

85 Patagonian Explorer

AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST

69 Ancient Civilizations by Sea

87 Splendors of Morocco

88 Ancient Egypt and the Nile

90 African Safari: A Wildlife Adventure

91 Gorillas of Rwanda: An Active Journey NEW!

92 Treasures of South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana

93 Safari in Kenya and Tanzania

94 Cruising from Morocco to Spain’s Andalusian Coast

95 Cruising the Arabian Coast

112 Tanzania and Zanzibar

ASIA & THE PACIFIC

97 Timeless India: Rajasthan, Varanasi, and the Taj Mahal NEW!

98 Southeast Asia: Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Laos NEW!

99 Discovering Vietnam

100 Cultural and Natural Treasures of Japan by Sea NEW!

101 Eternal Japan

102 The Silk Road: A Journey to Central Asia

103 Splendors of Australia and New Zealand

104 Journey Through New Zealand

105 New Zealand’s North and South Islands by Sea NEW!

ANTARCTICA

106 Antarctica: The White Continent

PRIVATE JET

108 Around the World by Private Jet: A Classic Journey

110 Ancient Crossroads by Private Jet

ACTIVE JOURNEYS

14 Walking and Hiking Inca Trails NEW! Tour du Mont Blanc NEW! Glaciers and Waterfalls: Iceland NEW! and more!

TAILOR-MADE JOURNEYS

114 Italy

Easter Island and the Atacama NEW! Japan and more!

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS: A WORLD APART

The Smithsonian has sought to enrich the lives of Americans since our establishment more than 175 years ago, sharing knowledge about the world through a vibrant ecosystem of museums, publications, media, internationally renowned research programs, and continuing education. Smithsonian Journeys draw on the Institution’s many cultural and scientific endeavors, reflecting the vast knowledge and experience we have gathered over the centuries. On tour, our experts bring this knowledge and experience directly to you, offering a deeper understanding of culture, history, and natural phenomena in captivating places around the world.

If your passion is history, encounter it firsthand with a historian, exploring Greco-Roman ruins on a Mediterranean cruise or following the Silk Road through the five ‘Stans of Central Asia. If you share our fascination with astronomy, join our Chile Earth and Sky journey and gaze at the night sky from world-class observatories.

On a voyage to Panama and Costa Rica, hear about the latest research from scientists at the Smithsonian’s Punta Culebra Nature Center, or revel in the arts as you explore museums and artists’ haunts with an art historian on a Cultural Stay in Holland or a river cruise along the Seine. And for those who treasure lifelong learning, our new Smithsonian at St Andrews program invites you to become a student for a week in Scotland, exploring legends, castles, and literature through compelling courses.

For decades, people from all over the country and the world have come to the Smithsonian to nourish their curiosity. Through Smithsonian Journeys, we invite you to come with us to discover the many treasures of the world alongside our experts.

8 REASONS TO TRAVEL WITH SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

1. THE SMITHSONIAN DIFFERENCE

Each itinerary is crafted to provide an in-depth, authentic, and unique experience, and many feature special access to Smithsonian research, people, and facilities around the world. Our journeys are known for their world-class service, enriching activities, and knowledgeable and experienced trip staff.

2. TRAVEL WITH OUR EXPERTS

Smithsonian Journeys Experts bring a wealth of knowledge and a meaningful perspective to every trip, engaging with our travelers throughout the journey.

3. SMALL GROUPS, BIG EXPERIENCES

Our land trips typically feature groups of 12 to 24 people and we use small, nimble ships for our ocean and river cruises, allowing guests to get up close to renowned sites and get to know local people and fellow travelers.

4. THE SMITHSONIAN COMMUNITY

Our travelers are intellectually curious and adventurous lifelong learners who share a passion for exploration. The friendships that develop on tour are often a lasting element of the experience.

5. GREAT VALUE

Once you add up everything we include—experts, enrichment, most meals, excursions, transfers, most gratuities, and even airfare-inclusive pricing on many trips—you’ll find that our trips offer an exceptional experience at a very good value.

6. SUPPORTING THE SMITHSONIAN MISSION

When you travel with Smithsonian Journeys, your participation supports Smithsonian’s mission to shape the future by preserving natural and cultural heritage, advancing research, and sharing our resources with the world.

7. SUSTAINING OUR PLANET

We are committed to sustaining the character and biodiversity of the places we visit, and the well-being of those who live there, by selecting partners who support regional economies and meet our standards for responsible travel. The Smithsonian is making efforts to mitigate our carbon footprint and study the causes and impacts of climate change around the world in hopes of informing solutions that make life on this planet more sustainable for all living beings.

8. PEACE OF MIND

You can rest assured that the well-being of our guests, staff members, and partners around the world has always been our highest priority.

TRAVEL WITH OUR EXPERTS

Gain in-depth understanding and a sense of wonder

Among the experts who accompany you on your journey are scholars from around the world who possess an in-depth understanding of their field, whether it’s history, culture, the natural world, geology, astronomy, or the fine arts. They are selected for their expertise in the destination and are eager to share their passion, knowledge, and insights about the places you’re exploring. Our travelers continue to tell us that our experts are a major reason they come back to Smithsonian Journeys again and again.

Meet some of our experts here and learn about the tours they will lead in the pages that follow. Visit our website to find a full list of our experts, and read their biographies and accolades shared by our travelers.

See bios and interviews with Smithsonian Journeys Experts at SmithsonianJourneys.org/Experts

Ed is a wonderful lecturer and so knowledgeable and personable. He helped us nd species of plants and animals we may never have seen.

— Valerie M. TRAVELER ON CRUISING THE AMAZON WATERWAYS

Michael Tucker

WORLD HISTORIAN

Michael Tucker has been a world history enthusiast since his youth. He decided to pursue history in college and became an historian and educator who has worked in Sweden, England, Ireland, Myanmar, and the United Arab Emirates. Michael is currently an educational researcher and consultant, and is looking forward to joining England’s Lake District (SEE PAGE 54) and Scotland’s Treasures (SEE PAGE 58)

Kaiama Glover WRITER, PROFESSOR

Kaiama Glover is a professor of French and Africana Studies at Yale University, as well as co-host of the WRITING HOME | American Voices from the Caribbean podcast.  She has written extensively about Francophone literature, gender, and postcoloniality; and has translated several works of fiction and non-fiction from French into English. Kaiama will join Paris: The African American Experience (SEE PAGE 50)

Ed Smith BIOLOGIST, NATURALIST

A childhood love of nature and good fortune set Ed on the path to a 35-year career with the Smithsonian, where he served as a biologist at the Smithsonian National Zoo and recently retired from the Amazonia department’s curatorial team. Ed is looking forward to sharing his experiences and knowledge alongside Smithsonian Journeys participants on Cruising the Amazon Waterways (SEE PAGE 80) and Safari in Kenya and Tanzania (SEE PAGE 93).

Nick Pyenson PALEONTOLOGIST

Nick Pyenson is curator of fossil marine mammals in the department of paleobiology at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. He has worked with and trained over 25 scientists on every continent, collaborating on various discoveries. He is also the author of the acclaimed non-fiction book Spying on Whales . Nick will join Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage (SEE PAGE 71).

Maya Wei-Haas GEOLOGIST, JOURNALIST

Maya Wei-Haas has traveled the world in the name of science, scooping ice melt from the top of Antarctic glaciers, hauling up sediments from Svalbard lakes, and monitoring water chemistry in Alaskan rivers. She holds a BA in geology and a PhD in earth science and is now an award-winning science reporter who works as a freelancer for a range of outlets. Maya will join our Adventure in Iceland (SEE PAGE 67 ).

ENGAGE WITH THE WORLD

Throughout your trip, enjoy opportunities to feel at home in another culture, sharing a meal with a local family, learning how to make a local specialty during a cooking class, or sampling wines with the vintner who produced them. Our Cultural Stays take immersion to an even deeper level, allowing you to experience your adopted city like a local and to reach new depths of understanding of its history, culture, and people.

Whether you’re exploring the cultural treasures of Europe or watching wildlife from a deluxe safari lodge in East Africa, your accommodations are an integral part of your journey, chosen to enhance your overall experience. Stay in distinctive properties that reflect the character of the local culture while offering service that meets the high standards you expect. Settle into a historic parador in Spain or a Tuscan villa, a palace in Peru or one of the renowned Serena safari lodges in Tanzania. On our ocean voyages, sail aboard a small ship from the PONANT fleet (see pages 12–13 for details); or cruise Europe’s fabled waterways aboard an upscale river ship. On every ship we use, you’ll find attentive and personalized service and an atmosphere that is casual, friendly, and comfortable.

is tour really gave us insights into the culture and language of Japan we couldn’t have gotten any other way.

–Nicky S. TRAVELER ON ETERNAL JAPAN

Top: Japanese tea ceremony. Bottom, left to right: Parador de Hondarribia; watching wildlife in Tanzania; a suite aboard Le Bougainville

OUR TRAVEL STYLES

Trips for every kind of traveler

All Smithsonian Journeys feature a unique blend of enriching insights, exceptional quality, engaging experts and travel companions, and personal attention.

CLASSIC LAND JOURNEYS

Our Classic Land Journeys are exciting forays into the history, culture, and natural world of a single country or region. Meticulously planned to include iconic sites and hidden gems, these 10- to 23-day trips often include airfare for even more value. You may travel the full breadth of a country or just one region, but you’ll always see the highlights up close with an intimate group of 12 to 24 travelers.

CULTURAL STAYS

Our Cultural Stays allow you to unpack once and enjoy time to discover a destination’s unique sense of place in more depth. Stay a week—or three—in a cultural capital or a smaller town that showcases the intrinsic character of the region. You’ll enjoy an insightful experience that features both highlights and lesser-known sites, free time pursue your own interests, and opportunities to meet with local people.

SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS

Join travelers who share your interest in a topic like art, astronomy, or military history. Become a student for a week at Scotland’s University of St Andrews, delve into the life and work of van Gogh, or explore prehistoric cave art in Europe. Whatever your interest, Smithsonian Journeys ensures a unique and top-notch learning experience.

SMALL-SHIP CRUISES: OCEAN AND RIVER

Unpack once and wake up to a fascinating new destination every day as you sail aboard a fleet of upscale small ships that range from a river boat of just 44 guests to elegant ocean-going vessels that accommodate 184 or 264 guests. All our small-ship cruises share the hallmark qualities of superb amenities, excellent cuisine, inviting cabins and common areas, and an informal ambiance—and Smithsonian Journeys Experts travel with you on each voyage. Read more about our alliance with PONANT on the next page.

is was a very exciting opportunity to participate in a journey that focused on a topic about which I am most passionate and to which I am very personally connected.

— Barbara W-Y. TRAVELER ON PARIS: THE AFRICAN AMERICAN EXPERIENCE

ACTIVE JOURNEYS

Take to the trail on our new Active Journeys, which combine walking, hiking, biking, and more with in-depth cultural experiences. Stay in convenient and unique accommodations, travel with experienced trip leaders, and learn from local experts along the way. Read more about our Active Journeys on pages 14–15.

TAILOR-MADE JOURNEYS

Experience the world your way on a Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey, custom designed just for you and your favorite traveling companion(s)—be it your spouse, your family, or a group of close friends. You decide where and when you want to go, and with whom, and we’ll work with you to build your ideal journey. Read more about our Tailor-Made Journeys on pages 114–115.

PRIVATE JET JOURNEYS

For the ultimate trip of a lifetime, join one of our spectacular Private Jet Journeys. You can visit an incredible array of destinations in one itinerary and in style, made possible by the convenience and comfort of a custom-configured jet. Our knowledgeable experts share their insights during action-packed days filled with iconic sites and engaging activities that allow you to experience firsthand the people, customs, and natural world of each destination. See our Private Jet Journeys on pages 108–111.

FIND YOUR PERFECT JOURNEY

Narrow your search—from over 300 departures—by using our online Trip Finder. Discover your perfect trip in just seconds by filtering your interests by destination, travel style, departure date, trip duration, and more.

Visit SmithsonianJourneys.org/tours/tripfinder or scan this QR code.

ENRICHING EXPERIENCES ON THE SEAS

OUR ALLIANCE WITH PONANT

We invite you to awaken your sense of wonder on a voyage with Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT, a leader in small-ship cruises. Together we create unique Smithsonian experiences on each voyage that embrace cultural immersion and discovery. You’ll explore with fellow Smithsonian Journeys travelers and enjoy an included excursion or activity in every port of call. Two Smithsonian Journeys Experts join each voyage, enriching your experience with their passion, insight, and in-depth knowledge, and bringing you deeper into the history and natural world ofyour destination.

LIFE ON BOARD A SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS/PONANT CRUISE

Aboard the PONANT fleet, you’ll experience the refined elegance of an intimate ship with a relaxed, informal ambiance. Accommodating just 184 to 264 guests, these nimble ships can access small ports, narrow waterways, and remote destinations, while providing guests attentive and personalized service. You’ll unpack once and set off on an unforgettable adventure with like-minded travelers, enjoying a range of amenities and inviting lounges and common spaces. Excellent cuisine can be savored in gracious dining rooms or alfresco on deck, and enlightening lectures and discussions will give you ample food for thought.

EACH DEPARTURE INCLUDES:

• Two Smithsonian Journeys Experts

• An included shore excursion or activity in each port of call, as noted in the itinerary

• Airport transfers between the airport and the ship on cruise embarkation and disembarkation days

• All meals aboard ship, as well as welcome and farewell cocktail receptions

• Complimentary open bar and free Wi-Fi aboard ship

• Gratuities to ship personnel, porters, guides, drivers

17 A Circumnavigation of Sicily

19 Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily: Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights NEW!

27 Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba

28 Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean

30 Cruising the Aegean: Turkey and the Greek Isles NEW!

32 Cruising the Dalmatian Coast and the Ionian Sea

59 Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea

60 Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage

61 Cruising the Norwegian Fjords

64 Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea

66 Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice

68 Cruising Southern Spain and Portugal

68 Cruising the Mediterranean: Sicily, Sardinia, and Mallorca NEW!

68 Lisbon to the Canary Islands by Sea: Spain, Morocco, and the Atlantic Isles NEW!

69 Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea

69 London to Lisbon: Cruising Europe’s Western Shores

69 Ancient Civilizations by Sea

71 Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage

74 A Voyage Along the Great Lakes

76 Voyage Along the St. Lawrence: From Québec to the Canadian Maritimes

79 Cruising the Caribbean’s Windward Islands

80 Panama and Costa Rica by Sea

94 Cruising from Morocco to Spain’s Andalusian Coast

95 Cruising the Arabian Coast

100 Cultural and Natural Treasures of Japan by Sea NEW!

105 New Zealand’s North and South Islands by Sea NEW!

106 Antarctica: The White Continent

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS/PONANT CRUISES FOR 2024–2025

SMITHSONIAN ACTIVE JOURNEYS

From the Alps to the Andes, Smithsonian Journeys presents a new line of small-group trips that seek out the road less traveled and offer engaging adventures in the great outdoors. While these journeys are designed around activities such as hiking, walking, and biking, they bear all the hallmarks of a Smithsonian Journeys travel experience: outstanding local guides, unique enrichment opportunities, and an in-depth exploration of nature and cultural history.

Our Active Journeys are designed for just 12 to 18 travelers, and feature comfortable accommodations chosen for their sense of place and their unbeatable location. To help you select a journey that suits your pace and ability, we have designated four activity levels: Light, Moderate, Energetic, and Strenuous—visit our website for details. Wherever our Active Journeys take you, you’ll gain insights into cuisine and music, wildlife and geology, and travel with a local trip leader who knows the area inside and out. You’ll meet with experts in the field and get a closer look at the region’s culture through cooking classes, visits with artisans or vintners, and traditional music or dance performances.

EACH ACTIVE JOURNEY INCLUDES:

• Knowledgeable local guides

• Small group size of 12 to 18 travelers

• Airport transfers upon arrival and departure

• Daily activities and excursions

• Internal flights where applicable

• Most meals, including all breakfasts and welcome and farewell dinners

• Gratuities

Learn more about our Smithsonian Active Journeys and the four activity levels online. SmithsonianJourneys.org/Active

Machu Picchu, Peru Cliffs

TAKE A LOOK AT OUR ACTIVE JOURNEYS IN 2024!

WALKING AND HIKING INCA TRAILS: PERU

9 Days from $3,899 |

Activity Level: Moderate

Discover Peru’s iconic archaeological sites on a hiking adventure to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu that features an optional 1-day trek on the legendary Inca Trail. Visit Lima’s Larco Museum with a curator, explore Inca ruins and Andean traditions in the Sacred Valley, and experience Machu Picchu from different angles.

PATAGONIA HIKING ADVENTURE

13 Days from $6,999 |

Activity Level: Energetic

Immerse yourself in the majesty of Patagonia from the trail on a hiking adventure on the legendary trails of Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park and Argentina’s Los Glaciares National Park.

IRISH WALKS: FROM DUBLIN TO DINGLE

11 Days from $5,299 |

Activity Level: Light

Experience Ireland’s natural treasures up close, discovering the spectacular landscapes and traditional villages of The Burren, Dingle Peninsula, and Killarney National Park on a range of hikes, walks, and bike rides.

TUSCANY AND CINQUE TERRE

10 Days from $4,899 |

Activity Level: Moderate

From the hill towns of Tuscany to the mountainside villages of the dramatic Ligurian Coast, explore two of Italy’s most beloved regions from the trail. Hike to the villages of Cinque Terre, ride a bike in Lucca, and walk a pilgrim road through San Gimignano. Plus, stay three nights in a delightful agriturismo in the heart of Chianti.

TOUR DU MONT BLANC

10 Days from $5,999 |

Activity Level: Energetic

Hike some of the most beautiful stretches of the Tour du Mont Blanc, discovering gorgeous scenery and Alpine culture as you follow trails through France, Italy, and Switzerland, surrounded by the majestic peaks and pinnacles of one the world’s most legendary mountains.

SCOTLAND BY TRAIL: THE HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS

10 Days from $5,499 |

Activity Level: Moderate

Experience the allure of Scotland from the trail on an active journey to the highlands and islands that will have you hiking iconic landscapes such as Glencoe and the Isle of Skye as well as lesser-known rambles in Kerrera and Cairngorms National Park.

GLACIERS AND WATERFALLS: ICELAND

9 Days from $4,999 |

Activity Level: Moderate

Take to the trails of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and the southern coast to encounter Iceland’s intriguing geology up close. Hike amid icebergs and iconic peaks, atop glaciers and black-sand beaches, and to waterfalls and remote canyons steeped in local lore.

Read more about these three trips in the pages of this catalog:

WALKING THE CAMINO DE SANTIAGO — see page 41

COSTA RICA TREETOPS AND TRAILS — see page 78

GORILLAS OF RWANDA — see page 91

Cinque Terre, Italy

Chamonix, France Kirkjufellsfoss,

EUROPE

There were so many moments to treasure on our journey. The people in our tour were all smart, friendly, great to get to know—we all shared the joy of new experiences and learned so much!

— Suzanne Z. TRAVELER ON SOUTHERN ITALY AND SICILY

A CIRCUMNAVIGATION OF SICILY

Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain or Le Bougainville

HIGHLIGHTS

• Sail out of the spectacular harbor of Valletta, and visit the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.

• Explore superb archaeological sites from the remnants of Carthage to the ruins at Segesta or Selinunte, and ancient Syracuse.

• Discover the World Heritage-listed Arab-Norman sites of Palermo or sample the city’s renowned street food.

• Taste volcanic wines on Mount Etna and on Lipari, and watch for glowing lava on a night cruise past Stromboli.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 Valletta and Agrigento, Sicily, Italy: Embark the ship in Valletta, and take in views of one of Europe’s loveliest harbors. Dock on Sicily’s southern coast and travel inland to the World Heritage site of Agrigento. Here, seven remarkably preserved temples built in the fifth and sixth centuries BC line a picturesque ridge in the Valley of the Temples. Take a guided tour and see artifacts at the Museum of Agrigento. Le Champlain or Le Bougainville for the entire journey

Day 3 Tunis, Tunisia: Sail to the capital of Tunisia, and head out on an excursion to the ancient ruins of Carthage, a city founded by the Phoenicians in the ninth century BC. Opt to visit the blue and white town of Sidi Bou Said, or examine an incredible collection of Roman mosaics at the Bardo Museum.

Day 4 Trapani, Sicily, Italy: Anchor in Trapani and choose from three excursions. Visit the ancient city of Segesta and venture to medieval Erice to see its two iconic

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $7,420*

Single from $10,730* Airfare not included

Dates: Apr. 14–22, 2024† & June 2–10, Aug. 29–Sept. 6, 2025

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plans. Book early for the highest savings.

†The 2024 departure follows a slightly modified itinerary—see website for details.

9 days | Limited to 176 guests

castles. Spend the day in Trapani and Marsala, visiting the salt pans and enjoying lunch and a marsala tasting at a local winery. Or walk amid the ruins of temples more than 2,000 years old at Selinunte.

Day 5 Palermo: In Palermo, focus on unique Arab-Norman architecture on a tour of the mosaic-clad Capella Palatina and the cathedral of Monreale. Or delve into the city’s gastronomy with a visit to the local market and a tasting of street food. Alternatively, venture to the medieval port town of Cefalù for a walking tour.

Day 6 Lipari and Stromboli: Just north of Sicily lie the Aeolian Islands. Go ashore on the main island of Lipari and visit a museum to see artifacts discovered on the archipelago. Or tour a local winery to learn how both ancient and traditional methods are used to make wine, and enjoy a tasting. In the evening, glide by the island of Stromboli where glowing lava can often be seen sliding down the slopes of an active volcano.

Day 7 Taormina, Sicily: From the beautiful town of Taormina, set out on a guided walking tour and visit the Greek theater; or peer into the crater of Mount Etna and sample wines over a typical Sicilian lunch at a farm on its slopes.

Days 8–9 Syracuse/Valletta, Malta: Your final stop is Syracuse, an ancient city once so powerful it rivaled Athens and Rome. Explore the archaeological park and see the Ear of Dionysius cave, or choose to travel to Noto to admire its Sicilian baroque architecture. Experience the wonders of the island of Ortigia in the afternoon. The next day, disembark in Valletta and transfer to airport.

Optional Extension: Add a pre-tour extension in Malta.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Our experts on the August 2025 departure are art historian Gary Radke and Andrew Becker, an expert in the cultures, literatures, and languages of ancient Rome. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

TUNISIA

Cefalú

NEW HIGHLIGHTS

INSIDE SICILY

• Explore fi ve World Heritage sites, from the Arab-Norman sites of Palermo and Agrigento to the beautifully preserved Villa Romana del Casale.

• Take in coastal views from hilltop Erice, and learn how salt has been harvested for centuries in Trapani.

• See the gem-like island of Ortigia from the water during a morning cruise on the Ionian Sea.

• Taste Sicilian wines during lunch at a winery and enjoy a home-cooked meal at a family farm on Mount Etna.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Palermo, Sicily, Italy: Fly overnight to Italy and connect to Palermo. Gather for a welcome dinner. The next day, take a walking tour of this 2700-year-old city, known for its World Heritage-listed Arab-Norman architecture and its world-class street food. Visit the Palermo Cathedral and the Palazzo Reale, built in the 12th century, when Norman kings ruled Sicily. Stroll through a local market and enjoy a Sicilian lunch before time to explore on your own.

Eurostars Centrale Palace

Day 4 Erice and Trapani/Palermo: Discover the medieval walled town of Erice, perched atop a mountain nearly 2,500 feet above sea level. Explore its winding streets and take in sweeping views of the Sicilian coast. Descend to Trapani, a port city edged by salt pans that have been in use since the era of the Phoenicians. Learn how salt is still harvested here using centuries-old methods. After lunch, the remainder of the day is at leisure in Palermo. Eurostars Centrale Palace

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,874

Single from $6,869

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Sept. 8–19, Oct. 10–21, 2024 & Apr. 6–17, Apr. 24–May 5, Sept. 11–22, Oct. 9–20, 2025

12 days | Limited to 24 guests

Days 5–6 Monreale and Agrigento: Travel to Monreale, set on Mount Caputo above orange and almond orchards. Tour its Norman cathedral, adorned with some 4,850 pounds of gold. Stop in at a family-owned winery for a wine tasting and lunch, then continue through Sicily’s verdant interior to your hotel near Agrigento. Visit the Valley of the Temples, where seven Doric temples and sanctuaries line a picturesque ridge, and tour the Museum of Archaeology. After free time, reconvene for a cooking demonstration and dinner. Baia di Ulisse

Days 7–9 Villa Romana del Casale and Syracuse: Experience the spectacular  Villa Romana del Casale, a fourth-century villa that was buried by landslides, which preserved its vivid frescoes and mosaics. Admire its treasure trove of art before continuing east to Syracuse, one of the most powerful cities in the Hellenistic world. The next day, discover the site’s Greek and Roman amphitheaters and hear the legends of the Ear of Dionysius. Set off on a walking tour of Ortigia, a tiny island brimming with historic monuments. On a cruise the following morning, take in views of Ortigia from the water. Enjoy a free afternoon before dinner together. Hotel Borgo Pantano

Days 10–12 Mount Etna/Taormina: Venture to Mount Etna, an active volcano with a rich mythology. Stop at a family farm on its slopes for lunch accompanied by Sicilian wines. Continue to Taormina and take the evening to explore this lovely town. On a morning tour, visit the ancient Greek theater; the 13th-century Duomo; and the Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, once site of the Roman Forum. After time at leisure, bid arrivederci to Sicily during a festive farewell dinner. Depart from Catania airport the next day. Hotel NH Collection Taormina

ITALY

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Sara James (Sept. 8) and Lawrence Butler (Oct. 10)–art historians. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Taormina’s Greek Theater

CRUISING SOUTHERN ITALY AND SICILY: ANCIENT WONDERS AND CULINARY DELIGHTS

Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville or Le Dumont-d’Urville

HIGHLIGHTS

• Encounter Sicily’s Greco-Roman treasures, enjoy lunch at an agriturismo, and sample wines on the slopes of Mount Etna.

• Discover the lesser-known region of Calabria, Italy, exploring charming seaside villages and sampling Calabrian specialties like tartufo

• Enjoy cuisine designed by Chef Denny Imbroisi, a top Italian chef who will join the September 2024 departure.

• Trace history in ancient Pompeii and at the Roman Colosseum.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Valletta, Malta: Arrive in the World Heritage site of Valletta and board the ship. Take in the views as you cruise out of the city’s spectacular harbor. Le Bougainville or Le Dumont-d’Urville for the entire journey

Day 2 Syracuse, Sicily, Italy: Visit the Greek and Roman theaters in the World Heritage-listed archaeological park of Ancient Syracuse, and hear the acoustics in the Ear of Dionysius cave. Then visit the Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum or enjoy a traditional Sicilian lunch at a family-owned agriturismo. Alternatively, spend the day at a winery or visit Noto, a gem of Sicilian baroque architecture.

Day 3 Taormina: Take a guided walking tour of Taormina, or travel to Mount Etna to see its inactive volcanic craters and enjoy a tasting tour and lunch at a mountainside winery. Instead, sample Sicilian specialties on a foodie tour of Catania.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $11,140*

Single from $11,570* Airfare not included

Dates: Sept. 8–15, 2024 & Aug. 27–Sept. 4, 2025†

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plans. Book early for the highest savings.

†The August 2025 departure is 9 days and follows a slightly modified itinerary—see website for details.

8 days† | Limited to 176 guests

Day 4 Calabria: In Reggio Calabria, at the tip of Italy’s toe, admire the Riace Bronzes. Visit ancient Scilla and the seaside village of Chianalea, or learn about the culturally significant bergamot. Take a cooking lesson, enjoy wine tasting and Calabrian dishes, or venture to historic Pizzo to try its world-famous tartufo

Day 5 Agropoli and Paestum: Sail to Agropoli and travel to the World Heritage site of Paestum, home to three well-preserved Greek temples. Explore the site and its museum, or combine a tour of the temples with a visit to a traditional dairy farm. Learn about age-old cheese-making techniques and sample the farm’s world-renowned mozzarella.

Day 6 Naples, Pompeii, or Sorrento: Discover the haunting ruins of Pompeii, buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Tour Herculaneum, or enjoy lunch paired with volcanic wines at a vineyard on Mount Vesuvius. Or choose to explore Naples’ historic center and discover its famous street food.

Days 7–8 Rome/Livorno: Embark on a walking tour from Rome’s Trevi Fountain to the Piazza Navona. After lunch, see the Roman Forum and enjoy a VIP visit to the Colosseum. Or begin the day at the Colosseum before a pizza-making workshop or a guided foodie tour. Alternatively, experience the Vatican and enjoy a specially arranged visit to the Renaissance Gardens. Disembark in Livorno the next day and transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Optional Extension: Add a one- or two-night pre-tour extension in Malta or a two-night post-tour extension in Tuscany.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Our experts on the September 2024 departure include Al Leonard, an archaeologist and an expert in culinary arts and wine, and Maureen Fant, an Italian cuisine expert. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Pizza making

Piazza Navona, Rome

SOUTHERN ITALY AND SICILY

HIGHLIGHTS

• See the spectacular temples of Agrigento, Sicily, and tour the evocative ruins of Pompeii.

• Stay in a restored cave dwelling in the World Heritage site of Matera and explore the town’s sassi and troglodyte churches.

• Encounter the remarkable trulli of Alberobello and watch artisans in Lecce make creations from traditional papier-mâché.

• Learn to make cannoli at a farm on Mount Etna and take part in a Neapolitan cooking lesson in Sorrento.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Taormina, Sicily, Italy: Depart for Sicily, and transfer to Taormina upon arrival. Settle into your hotel overlooking the Ionian Sea and gather for a welcome dinner. Visit the Greek Theater on a walking tour; then enjoy a free afternoon and evening to explore the town and its beaches. Eurostars Monte Tauro

Days 4–5 Agrigento and Mount Etna/Taormina: Set out on a full-day excursion to the World Heritage site of Agrigento. In the spectacular Valley of the Temples, explore the Temple of Concordia and learn the history of these ancient ruins at the Museum of Archaeology. The next day, venture to Mount Etna, an active volcano steeped in legend. Visit a working farm on Etna’s slopes for a lunch among the lemon groves, and learn to make traditional Sicilian cannoli. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure in Taormina. Eurostars Monte Tauro

Days 6–7 Matera: Take the ferry to Calabria and drive to the limestone tufa town of Matera. Stay in a renovated cave dwelling, or sassi, and set out to discover this enchanting village of caves and troglodyte churches on a walking tour. Enter ancient sassi where humans lived as far back as the Paleolithic era and learn how Matera evolved from “the shame of Italy” into a World Heritage site.

Locanda di San Martino

Days 8–10 Apulia: Journey to Apulia and visit the fairy-tale town of Alberobello,  home to hundreds of trulli—whitewashed cottages with conical stone roofs. Visit the “white city” of Ostuni, then arrive in Lecce, your base in Apulia. Admire the town’s harmonious golden-stone churches and palaces, and its unique architectural style. Learn about Lecce’s papier-mâché tradition during a demonstration by artisans. The next day, take a walking tour of the beautiful walled town of Otranto, set on the Adriatic Sea. Head to a winery for a tasting and lunch before a free afternoon in Lecce. Patria Palace Hotel or Chiostro dei Domenicani Days 11–15 Sorrento, Pompeii, and Amalfi: Visit the clifftop town of Polignano a Mare, then travel to Sorrento, your home for four nights. On a guided tour of Pompeii, stroll among homes and shops frozen in time when Mt. Vesuvius erupted in AD 79. Take part in a hands-on Neopolitan cooking lesson and savor the fruits of your labor. Spend a morning on the island of Capri, and drive the  breathtaking Amalfi Coast. You’ll have two free afternoons to enjoy Sorrento as you wish. After a celebratory farewell dinner, depart from Naples. Hotel Antiche Mura

Optional Extension: Add a three-night post-tour extension in Rome.

“This tour was of the highest caliber both from educational and tourist standpoints.” –Thomas B., TRAVELER

ITALY

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,574

Single from $7,969

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Apr. 4–18, Apr. 24–May 8, Sept. 12–26, Sept. 28–Oct. 12, Oct. 18–Nov. 1, 2024 & Apr. 3–17, Apr. 23–May 7, Sept. 7–21, Sept. 27–Oct. 11, Oct. 13–27, 2025

15 days | Limited to 24 guests

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Sara James (Apr. 4), Gary Radke (Apr. 24), and Rafael Chacón (Oct. 18)–art historians. Janet Duncan Jones (Sept. 12)–expert in the classics. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Naples

Sorrento Agrigento

Trulli in Alberobello

Matera

NORTHERN ITALY: THE LAKE DISTRICT, TUSCANY, AND THE DOLOMITES

HIGHLIGHTS

• Spend three nights on Lake Maggiore, exploring Stresa, Orta San Giulia, and the islands of the Lake District.

• Embark on a cruise along the rugged coast of Cinque Terre, discovering its picturesque villages.

• Settle into a Chianti palace and set out to explore the treasures of Florence and Siena.

• Ride a cable car high into the spectacular Dolomites and visit a museum dedicated to Ötzi the Iceman.

ITINERARY

Day 1–4 U.S./Milan, Italy/Stresa: Take an overnight flight to Milan and transfer to Stresa, on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Gather for a welcome dinner. Ride a boat to Isola Bella and tour the art-filled Palazzo Borromeo and its terraced gardens, then cruise to Isola dei Pescatori for lunch. Spend a day on Lake Orta, exploring the picturesque medieval town of Orta San Giulio. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Stresa. La Palma Hotel

Days 5–7 Barolo, the Italian Riviera, and Cinque Terre: Journey to the Piedmont wine region of Barolo, and stop for lunch and a wine tasting at one of Italy’s premier vintners. Settle into Santa Margherita Ligure, your home on the  Italian Riviera. Cruise to the celebrated resort town of Portofino and enjoy free time to explore. Then ride the train along the coast to the fabled Cinque Terre for a tour of Vernazza and a boat ride past the tiny villages that cling to steep slopes.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,374

Single from $7,769

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Apr. 17–May 1, Sept. 18–Oct. 2, Oct. 9–23, 2024 & Apr. 16–30, May 21–June 4, Sept. 17–Oct. 1, Oct. 11–25, 2025

15 days | Limited to 24 guests

Disembark in Portovenere and take a walking tour of the brightly painted Old Town. Hotel Metropole

Days 8–10 Lucca, Florence, and Siena: In Tuscany, take a walking tour of Lucca, encircled by intact 17th-century walls. Continue to Chianti and settle into a palace overlooking vineyards. Immerse yourself in the Renaissance treasures of Florence, encountering the works of Michelangelo and Brunelleschi on a tour of the Galleria dell’Accademia and the Duomo. Enjoy free time to discover the city on your own. During a day in the World Heritage site of Siena, see the Piazza del Campo and the striking, black-and-white Duomo on a walking tour. Learn about the legendary Paleo horse race and visit a museum dedicated to the contrade, Siena’s medieval neighborhoods. Palazzo Leopoldo

Days 11–12 Bolzano and the Dolomites: Visit the World Heritage-listed center of Verona on your way to South Tyrol, and arrive in the lively provincial capital of Bolzano. A cable car ride the next morning whisks you up to a lookout with spectacular views of the jagged peaks of the Dolomites. In Bolzano’s colorful old town, visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, home to Ötzi the Iceman—a mummy dating to 3,300 B.C. Hotel Scala Stiegl

Days 13–15 Venice: Venture deep into the Dolomites on a scenic drive to Venice. On a visit to a boatyard, learn how Venice’s famous gondolas are built and restored. The next day, take a guided tour of St. Mark’s Square and its basilica before time at leisure. Gather for a farewell dinner and depart the following morning.

Palazzo Veneziano

Optional Extension: Add a two-night post-tour extension in Venice.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Sanjaya Thakur (Apr. 17)–expert in the classics. Allan Langdale (Sept. 18)–art and architectural historian. Luca Zavagno (Oct. 9)–medieval and Byzantine historian. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Duomo of Florence Cinque Terre

HIGHLIGHTS OF ITALY

HIGHLIGHTS

• Discover the treasures of Italy from the Amalfi Coast to Venice, with stays in Rome, Florence, and the cliff-top town of Orvieto.

• Step back in time on guided visits to the excavated city of Pompeii, the Roman Forum and Colosseum, and the famous Campo of Siena.

• Encounter the works of Michelangelo, Raphael, Titian, and Donatello on visits to world-renowned museums.

Enjoy a wine tasting in San Gimignano and a cooking demonstration in Orvieto.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 U.S./Naples, Italy/Amalfi Coast: Depart on an overnight flight to Naples and transfer to your hotel on the spectacular Amalfi Coast. Gather for a welcome dinner tonight. Hotel San Francesco

Day 3 Amalfi and Ravello: Sail along the Amalfi Coast to the popular resort town of Amalfi (weather permitting). Here enjoy a brief walking tour before lunch on your own. Ascend to mountaintop Ravello, once the haunt of writers and musicians such as D.H. Lawrence and Richard Wagner. Visit Villa Rufolo, a 13th-century estate known for its cascading gardens. See artwork and artifacts on a visit to the villa, hear tales of its storied past, and take in incomparable views of the town and the sea beyond. Hotel San Francesco

Day 4 Pompeii/Amalfi Coast and Sorrento: Today begins at Pompeii, one of the cities famously buried in ash by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in AD 79. Explore the well-preserved city ruins and see scenes of everyday life during the Roman Empire frozen in time. After lunch on your own, embark on a breathtaking drive

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,374

Single from $7,569

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Apr. 9–24, Apr. 16–May 1, Apr. 30–May 15, Sept. 3–18, Sept. 10–25, Oct. 1–16, Oct. 8–23, Oct. 17–Nov. 1, Oct. 24–Nov. 8, 2024 & Mar. 18–Apr. 2, Apr. 8–23, Apr. 15–30, Apr. 29–May 14, May 13–28, Sept. 2–17, Sept. 9–24, Sept. 23–Oct. 8, Oct. 7–22, Oct. 21–Nov. 5, Nov. 4–19, 2025

16 days | Limited to 24 guests

along the Amalfi Coast to Sorrento, stopping for photos along the way.

Hotel San Francesco

Day 5 Montecassino/Rome: Visit the hilltop abbey of Montecassino, a center of medieval art. A German stronghold during World War II, the hilltop abbey was destroyed by Allied bombing then rebuilt as a replica of the 17th-century original. Continue to Rome, the “Eternal City,” and set out from the hotel on a short orientation walk. Monti Palace Hotel or UNAWAY Hotel Empire Roma

Day 6 Ancient Rome: Venture into the heart of ancient Rome this morning, exploring the 55,000-seat Colosseum, completed in AD 80 to stage gladiator spectacles. Meander among temples and monuments of the Forum, ancient Rome’s political and legal center. During a free afternoon, visit one of the city’s many museums or churches, or simply relax with an espresso in the Piazza Navona. Early this evening, head to the Borghese Gallery for a guided visit of its fabulous private collection. Monti Palace Hotel or UNAWAY Hotel Empire

Day 7 Vatican City and Rome: Take a guided tour of St. Peter’s Square and Basilica and the Vatican Museums, home to famous works such as Michelangelo’s marble Pieta and the recently restored ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Monti Palace Hotel or UNAWAY Hotel Empire Day 8 Orvieto: Journey north and arrive in Orvieto in the late afternoon. Settle into your hotel in the heart of the medieval quarter, and take an informal walk through town. Later, attend a cooking demonstration followed by dinner. Grand Hotel Italia

Day 9 Orvieto: Set out on a guided walking tour of this dramatically set city, perched on a plateau high above a vineyard-covered plain. In the medieval Duomo,

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Sheri Shaneyfelt (Apr. 16) and Valerie Hedquist (Oct. 8)–art historians. Luca Zavagno (Sept. 3)–expert on medieval and Byzantine Mediterranean. Andy Becker (Oct. 24)–professor with expertise in ancient Rome. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Venice Amalfi Coast

admire Luca Signorelli’s masterpiece, The Last Judgment, and a frescoed chapel by Fra Angelico. Venture into the once-secret passages of Parco delle Grotte, a labyrinth of underground caves used since Etruscan times. Grand Hotel Italia

Day 10 Orvieto and Assisi: On a day trip to Assisi, visit St. Clare Church and the renowned Basilica di San Francesco—the burial site St. Francis of Assisi and now a pilgrimage destination. Inside, find Giotto’s priceless frescoes, The Life of St. Francis. After time on your own, return to Orvieto. Grand Hotel Italia

Day 11 Siena and Tuscany: Travel into Tuscany and visit the medieval walled city of Siena. Explore the fan-shaped Piazza del Campo and the distinctive, black-andwhite marble Duomo on a walking tour, and take advantage of time at leisure. Then head to a Tuscan villa nestled in the Chianti hills—your home for the next three nights. Hotel Borgo di Cortefreda

Day 12 Florence: Experience this Renaissance city on a full-day excursion that begins with a walking tour. Visit the Galleria dell’Accademia to view Michelangelo’s sublime David and enter the Duomo to see its stupendous dome by Brunelleschi. Experience Florence as you wish during a free afternoon. Hotel Borgo di Cortefreda

Day 13 San Gimignano: The hilltop town of San Gimignano is one of the symbols of Tuscany, known for its 13 medieval watchtowers. Step back in time at San Gimignano 1300, an experiential museum that recreates medieval life in Tuscany. Enjoy lunch on your own in this World Heritage site. Stop for a tasting at a local winery on the way back to your hotel. Hotel Borgo di Cortefreda

Days 14–16 Venice: Journey through the Veneto region to Venice and settle into your canal-side hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to discover this enchanting city. Gather the next morning for a guided walk through St. Mark’s Square and the surrounding neighborhood. Enjoy a final afternoon at leisure before bidding arrivederci to Italy at a farewell dinner. Depart the next day. Carnival Palace Hotel

Optional Extension: Add a two-night post-tour extension in Venice.

“Mamma Mia! Highlights of Italy was everything we could have expected and more! We are so glad we chose this tour to celebrate our anniversary. Great food, art, architecture, history, and fun with a great group of new friends.”

–William and Maribeth G., TRAVELERS

Colosseum in Rome

Tuscany

ITALY’S LAKE DISTRICT

A one-week stay in Stresa featuring Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, and Lake Orta

HIGHLIGHTS

• From your waterfront hotel in Stresa, explore the extraordinary gardens and art of the Borromean Islands and take part in a cooking class.

• Stroll the picturesque lanes of Orta San Giulio, then cruise to the enchanting Isola San Giulio.

• Sail Lake Como by private boat, enjoying lunch in charming Bellagio and free time to discover Como.

• See world-famous art and architecture in Milan, from Leonardo’s The Last Supper to the legendary La Scala opera house.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 U.S./Milan, Italy/Stresa: Depart on an overnight flight to Milan and transfer to the lakeside city of Stresa, your home in the Italian Lake District. Settle into your waterfront hotel and gather for a guided walk before a welcome reception and dinner. Hotel La Palma for the entire journey

Days 3–4 Lake Orta, the Borromean Islands, and Stresa: A scenic drive brings you to lovely Orta San Giulio, on the shores of Lake Orta. Explore on your own before a walking tour. Then ride a boat to Isola San Giulio to visit its Romanesque basilica. Hear from a local expert about the evolution of the Lake District, and dine on regional specialties at a restaurant in Stresa. After a leisurely morning the next day, meet a local expert to learn about the powerful Borromeo family, which has owned islands just off Stresa since the 16th century. Board a

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,490

Single from $6,780

Includes $250 special savings

Airfare not included

Dates: May 11–19, June 6–14, Sept. 5–13, Sept. 26–Oct. 4, Oct. 12–20, 2024 & May 6–14, June 10–18, Sept. 9–17, Sept. 30–Oct. 8, 2025

9 days | Limited to 24 guests

private motorboat for a tour of these islands, including the stunning botanical gardens on Isola Madre and the rustic fishing village of Isola dei Pescatori. On Isola Bella, visit the Borromeo’s villa and its impressive art collection, and cap off the day with an aperitif in the extraordinary gardens.

Days 5–6 Lake Como and Stresa: Travel to Lake Como, nestled in the foothills of the Alps, and ride a boat to the charming village of Bellagio. Stroll by beautiful 18th- and 19th-century villas and sit down to a lakeside lunch. Sail on to Como, enjoying views of hidden waterfalls, pastel villages, and opulent villas. In Stresa the next day, take part in a lively cooking class at a nearby restaurant, then feast on the lunch you’ve helped prepare. After an afternoon at leisure, gather for an informal discussion about the Italian Lake District with your expert. Dine at a popular  ristorante in Stresa.

Days 7–9 Milan and Stresa: During a day trip to Milan, experience the city’s fabulous art and architecture. Step into the Renaissance Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, a World Heritage site, to admire Leonardo da Vinci’s legendary painting, The Last Supper. Visit the Museum of La Scala, dedicated to the city’s historic opera house, and enjoy free time to discover Milan. Spend your final day in Stresa exploring as you wish. Meander through town and relax at a waterfront café, enjoy a hike, or tour a nearby site—your trip staff will have suggestions. Gather for a farewell reception and dinner, and depart from Milan the next day.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Andrew Becker (May 11)–expert in ancient cultures, literature, and languages. Allen Fromherz (June 6)–professor of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern history. Gary Radke (Sept. 5/Oct. 12)–art historian. Visit our website to see experts on other departures

Lake Como

ITALY’S APULIA

A one-week stay in Polignano a Mare

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore the iconic trulli houses of Alberobello and discover unique baroque architecture in Lecce.

• Venture into underground churches and sassi cave dwellings in cliff-top Matera, a World Heritage site.

• Trace history in the archaeological site of Egnazia, the medieval “white town” of Ostuni, and the Jewish ghetto of Trani.

• Delve into Apulia’s culinary traditions during lunch at a family olive mill and a wine tasting at a local vineyard.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Bari, Italy/Polignano a Mare: Fly overnight to Bari and travel along the Adriatic coast to Polignano a Mare, your home in Apulia. Gather for opening remarks by your expert. The next morning, discover the bustling seaport of Bari on a guided walk through its medieval Old Town. Admire the 11th-century Basilica of St. Nicholas and stroll through the Murat Quarter, designed by Napoleon’s brother-in-law. Return to Polignano a Mare for an afternoon walking tour of its old port and historic center, then gather for a welcome reception and dinner. Hotel Covo dei Saraceni for the entire journey

Day 4 Locorotondo and Alberobello: Explore the well-preserved medieval village of Locorotondo, known for its cummerse, narrow houses with pointed gables. Stop at a vineyard for a wine tasting and local snacks, then continue to the World Heritage site of Alberobello. Here, discover the whimsical

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $4,690

Limited singles available on 2024 and 2025 departures at no extra charge.

Airfare not included

Dates: May 15–23, Sept. 11–19, Oct. 2–10, Oct. 23–31, 2024 & Apr. 23–May 1, May 7–15, Sept. 10–18, Oct. 15–23, 2025

9 days | Limited to 24 guests

dwellings with conical, stone roofs decorated with enigmatic Christian and pagan symbols. Later, attend a lecture by a local expert on the history and architecture of Lecce and Ostuni.

Days 5–6 Lecce, Ostuni, and Trani: During a morning in Lecce, see stunning examples of Barocco Leccese, the town’s unique 17th-century architectural style. At the Piazza Sant’Oronzo, visit a Roman amphitheater and the Colonna Romana, which marked the end of the Appian Way. Enjoy free time before driving to the hilltop “white city” of Ostuni. On a guided tour, meander through the whitewashed Old Quarter to the magnificent cathedral and walk atop the ancient city walls. Follow the coast to the beautiful port of Trani and visit its historic sites, including a 13th-century fort and the old Jewish Quarter. Next, head to Bisceglie where the Galantino family greets you for a tour of their olive mill and lunch.

Days 7–9 Matera, Egnazia, and Polignano a Mare: Travel into the Basilicata region to the cliff-top town of Matera, where cave dwellings known as sassi were carved into the limestone thousands of years ago. Venture into underground churches adorned with frescoes painted by monks, and visit a cave dwelling to see its rooms, furnishings, and original household utensils. After time to explore this World Heritage site on your own, return to Polignano a Mare for a talk on contemporary Italy. The next morning, encounter the evocative ruins of Egnazia, an important Greek and Messapian town that dates back to the Bronze Age. Examine layers of history from the Messapian defenses to the early Christian basilicas, and see artifacts at the Archaeological Museum. The afternoon is yours to enjoy Polignano a Mare as you wish. Toast your sojourn at a farewell dinner and depart

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Sheri Shaneyfelt (Oct. 2) and Ashley Elston (Oct. 23)–art historians. Carrie Weaver (Sept. 11)–Mediterranean archaeologist. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Trulli in Alberobello

Polignano a Mare

ITALY’S AMALFI COAST

HIGHLIGHTS

• Stay in a lovely hotel on the Amalfi Coast, and savor the flavors of the region on a visit to a working farm and popular trattorias and restaurants.

• Ride a ferry along the spectacular Amalfi Coast, and explore charming villages from Positano to hilltop Ravello and Amalfi.

• Encounter legendary archaeological sites including the Greek temples of Paestum and the buried Roman towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

• Sample a limoncello as you stroll along Sorrento’s Corso Italia, and discover the enchanting Isle of Capri.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 U.S./Naples, Italy/Vietri sul Mare: Fly overnight to Naples and transfer to your home for the next week, a hotel overlooking the Gulf of Salerno in the town of Vietri sul Mare. Meet for a welcome reception and dinner. Hotel Raito for the entire journey

Day 3 The Amalfi Coast: Discover the breathtaking Amalfi Coast today, driving along its famous coastal road, which winds high above the sea. In Ravello, visit the exquisite Villa Rufolo, a storied property that offers panoramic coastal views. Take a walk through the town of Amalfi and embark on a scenic cruise to iconic Positano, built on steep hillsides at the water’s edge. Enjoy time at leisure in Positano before returning to the hotel, and dine at a local trattoria.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,290

Single from $6,285

Includes $250 special savings

Airfare not included

Dates: Apr. 17–25, May 8–16, Sept. 4–12, Oct. 16–24, 2024 & Apr. 23–May 1, May 7–15, Sept. 3–11, Sept. 10–18, Oct. 15–23, 2025

9 days | Limited to 24 guests

A one-week stay in Vietri sul Mare ITALY

Days 4–5 Paestum and Naples: At the World Heritage site of Paestum, explore three beautifully preserved Doric temples and view artifacts at the Paestum National Archaeological Museum. In the afternoon, meet local people for a discussion about everyday life in Italy. Head to the National Archaeology Museum of Naples the next morning, and view its remarkable collection of Roman art and artifacts, including mosaics and domestic items from Herculaneum and Pompeii. Ascend Posillipo Hill to take in panoramic views of Naples. After a lunch of Neapolitan pizza, return to Vietri sul Mare for a free afternoon.

Days 6–7 Capri and Sorrento: Ride the ferry to fabled Capri. On a cruise around the island, marvel at the Faraglioni Rocks and grottos and see the contemporary Casa Malaparte. Once ashore, you’ll have time to explore the town of Capri and the Augustus Gardens. The next day, tour Sorrento, strolling the famed Corso Italia and the Via San Cesareo. Take in views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius from the cliff’s edge, then enjoy time at leisure. Venture through citrus and olive groves to a working farm in the hills above town. Learn how olive oil and fior di latte cheese are made and sample produce from the farm and local foods.

Days 8–9 Herculaneum and Pompeii: Step back in time on a visit to the Roman cities of Herculaneum and Pompeii, both frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Explore the archaeological sites with an expert guide, discovering how volcanic mud and ash helped preserve them for centuries—offering a glimpse into everyday life at the height of the Roman Empire. Admire splendid villas adorned with original frescos and mosaics and view artifacts and plaster casts excavated from the sites. Celebrate your southern Italy sojourn at a farewell dinner and fly home the

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Joanne Ferraro (Apr. 17)–expert in European history. Sanjaya Thakur (May 8/Sept. 4)–expert in the classics. Kimberley Dennis (Oct. 16)–art historian. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Amalfi Coast

MEDITERRANEAN ISLAND VOYAGE: SICILY, SARDINIA, CORSICA, AND ELBA

Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ride a local boat into stunning grottoes along the limestone sea cliffs of Corsica, or set off into medieval Bonifacio on a walking tour.

• Tour the baroque treasures of Cagliari, Sardinia and visit Napoleon’s villa in exile on rugged Elba.

• Discover spectacular Greco-Roman ruins in ancient Syracuse and Taormina, and enjoy a Sicilian lunch and wine tasting at a winery on Mount Etna.

• Admire the Arab-Norman architecture of Palermo or venture to medieval Cefalù for a walking tour.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Nice, France: Arrive in Nice and board the ship. Le Bougainville for the entire journey

Day 2 Portoferraio, Elba, Italy: Dock in Portoferraio and visit Villa San Martino, Napoleon’s summer residence during his brief exile on the island. Continue to the charming fishing village of Porto Azzurro, and then travel to a traditional wine farm to sample local wines, cheeses, and charcuterie.

Day 3 Bonifacio, Corsica, France: Drop anchor at the fortress town of Bonifacio, perched on cliffs high above the sea. Set off into the labyrinthine streets of the medieval Citadel, visiting historic landmarks by foot and by mini train. Or ride a local boat along the coast to Lavezzi Island, venturing into magnificent grottoes and coves.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,480*

Single from $9,330*

Airfare not included

Dates: May 26–June 2, 2025

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30% based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plan. Book early for the highest savings. 8 days | Limited to 176 guests

Day 4 Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy: Sail into the harbor at Cagliari and set out to tour Sardinia’s rose-colored capital city from its baroque palazzi to its hilltop fortress. Take in views from Monte Urpino, then explore the ancient port of Nora and learn about the innovative waterworks designed here thousands of years ago.

Day 5 Palermo, Sicily: In Palermo, discover a unique blend of influences in the city’s Arab-Norman architecture. Admire the mosaics in the Norman cathedral, visit the Capella Palatina, then travel into the countryside to see the spectacular  cathedral of Monreale. Alternatively, visit the Palazzo Conte Federico and take a stroll through the open-air market, or travel to the medieval port of Cefalù.

Day 6 Taormina: Experience charming Taormina on a guided walking tour that includes the Greek theater—still in use today. Or journey to Mount Etna to see its inactive volcanic craters and enjoy a Sicilian lunch and a tasting at a winery.

Day 7 Syracuse: Cruise to the once-powerful ancient city of Syracuse and tour its Greek theater and one of the world’s largest Roman amphitheaters. Venture into the Ear of Dionysius cave, and see Greco-Roman artifacts. Or choose to visit Noto, known for its Sicilian baroque architecture. Later, delve into the mythology of the island of Ortigia.

Day 8 Valletta, Malta: Sail into Valletta’s beautiful harbor before disembarking the ship. Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Optional Extension: Add a two-night pre-tour extension in Nice and/or a twonight post-tour extension in Malta.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. The experts on this cruise include Mediterranean archaeologist Carrie Weaver. Visit our website to see the additional expert.

Palermo Cathedral Bonifacio, Corsica

CRUISING THE GREEK ISLANDS OF THE SOUTHERN AEGEAN

Aboard the 184-guest Le Dumont-d’Urville

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore the World Heritage site of Patmos, where St. John the Theologian was exiled, and visit the monastery and cave associated with the saint.

• Uncover layers of history on Rhodes, discovering the legacy of ancient Greeks, Romans, and the knights of the Crusades.

• Cruise into the spectacular natural caldera of Santorini and opt to sail a catamaran or visit the village of Oia.

• Meander among the ruins of Delos and enjoy free time on Mykonos.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Athens, Greece: Arrive in Athens, board the ship, and set sail on the Aegean Sea. Le Dumont-d’Urville for the entire journey

Day 2 Patmos: On the rugged island of Patmos, where St. John the Theologian was banished, tour the fortress-like Monastery of St. John and discover its collection of Byzantine art. Venture into the Cave of the Apocalypse, where St. John is said to have received the visions of the apocalypse.

Day 3 Rhodes: Rhodes is a living testament to history of the Mediterranean,  bearing evidence of the ancient Greeks, Romans, Crusaders, Ottomans, and Venetians who occupied the island over the centuries. On a walking tour, follow the Street of the Knights past the medieval houses of the Knights of St. John, or travel to Lindos to visit the hilltop Acropolis and its Temple of Athena.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,940*

Single from $8,520*

Airfare not included

Dates: July 6–13,† Oct. 12–19, 2025

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plan. Book early for the highest savings.

†The July 2025 departure follows a slightly different route—see website for details.

8 days | Limited to 176 guests

Day 4 Santorini: Make sure you’re on deck as the ship sails into the breathtaking Santorini caldera. Visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri; sail a catamaran the volcanic isle in the center of the caldera and go for a hike; or explore the cliff-top village of Oia and stop for a wine-tasting.

Day 5 Amorgos: On beautiful Amorgos, meet monks at the 11th-century Monastery of Hozoviotissa and take a guided tour of picturesque Chora. Or walk through olive groves and see a demonstration of a traditional olive press. Visit a typical Cycladic home to learn the age-old practice of distilling essential oils.

Day 6 Delos and Mykonos: On a guided visit to this World Heritage site, visit the ruins of the Sanctuary of Zeus and Athena and the Sanctuary of Apollo, and explore the Terrace of the Lions and the amphitheater. Spend the afternoon on Mykonos, where windmills, sugar-cube houses, and azure bays epitomize the beauty of the Greek Isles. You may wish to stop in an ouzeri to nibble mezethes and sip ouzo.

Day 7 Nafplio or Mycenae and Epidaurus: Dock in Nafplio and visit the Bronze Age citadel of Mycenae, home to the legendary Lion Gate and the Tomb of Agamemnon. Then explore Epidaurus and its renowned theater. Or choose to stay in Nafplio and visit a wine shop for a sampling of local specialties.

Disembark in Athens and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Add a two-night pre-tour extension in Athens.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. The experts on the October departure include art historian Elizabeth Molacek. Visit our website to see additional experts.

GREEC E

Mykonos

Santorini caldera

CLASSICAL GREECE

HIGHLIGHTS

• View a magnificent art collection at the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture in Athens.

• Gain insight on tours of legendary archaeological sites including the Athens Acropolis, Delphi, Mycenae, Epidaurus, and the Palace of Knossos.

• Stay in beautiful Nafplio, and spend a day on Hydra, discovering its history and traditions.

Gather for a traditional lunch at a women’s cooperative on Crete, and sample wines at a winery on Santorini.

ITINERARY

Days 1–4 U.S./Athens, Greece and Delphi:  Fly overnight to Athens, and check in to your hotel. Set out the next day on a guided tour of the Acropolis and Parthenon and the renowned Acropolis Museum. Stroll Hadrian Street and the Plaka district, and view a magnificent art collection at the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture. After free time, meet for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Spend a day discovering legendary Delphi, where an oracle presided over the ancient world. See the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo and the fourth-century BC theater still in use today; and walk the marble Sacred Way. Return to Athens in the late afternoon. NJV Athens Plaza Hotel

Days 5–7 The Peloponnese: View a remarkable collection of artifacts at the  National Archaeological Museum. Then journey to the Peloponnese peninsula. Stop to visit Ancient Corinth before settling into your waterfront hotel in Nafplio. The next day, venture to the 2,300-year-old working theater at Epidaurus, known for

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $7,492

Single from $8,987

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Apr. 18–May 1, May 5–18, May 19–June 1, Aug. 29–Sept. 11, Sept. 1–14, Sept. 8–21, Sept. 19–Oct 2, Oct. 10–23, 2024 & Apr. 20–May 3, May 8–21, May 27–June 9, Aug. 26–Sept. 8, Sept. 9–22, Sept. 23–Oct. 6, Oct. 9–22, 2025

14 days | Limited to 24 guests

its perfect acoustics, and continue to the World Heritage site of Mycenae, a capital of western civilization from the 15th to the 12th centuries BC. See its famous landmarks, such as the Tomb of Agamemnon and the Lion’s Gate. Enjoy free time in Nafplio before dinner at a taverna. Spend a day discovering Hydra, a storied Saronic Island where cars are not permitted. Amphitryon Hotel

Days 8–11 Crete: Return to Athens and board a short flight to Heraklion, Crete. After time at leisure, take an evening walking tour of the old town before dinner. Explore the Palace of Knossos, the political center of Minoan civilization, and admire its frescoes and architectural flourishes. Then browse the renowned Minoan collection at the Archaeological Museum. If you wish, visit the 16th-century Koules Fortress. The next morning, ride a private boat to Spinalonga, a Venetian island fortress transformed into a leper colony. In the picturesque village of Kritsa, visit the Panagia Kera Church, savor traditional recipes during lunch at a women’s cooperative, and visit an olive farm. Aquila Atlantis Hotel

Days 11–14 Santorini and Athens: Take the high-speed ferry to Santorini, a flooded caldera whose dramatic cliffs are topped with whitewashed villages. Stop at a local winery for a tour and tasting, then enjoy free time in Firostefani. Explore the Bronze Age archaeological site of Akrotiri, preserved in ash by a volcanic eruption, and catch the sunset over the windmills and domed churches of Oia. Fly back to Athens and enjoy an afternoon at leisure before a farewell dinner at our hotel. Depart the next day.

Santorini Palace Hotel and NJV Athens Plaza Hotel

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Veronica Kalas (Apr. 18/Sept. 8/Oct. 10)–art historian and field archaeologist. Ashley Elston (May 5)–art historian. Bella Vivante (Aug. 29) and David Guinee (May 19)–experts in Greek classics. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Santorini

NEW

CRUISING THE AEGEAN: TURKEY AND THE GREEK ISLES

Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville

HIGHLIGHTS

• Step back in time in the iconic ancient cities of Ephesus, Mycenae, and Troy.

• Trace the exile of St. John the Theologian on the World Heritage site of Patmos, and visit the Cave of the Apocalypse.

• Spend a day on stunning Santorini, visiting ancient Akrotiri, sailing a catamaran in the caldera, or sampling wines in cliff-top Oia.

• Gain insight into Greek mythology on the sacred island of Delos, and enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore Mykonos.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 Istanbul, Turkey/Canakkale/Troy or Gallipoli: Board the ship in Istanbul and sail across the Sea of Marmara. The next day, go ashore at Canakkale to explore the ruins of ancient Troy, site of the famous siege that was finally broken by the Trojan Horse. Alternatively, travel to Gallipoli National Park, once a World War I battlefield where Ataturk’s forces defeated the Allies in 1915. Visit Allied and Turkish cemeteries, and tour the Gallipoli War Museum. Le Bougainville for the entire journey Day 3 Kusadasi and Ephesus: Dock in Kusadasi and drive to the World Heritage site of Ephesus. Tour the beautifully preserved Library of Celsus and the working theater, known for its excellent acoustics. Walk the Sacred Way, where traces of an innovative water and sewer system are still visible, and visit the Terrace Houses, decorated with frescos and mosaics.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,060*

Single from $7,650*

Airfare not included

Dates: April 15–22, 2025

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plans. Book early for the highest savings.

8 days | Limited to 176 guests

Day 4 Patmos, Greece: Drop anchor in Patmos, the rugged island to which St. John the Theologian was banished. Tour the Monastery of St. John, and view its impressive collection of Byzantine art. Venture into the Cave of the Apocalypse, where St. John is said to have received the visions of the Apocalypse.

Day 5 Santorini: Enter the spectacular Santorini caldera and explore the island’s ancient past at the archaeological site of Akrotiri and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera. Alternatively, sail a catamaran to the volcanic isle in the center of the caldera and go for a hike, or visit the cliff-top village of Oia and enjoy wine tasting.

Day 6 Delos and Mykonos: Discover the World Heritage site of Delos, one of the most sacred places in the ancient Greek world. View the magnificent Terrace of the Lions and tour the 5,500-seat theater.  Enjoy an afternoon on Mykonos, with free time to explore the island’s iconic windmills and sugar-cube houses.

Days 7–8 Nafplio/Mycenae and Epidaurus/Athens: Anchor in the lovely Peloponnese port of Nafplio. Tour Mycenae, the Bronze Age capital of King Agamemnon, and see the fabled theater of Epidaurus; or stay in Nafplio for a walking tour that includes the Folkloric Foundation, the Komboloi Museum, and a wine tasting. Disembark in Athens the following morning and transfer to the airport. Optional Extension: Add a three-night pre-tour extension in Istanbul and/or a two-night post-tour extension in Athens.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. The experts on this cruise include David Price Williams, an archaeologist with expertise in the Mediterranean. Visit our website to see the additional expert.

Mykonos

HIGHLIGHTS

• Sail the Bosphorus on a private cruise and take guided tours of Istanbul’s celebrated sites from Hagia Sophia to Topkapi Palace.

• Retrace history at the World War I battlefi eld of Gallipoli and the centuries-old ghost town of Kayakoy.

• Explore some of the most storied cities in antiquity: Ephesus, Pergamum, and Troy.

• Swim and snorkel in secluded coves on a private yacht cruise along the Turquoise Coast, and stay on the waterfront in Antalya.

ITINERARY

Days 1–5 U.S./Istanbul, Turkey: Depart on an overnight flight to Istanbul and transfer to your hotel upon arrival. The next day, visit Rustem Pasha and the Mosque of Suleiman the Magnificent, stroll through the Spice Bazaar, and sail the historic Bosphorus on a private cruise. Take a guided tour of Old Istanbul, including the Roman Hippodrome, the Blue Mosque, and the Museum of Turkish & Islamic Art. Then experience the iconic Hagia Sophia, originally built in AD 537. Spend a morning at Topkapi Palace, then descend into an ancient Roman cistern. Browse the Grand Bazaar, and enjoy free time in the afternoons. Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus

Day 6 Gallipoli, Troy, and Assos: Trace history at Gallipoli, where Mustafa Kemal (later Ataturk) defeated the Allies during a World War I battle. Explore the archaeological site of Troy, which has revealed remnants of nine civilizations dating back 5,000 years. Stay the night in Behramkale, or ancient Assos.

Doubletree by Hilton Canakkale

Days 7–9 Pergamum, Ephesus, and Kusadasi: Venture to Pergamum, a royal

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,892

Single from $7,087

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Apr. 5–19, May 7–21, May 31–June 14, Sept. 3–17, Sept. 24–Oct. 8, Oct. 1–15, Oct. 15–29, 2024 & Apr. 4–18, May 6–20, May 30–June 13, Sept. 2–16, Sept. 26–Oct. 10,

24–Nov. 7, 2025

15 days | Limited to 24 guests

LEGENDARY TURKEY AND THE TURQUOISE COAST

city that reached its height in the third and second centuries BC. Explore the ruins of the famous Pergamon Altar, and see the Roman amphitheater, gymnasium, and marketplace. Check in to your waterfront hotel in the beach town of Kusadasi. Then spend two days discovering the beautifully preserved Greco-Roman city of Ephesus. Stroll the Sacred Way and step into the immense theater, known for its stellar acoustics and still in use today. Visit the legendary Library of Celsus and the Terrace Houses, equipped with running water and heating systems. See the Basilica of St. John and tour the Ephesus Museum. Later, watch a demonstration of traditional carpet weaving at a rug cooperative and enjoy an al fresco farm-to-table lunch. Charisma Hotel

Days 10–11 Fethiye and the Turquoise Coast: Ride skiffs to Lake Koycegiz to see fourth-century tombs carved into the waterside cliffs. Continue to your hotel in the harbor town of Fethiye. Visit the Greek “ghost town” of Kayakoy, deserted after the Turkish War of Independence. Board a private yacht for a “blue voyage” along the Turquoise Coast, sailing into secluded coves for a chance to swim and snorkel. Alesta Yacht Hotel

Days 12–15 Antalya: Admire the frescoes inside the sixth-century Church of St. Nicholas in Demre and explore the seaside ruins of Phaselis. In Antalya, take a walking tour of Kaleiçi, the old city, and visit the Antalya Museum. Head to the Roman city of Perge, which reached its pinnacle during the era of Alexander the Great. After a stop at Düden Waterfall, enjoy free time in Antalya. Celebrate your Turkish adventure at a farewell dinner and depart the next day. Akra Barut

Optional Extension: Add a four-night post-tour extension in Cappadocia and Konya.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Janet Duncan Jones (Apr. 5) and Stephanie Larson (May 7)–experts in the classics. Lawrence Butler (May 31)–art historian. Stephen Clancy (Oct. 15)–art and architectural historian. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Turquoise Coast

Ephesus

CRUISING THE DALMATIAN COAST & THE IONIAN SEA

Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville or the 264-guest L’Austral

HIGHLIGHTS

• Immerse yourself in Hvar’s historic towns and lavender farms, and enjoy a full day in the walled city of Dubrovnik.

• Sail beneath towering peaks in Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, and tour the Ottoman outpost of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

• Encounter Albanian sites long cut off from the world at the World Heritage site of Butrint or the ancient ruins of Sarandë.

• Cruise through the narrow Corinth Canal, and discover sacred Delphi, home to an ancient Greek oracle.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Venice, Italy: Arrive in legendary Venice, once the center of an empire that ruled over the eastern Adriatic for more than a thousand years. Embark the ship in the afternoon. Le Bougainville or L’Austral for the entire journey

Day 2 Hvar, Croatia: Since the fourth century BC, Greeks Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians have all left their mark on the fertile island of Hvar. Discover Hvar Town on a walking tour and learn about Hvar lace, crafted by local nuns. Or head into the interior on a scenic drive to the Hora Estate. Meet a lavender grower, tour the distillery, and learn about the history of lavender cultivation on Hvar.

Day 3 Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina or Ston, Croatia: From Ploce, head inland to Mostar in the mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Venture into the World Heritage-listed Old Town, and see the storied Stari Most, a graceful Ottoman bridge that was famously destroyed during the Bosnian War. Alternatively, head to

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,810*

Single from $8,940*

Airfare not included

Dates: July 16–23, 2024 & June 18–25, 2025

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plan. Book early for the highest savings.

8 days | Limited to 176 or 256 guests

the walled town of Ston and visit the 13th-century saltworks, sample local specialties, and enjoy a wine tasting.

Day 4 Dubrovnik, Croatia: Set on a rocky spur on the Adriatic Sea, the walled city of Dubrovnik is one of Europe’s best preserved medieval cities. Enjoy a full day to discover its important sites, from Sponza Palace and the Cathedral of the Assumption to the oldest pharmacy in Europe. Or choose to follow the coastline to the ancient seaside resort of Cavtat and traditional village of Ljuta.

Day 5 Kotor, Montenegro: Enter Montenegro’s spectacular Bay of Kotor, and explore the World Heritage-listed old town of Kotor. Take a walking tour and visit the Lapidarium, a collection of centuries-old stone sculpture, monuments, and architectural embellishments that were rescued from earthquakes and wars.

Day 6 Sarandë, Albania: Arrive in the port of Sarandë and choose one of two excursions. Visit the World Heritage site of Butrint, where the vestiges of Byzantine and Venetian rule intermingle with ancient Greek and Roman ruins. Or explore Sarandë, visiting Lekursi Castle and a winery before a walking tour.

Days 7–8 Itea and Delphi, Greece/Athens: Dock in Itea and venture to the World Heritage site of Delphi, once considered the sacred center of the Greek world. Or tour the Byzantine St. Lucas Monastery and continue to Arachova. Back on board the ship, cruise the narrow Corinth Canal, a rare and thrilling highlight. The next day, disembark in Athens and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Optional Extension: Add a two-night pre-tour extension in Venice (2024), a fournight pre-tour extension in Italy (2025), or a one- or two-night post-tour extension in Athens.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Our experts on the July 2024 departure are art historian Aneta Georgievska-Shine and journalist Jim Laurie. Visit our website to see experts on the other departure.

Dubrovnik

PORTRAIT OF PORTUGAL: LISBON, PORTO, AND A DOURO RIVER CRUIS E

Aboard the 130-guest Douro Queen or 132-guest Gil Eanes or Amalia Rodrigues

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore seven World Heritage sites, from Lisbon’s Tower of Belém and the University of Coimbra to the historic centers of Porto and Salamanca.

• Settle into an elegant ship for a seven-night cruise through World Heritage-listed landscapes of the Douro River Valley.

• Venture into the palaces of Sintra and the walled village of Obidos, and choose to visit the medieval castle of Guimarães.

• Enjoy performances of fado and traditional dancing, and sample wines at historic estates and port houses.

ITINERARY

Days 1–4 U.S./Portugal/Lisbon and Sintra: Depart for Lisbon on an overnight flight and transfer to your hotel on arrival. Meet fellow travelers for a welcome reception. On a city tour the next morning, visit Jerónimos Monastery and the Tower of Belém, both part of a World Heritage site. Trace Portugal’s seafaring history at the Monument to the Discoveries and see the Church of Santa Maria and the leafy Estrela neighborhood. Enjoy dinner accompanied by soulful songs at a cozy fado restaurant. In the royal retreat of Sintra, visit the National Palace and try regional specialties over lunch. Follow the coast to the fishing town of Cascais for a guided walk and visit the seaside resort of Estoril before an evening lecture. Hotel Dom Pedro Palace or Tivoli Hotel

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,790

Limited singles available on 2025 departures at no extra charge. Airfare not included / Port charges are $395 per person

Dates: Sept. 13–24, Oct. 4–15, 2024 & Apr. 30–May 11, May 7–18, Sept. 16–27, Sept. 23–Oct. 4, Sept. 30–Oct. 11, Oct. 7–18, 2025

12 days | Smithsonian has reserved space for 35 guests

Days 5–6 Obidos and Coimbra/Porto: Drive to the medieval walled town of Obidos and meander along its winding streets. On a university tour in Coimbra, visit St. Michael’s Chapel and the Royal Palace, then enjoy free time to explore. Arrive in Porto and board your ship in time for a welcome reception and dinner. Set out on a guided walk in Porto’s historic center the next day, admiring diverse architecture from Gothic churches to the opulent Stock Exchange. Cap off your tour with a port wine tasting. Or explore the city by tram before sampling local specialties. After free time, meet for a lecture and dinner, followed by a performance of medieval ballads. Douro Queen, Gil Eanes, or Amalia Rodrigues for the remainder of the journey

Days 7–12 Sailing the Douro River Valley: Set sail toward the terraced hills of the Alto Douro Wine Region, where wine has been produced for 2,000 years. Enjoy your choice of excursions, including a visit to the World Heritage site of Guimarães or a hike along the Douro River with a stop for wine tasting. Discover stunning Mateus Palace and examine azulejo tiles in Vila Réal. Witness a performance of Sevillanas dancers, and take a day trip to Salamanca, Spain. From the Portuguese port of Pinhão, follow the wine trail through the vineyards and villages of the Douro Valley. Stop at a quinta, or farm estate, to sample its famous port, and enjoy a traditional Portuguese folk show back on board. In Lamego, visit the 18th-century Nossa Senhora dos Remedios Sanctuary, a pilgrimage site known for its 686 stairs. Sample charcuteria and port and tour the Lamego Museum. Gather for a festive farewell dinner and disembark in Porto the following day.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Franklin Knight (Sept. 13)–historian. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Douro River Tower of Belém, Lisbon

TREASURES OF SOUTHERN SPAIN AND PORTUGAL

HIGHLIGHTS

• Stay in distinctive paradores and pousadas, including a medieval convent, a Moorish castle, a Renaissance palace, and a historic town hall.

• Explore numerous World Heritage sites, from the Tower of Belém and the Alhambra, to the medieval towns of Évora and Toledo.

• Set out from your parador in charming Carmona to tour the magnificent Gothic cathedral and the Alcazar of Seville and the Mezquita of Córdoba.

• Savor a lunch of local specialties at an olive farm near Ronda.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Lisbon, Portugal: Depart for Lisbon and arrive the next day. Meet your group for a welcome dinner. Begin your tour at the Tower of Belém and the Jerónimos Monastery, 16th-century monuments that capture the spirit of Portugal’s Age of Discovery. In Queluz, visit the National Palace, a former hunting lodge transformed into a royal palace and surrounded by luxuriant gardens.

Corinthia Hotel Lisbon

Days 4–5 Évora: Travel through the olive and cork oak orchards of Alentejo, stopping for lunch in a fortified hilltop town. Arrive in the World Heritage site of Évora and settle into your pousada, a former convent. On a walking tour, explore the walled medieval center, including the Roman Temple of Diana. Pousada dos Loios

Days 6–8 Carmona: Merida, Seville, and Cordoba: Cross into Spain at Merida, once a Roman regional capital, and visit its ancient ruins. Continue to Carmona, where your home is a parador set within a Moorish fortress. On a full-day excursion to Seville, admire the exquisite architecture of the Gothic cathedral,

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,274

Single from $7,669

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Apr. 18–May 2, May 6–20, Sept. 7–21, Sept. 28–Oct. 12, Oct. 12–26, 2024 & Mar. 24–Apr. 7, Apr. 21–May 5, May 12–26, Sept. 8–22, Sept. 29–Oct. 13, Oct. 13–27, 2025

15 days | Limited to 24 guests

La Giralda, and the spectacular Real Alcázar palace—all part of a World Heritage site. The next day, set out for Córdoba, a thriving center of intellectual, scientific, and artistic pursuits under Moorish rule. Meander among the striped arches of the magnificent Mezquita, an eighth-century mosque with a cathedral at its heart. Enjoy free time to explore each afternoon. Parador de Carmona

Days 9–10 Ronda: Travel south to Ronda, perched high above a deep gorge. Check into your parador, Ronda’s original town hall, and head to a nearby olive farm for a tapas lunch. The next day, follow a guide into the centuries-old Arab medina to marvel at the architecture. Parador de Ronda

Day 11 Granada and Úbeda: Spend the day in Granada, a stronghold of Moorish Spain set in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Tour the extraordinary Alhambra, the fortified palace of Spain’s last Moorish rulers, and visit the Generalife, a summer palace surrounded by gardens. Continue to World Heritage-listed Úbeda and your next parador, a 16th-century palace. Parador de Úbeda

Days 12–15 Toledo/Madrid: Experience the World Heritage site of Toledo, a capital of the Romans, the Visigoths, and the kings of Castilla. Within its stunning Gothic cathedral, admire works by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. Arrive in Madrid in the late afternoon. The next day, tour the Plaza Mayor in Old Madrid; the Moorish medieval district; and the opulent 18th-century Palacio Real. Spend an afternoon at the Prado and explore at your leisure. Enjoy a final day to pursue your own interests before toasting your journey at a farewell dinner. Depart the next day. Wellington Hotel

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Allen Fromherz (May 6)–professor of Mediterranean and Middle East history. Barbara Whitehead (Sept. 7) and Roger Crowley (Sept. 28)–historians and writers. Dianne Konz (Oct. 12)–expert in Spanish history, culture, and literature. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Lisbon

HIGHLIGHTS

• Stay in unique pousadas and paradores: from a seaside palace in Porto to a 15th-century pilgrim hostel in Santiago de Compostela.

• Discover Iberia’s diverse landscapes as you cruise the Douro River, travel along the Cantabrian coast, and take nature walks in the Pyrenees.

• Explore traditional villages and stunning wetlands in Basque Country, and sample Txakoli at a Basque winery.

• Encounter magnifi cent architecture from Léon’s Gothic cathedral to Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim Bilbao, to the creations of Gaudí in Barcelona.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Lisbon, Portugal: Fly overnight to Lisbon and transfer to your hotel upon arrival. Meet your group for a welcome dinner. On a morning tour, see the Tower of Belém and the Jerónimos Monastery—together a World Heritage site. Visit the National Palace of Queluz, an 18th-century baroque and rococo residence surrounded by lovely gardens. Corinthia Hotel Lisbon

Days 4–5 Óbidos, Nazaré, and Porto: Travel north, stopping for a guided walk in the walled village of Óbidos and lunch on your own in seaside Nazaré. Arrive in Porto and settle into your pousada, a waterfront baroque palace. Explore the World Heritage-listed old town, the Bolhão Market, and Clerigos Church on a guided tour. Stroll the promenades of Foz do Douro, and take a cruise on the Douro River. Enjoy a tasting at a renowned port lodge. Pestana Palacio do Freixo

Days 6–8 Santiago de Compostela and Léon, Spain: Cross into Galicia, Spain, and stop at historic Pontevedra on the way to Santiago de Compostela—a

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,974

Single from $8,469

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: May 10–26, May 31–June 16, Sept. 15–Oct. 1, Sept. 27–Oct 13, Oct. 6–22, Oct. 20–Nov. 5, 2024 & Apr. 11–27, May 2–18, May 23–June 8, Sept. 14–30, Oct. 7–23, Oct. 26–Nov. 11, 2025

17 days | Limited to 24 guests

ACROSS NORTHERN SPAIN AND PORTUGAL

World Heritage site and the end point of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. Your home is the 15th-century Hostal dos Reis Católicos, built to house pilgrims. Tour the Plaza del Obradoiro and the ornate cathedral, and enjoy a free afternoon to explore. Next, head to León and discover remarkable architecture, from the magnificent Gothic cathedral to Antoni Gaudí’s Casa Botines and the Castile and León Museum of Contemporary Art.

Parador de Santiago de Compostela, Parador de Leon

Days 9–11 Santander, Bilbao, and Basque Country: Journey north to the Cantabrian coast, pausing for lunch and a tour of Santander. Continue to Bilbao, and explore the medieval Old City the next morning. Browse the Art Deco La Ribera market, then take a guided tour of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, famously designed by Frank Gehry. End the day at the Fine Arts Museum, home to works by Goya and El Greco. Take a day trip into Basque country, visiting traditional villages and fishing towns as well as Gernika—the inspiration for Picasso’s Guernica

Explore the wetlands and beaches of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, and taste Txakoli wine at a Basque winery. Parador de Leon, Melia Bilbao

Days 12–17 Bielsa, the Pyrenees, and Barcelona: Visit Pamplona on the way to your parador near Bielsa in the Huesca Pyrenees. Take nature walks or hikes in the pristine Chistau Valley, discovering timeless stone villages. After a final morning in the Pyrenees, drive to Barcelona. Immerse yourself in this dynamic city with a guided tour and visits to Sagrada Familia and other Gaudí creations, and enjoy free time to explore as you wish. Celebrate your Spanish sojourn at a farewell dinner and depart the next day. Parador de Bielsa, Hotel Avenida Palace

Optional Extension: Add a two-night post-tour extension in Barcelona.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

David Gies (May 10), Dianne Konz (May 31), and Ana Afzali (Sept. 15)–experts in Spanish history, culture, and literature. Jodi Campbell (Oct. 6) and Cameron Watson (Oct. 20)–historians. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Lisbon Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

NEW HIGHLIGHTS

LIVING IN PORTUGAL: A STAY IN LISBON

• Take guided tours of Lisbon’s highlights, from the Tower of Belém and the Alfama to the Basilica of Estrela.

• Explore the World Heritage sites of Évora, Sintra, and the Monastery of Batalha, as well as the castle town of Óbidos.

• Hear the soulful strains of fado music and enjoy lunch at a historic winery.

• Tailor your experience with any of three enrichment tracks: Hidden Gems, Food and Traditions, or Active Discovery.

ITINERARY

Days 1–4 U.S./Lisbon, Portugal: Depart on an overnight flight to Lisbon and transfer to your apartment-style hotel in the city center. Gather for a welcome reception and dinner. Admire Portugal’s unique Manueline architecture on a tour of the Tower of Belém and the Jerónimos Monastery. Take a walk in the 2,000-year-old Baixa district, rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1755. Venture into the steep, winding streets of the Moorish-influenced Alfama and ascend to the 11th-century Castle of São Jorge. Get to know Lisbon on your own, and gather for lectures on Portugal’s history.

Altis Prime Aparthotel or Tivoli Hotel for the entire journey

Days 5–8 Lisbon/Évora: Ensconce yourself in life in Lisbon, taking advantage of ample free time to pursue your own interests. On a day trip to Évora, discover Roman ruins, 16th-century homes, and the eerie Chapel of Bones; and join a chef at her farmhouse and garden for a cooking class and lunch. Enjoy talks by your expert, and meet up for a sunset cruise past Lisbon’s monuments and dinner

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $7,890

Single from $10,780

Includes $250 special savings

Airfare not included

Dates: Apr. 23–May 11, May 14–June 1, Sept. 3–21, Sept. 24–Oct. 12, Oct. 15–Nov. 2, 2025

19 days | Limited to 32 guests

Lisbon

accompanied by expressive fado singing. Those on the Food and Traditions track will embark on a culinary tour of Lisbon; if you have chosen Active Discovery, hike the Jurassic coastal cliffs of Cabo Espichel, seeking out dinosaur tracks.

Days 9–12 Lisbon/Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril/Setubal: Spend a morning in the royal retreat of Sintra and tour the National Palace. After lunch together, take a scenic drive along the Atlantic coast, from Guincho Beach to the harbor towns of Cascais and Estoril. Explore Lisbon’s Saturday markets and visit the historic Jose Maria da Fonseca winery for a tour and a wine-tasting lunch. If you have chosen the Hidden Gems track, tour the National Azulejo Museum, housed in a stunning Manueline convent. Food and Traditions participants will embark on an evening gastronomic adventure, sampling specialties across Lisbon’s neighborhoods.

Days 13–19 Lisbon/Óbidos/Fatima, Batalha, and Nazaré: Enjoy a final week living like a Lisboeta, returning to your favorite spots and discovering more of the city’s neighborhoods on foot or by tram. In the fortified medieval town of Óbidos, meander along cobbled lanes lined with whitewashed houses. Explore Lisbon’s Estrela neighborhood and its white-domed basilica; and take a full-day excursion to the Christian pilgrimage site of Fátima, the Monastery of Batalha, and the cliffs of Nazaré. If you’re on the Active Discovery track, return to Cascais and Sintra for a hike that weaves through lush forests and along the rocky coast. Those interested in Lisbon’s Hidden Gems will tour the 17th-century Palace of the Marquesses of Fronteira and its formal gardens. After a final free day in Lisbon, celebrate your sojourn at a festive farewell dinner. Depart the next day.

Optional Extension: Add a four-night post-tour extension in Porto.

ABOUT OUR “LIVING IN” PROGRAMS

Fulfill your dream of living abroad on this immersion program. Stay in a residential hotel (one bedroom apartments) and learn from local experts. Personalize your experience with any or all of the special enrichment tracks: Food and Traditions; Active Discovery; and Hidden Gems. Pricing includes one enrichment track of your choice. See our website for more details.

Lisbon Pastéis de nata

HIGHLIGHTS

• Settle into an apartment-style hotel near the beach in the chic seaside town of Marbella and immerse yourself in the rhythms of Andalusia.

• Explore spectacular World Heritage sites, from Granada’s Alhambra to ancient Ronda to the prehistoric sites of Antequera.

• Experience the cultural mecca of Málaga with a visit to the Museo Picasso and a fl amenco performance.

• Personalize your sojourn with your choice of any enrichment track: Spanish lessons, Food and Tradition, or Active Discovery.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Málaga, Spain/Marbella:  Depart the U.S. on an overnight flight to Màlaga and transfer to seaside Marbella upon arrival. Settle into your residential hotel, a short walk from the beach and the city center. Gather for a welcome dinner. Set out on a morning walking tour of the old town and the charming Plaza de Naranjos. Take an evening stroll along the seaside promenade and enjoy dinner together. ApartHotel Monarque Sultan for the entire journey

Days 4–9 The White Villages/Ronda/Gibraltar: Immerse yourself in the Andalusian way of life, enjoying excursions and plenty of time for independent pursuits. Venture to the whitewashed mountain villages of Gaucin and Casares, dating back to the Moorish era, and savor a lunch of local delicacies. In ancient Ronda, a World Heritage site perched above a deep gorge, discover an enduring Moorish influence. See stunning ceramics at the modernist Casa don Bosco, and sample local vintages during lunch at a winery. Ascend the Rock of Gibraltar and

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,490

Single from $8,580

Includes $250 special savings

Airfare not included

Dates: Mar. 31–Apr. 22, Apr. 21–May 13, May 12–June 3, Oct. 6–28, Oct. 27–Nov. 18, 2024 & Mar. 30–Apr. 21, Apr. 27–May 19, May 18-June 9, Oct. 5–27, Oct. 26–Nov. 17, 2025

23 days | Limited to 36 guests

LIVING IN SPAIN: A STAY IN ANDALUSIA

take in panoramic views. If you have chosen the Language track, begin Spanish lessons appropriate to your skill level. Those who opted for Food and Tradition will taste local produce on a market visit and take a tapas tour of the old town. Gather as a group for occasional meals and talks about Andalusia.

Days 10–17 Málaga/Nerja/Antequera: Revel in your daily rituals, whether it’s people-watching over a café cortado or a morning walk along the beach. On an excursion to Málaga, birthplace of Picasso and a thriving center of the arts, tour the Museo Picasso Málaga and watch a flamenco performance. Visit Nerja, famous for its extensive caves, and admire the Moorish architecture of Frigiliana. During an afternoon in Antequera, explore megalithic tombs and the picturesque old town. Attend four morning Spanish classes, or, for Food and Tradition, learn about the history and art of making sherry and take part in a paella cooking class.

Optional Seville and Carmona Weekend Escape: Stay two nights in Carmona and set out to explore Seville and its World Heritage sites, the palaces of Osuna, and Córdoba’s legendary Mezquita.

Days 18–23 Granada/Marbella: Savor your last days at home in Andalusia. In Granada, explore the exquisite interiors and gardens of the incredible Alhambra. If you have opted for the Active Discovery excursions, go on a guided walk in Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, crossing a deep gorge on the breathtaking Caminito del Rey; and hike to viewpoints along the Costa del Sol. Attend a final Spanish class and enjoy free time in Marbella. Celebrate your stay in Spain at a festive farewell dinner and depart from Málaga the final morning.

SPAIN

ABOUT OUR “LIVING IN” PROGRAMS

Fulfill your dream of living abroad on this three-week immersion program. Stay in a residential hotel (studio or one bedroom apartments) and learn from local experts. Personalize your experience with any or all of the special enrichment tracks (at an additional cost): Food and Traditions; Spanish Language Lessons; and Active Discovery. Note: 2025 pricing includes one enrichment track of your choice. You may also choose to add Seville and Carmona Weekend Escape. See our website for more details.

Gibraltar Osuna Malaga

Carmona

Ronda

Granada

Casares

Gaucín

Antequera Frigiliana Nerja

Córdoba

Marbella

Mediterranean Sea

Seville

Flamenco dancers

Marbella

LIVING IN FRANCE: A STAY IN AIX-EN-PROVENCE

HIGHLIGHTS

• Stay in a residential hotel in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, and enjoy independent time to discover the city with new friends.

• Take day trips to Avignon and the Pont du Gard, Marseille, and the Luberon, enjoying wine tastings, antique markets, and delightful meals.

• Enhance your experience with your choice of any enrichment track: French lessons, Culinary pursuits, or Art and Culture.

• Hear from local experts on a variety of subjects, including the history, art, architecture, and cuisine of Provence.

ITINERARY

Days 1–4 U.S. Marseille, France/Aix-en-Provence: Fly overnight to Marseille and transfer to Aix-en-Provence upon arrival. Settle into your apartment-style hotel near the historic center and gather for a welcome dinner. After breakfast, enjoy an introduction to the history and culture of the region, followed by a walking tour. The next day is yours to explore independently. If you have opted for the Culinary track, visit local markets and food shops, with tastings along the way. Learn about Provençal cuisine and enjoy a picnic lunch. Adagio Aix-en-Provence Centre for the entire journey

Days 5–11 The Luberon/Aix-en-Provence: On a day trip to the fabled Luberon, visit an antique market and taste local wines at a winery. Continue to Roussillon,

painted in warm hues derived from the ochre-rich earth, and see the hilltop village of Gordes. Over the next five days, soak up the rhythms of daily life, picking up fresh produce at the open-air market, lingering at cafés with new friends, and meeting the group for occasional lectures and meals. If you have chosen the Art and Culture track, visit the Granet Museum and Paul Cezanne’s studio and home. On the Culinary track, participate in a cooking class and dine on your creations. Those honing their French will attend four lessons at a language school.

Days 12–18 Avignon and Pont du Gard/Aix-en-Provence: Set out for the World Heritage site of Avignon and tour the remarkable Papal Palace. Then visit the Pont du Gard, an elegant two-story Roman aqueduct. Enjoy your daily routines in Aix, meeting up with the group to exchange ideas and experiences and eat together. Attend four French lessons, or prepare a three-course menu of French and Provençal specialties. If you’ve chosen Art and Culture, head to Arles to visit its Roman amphitheater and museums.

Days 19–23 Marseille/Aix-en-Provence: Join the group for an excursion to the port city of Marseille. Explore its historic highlights and tour the oldest quarter, Le Panier, then gather for lunch at a harbor-side restaurant. Make the most of your final days in Aix, revisiting your favorite spots. Take part in two more French classes, or, for the Art and Culture aficionados, tour Aix’s trademark fountains and courtyards. Those on the Culinary track will learn how to pair French cheeses and wines. Toast your time in Provence at a festive farewell dinner. Depart from Marseille the next day.

“ is was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. e resident director was exceptional and the accommodations were perfect for a long stay.” –Deborah W., TRAVELER

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,790

Single from $8,040

Includes $250 special savings

Airfare not included

Dates: Apr. 17–May 9, May 8–30, Aug. 7–29, Aug. 28–Sept. 19, Oct. 2–24, 2024 & Apr. 2–24, Apr. 23–May 15, May 14–June 5, Aug. 20–Sept. 11, Sept. 10–Oct. 2, 2025

23 days | Limited to 36 guests

ABOUT OUR “LIVING IN” PROGRAMS

Fulfill your dream of living abroad on this three-week immersion program. Stay in a residential hotel (studio or one bedroom apartments) and learn from local experts. Personalize your experience with any or all of the special enrichment tracks (at an additional cost): Art and Culture; Culinary; and French Language Lessons. Note: 2025 pricing includes one enrichment track of your choice. See our website for more details.

Pont du Gard

FRANCE

Sampling French wine

LIVING IN ITALY: A STAY IN FLORENCE

HIGHLIGHTS

• Settle into an apartment-hotel in Florence and enjoy a walking tour and guided visits to the Uffizi and Accademia galleries.

• Discover Tuscany on excursions to the medieval gems of Lucca and Siena, as well as the World Heritage site of San Gimignano.

• Taste wines at a Chianti castle and take a Tuscan cooking class.

• Customize the experience with any of three enrichment tracks: Italian Language, Cuisine, or Art and Architecture.

ITINERARY

Days 1–4 U.S./Florence, Italy: Fly overnight to Florence and settle into your apartment-hotel before meeting for a welcome dinner. Visit the iconic Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, and other highlights before lunch at a trattoria. The next day, start your first class if you have opted for Italian lessons. Get acquainted with the city on your own and gather for a lecture and dinner. PopArtment for the entire journey

Days 5–10 Florence/Siena: Settle into life in Florence, with ample free time to explore as you wish. Encounter Michelangelo’s David and other celebrated works on a guided visit to the Accademia Gallery. Embark on a day trip to beautiful Colle di Val d’Elsa and the World Heritage site of Siena. Italian language students attend classes; those in the Arts and Architecture program visit the interior of the Duomo

and Baptistry and take an architectural walking tour. For the Culinary track, select produce at the market and make a delicious lunch during a cooking class. Meet the group for lectures and occasional meals at local restaurants.

Days 11–17 Florence/Cortona/Lucca: Soak up la dolce vita as you become ensconced in the city’s everyday rhythms. At the Caffe Gilli, a gathering place for intellectuals since 1733, learn to prepare Italian coffee. Journey to Cortona to discover its excellent Etruscan Museum. Take a guided tour of the remarkable collection at the Uffizi Gallery, and spend an afternoon in the medieval walled city of Lucca, remaining for dinner there. Attend Italian classes, or learn to make pasta and traditional sauces on the Culinary track. Those pursuing Art and Architecture will take part in excursions to Santa Maria Novella, the Roman and Etruscan ruins of Fiesole, and the Boboli Gardens and Pitti Palace.

Days 18–23 Florence/San Gimignano and Chianti: Make the most of your remaining time in Florence, returning to your favorite haunts or lingering in beautiful piazzas with new friends. Travel into Chianti to sample wines at the 18th-century Castello di Monsanto. Enjoy a cooking demonstration and a lunch of Tuscan specialties, then head for the medieval hill town of San Gimignano, known for its 14 towers. Attend more Italian classes, or, on the Culinary track, concoct a four-course dinner from antipasto to dolce, and enjoy the feast in a wine cellar. Toast your Italian adventure during a farewell dinner with views over Florence. After a final free day in Florence, bid arrivederci and depart the next morning.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,090

Single from $8,080

Includes $250 special savings

Airfare not included

Dates: May 21–June 12, June 11–July 3, Aug. 27–Sept. 18, Sept. 17–Oct. 9, Oct. 8–30, Oct. 2–24, Oct. 29–Nov. 20, 2024

Apr. 1–23, Apr. 22–May 14, May 13–June 4, Aug. 26–Sept. 17, Sept. 16–Oct. 8, Oct. 7–29, 2025

23 days | Limited to 36 guests

“ e vacation of a lifetime, integrating travelers into Italian daily life. Kind and generous tour sta , very knowledgeable in their areas of expertise.” –Lynne T., TRAVELER

ABOUT OUR “LIVING IN” PROGRAMS

Fulfill your dream of living abroad on this threeweek immersion program. Stay in a residential hotel (studio or one bedroom apartments) and learn from local experts. Personalize your experience with any or all of the special enrichment tracks (at an additional cost): Art and Architecture; Culinary; and Italian Language Lessons. Note: 2025 pricing includes one enrichment track of your choice. See our website for more details.

Siena

Ligurian Sea

ITALY Adriatic Sea

Tuscany

San Gimignano

Florence Cortona

Lucca

Colle di Val d’Elsa

Fiesole

Overnight Featured Site

Florence

Market shopping

HIGHLIGHTS

FRANCE AND SPAIN’S BASQUE REGION

A one-week stay at the Parador de Hondarribia

• Stay in the 10th-century Castle of Charles V—now an upscale parador—in the medieval seaside town of Hondarribia.

• Explore the stylish resort towns of San Sebastian and Biarritz, as well as charming Basque villages such as Espelette.

• Encounter intriguing architecture, from Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim Bilbao to a 17th-century French Basque country home.

• Savor unique cuisine at pintxos (small snacks) bars, fine-dining restaurants, a cider house, and an exclusive txoko—or members-only dining society.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 U.S./Bilbao, Spain/Hondarribia: Depart for Bilbao on an overnight flight and transfer to a historic parador in the seaside village of Hondarribia—your home for the week. Gather for a welcome reception and dinner at a popular restaurant. Parador de Hondarribia for the entire journey

Days 3–4 San Sebastian/Bayonne and Biarritz, France: Begin with a guided walking tour of Hondarribia’s colorful Old Town, set across an estuary from France. In the resort town of San Sebastian, marvel at stunning views of La Concha Bay and its crescent-shaped beach, and explore the Old Town and the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Chorus. Enjoy free time in San Sebastian before returning to the parador. The next day, travel to Bayonne, the capital of French Basque country. On a walking tour, visit the Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady of Bayonne, part of a World Heritage site, and enjoy a traditional Basque lunch at a cider house. Continue

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $4,890

Single from $5,685

Includes $250 special savings

Airfare not included

Dates: Apr. 20–28, Oct. 12–20, Nov. 2–10, 2024 & Apr. 26–May 4, May 10–18, Sept. 13–21, Sept. 20–28, Oct. 4–12, 2025

to stylish Biarritz and stroll along its waterfront garden promenade. Gather for a private dining experience with wine pairings at a txoko, or local dining club.

Day 5 Bilbao/Espelette and St-Jean-de-Luz: Travel to Bilbao and take a guided tour of the iconic Guggenheim Bilbao Museum, famously designed by architect Frank Gehry. After lunch in Bilbao, meet for an informal discussion about your discoveries so far, then enjoy an evening at leisure. A scenic morning drive brings you to Maison Ortillopitz, a private French Basque country residence dating to the 1600s. Join the owner for a tour of this traditional, restored home, then continue to Espelette, known for its namesake hot peppers. Stroll through town, seeing charming facades draped with drying red peppers, and enjoy a lunch of Basque specialties. Next, meander through picturesque Saint-Jean-de-Luz, stopping in at the Church of St. Jean the Baptist, where Louis XIV married Maria Theresa of Spain in 1660. In the evening, hear from a local expert about Hemingway’s love affair with Spain.

Day 7 Pamplona/Tolosa and Azpetia: Drive south to legendary Pamplona. Stroll its 16th-century streets, famous for the summertime San Fermin Festival, or the Running of the Bulls. Visit historic highlights including the Plaza de Toros, and enjoy time to explore the town—and Hemingway’s haunts—on your own. The next morning, head to Tolosa, once the capital of the Basque province of Gipuzkoa. Venture into the weekly market at El Tinglado, and visit the 17th-century Santa Maria Church, a fine example of Basque Gothic architecture. Continue to Azpetia, the birthplace of Saint Ignatius, and explore the Loyola Sanctuary, built around the saint’s medieval tower-house. Toast your Basque sojourn at a festive farewell dinner and depart from Bilbao the next day.

7 days | Limited to 24 guests

FRANC E

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Kerri Lesh (Apr. 20)–anthropologist with expertise in Spanish food and wine. Silvia Mitchell (Oct. 12)–historian. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Bilbao

Bayonne

San Sebastian

HIGHLIGHTS

• Hike the most stunning stretches of the World Heritage-listed Camino Francés pilgrimage route.

• Cross sweeping plains to explore hilltop castles, the Burgos Cathedral, and the monuments of León.

WALKING THE CAMINO DE SANTIAGO

An Active Journey

• Stay two nights in a historic convent in Santiago de Compostela, and enjoy memorable meals and a guided walk at twilight.

• Sample wines at an 18th-century palace, and savor Camino specialties such as León garlic soup and St. James almond cake.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Madrid, Spain/Villafranca Montes de Oca and San Juan de Ortega/Burgos:  Following an overnight flight to Madrid, transfer to medieval Burgos, located on the Camino Francés of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, and gather for a welcome dinner. In the morning, drive east to Villafranca Montes de Oca and hike through oak forests and meadows to San Juan de Ortega, stage 11 of the Camino Francés. Visit its 12th-century monastery, then return to Burgos for a walking tour featuring the World Heritage-listed Gothic cathedral.

Abba Burgos Hotel

Day 4 Castrojeriz and Itero de la Vega/León: Drive to the hilltop castle of Castrojeriz then hike down into the plains to Itero de la Vega. Continue by vehicle to León, check in to your hotel, and take a guided walking tour of its historic center.

Barcelo León Conde Luna

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $4,699

Single from $5,699

Airfare not included

Dates: May 18–28, Sept. 7–17, Sept. 21–Oct. 1, Oct. 5–15, Oct. 12–22, 2024

11 days | Limited to 16 guests

Days 5–6 O Cebreiro, Sesmonde, Portomarín/Sarria: Tour the wine cellar of a charming 18th-century palace, enjoy a vineyard hike, and savor a lunch with wine pairings. Then travel to Villafranca del Bierzo to see a church where pilgrims who cannot reach Santiago receive a special blessing. Drive into Galicia to the mountain village of O Cebreiro, where a ninth-century church houses the famous Galician Holy Grail, then continue to your hotel in Sarria. The next day, transfer to Sesmonde and hike to Portomarín to explore its ancient monuments. Return to Sarria for an afternoon at leisure. Hotel Alfonso IX

Days 7–8 Palas de Rei, Melide, Amenal/Arzúa: Hit the trail in Palas de Rei, hiking from one village to the next. In Melide, savor a traditional Galician lunch and stroll through the historic quarter. Later, drive to Arzúa, stage 31 of the Camino Francés, and check in to your hotel. Returning to Melide the next day, hike forest trails and country roads to Iglesia de Santiago de Boente, then drive to the charming village of Amenal. A free afternoon in Arzúa allows time to explore the surrounding trails. Lar Da Mota Boutique Hotel

Days 9–11 Lavacolla and Cape Finisterre/Santiago de Compostela: From Lavacolla, ascend to Monte del Gozo for a sweeping view of Santiago de Compostela. Descend to the cathedral in the heart of the World Heritage-listed Old Town. After a pilgrim’s lunch, experience the city at leisure, then set off on a guided evening walk when the historic center is aglow. On your final day, travel to Cape Finisterre to hike along the rugged Atlantic coast and see the Cape’s lighthouse— the final pilgrimage point. Celebrate your Camino experience at a farewell dinner in Santiago before returning home the next day. San Francisco Hotel Monumento

ABOUT THIS ACTIVE JOURNEY

Activity level: Moderate

This is a moderate level Active Journey that features 4–7 miles of hiking per day with some elevation gain and is led by an engaging trip leader. Visit our website for details about activity levels.

Camino de Santiago marker

Santiago de Compostela

PEARLS OF CROATIA AND SLOVENIA

HIGHLIGHTS

• Take a boat ride on Lake Bled and visit its cliff-top castle.

• Enjoy guided tours of numerous World Heritage sites, from Ljubljana’s beautifully designed center to Diocletian’s Palace in Split and fabled Dubrovnik.

• Venture into the cathedral-like chambers of Slovenia’s Postojna Caves, and follow a guide through waterfall-laced forests of Plitvice Lakes National Park.

• Visit a family-owned olive farm in Istria and stop for lunch and a tasting at a winery on Hvar.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S/Zagreb, Croatia: Fly overnight to Zagreb and transfer to your hotel upon arrival. The next day, tour the Old Town, the Cathedral, and the Dolac open-air market with a guide. Ride the funicular and sample štrukli, a Croatian pastry dish. After time at leisure, gather for a welcome dinner.

Amadria Park Hotel Capital

Days 4–5 Ljubljana and Lake Bled, Slovenia: Spend two nights in Ljubljana, Slovenia’s charming capital. On a walking tour, admire the urban planning of architect Jože Plečnik, which earned the historic center World Heritage status. Then travel to Lake Bled and tour the medieval castle perched on a lakeside bluff. Take a scenic cruise with views of the Julian Alps as well as the lake’s iconic island church. Eurostars uHotel Ljubljana

Days 6–8 Opatija and the Istrian Peninsula, Croatia: Ride an electric train deep into the vast chambers of Postojna Cave, which stretches almost 13 miles. Then journey to Opatija, Croatia, and take a guided walk through this elegant

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,784

Single from $8,079

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Apr. 25–May 9, Sept. 5–19, Sept. 23–Oct. 7, Oct. 7–21, 2024 & Apr. 24–May 8, May 12–26, Sept. 1–15, Sept. 27–Oct. 11, Oct. 11–25, 2025

15 days | Limited to 24 guests

seaside resort. Discover the sites of Istria, including the Roman arena in Pula and the old Venetian port of Rovinj, and visit a family-owned olive orchard for a tour and tasting. Next, follow the Opatija Riviera to the fortified medieval fishing town of Moscenicka and walk its pebble beach. Amadria Park Hotel Milenij

Day 9 Plitvice Lakes and Trogir: Experience the World Heritage site of Plitvice Lakes National Park on a guided tour, discovering its 16 turquoise lakes, linked by waterfalls and travertine terraces. Stay the night on the tiny walled island of Trogir—another World Heritage site. Hotel Trogir Palace

Days 10–11 Split and Hvar: In Split, take a guided tour of the fourth-century Diocletian’s Palace, now the historic heart of this picturesque city. Ride the ferry to Hvar and settle into your hotel in Hvar Town. Set off on a walking tour of the town, and cross the island to Stari Grad, one of Croatia’s oldest cities. Enjoy lunch and wine tasting at a local winery, followed by an afternoon at leisure. Adriana Hotel Hvar

Days 12–15 Dubrovnik: Trace the Dalmatian Coast to the medieval gem of Dubrovnik, where you’ll have two full days to explore. Step back in time on a tour of this beautifully preserved city from its ramparts to the art-filled cathedral in the Old City. At the Franciscan Monastery, see a 14th-century pharmacy that still offers traditional treatments. After free time, set sail around the city walls on a sunset cruise. The following day is yours to discover Dubrovnik as you wish. Then gather for a special farewell dinner at the home of a local family overlooking the Old Town. Depart the next morning. Dubrovnik Palace Hotel

Optional Extension: Add a three-night post-tour extension in Montenegro.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Carol Reynolds (Apr. 25/Sept. 5)–expert in European art, music, and history. Glenn Bugh (Sept. 23)–expert in classical studies. David Price Williams (Oct. 7)–archaeologist. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Zagreb

Lake Bled

Plitvice Lakes National Park

A DANUBE RIVER CRUISE

Aboard the Amadeus Silver III, Riva, or Queen

HIGHLIGHTS

• Begin and end your Danube cruise with hotel stays in Sofia and Prague.

• Visit eight countries and enjoy a choice of excursions including a classical music tour in Bratislava and a culinary experience in Belgrade.

• Explore history among the imperial palaces of Vienna; the Ottoman mosques of Pécs, Hungary; and Croatia’s 20th-century landmarks.

• Sample German pretzels and beer as you glide through the Iron Gates, and enjoy a bike ride or wine tasting in Austria’s Wachau Valley.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Sofia, Bulgaria: Fly overnight to Sofia. After a morning lecture, set out to discover historic sites including the Roman ruins of Serdica and the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Meet for a welcome dinner. Sofia Hotel Balkan

Days 4–7 Vidin/Belgrade, Serbia/Croatia: Travel to Vidin and trace its history at the ninth-century Baba Vida fortress and important Ottoman sites. Later, enjoy a welcome reception aboard your ship. Follow the Danube along the Serbian-Romanian border, gliding through dramatic gorges known as the Iron Gates. Head to the sun deck for Früschoppen, a German tradition of drinking a beer before noon. Arrive in Belgrade and take a city tour; experience local culture through its culinary scene; or visit the Nikola Tesla Museum. Enjoy an evening of Serbian folk dancing. Cruise into Croatia and trace the region’s history on walking tours of Osijek and Vukovar. Amadeaus Silver II, Riva, or Queen through Day 12

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,790

Limited singles available on 2024 and 2025 departures at no extra charge.

Airfare not included / Port charges are $395 pp

Dates: May 18–June 1,* May 27–June 11, Aug. 9–24,* Oct. 6–20, 2024 & May 14–28, May 23–June 7, Aug. 24–Sept. 8, Oct. 6–20, 2025

16 days* | Smithsonian has reserved space for 35–75 guests

Days 8–10 Pécs and Budapest, Hungary/Bratislava, Slovakia: Travel to lovely Pécs, renowned for its Roman ruins and Ottoman mosques converted to churches. Enjoy a wine tasting before cruising toward Budapest. Tour the sites of of Buda and Pest, experience the evocative Jewish Quarter, or sample local treats at markets. See the dazzling lights of Budapest on an evening cruise. In Bratislava, tour the medieval center or delve into the city’s rich musical heritage and enjoy a concert. Alternatively, ride a bike to historic sites on both banks of the Danube.

Days 11–12 Vienna, Dürnstein, and the Wachau Valley, Austria: Experience Vienna on a tour of Hofburg Palace and visit the Habsburg’s opulent Schönbrunn Palace; or venture into the medieval wine cellars of Klosterneuburg Monastery for a tasting. Later, take part in a waltz lesson accompanied by classical musicians. In Dürnstein, visit a historic church, go biking along the river, or sample regional wines. Then navigate the spectacular Wachau Valley, a World Heritage site. Visit Melk Abbey and bid farewell to your ship at an evening reception.

Days 13–16 Passau/Prague: Take a walking tour of Passau, situated at the confluence of three rivers. Disembark and journey to Prague. Join a guide to explore the Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, and the famed Astronomical Clock. After free time, gather for a beer tasting followed by an exclusive Smithsonian Journeys dinner. The next day, see Central European art at the Lobkowicz Palace Museum; visit the Jewish Quarter; or see Art Deco and Cubist landmarks on an architecture tour. Celebrate your journey at a farewell reception and depart the next day. Art Deco Imperial Hotel Prague

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Stephen Clancy (May 18) and Aneta

Georgievska-Shine (May 27)–art historians.

Tim Blanning (Aug. 9)–historian. Carol Reynolds (Oct. 6, 2024)–expert in European art, music, and history. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

*The May 18 and August 9, 2024 departures run in the reverse direction and are 15 days.

Prague

Budapest

CRUISING THE RHINE AND MOSELLE RIVERS

Aboard the 162-guest Amadeus Cara

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise Amsterdam’s canals on a private boat, then visit the Rijksmuseum, bike to rural villages, or take a foodie tour in Jordaan.

• Encounter the extraordinary cathedrals of Cologne, Speyer, and Strasbourg, and explore the baroque gem of Heidelberg.

• Cruise the World Heritage-listed Middle Rhine Valley to Koblenz and Rüdesheim, and hear the lore of the spectacular Rhine Gorge.

• Sample wines in the Moselle River Valley, the Rheingau, and Alsace, and savor local treats from pretzels to flammkuchen

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Amsterdam, The Netherlands: Fly overnight to Amsterdam and settle into the Amadeus Cara. Board a local boat for a private cruise along Amsterdam’s World Heritage-listed canals. The next day, choose from three excursions: view the works of Dutch Masters Rembrandt, Hals, and Vermeer at the world-renowned Rijksmuseum. Set off on a guided bike ride through the villages and wetlands of Waterland. Or join a walking tour of the Herengracht canal district that includes a visit to the Museum of the Canals. Cruise to the Rhine River and gather for a welcome dinner. Amadeus Cara for the entire journey

Days 4–5 Cologne and Cochem, Germany: In Cologne, stroll through the Old Town with a guide and admire architecture that ranges from the 13th-century Dom cathedral—a World Heritage site—to avant-garde buildings erected after World War II. Sail through the beautiful Moselle River Valley, passing between rolling vineyards and medieval villages. Take part in the old German tradition of Frühschoppen:

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $3,990

Limited singles available on 2025 departures at no extra charge.

Airfare not included / Port charges are $395 pp

Dates: May 17–25, 2024 & May 20–28, July 21–29,* 2025

*The July 2025 departure runs in the reverse direction. 9 days | Smithsonian has reserved space for 35–40 guests

enjoying a beer, a pretzel, and sausage before midday. Explore Cochem in the afternoon and ascend to Reichsburg Castle for a glass of Moselle wine.

Day 6 Middle Rhine Valley: Visit Koblenz, established by the Romans to guard the confluence of the Moselle and Rhine rivers. Navigate between cliffs topped with castles in the spectacular Rhine Gorge, and hear from a local expert about the legend of Lorelei. Dock in medieval Rüdesheim, a gateway to the Rheingau wine region, and take a scenic train ride. Then enjoy wine tasting or see antique, self-playing instruments at the Siegfried Mechanical Music Museum. Gather for dinner at a historic winery. Spend a morning in the baroque university town of Heidelberg, a poised on the Neckar River. Explore its castle and historic center or hike the famous Philosopher’s Way for spectacular views of the town. After lunch, arrive in Speyer and tour its World Heritage-listed cathedral and other historic highlights.

Days 8–9 Strasbourg, France/Basel, Switzerland: Sail into Alsace and immerse yourself in captivating Strasbourg through your choice of excursions. Take a guided tour of the city and its remarkable Gothic cathedral and stroll among the half-timbered houses and canals of Petite France. Or glide through the heart of the city—the Grand Ile—on a canal cruise, and see Petite France from the water. Alternatively, embark on a culinary tour, stopping in traditional weinstubs to try Alsatian dishes such as flammkuchen, choucroute, or spaetzle, as well as fine Alsatian wines. After a relaxing afternoon of sailing, toast your adventure at a farewell dinner. Disembark in Basel, Switzerland the next morning and depart from Zurich. Optional Extension: Add a two-night pre-tour extension in Amsterdam and/or a two-night post-tour extension in Interlaken.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Carol Reynolds (May 17)–expert in European art, music, and history. Visit our website to see the expert on the other departure.

Basel from the Rhine

TREASURES OF THE ALPS

Swiss Trains and Italy’s Lake District

HIGHLIGHTS

• Wind through the Alps aboard the legendary Glacier Express, and take in views of 29 peaks aboard the Gornergrat Bahn.

• Stay in the medieval lakeside town of Lucerne and the fabled alpine retreat of Zermatt, gateway to the Matterhorn.

• Spend three days on Lake Lugano, visiting castles and gardens, cruising to remote villages, and exploring the Italian Lake District.

• Take a cable car from Innsbruck into Alpine summits, and attend a chamber music concert in the Marble Room of Salzburg’s Mirabell Palace.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Zurich, Switzerland/Lucerne: Arrive in Zurich and transfer to Lucerne, on the shores of Lake Lucerne. The next day, stroll through the medieval Old Town and cross the Kapellbrücke, Europe’s oldest covered bridge. Climb aboard the world’s steepest cogwheel train and ascend to the summit of Mt. Pilatus to take in majestic views. Swiss-Chalet Merlischachen or Renaissance Lucerne Hotel

Days 4–5 The Glacier Express and Zermatt: Ride a ferry across Lake Lucerne and continue overland to Andermatt. Here, board the glass-domed cars of the Glacier Express, which weaves through the Alpine valleys and over gorges, traversing nearly 300 bridges. Arrive in Zermatt, the gateway to the Matterhorn, and sit down to a Swiss fondue feast. The next day, ascend to the summits on the Gornergrat Bahn, the highest open-air railway in Europe; you’ll be surrounded by 29 peaks, including the Matterhorn. Enjoy free time to hike or explore Zermatt. Resort Hotel Alex or Beausite Zermatt

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $7,592

Single from $8,687

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: May 27–June 9, June 20–July 3, Aug. 8–21, Aug. 19–Sept. 1, Sept. 28–Oct. 11, 2024 & May 29–June 11,

2025

14 days | Limited to 24 guests

SWITZERLAND

Day 6–8 Italian Lake District and Lugano, Switzerland: A beautiful drive brings you into northern Italy via the historic Simplon Pass. Spend time at leisure in Stresa, on the shores of Lake Maggiore, then marvel at Lake District landscapes on your way to Lugano. In the Ticino region, visit the three World Heritage-listed castles of Bellinzona and savor an al fresco lunch at a grotto restaurant built around mountain caves. Later, visit the artists’ colony of Ascona. Embark on a private half-day cruise on Lake Lugano, with stops at Morcote for lunch and the mountainside village of Gandria. Hotel Lugano Dante or Hotel International au Lac

Days 9–10 Vaduz, Liechtenstein/Seefeld and Innsbruck, Austria: Arrive in Liechtenstein and visit the capital of Vaduz and the Wine Cellars of the Prince of Liechtenstein. Continue into Austria to the mountain village of Seefeld. On a day trip to Innsbruck, see the cathedral and the Habsburg palace and ascend to an Alpine lookout for panoramic views. Hotel Seelos

Days 11–14 Tyrol and Salzburg: Visit the Museum of Tyrolean Farms on the way to enchanting Salzburg. After dinner, enjoy a baroque chamber music concert in the Marble Room of the Mirabell Palace, where Mozart once played. Delve into the World Heritage-listed Old Town on a guided walk that includes Mirabell Gardens and Hohensalzburg Fortress. Tour the Bavarian resort town of Berchtesgaden, and ride a historic elevator to Kehlsteinhaus, or Eagle’s Nest, to learn the history of the Nazi Party’s retreat. Celebrate your Alpine journey at a farewell dinner and depart from Munich the next day. Imlauer Hotel Pitter Salzburg

Optional Extension: Add a three-night post-tour extension in Vienna.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Hugh Agnew (June 20) and Christopher Brennan (Aug. 8)–historians. Visit our website to see experts on other departures

Gornegrat Bahn, Switzerland

HOLIDAY MARKETS: A RHINE RIVER CRUISE

Aboard the 168-guest Amadeus Silver III or Imperial and featuring a stay in the Swiss Alps

HIGHLIGHTS

• Stay two nights in Switzerland’s Bernese Alps before a seven-night river cruise through Alsace, the Black Forest, and the Rhine Valley.

• Soak up the enchantment of Christkindlmarkts from Freiburg to Cologne, meandering among stalls filled with holiday treats and handicrafts.

• Explore timeless villages from Riquewihr, Alsace to Rüdesheim, Germany, and enjoy tastings of local wines and traditional dishes.

• Sail through the spectacular Rhine Gorge in the Middle Rhine Valley.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Zurich, Switzerland/Interlaken: Fly overnight to Zurich and transfer to Interlaken, in the heart of the Bernese Alps. Meet for a welcome reception. Enjoy a free day to discover this lakeside town and its magical Christmas markets on your own. Victoria Jungfrau Hotel

Days 4–5 Basel/Freiburg, Germany/Alsace, France: Travel to Basel, visiting the Old Town of Bern en route. Embark the ship and kick off your cruise with a welcome dinner. Journey to Freiburg to visit the city’s historic highlights and browse seasonal foods and crafts at the Christkindlmarkt. Then cross into France to follow the Alsace Wine Road, enjoying tastings in wineries, and stroll amid half-timbered houses in the beautiful village of Riquewihr. Or take a guided walk

through the Old Town of Colmar, and browse Alsatian delicacies and handicrafts at its four delightful Christmas markets.

Amadeus Silver III for the remainder of the journey

Days 6–7 Strasbourg/Heidelberg, Germany: On a morning tour of Strasbourg, visit its World Heritage-listed cathedral and stroll along the canals of the Grand Île. Or sample Alsatian cuisine and wines at local weinstubs. Later, explore the city’s famous holiday markets at your leisure. Dock in Mannheim and travel to fairy-tale Heidelberg. Take in panoramic views from its castle and descend to the Old Town for a walk. After a lunch of German specialties, enjoy a musical performance.

Days 8–11 Rhine Valley/Cologne/Dusseldorf: Cruise the lovely Middle Rhine Valley and choose one of two excursions. Tour the Old Town of Rüdesheim and the Christmas Market of the Nations; and admire antique music boxes and instruments at the Siegfried Mechanical Music Museum. Or visit the Benedictine Abbey of St. Hildegard and enjoy a tasting of Rheingau wines. Sail through the magnificent Rhine Gorge, passing legendary Lorelei Rock. The next day, tour Cologne’s Old Town and its World Heritage-listed cathedral, and enjoy free time to explore the city and its holiday markets. Arrive in Dusseldorf and take a walk in the Old Town, alive with holiday spirit. Or head to Aachen, Charlemagne’s capital, to see the emperor’s throne and try local treats at the Christmas market. After a free afternoon, celebrate the spirit of the season at a farewell dinner. Depart the next day.

“I loved experiencing the wonderful holiday markets—be sure you have extra space for treasures you will buy! It is the kind of trip you can take again!” –Ellen S., TRAVELER

Price: Double from $3,990

Limited singles available on 2025 departures at no extra charge.

Airfare not included / Port charges are $395 pp

Dates: Dec. 2–12,

3–13,*

8–18, 2024 & Nov. 28–Dec. 8, Dec. 3–13,*

10–20,* 2025

*Both December 3 and the December 10 departures run in the reverse direction.

11 days | Smithsonian has reserved space for 35–55 guests

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Carol Reynolds (Dec. 2)–expert in European arts, culture, and music history. Stephen Clancy (Dec. 8)–art and architectural historian. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Strasbourg

Bernese Oberland

HIGHLIGHTS

GREAT EUROPEAN JOURNEY

Aboard the 160-guest Amadeus Queen and featuring three historic Swiss railways

• Spend six nights cruising from Amsterdam to Basel, then stay two nights each in the Alpine gems of Lucerne and Zermatt.

• Take in the spectacular scenery of the Middle Rhine Valley, and enjoy a private wine tasting in the Rheingau.

• Explore Strasbourg’s medieval Old City and the Gothic cathedral in Cologne—both World Heritage sites.

• Ride three legendary railways through the majestic Swiss Alps: the Gornergrat Bahn, the Glacier Express, and the Pilatus Railway.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 U.S./Amsterdam, The Netherlands: Depart on an overnight flight to Amsterdam and settle into your deluxe ship on arrival. Gather for the Captain’s welcome dinner. Amadeus Imperial through Day 8

Days 3–4 Cologne and Cochem, Germany: After a leisurely sail on the Rhine, arrive in Cologne. Explore the Old Town and its Gothic cathedral, a World Heritage site. Sail the romantic Moselle River, passing between steep, terraced vineyards. Delve into the winding streets of Cochem on a guided walk, and visit Reichsburg castle, perched above town.

Days 5–6 The Middle Rhine Valley and Heidelberg: Tour picturesque Koblenz, situated at the confluence of the Moselle and Rhine Rivers. Cruise through the World Heritage-designated Upper Middle Rhine Valley, flanked by vineyards and hilltop castles. Hear the legend of Lorelei Rock, then dock in medieval Rüdesheim,

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $4,315

Single from $7,625

Airfare not included

Port charges are an additional $55 per person

Dates: June 28–July 9, July 10–21, 2024

12 days | Smithsonian has reserved space for 60 guests

the heart of the Rheingau wine country. Ride through the vineyards on the Winzerexpress and enjoy a private wine tasting. Spend a day in the baroque university town of Heidelberg, and explore its 13th-century castle.

Day 7 Strasbourg, France: Immerse yourself in the magic of Strasbourg on a tour of its Old City, a World Heritage site. Encounter the stunning sandstone cathedral and meander among the covered bridges and canals of the fairy-tale Petite France district. Gather for the Captain’s farewell dinner this evening.

Days 8–9 Basel, Switzerland/Gruyères and Zermatt: Disembark in Basel and take a scenic drive into the Bernese Alps, stopping to visit the medieval town of Gruyères. Admire spectacular mountain views—including the imposing peak of the Jungfrau—and arrive in the Alpine village of Zermatt. The next day, ascend the highest cog railway in Europe, the Gornergrat Bahn, taking in sweeping vistas of the Matterhorn and the vast Gorner Glacier. Resort Hotel Alex

Days 10–12 GlacierExpress/Lucerne: Wind through the heart of the Alps to Andermatt aboard the fabled Glacier Express, enjoying breathtaking views from its glass-domed cars. Continue to your waterfront hotel in Lucerne. On a walking tour the next day, see historic sites including the burghers’ houses of the Weinmarkt. Ride a gondola to the 7,000-foot summit of Mount Pilatus for lunch and a 360-degree view of jagged peaks. Then board the Pilatus Railway, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, and descend nearly 5,400 feet in less than three miles. Cruise across the lake to Lucerne and toast your grand European tour at a farewell dinner. Depart from Zurich the next day. Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern

Optional Extension: Add a two-night pre-tour extension in Amsterdam.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Carol Reynolds (June)–expert in European art, music, and history. Alexander Motyl (June)–professor of political science. Hugh Agnew (July)–historian. Catherine Scallen (July)–art historian.

Amadeus ship, Cologne

Zermatt and the Matterhorn

PREHISTORIC CAVES OF FRANCE AND SPAIN

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit two of the world’s premier prehistoric cave art sites—Lascaux IV and Altamira—on privately guided visits.

• Meet with leading archaeologists and anthropologists for private lectures and tours of ancient caves from Pech Merle to Atapuerca.

• Spend three days amid the karst cliffs and castles of Dordogne, and get acquainted with Basque culture in France and Spain.

• Stay in a French country inn, a spa resort in the foothills of the Pyrenees, and a parador in medieval Santillana del Mar.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Bordeaux and Vézère Valley, France:  Fly overnight to Bordeaux and journey to the beautiful karst landscapes of the Dordogne region. Check into a country inn in Les Eyzies-de-Tayac and gather for a welcome dinner. Set out to explore the World Heritage-designated Vézère Valley, where some 150 prehistoric sites are tucked among forested hills and charming villages. Visit the National Museum of Prehistory, housed in a 16th-century castle, and venture into the cave at Font-de-Gaume to see its famous bison frieze. Hotel Le Centenaire

Days 4–5 Vézère Valley/Haute-Garonne: Experience Lascaux IV, an exact replica of the original cave where extraordinary prehistoric paintings were discovered in 1940. Tour the site with a local expert and visit the state-of-the-art International Center for Cave Art. Then sit down to a “prehistoric” lunch. Join an archaeologist for a visit to Abri Castel-Merle and end the day at Rouffignac cave.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $7,290

Single from $8,740

Airfare not included

Dates: Apr. 13–22, May 4–13, May 11–20, Oct. 12–21, Oct. 19–28, 2024 & Apr. 5–14, May 3–12, May 10–19, Oct. 11–20, Oct. 18–27, 2025

10 days | Limited to 24 guests

Bordeaux

Travel south to the enormous cave of Pech Merle and see rare representations of the human body and lifelike renderings of animals on a guided tour. Stop for lunch on your own in cliff-top Saint-Cirq-Lapopie and continue to the countryside of the Haute-Garonne region for the night. Hotel du Barry

Days 6–7 Basque Country/Santillana del Mar, Spain: In southwestern France, venture into Gargas Cave with a local prehistory specialist and see examples of Late Paleolithic mural art including animal image engravings and hand stenciled paintings. Cross into Spain and follow the coast to the medieval village of Santillana del Mar. The next day, witness the oldest known art in the world at Puente Viesgo. At El Castillo, examine paintings that date back at least 40,800 years, and see the stalagmites and stalactites of Las Monedas. Then tour the Altamira Museum and encounter magnificent paintings in an exact replica of the Altamira cave. Parador de Santillana Gil Blas

Days 8–10 El Pendo and Atapuerca/Bilbao: Learn about ongoing discoveries on a tour of El Pendo cave. Then travel to Bilbao, home to Frank Gehry’s world-renowned Guggenheim Museum, and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Join an archaeologist for a visit to the World Heritage site of Atapuerca, where limestone caves have revealed 1.4 million-year-old hominin fossils, the oldest ever discovered in Europe. Continuously inhabited for millennia, the caves offer a treasure trove of clues to the evolution and daily life of Europe’s earliest humans. Return to Bilbao and celebrate your prehistoric adventure with a festive farewell dinner. Depart the next day. Miró Hotel Bilbao

Santillana del Mar

Atapuerca

FRANCE

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Paul Pettitt (Apr. 13) and April Nowell (May 4/Oct. 19)–Paleolithic archaeologists. Beebe Bahrami (Oct. 12)–writer and anthropologist. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Haute-Garonne

Puente Viesgo caves

Altamira cave art Atapuerca archaeological site

A RIVER CRUISE THROU GH BURGUNDY & PROVEN CE

A Voyage Along the Saône and Rhône Rivers aboard the 140-guest Amadeus Provence

HIGHLIGHTS

• Take guided tours of World Heritage sites including the historic center of Lyon, the Papal Palace in Avignon, and the ancient city of Arles.

• Follow the Burgundy wine route and enjoy tastings at wineries in the Beaujolais, Maconnais, and Côtes du Rhône regions.

• Encounter the legacy of the Romans at the stunning, first-century Pont du Gard or the well-preserved theater in Orange.

• Explore the dramatic gorges of Ardêche and the protected marshlands of the Camargue, known for its flamingos and native white horses.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Lyon, France/Cluny and Macon: Fly overnight to Lyon and transfer to the quay to board your ship. Gather for a welcome dinner. Journey into the Beaujolais and Maconnais wine regions the next day, and visit a winery for a tasting and an in-depth look at the history and production of Burgundy wines. Later, visit the 10th-century Cluny Abbey, once the center of a powerful monastic empire. Amadeus Provence for the entire journey

Days 4–5 Beaune and Tournus/Lyon: Follow the Burgundy wine route to Beaune and visit the Hotel-Dieu de Beaune, a 15th-century almshouse, on a walking tour. Later, drive along the Route des Grands Crus, one of the oldest and most celebrated wine routes in France. Visit the opulent Château de Cormatin, and continue to Tournus to see the remarkable Church of Saint-Philibert, a

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,490

Limited singles available on 2024 and 2025 departures at no extra charge.

Airfare not included / Port charges are $395 pp

Dates: May 1–9, Sept. 18–26,

Oct. 23–31, 2024 &

May 20–28, July 8–16, Sept. 23–Oct. 1, Oct. 14–22, 2025

9 days | Smithsonian has reserved space for 35 guests

Romanesque masterpiece. Sail south to Lyon, arriving in the early morning. Venture into the World Heritage-listed Old Quarter, discovering the Roman theater and secret passageways called traboules. Or take a guided bike ride along the banks of the Sâone and Rhône Rivers to the Parc de la Tête d’Or.

Days 6–7 Avignon/Arles and the Camargue: Dock in Avignon and embark on your choice of excursion: Venture to Orange to see its World Heritage-listed Roman ruins. Or visit the Pont du Gard, a three-level aqueduct built by the Romans in the first century. Then take a guided walk through Avignon, also a World Heritage site, and tour the Papal Palace. See the legendary Pont d’Avignon, a 12th-century bridge that once spanned the Rhône. In Arles the next day, delve into many layers of history on a walking tour. See the spectacular Roman Arena and follow in the footsteps of van Gogh, witnessing settings he rendered in paint. Continue south to the marshlands of the Camargue, a protected reserve home to unique wildlife including Camargue bulls, native white horses, and numerous bird species—from glossy ibis to flamingos. Visit the seaside village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, poised where the Rhône meets the Mediterranean.

Days 8–9 Côtes-du-Rhône/Lyon: As the ship returns north, explore Côtes du Rhône wine country and enjoy a tasting near Tain l’Hermitage. Or choose to experience the dramatic gorges of Ardêche region and learn about the traces of early humans found in caves along the Ardêche River. Spend your final afternoon at leisure, then gather for a festive farewell dinner. Disembark in Lyon the next morning.

Optional Extension: Add a two-night pre-tour extension in Lyon.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Barbara Whitehead (May 1) and Charles Ingrao (Sept. 18)–historians. Madeline Díaz (Oct. 23)–expert in art history and museum studies. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Avignon

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore neighborhoods where W.E.B. Dubois and Langston Hughes spent time, and meet an American novelist to hear about contemporary life in Paris.

• Listen to live jazz and explore the influence of the Harlem Hellfighters and Eugene Bullard on the Jazz Age in Paris.

• Visit the sites of nightclubs run by Ada “Bricktop” Smith and gain insight into incredible legacy of Josephine Baker.

• Set out on a culinary walking tour, cruise the River Seine, and take a day trip to Versailles.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Paris, France: Fly overnight to Paris and transfer to your hotel in the historic Marais quarter. Gather for a short walking tour followed by a welcome dinner. The next day, set out with a guide to discover the haunts of the Black Americans who lived in Paris in the first half of the 20th century. See locales frequented by W.E.B Du Bois and Sidney Bechet, and explore the connections between African Americans and the Louvre and the Paris Opera House. Gain insight into the experience of the prominent, biracial family of writer Alexander Dumas; then trace the legacy of entertainer and activist Josephine Baker, who participated in the French Resistance during World War II and became the first Black woman to be buried at the Panthéon. Les Jardins du Marais for the entire journey Day 4 Montmartre: Begin the day with an exclusive screening of Paris Noir: African Americans in the City of Light, followed by a discussion with the filmmakers. Head to Lower Montmartre, where a vibrant community of Black Americans flourished during the 1920s. Learn about the dawn of the Jazz Age

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,290

Single from $6,580

Includes $250 special savings

Airfare not included

Dates: Apr. 13–21, June 22–30, Oct. 12–20, 2024 & Apr. 26–May 4, May 31–June 8, Sept. 27–Oct. 5, 2025

9 days | Limited to 24 guests

PARIS: THE AFRICAN AMERICAN EXPERIENCE

in Paris and history-making Black musicians, including members of the Harlem Hellfighters. See the sites of famous nightclubs run by the singer Ada “Bricktop” Smith; World War I flying ace and drummer Eugene Bullard; and Josephine Baker. At the Montmartre Museum, housed in a quaint 17th-century residence near Sacre Coeur, view art collections that depict Montmartre in the 19th and 20th centuries, including pieces by Renoir, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Dufy.

Days 5–6 Paris and Versailles: Embark on a culinary walking tour, sampling a broad array of French specialties. Tour the National Museum of the History of Immigration, and admire its bas-relief façade depicting scenes of immigration. The next morning, travel to the Palace of Versailles, France’s principal royal residence from the reign of Louis XIV until the French Revolution. Join a guide for a visit to the Hall of Mirrors, where the Treaty of Versailles was signed in 1919 formally ending World War I. Enjoy free time to explore the palace and its gardens on your own. Return to Paris for an evening tour of the Latin Quarter to see clubs and caveaus where African-American jazz artists cultivated young French musicians, and enjoy a live jazz concert.

Days 7–9 Paris: Meet American expatriate Jake Lamar, an award-winning author, and hear his insights on life as a Black American in Paris today. On a walking tour of the Left Bank, visit the Panthéon and the Sorbonne, and explore the significance of the Négritude Movement of the 1930s and the First International Congress of Black Writers and Artists in 1956. Glide through the heart of Paris on a riverboat cruise the following morning, viewing landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower. Take advantage of a free afternoon in Paris to pursue your own interests. Toast your Paris sojourn at a farewell dinner and depart the next day.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Jonathan Øverby (Apr. 13)–lyric baritone, conductor, and ethnomusicologist. Thomas Doughton (June)–lecturer with expertise in African American history and the global African diaspora. Kaiama Glover (Oct.)–professor of French and Africana studies. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Charles

Montmartre

Jazz musicians in Paris

A SEINE RIVER CRUISE: PARIS TO NORMANDY

Aboard the 148-guest Amadeus Diamond or the 105-guest CroisiEurope Renoir

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise through the heart of Paris, and take a guided tour of the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles.

• Follow in the footsteps of the Impressionists in charming Honfleur, on the cliffs of Étretat, and at Claude Monet’s home and gardens in Giverny.

• Visit a family-owned cider farm, and sample Norman specialties from cheese to calvados.

• Take a walk on Omaha Beach and visit the Normandy American Cemetery during the 80th anniversary year of the D-Day landings.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Paris, France/Versailles and Conflans-Sainte-Honorine: Fly overnight to Paris and settle into your elegant ship. Gather for a welcome dinner. The next day, travel to the Palace of Versailles, France’s principal royal residence from 1682 until the French Revolution. On a guided visit, explore the King’s and Queen’s Apartments and the extraordinary Hall of Mirrors. Join a guide for a walk through medieval Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, set at the confluence of the Seine and Oise rivers. Amadeus Diamond or CroisiEurope Renoir for the entire journey

Day 4 Rouen: Step back in time at Jumièges Abbey, originally founded in the seventh century and described by Victor Hugo as the most beautiful ruins in all of France. Stop at the Church of Saint Peter and visit the working Benedictine Abbey of Saint Wandrille, built in 649. On an afternoon walking tour of Rouen, view the landmark Gros Horloge and see the magnificent Cathedral of Nôtre Dame, whose facade

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $4,690

Limited singles available on 2025 departures at no extra charge. Airfare not included / Port charges are $395 pp

Dates: May 7–15, Sept. 24–Oct. 2, 2024 & May 12–20, Sept. 8–16, Sept. 15–23, 2025

9 days | Smithsonian has reserved space for 35 guests

was immortalized by Claude Monet. Take in the scenery as you sail toward Le Havre. Days 5–6 Normandy and the D-Day Beaches: Discover the coastal village of Étretat and view the white chalk cliffs and pinnacles painted by Gustav Courbet, Henri Matisse, and Claude Monet. Later, visit a family farm and taste their cider and calvados (apple brandy); tour the Impressionist collection at the Musée Malraux of Modern Art (MUMA) in Le Havre; or stroll the famous boardwalk of Deauville, a fashionable seaside resort since the 1800s. Take a guided walk in picturesque Honfleur, home to the largest wooden church in France, and enjoy time at leisure. Gather for an evening performance of French Chansons. Spend the next day at the poignant sites associated with D-Day. Walk between bunkers and mortar craters at Pointe-du-Hoc and reflect on the events of June 6, 1944 on Omaha Beach. View acre upon acre of simple, white grave markers at the Normandy American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer. Then view World War II footage and artifacts at the excellent Caen Memorial Museum.

Days 7–9 Giverny/Paris: Journey to Giverny to explore the country home of Claude Monet. On a tour of the house, view the artist’s studio-sitting room and admire his collection of Japanese prints. Meander through the exquisite gardens and see the iconic Japanese bridge and ponds filled with water lilies. Awaken in Paris, and board a local boat for a scenic cruise past the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d’Orsay, and Notre Dame. Delve into the rich culture of Paris on a guided walk from the Île de la Cité to the Latin Quarter. During a free afternoon, explore the city as you wish, then toast your Seine voyage at a farewell dinner. Disembark the next morning.

Optional Extension: Add a two-night pre-tour extension in Paris.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Stephen Clancy (May 7)–art and architectural historian. Medline Díaz (Sept. 24)–art historian. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Versailles

Eiffel Tower from the Seine

FRANCE THROUGH THE AGES

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore the fairy tale-like castle town of Carcassonne and rose-colored Albi, birthplace of Henri Toulouse-Lautrec.

• Examine prehistoric cave art at Lascaux IV and cruise the Dordogne River.

• Stroll through Monet’s gardens at Giverny and take a private tour of the Château de Milandes, once the home of entertainer Josephine Baker.

• Venture into the fortified abbey of Mont St. Michel, and visit the evocative sites of the D-Day landings in Normandy.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Toulouse, France and Carcassonne: Fly to France and arrive in Toulouse in time for a welcome dinner. Explore fabled castle town of Carcassonne and learn about the centuries-long restoration of this World Heritage site. Enjoy free time in Toulouse. Plaza Hotel Capitole Toulouse

Days 4–6 Sarlat-la-Canèda and Dordogne: Journey north to Albi, birthplace of Toulouse-Lautrec, and tour its rose-colored old town. Continue to the Dordogne River Valley and settle into medieval Sarlat-la-Canéda. At the International Center for Cave Art, visit Lascaux IV, an exact replica of the cave where prehistoric paintings were discovered in 1940. Gain insights into the life and work of entertainer Josephine Baker on a private tour of her home. Take a guided walk through Sarlat, then explore the cliffside pilgrimage site of Rocamadour. Glide past castles and fortified villages on a Dordogne River cruise.

Au Grand Hotel de Sarlat or Plaza Madeleine Hôtel & Spa

Days 7–9 Saumur and the Loire Valley: Travel to the Loire Valley, where more than 300 châteaux were built during the Renaissance. Stop for a typical country lunch along the way. Check in to your hotel, an 18th-century mansion in Saumur. Over the next two days, experience the history and architectural grandeur of the region on guided visits to Fontevraud Abbey, the resting place of Eleanor of Aquitaine; the Renaissance masterpiece Château de Chenonceau; and Château Clos Lucé, where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years. You’ll also enjoy a memorable lunch in a former troglodyte cave. Hotel Anne d’Anjou

Days 10–12 Mont St. Michel and the D-Day Beaches: In Normandy, venture to the fortified abbey of Mont St. Michel, perched on a rocky tidal island. Examine the 1,000-year-old Bayeux Tapestry, a 224-foot embroidery that depicts the Norman Conquest. Then spend time at Normandy’s poignant World War II sites. Visit the evocative Caen Memorial Museum and retrace the events of June 6, 1944 at Pointe du Hoc, Utah Beach, and the village of Ste-Mère-Eglise. End the day at the Normandy American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach.

Manoir de Mathan or Le Grand Hôtel du Luxembourg

Days 13–15 Giverny and Paris: Immerse yourself in the world of Claude Monet on a visit to his home and gardens at Giverny. Arrive in Paris late in the afternoon and dock near the Champs-Élysées. The next day, tour the city’s highlights, and see world-renowned sculptures at the Rodin Museum. During a free afternoon, explore the City of Lights as you wish; then toast your adventures in France at a farewell dinner. Depart the next day. Hotel Chateau Frontenac

Optional Extension: Add a two-night post-tour extension in Paris.

“France rough the Ages was a feast for the body, mind, and soul!” –David B., TRAVELER

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,997

Single from $8,292

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Apr. 22–May 6, Sept. 9–23, Sept. 30–Oct. 14, Oct. 9–23, 2024 & Apr. 25–May 9, May 14–28, Sept. 10–24, Sept. 29–Oct. 13, 2025

15 days | Limited to 24 guests

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Mary O’Neill (Apr. 22)–art historian. Christopher Brennan (Sept. 9) and Barbara Whitehead (Sept. 30)–historians with expertise in Europe. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Dordogne village

Mont St. Michel

HIGHLIGHTS

NORMANDY

A one-week stay in France

• Experience Omaha Beach and other poignant World War II sites during the 80th anniversary year of the D-Day landings.

• Discover the picturesque harbor town of Honfleur, a favorite subject of painters Claude Monet and Eugène Boudin.

• Explore the fortified abbey of Mont St. Michel, and view the Bayeux Tapestry, an embroidered illustration of the Norman Conquest.

• Sample regional specialties from Calvados to cheese, and join a renowned Norman chef for a cooking demonstration in a private château.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Paris, France/Honfleur:*  Fly overnight to Paris and transfer to Honfleur on the Normandy coast. Meet for a welcome reception and dinner at a popular bistro. The next morning, discover the historic fishing port of Honfleur and its 15th-century wooden church of St. Catherine. Stroll the picturesque Vieux Bassin, or old harbor, where the Seine meets the English Channel, and witness scenes immortalized by Claude Monet and Gustav Courbet. Gather for dinner at a local restaurant. Mercure Honfleur Hotel for the entire journey*

Days 4–5 Mont St. Michel and Normandy’s D-Day Sites: Set atop a rocky tidal island, the fortified abbey of Mont St. Michel dates back to the eighth century. Trace its history as a fortress, monastery, prison, and pilgrimage destination on a guided tour of this World Heritage site, then enjoy free time to explore it on your own. The next day is dedicated to the events of D-Day—which marks its 80th

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,090 Limited singles available on 2025 departures at no extra charge. Airfare not included

Dates: June 7–15, Aug. 31–Sept. 8, Sept. 14–22, Oct. 5–13, Oct. 18–26, 2024 & Apr. 26–May 4, May 17–25, Aug. 23–31, Sept. 13–21, Oct. 4–12, 2025

9 days | Limited to 24 guests

anniversary in 2024. Browse an award-winning exhibition on 20th-century conflicts at the Caen Memorial Museum. Then savor a traditional Norman lunch and sample the region’s Calvados brandy at a local farm. In the afternoon, stroll Utah Beach and tour its excellent museum, then visit the village of St. Mère Église, where American paratroopers landed before dawn on June 6, 1944.

Day 6 Chateau du Bec: Cross the Seine via the remarkable Pont de Normandie on your way to Château du Bec, a privately owned 10th-century château surrounded by lovely parklands. Here, the owners and a local chef welcome you for a delightful immersion into Normandy’s culinary traditions. Watch as the chef prepares delicious dishes adapted from Claude Monet’s recipe books, and savor them over a leisurely lunch. Later, hear from a local expert about the French Resistance during World War II.

Days 7–9 Normandy’s D-Day Sites and Bayeux/Paris: Spend another day tracing the events surrounding the D-Day landings. At Arromanches, see an original Mulberry harbor washed up on the beach, and drive along the coast, learning how the invasion unfolded. Meander among thousands of white crosses and stars at the Normandy American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, and see German bunkers on the cratered cliffs at Pointe du Hoc. Venture to Bayeux the next morning to admire the famous tapestry, which recounts the Battle of Hastings in 1066 through embroidered illustrations. Visit the impressive cathedral before lunch at a local restaurant, then enjoy time at leisure. Celebrate your stay in Normandy at a farewell dinner. Depart from Paris the next day.

*The June 7 and October 18, 2024 departures are based at the Mercure Deauville Centre Hotel in Deauville instead of the Mercure Honfleur Hotel in Honfleur.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Barbara Whitehead (June)–European historian. Paul Sanders (Aug. 31/Oct. 5)–military historian. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Honfleur

Arromanches

ENGLAND’S LAKE DISTRICT

A one-week stay in historic Cumbria

HIGHLIGHTS

• From a waterfront hotel in Bowness-on-Windermere, cruise beautiful Derwentwater, visit castles, and take walks in timeless villages.

• Explore the turrets and observation towers of Hadrian’s Wall, an ancient Roman fortification, and see prehistoric standing stones.

• Take a private garden tour at William Wordsworth’s house at Rydal Mount, and visit the homes of John Ruskin and Beatrix Potter.

• Sample local cheeses at a creamery in the Yorkshire Dales, enjoy a tasting tour at a renowned whiskey distillery.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 U.S./Manchester, England/Bowness-on-Windermere: Take an overnight flight to Manchester and transfer to your lakeside lodging in picturesque Bowness-on-Windermere, your home in the Lake District. Gather for a welcome dinner. Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa for the entire journey

Days 3–4 Lake District: Set out for the northern Lake District with a guide, hearing about the park’s history and geology, as well as its local characters. Visit Grasmere, once the home of William Wordsworth, and the Neolithic stone circle of Castlerigg. Enjoy lunch and a whisky tasting tour at the Lakes Distillery, then embark on a cruise on Derwentwater. The next morning, join a local expert for a lecture on Lake District history, then ascend Wrynose and Hardknott passes, the steepest mountain passes in England. Hike up to the Hardknott Roman Fort for a spectacular view. After lunch at a country inn, journey to beautiful Wastwater. Tour

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,090

Single from $7,690

Includes $250 special savings

Airfare not included

Dates: June 4–12, Aug. 20–28, Sept. 3–11, Sept. 10–18, 2024 & June 3–11, Aug. 26–Sept. 3, Sept. 2–10, Sept. 9–17, 2025

9 days | Limited to 24 guests

Muncaster Castle, a 14th-century family home, and visit its Hawk and Owl Centre.

Days 5–6 Hadrian’s Wall and the Lake District: Drive north out of the park, stopping to visit Lanercost Priory, a 12th-century church with a turbulent past. Arrive at Hadrian’s Wall, a coast-to-coast defensive wall built by Roman Emperor Hadrian to keep “barbarians” at bay. Explore a well-preserved observation tower and discover traces of milecastles and turrets along the wall. Later, visit the Roman Army Museum and the excavated fortress at Vindolanda. On the way back to your hotel, stop for tea at Hartside Pass. Enjoy a full free day in the Lake District, or choose from two morning excursions: a ferry ride and a hike to Wray Castle or a visit to Holehird Gardens, the home of the Lakeland Horticultural Society. Gather for a lecture before dinner.

Day 7 Yorkshire Dales: Journey through the Yorkshire Dales to the market town of Hawes, or stop at Hardraw and walk the rest of the way. Meet up at Wensleydale Creamery to sample local cheeses. Venture further into the Dales, pausing to admire Aysgarth Falls and take a walking tour in lovely Grassington.

Days 8–9 Literary Lake District: Venture to the haunts of Lake District writers and poets on a literary tour. At William Wordsworth’s home at Rydal Mount, enjoy a poetry reading and a private tour of the gardens. See landscapes that inspired Beatrix Potter and Arthur Ransome at Tarn Hows and Coniston Water. Visit Brantwood, the home of Victorian philosopher and writer John Ruskin, and tour the medieval monastic village of Hawkshead, where Wordsworth attended grammar school. Cap off the day at Hill Top Farm, the home of Beatrix Potter. Celebrate your Lake District experience at a farewell dinner. Depart from Manchester the next day.

JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Roff Smith (June 4/Sept. 10)–geologist and archaeologist. Michael Tucker (Aug. 20)–world historian. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Derwentwater

Lake District National Park

HIGHLIGHTS

• Choose from three courses taught by St Andrews faculty: Scottish History: Clans, Outlaws, Revolutionaries, and Myths; Scotland’s Medieval Castles: Window into History; or Great Scottish Writers: From Sherlock Holmes and Treasure Island to Peter Pan

• Explore castles, museums, historic sites, and literary haunts on excursions to Edinburgh, Dundee, and beyond.

• Sample whisky on a distillery tour and enjoy an evening of Scottish music.

• Settle into a residence hall and discover St Andrews in your free time.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 U.S./Edinburgh, Scotland/St Andrews: Fly overnight to Edinburgh and transfer to the historic University of St Andrews. After settling in, join faculty and fellow travelers for a welcome reception and dinner. University of St Andrews residence hallfor the entire journey*

Days 3–4 St Andrews: Begin your chosen course, attending classroom lectures and enjoying topical excursions. Scottish History: explore how myths like the Loch Ness Monster relate to Scottish history. On a walking tour, learn about the role of St Andrews in the Scottish Reformation. Discuss the culture and history of the Scottish clans and visit the V&A Museum in Dundee. Scotland’s Medieval Castles: delve into the dramatic history of St Andrews Castle, then tour the seaside castle and cathedral. Venture to Falkland Palace, a favorite of Mary, Queen of Scots. Great Scottish Writers: examine the influence of Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott on modern Scottish literature; and tour St Andrews’ literary sites. After studying Robert Louis Stevenson, board the tall ship Discovery to imagine the life of Treasure Island’s

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,995

Single from $6,445

Airfare not included

Dates: June 21–28, 2025

8 Days | Limited to 60 guests; the average course size is 10–20 guests

SMITHSONIAN AT ST ANDREWS, SCOTLAND

Long John Silver. Meet up for a tasting tour at a local whisky distillery, and spend your free time exploring St Andrews with new friends.

Day 5 Edinburgh: After morning classes, set out for Edinburgh. Scottish History students will delve into the significance of the Jacobite Uprising before a guided walk in the Old Town and a visit to the National Museum of Scotland. Those studying Scotland’s Medieval Castles will tour Edinburgh Castle, while Great Scottish Writers students trace the legacy of Sherlock Holmes before a literary walking tour including the Writer’s Museum. Return to St Andrews after dinner on your own.

Days 6–8 St Andrews: Delve further into your subjects during two additional days of classes and outings. Scottish History: explore Scotland’s role in the British Empire and the impact of the Scottish Diaspora, then visit the birthplace of Scottish emigré Andrew Carnegie and tour Dunfermline Abbey. Discuss Scottish independence and view historic manuscripts at the St Andrews Special Collections; then meet with a contemporary author. Scotland’s Medieval Castles: hear tales of crown jewels and Oliver Cromwell on an outing to Dunnottar Castle, and visit beautiful Glamis Castle, the childhood home of the Queen Mother. Great Scottish Writers: focus on J.M. Barrie and Peter Pan, and tour Barrie’s birthplace in Kirriemuir. Visit Glamis Castle, which inspired Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Study the “Scottish Renaissance” and see rare books in the university’s archive before a talk by a contemporary author. Enjoy an evening performance of Scottish music and poetry. On your final night, gather for a farewell reception and dinner with St Andrews staff. Depart from Edinburgh the next day.

*Traditional residence halls include rooms with a shared bath. For a supplemental cost, you may upgrade to the Ardgowan Hotel, a three-minute walk from the university. See website for accommodation details.

ST ANDREWS TUTORS

Garry MacKenzie –Scottish History: Clans, Outlaws, Revolutionaries, and Myths.

Sean Murphy–Scotland’s Medieval Castles: Window into History. Paul Malgrati–Great Scottish Writers: From Sherlock Holmes and Treasure Island to Peter Pan

University of St Andrews Edinburgh

PREHISTORIC MYSTERIES OF ENGLAND & IRELAND

Stonehenge to the Aran Islands

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore the stone circles of Avebury and Stonehenge with a local expert and visit the prehistoric settlements at Woodhenge and Durrington Walls.

• See the Cashel Man with an archaeology expert at the acclaimed archaeology wing of the National Museum of Ireland.

• Venture into an ancient passage tomb at Newgrange and hear legends of Ireland’s high kings at the Hill of Tara.

• Walk the Burren with a local author, see the Cliffs of Moher, and venture to mystical Dun Aonghosa in the Aran Islands.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./London, England/Hampshire: Arrive in London on an overnight flight and travel to Hampshire. Settle into a 17th-century country house and meet for a welcome dinner. The next day, discover the World Heritage site of Avebury and Stonehenge. At Avebury, explore the largest stone circle in the world, discuss the site’s significance with a local expert, and examine artifacts at the Alexander Keiller Museum. See the prehistoric mound at Silbury Hill and visit the Neolithic chambered tomb at West Kennet Long Barrow. Gain insights into the latest theories about Stonehenge on a tour with a local expert, and visit Woodhenge and Durrington Walls, where the workers who built Stonehenge are believed to have lived.

Tylney Hall or Oakley Hall Hotel

Days 4–5 Dublin and Newgrange, Ireland: Fly from London to Dublin and enjoy a specially arranged visit to the renowned archaeology building of the National Museum of Ireland. Join an archaeology expert for an in-depth look at Early

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,690

Single from $7,975

Airfare, including the internal flight, is not included.

Dates: Apr. 18–26, Sept. 5–13, Sept. 19–27, 2024 & Apr. 4–12, May 9–17, Sept. 19–27, Oct. 10–18, 2025 9 days | Limited to 24 guests

Bronze Age gold and jewelry, prehistoric weapons and utensils, and Iron Age “bog bodies,” including the famous Cashel Man. The next day, journey north to the World Heritage site of Brú na Bóinne, the “Bend of the Boyne,” where megalithic passage tombs and dozens of smaller prehistoric monuments dot the banks of the River Boyne. Take a guided tour of the Hill of Tara, the seat of Ireland’s high kings, and venture into the inner chambers of the passage tombs at Newgrange and Knowth.

Clontarf Castle Hotel

Days 6–7 Rathcroghan, Galway, and the Aran Islands: Travel across Ireland, stopping to visit the Iron Age site of Rathcroghan, where more than 240 archaeological ruins mark the ancient kingdom of Connaught. Learn about the site’s connection to Halloween before continuing to Galway for an afternoon at leisure. Take a morning ferry to Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. These islands are part of the Gaeltacht, where Irish language and traditions hold strong. Get acquainted with a timeless way of life as you explore the island and delve into the mysteries surrounding Dún Aonghosa, a Celtic ring fort perched at the edge of a sea cliff. The G Hotel

Days 8–9 County Clare and Limerick: Venture to the rugged landscapes of County Clare, where prehistoric sites are scattered among some of Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders. Join a local expert for a walk from the famous Poulnabrone portal tomb into the heart of the otherworldly Burren, encountering ancient sites along the way. End the day at the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. Journey to Limerick and toast your journey into prehistory at a farewell dinner. Depart the next day. The Savoy Hotel Limerick

Optional Extension: Add a three-night pre-tour extension in London.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Michael Parker Pearson (Apr. 18)–archaeologist with specialty in British prehistory. Cassandra Potts Hannahs (Sept. 19)–historian. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Stonehenge

HIGHLIGHTS

• Take a guided tour of St. Patrick’s Cathedral and see the Book of Kells at Trinity College in Dublin.

• Hear a personal perspective on a tour of Inishmore led by an islander, and enjoy traditional Irish music during dinner in Galway.

• Explore spectacular feats of nature: the boglands of Connemara, the lunar-like Burren, the 700-foot-high Cliffs of Moher, and the Ring of Kerry.

• Experience the span of Irish history, from Neolithic dolmens to the sacred Rock of Cashel to 12th-century Kilkenny Castle.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Dublin, Ireland: Arrive in Dublin on an overnight flight and check in to your hotel. Gather for a welcome dinner. Spend a day discovering the city, on a tour of St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Trinity College, home of the extraordinary Book of Kells. During a free afternoon, consider joining your Smithsonian Journeys Expert for a visit to the National Museum of Archaeology. The Shelbourne Dublin Day 4–6 Galway, Connemara, and the Aran Islands: Travel across Ireland, stopping at the sixth-century monastic site of Clonmacnoise. Settle into your hotel in the coastal village of Barna, near Galway City. During a full-day excursion to Connemara, hear the legends of the bogs and visit beautiful Kylemore Abbey. Enjoy traditional Irish entertainment over dinner. Then ride a ferry to Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. Set out with an islander for a tour of its thatched cottages, limestone-covered landscapes, and Dún Aonghasa, and hear a personal perspective on life in the Gaeltacht, where Irish traditions hold strong. The Twelve Hotel

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $7,192

Single from $8,787

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: May 12–24, June 16–28, July 7–19, Aug. 11–23, Sept. 8–20, 2024 & May 18–30, June 15–27, July 13–25, Aug. 14–26, Aug. 31–Sept. 12, Sept. 25–Oct. 7, 2025

13 days | Limited to 24 guests

THE EMERALD ISLE

Days 7–9 County Clare and Killarney: Encounter the iconic Cliffs of Moher, which tower up to 702 feet above the sea and stretch for nearly eight miles. Pass through the moon-like landscapes of the Burren, and visit Poulnaborne Dolmen, a Neolithic portal tomb. Take the ferry to County Kerry and arrive in Killarney. Enjoy dinner with a local family. Ride a traditional horse-drawn jaunting car to Ross Castle, the last stronghold to fall to Oliver Cromwell’s forces. Cruise to Muckross House for a tour and stop in at the Kerry Folklife Centre to learn about traditional bookbinding, pottery, and weaving. Then next day, follow the stunning Ring of Kerry, stopping to take in extraordinary vistas and visit prehistoric sites as well as the Kerry Bog Village. End the excursion with an Irish sheep dog demonstration. Killarney Royal Hotel

Days 10–13 Kilkenny and Dublin: Travel to famous Blarney Castle and discover much more than the legendary kissing stone, exploring battlements and the castle keep, as well as its exotic gardens. Next, experience the Rock of Cashel, once home to the High Kings of Munster. Stay in Kilkenny and explore its medieval heart on a walking tour including the 12th-century Kilkenny Castle. Enjoy time at leisure to discover the town’s craft shops and historic architecture. The next day, tour EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum, where a fascinating interactive exhibition depicts 1,500 years of Irish history. Reach your hotel just outside of Dublin and celebrate your Irish adventure at a farewell dinner. Depart the next day.

The Pembroke Hotel, Barberstown Castle Hotel

Optional Extension: Add a three-night post-tour extension in Belfast.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Christopher Griffin (June 16)–expert in Irish literature. Carol Ann Lloyd-Stanger (Sept. 8)–speaker and author who specializes in early modern history. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Cliffs of Moher

Trinity College Library, Dublin

SCOTLAND’S TREASURES

Featuring the Royal Military Tattoo*

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Art Gallery and take a private, curator-led tour of Pollok House, the Edwardian home of the Maxwell clan.

• Spend a full day discovering the mystical Isle of Skye, and savor a traditional pub lunch in Portree.

• Retrace the turbulent history of the Highlands at beautiful Glencoe and Culloden Moor, and encounter the prehistoric sites of the Pictish Trail.

• Witness a falconry demonstration at a Highlands castle in Kincraig; and on select departures, attend the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Edinburgh, Scotland/Glasgow: Fly overnight to Edinburgh, and transfer by coach to Glasgow. Meet for a welcome dinner. The next day, set out to discover Glasgow’s unique architectural heritage on a morning tour from the Central Station to the Glasgow School of Art, designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Then browse Renaissance and Impressionist works at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Take a private, curator-led tour of the Pollok House, an Edwardian country manor with a superb museum of Spanish art. Explore the Zaha Hadid-designed Riverside Museum. Grand Central Hotel

Days 4–5 Fort Williams and the Isle of Skye: Cruise Loch Lomond on the way to the sweeping landscapes of the Highlands. Visit beautiful Glencoe, the site of the Clan MacDonald massacre in 1692, before arriving in Fort William. Embark on a full-day excursion to the Isle of Skye, stopping en route to visit Glenfinnan

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $7,296

Single from $8,591

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: May 18–29, Aug. 10–21,*

Aug. 31–Sept. 11, 2024 & May 17–28, July 28–Aug. 8,* Aug. 9–20,*

Sept. 6–17, 2025

*These departures include the Royal Miliary Tattoo. 12 days | Limited to 24 guests

Monument honoring “Bonnie Prince Charlie.” Ride the ferry to Armadale, then set out on a scenic drive, passing through the jagged peaks of the Cuillin Hills. Enjoy a pub lunch in the fishing town of Portree. See the iconic Eilean Donan Castle on your return. Nevis Bank Hotel

Days 6–7 Northern Highlands and Inverness: Listen to local lore as you drive the full length of the legendary Loch Ness. Visit the ruins of the 13th-century Urquhart Castle, perched at the water’s edge. At Culloden Moor, learn about the last battle of the Jacobite Rising, then settle into your hotel in Inverness. The next day, follow the Pictish Trail, linking Iron Age and Celtic sites. At Dunrobin Castle and Gardens, witness a falconry demonstration and enjoy a lovely drive along the coast. Macdonald Drumossie Hotel

Day 8 Cairngorms National Park and St Andrews: Start the day in Kincraig, watching a sheepdog demonstration. Spend free time discovering charming Pitlochry, before continuing to the university town of St Andrews, the birthplace of golf. Old Course Hotel

Days 9–12 Edinburgh: Tour St Andrews’ medieval center and sit down to a traditional pub lunch. Journey to Edinburgh and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Discover the Georgian “New Town” and the medieval “Old Town” on a walking tour that includes Edinburgh Castle. You’ll have free time experience Edinburgh as you wish. Select summer departures include an evening at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.* The next day, explore the Royal Mile and visit the State Apartments at the Palace of Holyroods. Gather for a private whisky tasting before a festive farewell dinner. Depart the next day. Tigerlily Edinburgh

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Michael Tucker (May 18)–world historian and educator. Rab Houston (Aug. 31)–expert in modern Scottish history. Jennifer Paxton (Aug. 10)–expert in British and Irish history. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Glencoe

Bagpipers

CELTIC VOYAGE: THE HEBRIDES AND THE IRISH SEA

Aboard the 184-guest Le Dumont-d’Urville or Le Bellot

HIGHLIGHTS

• Delve into lively Cork on a visit to its fortress and old town, or take a tasting tour of the nearby Jameson Distillery.

• Visit Caernarfon Castle in Wales, or meander among rare plants from around the world at Bodnant Garden.

• Trace history in Belfast at the Titanic Belfast Museum, or venture to Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.

• Explore the Inner Hebrides from the early Christian sites of Iona to charming Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.

ITINERARY

Day 1 London, England: Arrive in London and embark the ship, sailing out of the city on the River Thames. Le Dumont-d’Urville or Le Bellot for the entire journey Day 2 Dover: Take a tour of Dover Castle, whose underground tunnels were used during World War II. Alternatively, set out on an excursion to the medieval pilgrimage town of Canterbury, made famous by Chaucer’s tales, and visit its World Heritage-listed cathedral. Or go for a walk atop the famous White Cliffs of Dover.

Day 3 Isle of Wight: Just off the southern coast of England lies the Isle of Wight, once the haunt of Charles Dickens and other literary greats. Go ashore and visit the Osborne House, an opulent mansion left much as it was when Queen Victoria passed away here in 1901.

Day 4 Isles of Scilly: Cruise to the Isles of Scilly, an archipelago of more than a hundred isles off the southwest tip of Cornwall. Visit Tresco Abbey Gardens to see

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $7,040*

Single from $12,030*

Airfare not included

Dates: May 21–29, 2024 & May 4–12, 2025†

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plans. Book early for the highest savings.

†The May 2025 departure follows the same itinerary in a slightly different order.

9 days | Limited to 176 guests

some of the rare plants and flowers that flourish on these islands, or set off on a wildlife cruise on the lookout for rare Atlantic gray seals and sea birds.

Day 5 Kinsale, Ireland: From the charming fishing village of Kinsale, embark on one of several excursions to the dynamic university town of Cork. Visit an 18th-century fort and prison in Cork Harbour before a city tour. Or enjoy a tasting tour of the Jameson Distillery before visiting the city highlights.

Day 6 Holyhead, Wales: Arrive in Holyhead and travel to North Wales, a cradle of Celtic culture where Welsh remains the mother tongue. In the foothills of Snowdonia, visit Bodnant Garden during the bloom of spring. Or take a guided tour of Caernarfon Castle, one of four northern Welsh castles built by Edward I that have been collectively designated a World Heritage site.

Day 7 Belfast, Northern Ireland: In intriguing Belfast, see the stately buildings of the city center and cross Queens University to the celebrated Botanic Gardens. Then tour the Titanic Belfast Museum. Enjoy a pint and traditional dance, stories, and songs in a local pub; or follow Northern Ireland’s coast to its famous sites: Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, Giant’s Causeway, and Dunluce Castle.

Days 8–9 Iona and the Isle of Mull, Scotland/Glasgow: Visit the island of Iona, where Christianity was established in Scotland in AD 563, and tour Iona Abbey. Then board a ferry to the Isle of Mull. Delve into the fascinating history of Clan Maclean at Duart Castle, and explore the charming port of Tobermory. The next day, disembark in Glasgow and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Optional Extension: Add a two-night post-tour extension in the Scottish Highlands or a one-night pre-trip extension in London (2025).

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Our experts on the May 2024 departure are Miriam Davis, an expert in early British history, and Carol Ann Lloyd, a speaker and author who specializes in early modern British history. Visit our website to see experts on the other departure.

Iona Abbey Giant’s Causeway

SCOTTISH ISLES AND NORWEGIAN FJORDS VOYAGE

Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain, Le Bellot, or Le Lapérouse

HIGHLIGHTS

• Experience the mystique of the Isle of Skye, exploring Armadale Castle or the Trotternish Peninsula; and cruise legendary Loch Ness.

• Discover ancient sites in the Orkneys, from the Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae to the Ring of Brodgar.

• Venture to the remote Shetland Islands and discover the 5,000-year-old ruins of Jarlshof, delve into local culture, or hike the Island of Mousa.

• Cruise Norwegian fjords to the glaciers of continental Europe’s largest ice cap, and take a spectacular train journey on the Flåm Railway.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Glasgow, Scotland: Arrive in Glasgow and settle into your cabin in the afternoon. Set sail along the western coast of Scotland.

Le Champlain, Le Bellot, or Le Lapérouse for the entire journey

Day 2 Scottish Highlands: Spend the day immersed in the beauty of the legendary Scottish Highlands. Take a scenic drive along lovely lochs, passing beneath Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the United Kingdom. And cruise the fabled Loch Ness. Alternatively, visit the Glenfinnan monument, view the locks of Neptune’s Staircase, and enjoy a tour and tasting at the Ben Nevis Distillery.

Day 3 Isle of Skye: Discover the island on your choice of excursions. Visit Armadale Castle and its award-winning Museum of the Isles, as well as Eilean Donan Castle; or explore the island from the Trotternish Peninsula to Dunvegan Castle, with a stop at the Skye Museum of Island Life.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,880*

Single from $11,570* / Airfare not included

Dates: June 15–22, 2024 & May 30–June 6, June 21–28, July 4–11, 2025†

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plans. Book early for the highest savings.

†All 2025 departures follow a slightly modified itinerary and the July 2025 departure runs in the reverse. See our website for details. 8 days | Limited to 176 guests

Day 4 Orkney Islands: Set out to explore the archaeological treasures of the Orkneys, including the Ring of Brodgar, the third largest stone circle in the British Isles. See the ceremonial Stones of Stenness and visit the settlement of Skara Brae, the best-preserved Neolithic village in Northern Europe.

Day 5 Shetland Islands: Dock in Lerwick and journey to the archaeological site of Jarlshof, which reveals 5,000 years of human history. Then see breeding puffins, guillemots, and fulmars on the coast. Alternatively, take a walking tour of Lerwick, including the award-winning Shetland Museum and Archives, or ferry to the wildlife-rich Island of Mousa for a hike.

Day 6 Olden, Norway: Arrive in picturesque Olden, perched at the end of a fjord. Choose to walk along Stryn Lake and then ride a cable car to the top of Mount Hoven. Or enjoy a scenic drive to Briksdal Glacier, and approach the glacier by electric “troll car.” Take a walk to the blue-hued face of the glacier and learn about the geological forces that keep the ice in constant motion.

Day 7 Flåm: Board the Flåm Railway for a magnificent journey on the steepest standard-gauge railway track in Europe. Navigate tunnels and switchbacks with ever-changing views of waterfalls, mountain hamlets, and snowcapped mountains; and make a brief stop at Kjosfossen waterfall.

Day 8 Bergen: Disembark in Bergen and transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Optional Extension: Add a one-night extension in Bergen and/or a two-night extension in Edinburgh.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Our experts on the June 2024 departure are geologist and writer Wayne Ranney and Jonathan Øverby, an ethnomusicologist, lyric baritone, and conductor. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Ring of Brodgar, Orkney Islands

Traditional Norwegian boats

CRUISING THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS

Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain or Le Bellot

HIGHLIGHTS

• Venture deep into the fjord lands to spectacular Geirangerfjorden, and sail Lysefjorden to see iconic Pulpit Rock.

• Step into history at the Viking site of Ullandhaug, the oil town of Stavanger, and the 17th-century ironworks at Arendal.

• Admire art nouveau architecture in Alesund, and meander among the wooden houses of picturesque Tvedestrand.

• Spend a day in Gothenburg, Sweden, visiting renowned Museum of Fine Art or the Volvo Museum, where every model since 1927 is on display.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Bergen, Norway: Arrive in Bergen, the gateway to Norway’s fjords, and embark the ship this afternoon. Le Champlain or Le Bellot for the entire journey Days 2–3 Alesund/Geiranger and Hellesylt: Picturesque Alesund was rebuilt after a fire in the early 20th century and is now a showcase of art nouveau architecture. Take a walking tour or see marine life at the unique Atlantic Ocean Park. Alternatively, take a guided electric bike ride through Alesund and its surrounding hills. End the day enjoying the view from Mount Aksla. The next day, cruise into the World Heritage site of Geirangerfjorden and set off on an extraordinary drive through a landscape of snowcapped mountains and emerald-blue lakes. Learn about continental Europe’s largest glacier at the Jostedal Glacier National Park Centre. Or visit a traditional turf-roofed farm and sample the goat cheese produced here. Enjoy free time in the village of Hellesylt.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $7,494*

Single from $12,964*

Airfare not included

Dates: July 20–27, 2024 & June 27–July 4, 2025†

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plans. Book early for the highest savings.

†The June 2025 departure runs in the reverse direction and follows a slightly modified itinerary–see website for details.. 8 days | Limited to 176 guests

Day 4 Olden: Arrive in Olden, located near Jostedalsbreen National Park—home to Europe’s largest ice cap. Choose an easy hike to a viewpoint over Kjenndalen Glacier, and ride a cable car up Mount Hoven for spectacular views and a short walk. Or take a scenic drive to Briksdal Glacier and approach the ice by electric “troll car” before walking to the edge of the glacier.

Day 5 Stavanger and Lysefjorden: Go ashore at Stavanger to visit the Viking site of Ullandhaug. Alternatively, join a guided Nordic walking excursion along a fjord, or hear a recital at the 13th-century Utstein Monastery. Sail the Lysefjorden to view the breathtaking 2,000-foot-tall Pulpit Rock.

Day 6 Arendal: In Arendal, where iron was produced beginning in 1665, take a guided tour of the fascinating Naes Ironworks Museum. Stroll through charming Tvedestrand, where there is a bookshop on nearly every corner. Alternatively, hike along the coast in Raet National Park.

Day 7 Gothenburg, Sweden: Take a panoramic tour of this lively Swedish city, and join a guide for a tour of the world-renowned Museum of Fine Arts and the Fürstenburg Gallery. Or visit the Volvo Museum, which features every Volvo model since 1927 as well as the latest concept cars.

Day 8 Oslo, Norway: Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Optional Extension: Add a one- or two-night extension in Bergen or a one-night pre-tour extension in Oslo (2025).

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Our experts on the July 2024 departure are archaeologist and geologist Peter Bobrowsky and Terje Leiren, a professor emeritus of Scandinavian studies and history. Visit our website to see experts on the other departure.

A PONANT ship navigates Nordfjord

HIGHLIGHTS

A STAY IN HOLLAND

A n Art History Journey from Vermeer to Van Gogh

• Settle into the picturesque town of Haarlem, and visit the Frans Hals Museum, dedicated to Haarlem’s native son.

• Encounter Dutch Masters masterpieces at the Rijksmuseum and see a vast van Gogh collection at the Kröller-Müller Museum, set in a national park.

• View Vermeer’s famous Girl with a Pearl Earring at the Mauritshuis on a tour of The Hague, and admire the daring architecture of Rotterdam.

• Sample cheese in Gouda and poffertjes pancakes, and savor an Indonesian “rice table” dinner.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Amsterdam, The Netherlands/Haarlem: Depart on an overnight flight to Amsterdam and transfer to the quintessentially Dutch town of Haarlem, your home for the week. Meet for a welcome reception and dinner. After a morning lecture, embark on a guided tour of the Frans Hals Museum, set within the poorhouse where the artist spent his last years. Stroll Haarlem’s cobblestoned streets during an afternoon at leisure, then sit down to an Indonesian “rice table” dinner. Amrath Grand Hotel Frans Hals–Haarlem for the entire journey

Days 4–5 Amsterdam/The Hague and Delft: Spend a full day in Amsterdam, beginning with a guided tour of the world-renowned Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces such as Rembrandt van Rijn’s The Night Watch and The Milkmaid by Johannes Vermeer. After lunch on your own, immerse yourself in the remarkable collection of the Van Gogh Museum. Before returning to Haarlem, stop for coffee

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,240

Single from $6,090

Includes $250 special savings

Airfare not included

Dates: Apr. 16–24, Apr. 23–May 1, Apr. 30–May 8, Sept. 10–18, Oct. 1–9, 2024 & Apr. 8–16, Apr. 22–30, Sept. 9–17, 2025

9 days | Limited to 24 guests

and poffertjes, small Dutch pancakes. Travel to the Hague the next day for a guided visit to the Mauritshuis, home to one of the world’s largest collections of Dutch and Flemish paintings. Continue to Delft, Vermeer’s hometown, known for its blueand-white porcelain. Trace the art and history of Delft on a tour of the Museum Prinsenhof Delft. Enjoy your evenings at leisure in Haarlem.

Days 6–7 Hoge Veluwe National Park/Gouda and Rotterdam: Journey to Hoge Veluwe National Park, a wilderness of heath, woodlands, and dunes. Inside the park, visit the Kröller-Müller Museum, home to the second largest van Gogh collection in the world, as well as paintings by Claude Monet, Georges Seurat, Pablo Picasso, and Piet Mondrian. Walk through the sculpture garden and gather for lunch at the Park Paviljoen. Later, learn about contemporary Holland during a talk by a local expert. Take a morning drive to Gouda and stroll through its historic market square. Admire the stained glass at Sint Jan Church and sample varieties of gouda cheese. Next, visit the innovative Markthal in Rotterdam and take in views of the city’s intriguing post-war architecture and busy shipyards on a harbor cruise.

Days 8–9 Amsterdam: Depart Haarlem on a full-day excursion. On spring departures, explore Keukenhof Gardens, where about seven million blossoms— including hundreds of tulip species—cover 80 dazzling acres. Continue to Amsterdam for lunch on your own before a guided tour of the Rembrandt House Museum, set within the artist’s home and studio. On fall departures, begin the day with a tour of the Rembrandt House Museum; then delve into the city’s history on a walking tour of the picturesque canal district. Toast your art-filled adventure at a farewell dinner in Haarlem and depart the next day.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Catherine Scallen (Apr. 16), Henry Luttikhuizen (Apr. 23), Lisa Passaglia Bauman (Apr. 30), Heidi Applegate (Sept. 10), and Aneta Georgievsa-Shine (Oct.)–art historians. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Vermeer’s The Milkmaid

Haarlem windmill

HIGHLIGHTS

WATERWAYS OF HOLLAND AND BELGIUM

Aboard the 160-guest Amadeus Queen, Riva, Imperial, or Cara

• Stroll among seven million blossoms at Keukenhof Gardens.

• Explore the World Heritage site of Bruges and choose a guided tour that focuses on Flemish art, chocolate, or Belgian beer.

• Visit the Delta Works, an innovative system of dams and barriers that protects Zeeland from storm surge.

• View masterpieces at The Hague’s Mauritshuis, see porcelain artisans at work in Delft, or head to Gouda for a cheese tasting.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 U.S./Brussels, Belgium/Antwerp: Depart on an overnight flight to Brussels. Walk through Antwerp, admiring its grand architecture—ranging from baroque to Art Nouveau. End the day with a talk on contemporary Belgium. Amadeus Queen, Riva, Imperial, or Cara for the entire journey

Days 3–4 Bruges/Zeeland, the Netherlands: Spend the day in fabled Bruges. Walk along the canals and winding lanes with a guide, then choose from among three specialized tours. Focus on Flemish art with a visit to the Groeninge Museum; tour a historic, family-owned brewery and enjoy a glass of dubbel or tripel in the brasserie; or visit a chocolate workshop to witness how fine chocolates are made—and taste a few! After time at leisure, join the ship in Zeeland and gather for a welcome dinner.

The next day, encounter the fascinating Delta Works, series of dams and storm surge barriers built to protect Zeeland from rising seas.

Days 5–6 The Hague, Delft, or Gouda/Kampen: After a relaxing morning, set out on the excursion of your choice: head to The Hague and tour its important political sites, then view a world-renowned collection of 17th-century art at the Mauritshuis, home to Johannes Vermeer’s famous Girl with a Pearl Earring Admire the architecture of Old Delft, and visit Royal Delft Porcelain Factory to see master craftspeople at work. Or travel to Gouda for a walking tour and a cheese tasting. Step ashore in medieval Kampen, once an important Hanseatic port. Take a guided walk and board a replica of a 14th-century kogge sailboat at the working shipyard. Alternatively, visit a local brewery for a tour and tasting or venture to Giethoorn and navigate its canals by local boat.

Days 7–9 Amsterdam: Board a glass-topped boat for a cruise through Amsterdam’s World Heritage-listed canals, and enjoy a free afternoon to pursue your interests in Amsterdam. The next day, set out early for the incomparable Keukenhof Gardens. Take a short orientation walk with a guide, then take your time strolling amid seven million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. After free time in Amsterdam, meet for a festive farewell dinner. Disembark the next morning. Optional Extension: Add a two-night extension in Amsterdam and/or a two-night extension in Antwerp.

“What a relaxing and informative tour! Everyone—from the ship’s captain, to lecturers, to follow passengers—provided friendly companionship for this beautiful adventure.” –Martha S., TRAVELER

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $3,890

Limited singles available on 2024 and 2025 departures at no

Airfare not included / Port charges are $395 pp

Dates: Apr. 6–14,* Apr. 10–18,* Apr. 13–21, Apr. 17–25, 2024 & Apr. 23–May 2, Apr. 7–16, Apr. 15–24, Apr. 21–30, 2025†

9 days | Smithsonian has reserved space for 75 guests

Catherine Scallen (Apr. 6) and Mary O’Neill (Apr. 13)–art historians. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Dutch tulip field

Bruges canal

CRUISING THE HISTORIC CITIES OF THE BALTIC SEA

Aboard the 184-guest Le Dumont-d’Urville or Le Lapérouse

HIGHLIGHTS

• Tour the medieval old towns of Tallinn, Estonia, and Visby, on the Swedish island of Gotland—both World Heritage sites.

• Encounter Helsinki’s innovative architecture at Temppeliaukio Church, or visit the World Heritage-listed island fortress of Suomenlinna.

• Meet Nobel Peace Prize laureate Lech Walesa and take a walking tour of historic Gdansk, where he led Poland’s Solidarity movement.

• Discover the cliff-top Hammershus Castle and visit round churches and a glass-blowing workshop on the Danish island of Bornholm.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Stockholm, Sweden: Arrive in Sweden’s magnificent “Venice of the North” and embark the ship. Be on deck as you cruise through the scenic Stockholm Archipelago. Le Dumont-d’Urville or Le Lapérouse for the entire journey Day 2 Helsinki, Finland: In Helsinki, choose to take a ferry to Suomenlinna for a guided tour of this 18th-century maritime fortress and World Heritage site. Or discover Helsinki’s famous architecture on a visit the stately Senate Square and the modernistic Temppeliaukio Church.

Day 3 Tallinn, Estonia: Delve into Tallinn’s World Heritage-designated Old Town on a walking tour. See Toompea Castle and the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the Gothic town hall, step back in time at a medieval apothecary, and visit the craft market at the Dominican Convent. Alternatively, delve into Estonia’s turbulent 20th-century history with a tour of Maarjamäe Palace.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $8,314*

Single from $14,594*

Airfare not included

Dates: July 18–25, 2024 & Aug. 13–20, 2025†

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plans. Book early for the highest savings.

†The August 2025 departure follows a slightly different order, beginning in Helsinki–see website for details.

8 days | Limited to 176 guests

Day 4 Visby, Gotland, Sweden: On the Swedish island of Gotland, venture to the medieval walled city of Visby, once a thriving center of the Hanseatic League. Set off into the cobblestoned streets of this beautifully preserved World Heritage site, lined with original merchants’ dwellings and warehouses. Visit the renowned  Gotland Museum and the rose-filled botanical gardens.

Day 5 Klaipeda, Lithuania: Discover the Lithuanian coast on your choice of three excursions. Stroll among the Old Town of Klaipeda and enjoy a performance of traditional songs and a tasting of Lithuanian dishes. Venture to the Curonian Spit, a World Heritage site, and explore its oldest fishing village. Or learn about Lithuania’s 20th-century history and visit a family-owned bee farm.

Day 6 Gdansk, Poland: Take a walking tour of the charming Old City of Gdansk. Visit the European Solidarity Centre, dedicated to Poland’s civil resistance movement, and see the historic Gdansk Shipyards. Or enjoy a private concert at the Polish Baltic Philharmonic. Meet with former Polish president and Nobel laureate Lech Walesa for a personal perspective on the Solidarity movement.

Day 7 Bornholm, Denmark: Spend the day on the island of Bornholm, once a Viking stronghold. Explore charming Svaneke before an island tour, or venture to the cliff-top ruins of Hammershus castle. In the fishing village of Allinge, visit a smokehouse to sample smoked herring with a cold beer. Watch glassblowers at work at the renowned Baltic Sea Glass workshop, and visit the unusual round church of Østerlars. Day 8 Copenhagen: Disembark after breakfast and fly home.

Add a one-night pre-tour extension in Stockholm (2024) or a two-night extension in Helsinki or Copenhagen (2025).

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Our experts on the July 2024 departure are Professor of Russian and East European Nadia Kizenko and Hugh Neighbour, a former diplomat with expertise in history, culture, and current affairs. Visit our website to see experts on the other departure.

Stockholm

Copenhagen

NORTHERN LIGHTS OVER FINLAND: HELSINKI AND LAPLAND

HIGHLIGHTS

• Encounter the breathtaking architecture of Helsinki and enjoy an authentic Finnish sauna experience.

• Ride the ferry across the Baltic Sea to Tallinn, Estonia and take a guided walk through its medieval Old Town, a World Heritage site.

• Stay in cozy, glass-roofed cabins in northern Lapland and watch for the magical aurora borealis on a nighttime snowshoe outing with a local expert.

• Get acquainted with the culture of the Sámi people on a visit to a reindeer farm.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 U.S./Helsinki, Finland: Depart on an overnight flight to Helsinki and transfer to your hotel upon arrival. Take a short walking tour before a welcome reception and dinner. Hotel U14

Days 3–4 Helsinki and Tallinn, Estonia: Enjoy an introductory lecture and set out to discover this vibrant capital of architecture and design. Visit Helsinki Cathedral; Temppeliaukion church, famously carved into the bedrock; and the astonishing Oodi, an innovative library and public space built to commemorate the centennial of Finland’s independence in 2018. After lunch at leisure, learn about the important role of saunas in Finnish culture and daily life. Take part in an authentic sauna experience, trying both traditional and modern versions, and if you dare, take a dip in the Baltic Sea! The next day, ride the ferry to Tallinn and explore its delightful medieval Old Town on a guided walk. Enjoy dinner on board as you cruise back to Helsinki. Hotel U14

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,390

Single from $7,740

Includes $250 special savings

Airfare not included

Dates: Feb. 1–9, Feb. 15–23, Mar. 1–9, 2025

9 Days | Limited to 24 guests

Days 5–6 Saariselkä, Lapland: After a leisurely morning, board a flight to Lapland and check in to your resort near the village of Saariselkä—150 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Meet for an orientation and get fitted with winter gear, then enjoy free time to settle into your cozy, glass-roofed cabin and discover this winter wonderland. Gather for dinner and a lecture before heading out on a guided snowshoe excursion. Watch the sky for the northern lights as you walk, and warm up with hot drinks and local lore by a bonfire. The next day, travel to the town of Inari in the homeland of the Sámi people. On a guided tour of the Sámi Museum and Nature Center at Siida, learn about the cultural and architectural heritage of Finland’s three Sámi cultures. Visit a Sámi-owned reindeer farm and ride through the forest on a sledge to spot wild reindeer in their natural habitat. Stop in at a herder’s home and hear about everyday life. Northern Lights Village Days 7–9 Saariselkä, Lapland: Set out on your choice of excursion today, including an ice fishing adventure or a wilderness cooking class using wild local ingredients such as fish, berries, and mushrooms. Later, join a local expert for an engaging lecture on the Finnish way of life—and what makes Finland the “happiest country in the world.” Then venture into the surrounding forests to take part in a Finnish tradition of connecting with nature. Enjoy a free day in Lapland to pursue your own interests or join one of the resort’s many optional excursions. In the evening, gather in a kota, or traditional Sámi tent, for a farewell reception and dinner. Fly to Helsinki the next morning and connect to your flight home.

Northern Lights Village

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Steven Williams (Feb. 1)–expert in Solar System science. Roger Launius (Feb. 15)–former associate director for collections and curatorial affairs at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and chief historian at NASA. Michelle Thaller (Mar. 1)–astrophysicist.

Northern Lights, Lapland

ICELAND VOYAGE: LAND OF FIRE AND ICE

Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore the mystical Snaefellsnes Peninsula, from its black-pebble beaches to the iconic peak of Kirkjufell.

• Cross the Arctic Circle on a visit to the birdwatcher’s paradise of Grimsey; and in the Westman Islands, see puffin colonies and beluga whales.

• Encounter spectacular waterfalls and fascinating geothermal features.

• Discover the rugged Westfjords, learning about the local way of life in remote villages and the town of Isafjördur.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Reykjavík, Iceland: Board the ship in Reykjavík and enjoy the scenery as you cruise towards the southern coast. Le Bellot for the entire journey

Day 2 Heimaey: Arrive in the Westman Islands and tour Heimaey, observing the millions of seabirds that summer on the cliffs here—including puffins, fulmars, and guillemots. View Viking farmhouses in Herjólfsdalur Valley and the see the World Heritage site of Surtsey, the Earth’s youngest island. Stop at a puffin nesting ground and visit the fascinating Eldheimar Museum. Alternatively, spend the afternoon at the world’s first beluga whale sanctuary.

Day 3 Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Take in views of the iconic Kirkjufell peak as you arrive in tiny Grundarfjördur. From here, discover the natural wonders of the peninsula, from a black-pebble beach to a mystical glacier made famous by Jules Verne in A Journey to the Center of the Earth. Admire multi-colored lava formations, abundant birdlife, and black lava fields. Or choose to embark on a whale-watching excursion for a chance to see humpback, minke, sperm, and pilot whales.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $8,320*

Single from $11,630*

Airfare not included

Dates: June 15–22, 2024 & July 21–28, 2025

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plan. Book early for the highest savings.

8 days | Limited to 176 guests

Day 4 Grimsey: Iceland’s northernmost inhabited island, Grimsey is bisected by the Arctic Circle. From its only village, Grímseyjarhreppur, set out to explore its lush, emerald hills and encounter thriving populations of seabirds, including puffins, that come to nest on the island’s basalt cliffs from April to August.

Day 5 Akureyri and Lake Myvatn: Dock in Akureyri, Iceland’s second-largest town, and travel to Lake Mývatn. Visit the geothermal field of Namaskard, full of bubbling mud pots, steam vents, boiling springs, and fumaroles; and stroll among the surreal lava formations of Dimmuborgir. Stop at Godafoss, the “waterfall of the gods,” or enjoy the Icelandic tradition of soaking in natural thermal baths.

Day 6 Isafjördur: In the stunning Westfjords region, explore the tiny town of Bolungarvik. Tour the Osvör Maritime Museum, a cluster of restored turf-and-stone fishing shacks, and hear a performance of traditional Icelandic folk songs. Later, visit the Isafjördur Maritime Museum and enjoy a tasting of local specialties. Alternatively, ride a boat to the abandoned village of Hesteyri, a 19th-century whaling community near Hornstrandir Nature Reserve.

Days 7–8 Golden Circle and Reykjavík: Begin your tour of the Golden Circle at the World Heritage site of Thingvellir National Park, where the world’s oldest legislative body first convened in AD 930. Marvel at double cascade of Gullfoss, and visit Geysir, a geothermal area that gave rise to the word “geyser.” Alternatively, enjoy a whale-watching cruise. Back in Reykjavík, admiring sweeping views from the viewing deck of the glass-domed Pearl museum. Disembark the next morning.

Optional Extension: Add a half-day extension to the Blue Lagoon (2024) or a three-night Iceland extension (2025).

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Our experts on the June 2024 departure are astrophysicist Michelle Thaller and Elisabeth Ward, an expert in Scandinavian literature. Visit our website to see experts on the other departure.

Godafoss

Puffins

ADVENTURE IN ICELAND

HIGHLIGHTS

• Encounter Iceland’s iconic waterfalls, including two-tiered Gullfoss, Skogafoss, powerful Dettifoss, and Godafoss—the “waterfall of the gods.”

• Venture to the bubbling, steaming landscapes of Lake Myvatn, discovering massive explosion craters, craggy lava sculptures, mud pools, and more.

• Go whale watching from Husavik or take a bird-watching cruise to Puffin Island (depending on the season).

• Gain insight into Iceland’s geology at the interactive LAVA Centre and the Perlan Museum’s glacier exhibition.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Reykjavík, Iceland/Selfoss and Vik: Fly overnight to Iceland and arrive in the early morning. Transfer to Reykjavík for breakfast with your group before a scenic drive east. Browse the geothermal exhibit at the Hellisheidi Power Plant on the way to your hotel in Selfoss. Gather for a welcome dinner. Learn about Iceland’s geology on a visit to the new LAVA Centre, then view two stunning waterfalls: 200-foot Seljalandfoss and the legend-infused Skogafoss. Enjoy free time for lunch in Vik, then stroll among caves and sea stacks at the black-sand beach at Reynisfjara. Later, see Solheimajokull, a “sliding” glacier that advanced rapidly in the 1990s. Hotel Selfoss

Days 4–5 Akureyri, Lake Myvatn, and Husavík: Return to the airport for a short flight to Akureyri. Continue to the geothermal landscape of Lake Myvatn, and walk among boiling mud pots and steaming fumaroles at Namaskard. Learn the folklore behind the lava formations at Dimmuborgir, and see the explosion crater

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,992

Single from $8,087

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: May 21–31, June 13–23, July 4–14, Aug. 1–11, Aug. 24–Sept. 3, Sept. 26–Oct. 6, Oct. 15–25, 2024 & May 20–30, June 12–22, July 3–13, July 31–Aug. 10, Aug. 28–Sept. 7, Sept. 16–26

Sept. 30–Oct. 10, Oct. 14–24, 2025

11 days |

Limited to 24 guests

at Viti. Spend a morning in Husavík on a bird-watching cruise to Puffin Island or a whale-watching cruise (depending on the season). Head to Vatnajoküll National Park, home to Europe’s largest ice cap, and explore the canyon of Asbyrgi and the unusual Hljodaklettar Echo Cliffs. End the tour at Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls. Fosshotel Mývatn

Days 6–8 Siglufjordur and Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Witness the majesty of Godafoss before time at leisure in Akureyri. Then travel to Siglufjordur for a visit to the Herring and Maritime Museum. As you cross northern Iceland, pass through incredible natural scenery. Visit Glaumbaer, a folk museum featuring authentic turf houses, and see sturdy Iceland horses at a farm in Gauksmyri. Peer into Grabrok Crater, visit the thermal areas of Deildartunguhver, and see Hraunfossar Falls before arriving at your hotel in Húsafell. Spend the next day discovering the windswept beauty of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Explore the abandoned fishing village of Budir, and watch for thousands of nesting seabirds on the cliffs of Arnarstapi. After lunch at a seaside restaurant, stroll the black-pebble beach at Djupalonssandur. Sigló Hótel and Hotel Húsafell

Days 9–11 The Golden Circle and Reykjavík: Experience the sites of the famed Golden Circle, including Thingvellir National Park, the meeting place of the ancient parliament; the two-tiered waterfall known as Gullfoss; and Strokkur Geyser. Back in Reykjavík, visit the interactive glacier exhibit at Perlan, a state-of-the-art museum with an onsite ice cave. Take a tour of the Icelandic capital the next morning, followed by an afternoon at leisure. You may opt to visit the Blue Lagoon. Celebrate your journey at a farewell dinner and depart the next day. Hotel Reykjavik Centrum Optional Extension: Add a two-night post-tour extension in Reykjavík.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Brent Garry (May 21) and Katryn Wiese (Aug. 1)–geologists. Carola Stearns (July 4)–field geologist and geophysicist. Terje Leiren (Aug. 24)–expert in northern European studies and history. Maya Wei-Haas (Sept. 26)– award-winning science reporter. Peter Bobrowsky (Oct. 15)–archaeologist and geologist. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Borgarbyggo

Puffin

Seljalandsfoss

MORE CRUISES TO EUROPE AND BEYOND

We have even more ways to explore historic harbors by small ship—including two brand new itineraries for 2025! Sail to islands across the western Mediterranean, encountering ancient sites and stunning cities in Sicily and the Balearic Islands. Or embark on an epic voyage that traces the coasts of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco before heading to the volcanic archipelago of the Canary Islands. Take a look at some of the wonderful ways you can discover fascinating places while traveling by sea.

Find details—including full itineraries, the Smithsonian Journeys Experts leading these tours, and photo galleries—at SmithsonianJourneys.org/PONANT.

CRUISING THE MEDITERRANEAN:

SICILY, SARDINIA, AND MALLORCA NEW!

Aboard the 264-guest L’Austral

Price: Double from $5,340* / Single from $8,230* / Airfare not included

Dates: Oct. 3–10, 2025

8 Days | Limited to 256 guests

The western Mediterranean is dotted with islands where important vestiges of history stand amid immense natural beauty. Set sail from the baroque gem of Valletta, Malta on a voyage that will have you exploring Greek and Arab-Norman treasures in Sicily, the rose-colored capital of Sardinia, Bronze Age sites in Menorca, and the medieval monuments of Palma de Mallorca. Along the way, visit fascinating archaeological sites, sample local specialties such as marsala, and choose to embark on a street food tour.

LISBON TO THE CANARY ISLANDS BY SEA:

SPAIN, MOROCCO, AND THE

Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot

ATLANTIC ISLES

NEW!

Price: Double from $9,020* / Single from $15,590* / Airfare not included

Dates: Oct. 26–Nov. 8, 2025

14 Days | Limited to 176 guests

Voyage from the southern shores of Iberia to the Canary Islands, encountering a fascinating range of cultures and landscapes. Delve into history in Lisbon, Ronda, and Seville, and explore the timeless souks of Tangiers. Then sail to the islands of the eastern Atlantic to discover charming villages, vineyards, and spectacular scenery shaped by volcanoes. End your voyage in Lanzarote and Tenerife, discovering the unique heritage and dramatic landscapes of the Canary Islands.

Mallorca coast

Cinque Terre, Italy

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

SOUTHERN FRANCE AND THE ITALIAN RIVIERA

Aboard the 184-guest Lapérouse

Price: Double from $5,990* / Single from $8,550* / Airfare not included

Dates: Oct. 2–9, 2025

8 Days | Limited to 176 guests

Embark in Barcelona and sail the length of France’s southern coast, dropping anchor to explore medieval villages, ancient Roman sites, and charming Provençal towns. Continue along the Italian Riviera to the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, and explore gems of art and history in Tuscany on excursions to Pisa, Lucca, Florence, or Volterra.

CRUISING SOUTHERN SPAIN AND PORTUGAL

Aboard the 184-guest Lapérouse

Price: Double from $6,960* / Single from $10,000* / Airfare not included

Dates: Sept. 16–24, 2025

9 Days | Limited to 176 guests

Trace the Iberian coast from Lisbon to Barcelona along the southern shores of Spain, experiencing a rich cultural heritage derived from Spanish monarchs, Moorish kings, and Christian and Jewish traditions. Discover the captivating cities of Andalusia, venturing into the World Heritage-listed Alcázar and Alhambra. Explore magnificent Mallorca, experience the lively seaside city of Palma, and encounter a wide range of architecture in sophisticated Valencia.

LONDON TO LISBON: CRUISING EUROPE’S WESTERN SHORES

Aboard the 184-guest Lapérouse

Price: Double from $6,640* / Single from $11,390* / Airfare not included

Dates: Aug. 30–Sept. 8, 2025

10 Days | Limited to 176 guests

Experience centuries of history from the D-Day landings to the Roman era as you voyage along the coasts of England, France, Spain, and Portugal. Explore the events of World War II on the beaches of Normandy, and trace the critical role of religion in European history at the abbey of Mont St. Michel and the pilgrimage site of Santiago de Compostela. Encounter a wide spectrum of architectural masterpieces, including Porto’s sumptuous Stock Exchange palace and Frank Gehry’s iconic Guggenheim in Bilbao.

ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS BY SEA

Aboard the 184-guest Le Dumont-d’Urville

Price: Double from $10,140* / Single from $17,650* / Airfare not included

Dates: Mar. 27–Apr. 8, 2025

12 Days | Limited to 176 guests

Witness an astonishing sweep of history and culture on a voyage that spans the Pyramids of Giza, the archaeological wonders of Turkey and Greece, and the rich culinary traditions of Cyprus. See King Tutankhamun’s treasures and transit the historic Suez Canal. Trace history at the Minoan Palace of Knossos on Crete and the Greco-Roman city of Ephesus in Turkey; and visit the World Heritage site of Paphos in Cyprus.

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plans. Book early for the highest savings. Airfare is not included Ephesus, Turkey

Tower of Belém, Lisbon

THE AMERICAS

Our trip was a life-changing dream adventure—it broadened our outlook and enjoyment of the world. We’re so glad we had the chance to experience it!

–Eileen and Michael R. TRAVELERS ON MACHU PICCHU AND THE GALÁPAGOS

CRUISING ALASKA’S INSIDE PASSAGE

Aboard

the 264-guest Le Soléal

HIGHLIGHTS

• Search for humpback whales feeding off the ship’s bow and brown bears foraging for their next meal in Misty Fjords National Monument.

• Delve into the region’s diverse cultural heritage, learning about the traditions of the native Tsimshian and Tlingit peoples.

• Venture deep into Endicott Arm to the immense ice wall of the Dawes Glacier.

• See one of the world’s largest totem poles in Kake, and walk trails lined with intricately carved totem poles in Sitka National Historical Park.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada: Arrive in the vibrant city of Vancouver and embark the ship. Le Soléal for the entire journey

Day 2 Johnstone Strait: Trace the eastern shores of Vancouver Island, following the narrow Johnstone Strait and watching for wildlife. This deep, glacier-carved channel is home to the world’s largest pod of resident orcas, as well as salmon, baleen whales, and harbor seals.

Day 3 Alaska’s Inside Passage: Enter Alaska’s Inside Passage this morning, watching for Dall’s porpoises, bald eagles, and humpbacks. Your first port of call is Metlakatla, a native Tsimshian settlement. Visit with local residents to learn about the culture’s rich artistic heritage, and enjoy a traditional performance.

Day 4 Misty Fjords National Monument, Alaska: Explore the magnificent Misty Fjords National Monument, where waterfalls tumble over cliffs, splashing

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,650*

Single from $11,470*

Includes one-way air from Sitka to Seattle, but airfare to Vancouver and from Seattle is not included.

Dates: July 5–13, July 20–28, 2024

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plan. Book early for the highest savings.

9 days | Limited to 256 guests

thousands of feet to the fjords below. Be on the lookout for brown bears on the rugged shores, and watch for orcas and harbor seals.

Day 5 Petersburg: Drop anchor at Petersburg, a charming fishing village only accessible by small boats. View ancient petroglyphs left by the native Tlingit people and watch a traditional dance performance. Then set off on a hike in the Tongass National Forest, a 17-million acre stretch of wilderness that harbors glaciers and the world’s largest temperate rainforest.

Day 6 Kake and Endicott Arm: In the ancient village of Kake, view one of the largest totem poles in the world. Here we also hope to have an opportunity to watch black bears fishing for salmon at a nearby creek. This afternoon, cruise the narrow fjord of Endicott Arm, which cuts deep into the mainland, ending in the arctic-blue ice of Dawes Glacier. Navigate icebergs at the foot of the glacier and watch for ice calving off the towering ice wall.

Day 7 Point Adolphus and Elfin Cove: As the ship rounds Point Adolphus, be on deck to observe the humpbacks that come to feed in the rich waters off these shores. Visit the fishing village of Elfin Cove, where a local resident joins you on board to discuss everyday life in this remote Alaskan fishing outpost.

Days 8–9 Sitka and Seattle, Washington: Set out on a local boat to explore the abundant wildlife and islands surrounding Sitka or take a walk through town, visiting craft shops and the onion-domed St. Michael’s Cathedral. Meander among historic totem poles at Sitka National Historical Park, or visit the impressive Alaska Raptor Center. The next day, take a charter flight to Seattle and connect with your flight home.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Our experts on the July 20 departure include Nick Pyenson, curator of fossil marine mammals at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Visit our website to see additional experts.

Humpback breaching

EXPLORE NORTH AMERICA’S NATIONAL PARKS

Delve into the fascinating natural and cultural history of North America’s national parks, discovering remote wilderness areas and enduring indigenous cultures with our experts. From the powerful geology of the Grand Canyon to the wildlife of Alaska’s Denali, gain a deeper understanding of natural wonders as you walk, hike, float, and drive through spectacular landscapes.

Find full itineraries, the Smithsonian Journeys Experts leading these tours, photo galleries, and other details at SmithsonianJourneys.org.

ALASKA’S NATURAL WONDERS: DENALI TO KENAI FJORDS

Price: Double from $8,297 / Single from $10,092

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: June 4–14, July 9–19, Aug. 6–16, Aug. 25–Sept. 4, 2024 & June 3–13, July 10–20, Aug. 7–17, Aug. 21–31, 2025 11 days | Limited to 23 guests

Immerse yourself in Alaska’s natural splendor, exploring glaciers and wildlife in three extraordinary national parks—Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias, and Kenai Fjords— and delving into Alaska’s rich heritage in Anchorage.

THE NORTHERN ROCKIES

Featuring Glacier, Banff, and Jasper National Parks

Price: Double from $6,851 / Single from $8,546

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: June 15–25, July 3–13, Aug. 24–Sept. 3, 2024 & June 14–24, July 9–19, Aug. 25–Sept. 2, 2025 11 days | Limited to 24 guests

Discover the spectacular landscapes of the Northern Rocky Mountains during leisurely hikes and drives through Glacier, Banff, and Jasper National Parks—all World Heritage sites.

BRYCE, ZION, AND THE GRAND CANYON

Price: Double from $5,495 / Single form $6,690

Airfare not included

Dates: Apr. 21–May 1, May 15–25, Sept. 4–14, Oct. 6–16, 2024 11 days | Limited to 24 guests

Experience the majesty of Arizona and Utah’s canyon country on a journey to three iconic national parks—Bryce, Zion, and the Grand Canyon—and enjoy outdoor adventures in Sedona and Lake Powell.

TREASURES OF YOSEMITE

Price: Double from $4,995 / Single from $6,195

Airfare not included

Dates: May 11–17, June 1–7, Oct. 5–11, 2024

7 days | Limited to 24 guests

Yosemite National Park is home to some of the most magnificent scenery in the American West. During leisurely hikes, discover imposing sequoia trees, towering cliffs, expansive vistas, and cascading waterfalls that comprise this World Heritage site, located in northern California.

YELLOWSTONE IN WINTER

Price: Double from $5,995 / Single from $7,245

Airfare not included

Dates: Jan. 4–9, Jan. 28–Feb. 2, Feb. 13–18, 2025

6 days | Limited to 16 guests

When winter comes, Yellowstone National Park is transformed into a snowy wonderland. Wildlife is easier to spot and the park is open only to vehicles that can travel on snow, keeping the crowds at bay. Discover this national treasure from the comfort of heated snow coaches, and explore by snowshoe and on foot.

YELLOWSTONE AND THE TETONS

Price: Double from $6,250 / Single from $7,925

Airfare not included

Dates: July 6–12, Aug. 31–Sept. 6, Sept. 16–22, 2024

7 days | Limited to 18 guests

Discover the wonders of Wyoming’s wild places, from Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872, to Grand Teton National Park. Enjoy leisurely walks or more strenuous hikes in both parks; learn about geology; and observe plentiful wildlife, including wolves, coyotes, grizzly and black bears, moose, bison, and more.

Banff National Park

Denali mountain

Coyote in Yellowstone

Yosemite National Park

Yellowstone National Park

Grand Canyon National Park

A VOYAGE ALON G THE GREAT LAKES

Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore all five of the Great Lakes, and ride a boat into the spray of Niagara Falls.

• Navigate the Thirty Thousand Islands of Georgian Bay by local boat, or discover the unusual geology of Killbear Provincial Park.

• Go hiking on Manitoulin Island, kayak through wetlands on Kagawong River, or visit the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation.

• Tour the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum or Museum Ship Valley Camp in Sault Ste. Marie, and explore timeless Mackinac Island.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Toronto, Ontario, Canada: Arrive in cosmopolitan Toronto, Canada’s largest city, and settle into your cabin. Set sail on Lake Ontario in the early evening. Le Champlain for the entire journey

Day 2 Port Colborne/Niagara Falls, U.S.: Transit the Welland Canal and arrive in Port Colborne early in the morning. Drive through Chippawa, site of an important battle in the War of 1812, on the way to one of the most famous sites in North America: Niagara Falls. This group of three waterfalls straddles the border between Ontario and New York. Board a specially designed vessel for an exhilarating ride to within feet of Horseshoe Falls, the largest and most powerful of the falls. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon cruising on Lake Erie.

Day 3 Detroit and the St. Clair River: Sail right through Detroit as we navigate the Detroit River, an important commercial waterway linking Lake Erie and Lake

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $7,650*

Single from $9,690*

Airfare not included

Dates: Aug. 28–Sept. 4, Oct. 11–18,† 2024 & Sept. 17–24, 2025

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plan. Book early for the highest savings.

†The October 2024 departure runs in the reverse direction.

8 days | Limited to 176 guests

St. Clair to Lake Huron. Enjoy panoramic views of the skyscrapers of the former Motor City, and admire the mile-long Ambassador Bridge, a steel suspension bridge that spans the river—and two countries. Cruise the St. Clair River to Lake Huron.

Day 4 Parry Sound and Georgian Bay, Canada: One of the largest freshwater lakes in the world, Lake Huron separates Michigan’s Upper Peninsula from Ontario. Comprising the main lake, Saginaw Bay, the North Channel, and Georgian Bay, Lake Huron offers a variety of coastal landscapes, from lush woodlands and rocky crags to the spectacular cliffs. Dock in Parry Sound and set out on the excursion of your choice. Navigate Georgian Bay and the Thirty Thousand Islands aboard a local boat, exploring the maze of bays, inlets, and shoals that lie along the southern edge of the Precambrian Canadian Shield. Alternatively, take a nature walk in Killbear Provincial Park, a World Heritage Biosphere Reserve, discovering its unusual eology and flora and fauna as you take in beautiful views of Georgian Bay.

Day 5 Little Current and Manitoulin Island: Go ashore in Little Current, the gateway to Manitoulin Island, the largest freshwater island in the world. Choose from three excursions: Get acquainted with the indigenous Ojibwe people on a visit to the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation. Learn about traditional crafts like beading and making dreamcatchers; take part in a smudging ceremony; and watch a demonstration of a traditional powwow. Or hike the Cup and Saucer Trail to the highest point on the island and take in incredible views. Then sample Canadian wines, beers, and cheeses, along with locally smoked fish. Alternatively, set off on a kayaking expedition on the upper Kagawong River, paddling through wetlands and watching for wildlife. Walk the riverside trail to the viewing platform for Bridal Veil

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Our experts on the August 2024 departure are maritime history author Frederick Stonehouse and geology and oceanography professor Katryn Wiese. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Niagara Falls

Toronto

Falls, and stop at a family-owned chocolate business for a tasting.

Day 6 Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, U.S.: From Sault Ste. Marie on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, take a scenic drive to Tahquamenon Falls State Park to view the stunning Upper and Lower Falls and enjoy a forest walk. Visit the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum and the lightkeeper’s quarters at Whitefish Point Light Station, in continuous operation for 155 years. Or choose an excursion to the Sault Lock Viewing Station and Interpretive Center to experience the engineering marvel of the Soo Locks. Visit the Valley Camp Museum Ship, a freighter that served on the Great Lakes for almost 50 years and now holds artifacts, paintings, and other items related to the maritime history of Lake Superior. Cruise to the Soo Locks, where your chartered boat is raised 21 feet to enable it to enter Lake Superior. Return to the harbor via the historic Canadian Lock, and sail past St. Mary’s rapids to Sault Ste. Marie.

Day 7 Mackinac Island and Lake Michigan: Step back in time on tiny Mackinac Island, a former fur trading center that was originally inhabited by American Indians, then occupied by French and British colonists. Climb aboard a horse-drawn carriage for a guided tour of the island, passing Victorian houses and the iconic Grand Hotel, which has hosted five U.S. presidents, Thomas Edison, and Mark Twain. Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Huron from Arch Rock. Then venture into the living museum of Fort Mackinac, held under siege during the War of 1812. See exhibits and re-enactments that illustrate what life was like for the families who lived in this army outpost. In the afternoon, sail Lake Michigan past cliffs, beaches, and dunes as far as the eye can see.

Day 8 Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Disembark in Milwaukee and transfer to airport for your flight home.

Optional Extension: Add a one-night extension in Toronto.

“ e ship was beautiful, the service was incredible, the speakers were very interesting, our cabin was very comfortable with plenty of room, and the food was delicious!”

–Nicola N., TRAVELER

Wawatam Lighthouse

VOYAGE ALONG THE S T. LAWRENCE: FROM QUÉBEC TO THE

HIGHLIGHTS

• Experience the charm of Montreal and Québec with expert guides.

• Go whale watching in Tadoussac and see the geological wonders along the coast of Percé.

• Get acquainted with French-derived Acadian culture on the remote Îles de la Madeleine.

• Explore the World Heritage-listed fishing town of Lunenberg and meet with an artist at a museum in Eastport, Maine.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 Toronto, Ontario, Canada and the St. Lawrence River: Board the ship in Toronto. Enjoy the ship’s many amenities and attend lectures by your experts as you cross Lake Ontario. Le Champlain for the entire journey

Days 3 Montréal, Québec: Experience Old Montréal on a walking tour or take in sweeping views from Parc du Mont-Royal. Alternatively, visit the city’s world-class museums, or take a street art tour on Saint Laurent Boulevard.

Day 4 Québec City: In Québec City, founded in the 16th century, take a guided walk along cobbled lanes steeped in Old World charm and explore historic Battlefields Park, where the British defeated the French during the Battle of Québec. Or see the impressive Montmorency Falls and take a scenic drive through the picturesque villages of Québec, stopping to sample local flavors.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $13,630*

Single from $14,110*

Airfare not included

Dates:

Days 5–6 Tadoussac/Percé: The salty, rich waters around Tadoussac draw 13 cetacean species—including belugas, humpbacks, and blue whales. Visit the Marine Mammal Interpretation Center, then set out in Zodiacs on a whale-watching excursion. The next day, go ashore to admire views of the natural arch known as Percé Rock, or hike the trails of the Percé Global Geopark.

Day 7 Îles de la Madeleine: Spend a day on the Îles de la Madeleine, an archipelago in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence known for its sandy spits and vermillion cliffs. Enjoy a cider tasting at a family-owned apple orchard, discover the islands’ Acadian roots at the Musée de la Mer, and admire coastal views from Cap Hérissé Lighthouse. Or hike amid dunes in Pointe de l’Est National Wildlife Area.

Days 8–9 At Sea/Lunenburg, Nova Scotia: Watch for marine and birdlife on deck and hear talks from your experts. Arrive in the World Heritage site of Old Lunenburg, a fishing village of 18th-century wooden houses and original British urban planning. Set off on a walking tour and learn about fishing and shipbuilding traditions at the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic.

Days 10–12 Eastport, Maine, U.S./Boston: Explore the quaint shops and galleries of historic Eastport. Chat with an artist-in-residence at a local museum, admire fall foliage on a scenic hike, or embark on a whale-watching excursion. Enjoy a farewell dinner on board, and disembark in Boston on your final morning.

Optional Extension: Add a one-night pre-tour extension in Toronto.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. The experts on the October 2024 departure include naturalist and educator David Catlin. Visit our website to see additional experts.

SEASCAPES OF THE CANADIAN MARITIMES

HIGHLIGHTS

• Discover timeless Lunenburg and the storied Fortress of Louisbourg, and see the inventions of Alexander Graham Bell at his estate in Baddeck.

• Embark on whale-watching cruise on the Bay of Fundy, and explore the unusual coastal geology of Hopewell Rocks.

• Discover the musical traditions of the French Acadians on Prince Edward Island, and visit Green Gables Heritage Place, the setting of the Anne of Green Gables stories.

• Savor a lobster dinner aboard a working lobster boat and sample specialty scallops in Digby.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 U.S./Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada and Lunenburg: Arrive in Halifax and check in to your waterfront hotel. The next morning, meet the group for breakfast in Peggy’s Cove with views of the famous lighthouse. Set off on a walking tour of the World Heritage site of Lunenburg, a fishing village settled by the British in 1753, and enjoy lunch there on your own. Return to Halifax for a welcome dinner. Halifax Marriott Harbourfront

Days 3–5 Saint John, New Brunswick and the Bay of Fundy: Journey to Grand-Pré National Historic Site, and explore the history and culture of Nova Scotia’s early French Acadian settlers. Stroll through the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens, and see a reconstructed Acadian house. After lunch in Digby, the “scallop capital of the world,” take the ferry across the Bay of Fundy to Saint John. Tour North America’s oldest city, seeing historic landmarks and the Old City Market, in

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $7,147

Single from $8,442

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: June 9–20, July 28–Aug. 8, Sept. 4–15, 2024 & June 1–12, July 27–Aug. 7, Sept. 3–14, 2025 12 days | Limited to 24 guests

operation for more than 150 years. Embark on a whale-watching cruise on the Bay of Fundy, where 12 species can be spotted. The next day, encounter the wild rock formations of Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park and head to Shediac for a lobster dinner aboard a working lobster boat. Delta Hotels St. John, Hotel Shediac

Days 6–7 Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island: On Prince Edward Island, learn about the rich Acadian culture. Continue to Charlottetown, known as the Birthplace of Confederation for its role in securing Canada’s independence from Britain. See the city’s historic highlights on a guided tour and enjoy free time to explore. Visit Green Gables Heritage Place, the 19th-century farm that was the setting for L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables novels. Explore Prince Edward Island National Park, then enjoy afternoon tea and browse fine Canadian handicrafts at the Dunes Studio Gallery and Café. Rodd Charlottetown

Days 8–10 Cape Breton Island: Board a ferry to the mainland and drive to Cape Breton Island. In Baddeck, stop in at the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site to see Bell’s drawings and inventions such as the hydrofoil boat and the AEA Silver Dart flying machine. Spend a day following the Cabot Trail through spectacular Cape Breton Highlands National Park with a local guide. Then visit the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, a living history museum, and delve into its dramatic history on a guided tour. The Simon Hotel Sydney

Days 11–12 Halifax, Nova Scotia: On the way back to Halifax, stop for lunch on your own at the popular Masstown Market. Celebrate your Canadian Maritimes adventure at a farewell dinner and depart the next day. Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Optional Extension: Add a two-night post-tour extension in Halifax.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

David Catlin (June 9)–naturalist and educator. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Lobster traps

Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse

COSTA RICA TREETOPS AND TRAILS

An Active Journey

HIGHLIGHTS

• Meet a biologist at the Tirimbina Rainforest to learn about rainforest ecology, rare species, and conservation efforts.

• Go on a rainforest hike or canyoneering adventure at Arenal Volcano, soak in hot springs, and visit a coffee farm.

• Venture into the canopy of Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve on hanging bridges or embark on a zip-lining and rappelling adventure.

• Hike the jungle trails of Manuel Antonio National Park with a naturalist and explore the park’s pristine beaches at your leisure.

ITINERARY

Day 1 U.S./San José, Costa Rica: Arrive in San José and transfer to your hotel in the city center. Gather this evening for a briefing and welcome dinner at a nearby restaurant. Gran Hotel Costa Rica

Days 2–3 Tirimbina and Arenal: Travel to the Tirimbina Rainforest Center, and join a biologist on rainforest paths that straddle the Sarapiquí River, learning about rainforest ecology, rare species, and conservation efforts. Visit a community coffee cooperative and savor a typical Costa Rican lunch. In La Fortuna, located at the foot of Arenal Volcano, settle into your hotel and enjoy a soak in nearby hot springs. The next day offers two options: rappel down waterfalls, swim in natural pools, and hike through the rainforest on a canyoneering adventure. Or take a naturalist-led hike near the base of Arenal Volcano to observe birds, monkeys, and other wildlife. The afternoon is at leisure. Lomas del Volcan

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $3,349

Single from $4,449

Airfare not included

Dates: May 11–18, July 13–20, Dec. 14–21, 2024 & Jan. 11–18, Feb. 15–22, Mar. 15–22, 2025 8 days | Limited to 18 guests

Days 4–5 Monteverde Cloud Forest: Cross Lake Arenal by private boat and continue into the highlands, hearing from a naturalist about the flora and fauna and local history. Arrive at Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and take a guided walk along hanging bridges to spot wildlife in the treetops. Or embark on a canopy adventure that features a Tarzan swing, a giant rappel, and a zip line. The next day, join a local guide for a nature walk in the cloud forest, getting a closer look at orchids, frogs, and unusual plant species. Take the rest of the afternoon to pursue activities of your choosing. El Establo Mountain Hotel

Days 6–8 Manuel Antonio National Park: En route to the Pacific Coast, stop at a farm to meet the farmers and pick produce from their orchards and gardens. After swimming in a nearby rainforest waterfall, return to the farm for a lunch featuring the produce you picked earlier. Later, check in to your resort, set on a wildlife refuge close to the beach. Take morning walk with an expert naturalist in Manuel Antonio National Park, on the lookout for monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and a plethora of bird species. Learn about efforts to preserve this rainforest and walk along some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches. Enjoy the rest of the day to relax on the beach or take part in one of the many optional activities offered here such as kayaking and a sunset catamaran cruise. Celebrate your Costa Rican adventure at a farewell dinner and depart from San José the next day.

Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge

ABOUT THIS ACTIVE JOURNEY

Activity Level: Light

This is a light level Active Journey that features 2 to 5 miles of walking or easy hiking per day—as well as options for zip-line rides, canyoneering, canopy walks, and kayaking—and will be led by an engaging trip leader. Visit our website for details about activity levels.

Manual Antonio National Park Squirrel monkey

CRUISING THE CARIBBEAN’S WINDWARD ISLANDS

Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain

HIGHLIGHTS

• Experience Dominica, the “Nature Island,” on a hike to spectacular viewpoints, a boat ride on the Indian River, or a tasting tour of a family-owned chocolate factory.

• Go island-hopping in the mostly uninhabited archipelago of Les Saintes, watching for wildlife and swimming and snorkeling.

• Take a jeep tour of Bequia in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, or sail a catamaran around neighboring islands.

• Snorkel or dive off the tiny island of Mayreau and in Tobago Cays Marine Park.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia: Arrive in St. Lucia and board the ship in Vieux Fort, where two pointed volcanic peaks—the Gros and Petit Pitons—jut  majestically out of the sea. Le Champlain for the entire journey

Day 2 Portsmouth, Dominica: Explore the Caribbean’s “Nature Island” on a variety of excursions. Hike through a bird sanctuary, view cacao farms and enjoy a tour and tasting at a sustainable chocolate factory, or watch for wildlife as you cruise among the mangroves of enchanting Indian River.

Day 3 Les Saintes, Guadeloupe: Go sailing on a local boat amid the French islands known as Les Saintes, watching for turtles and seabirds, and stopping to swim and snorkel. Alternatively, take a guided tour of Fort Napoléon and see how traditional boats are made at the shipyards of Marigot Bay.

Days 4–5 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: Discover the island of Bequia

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,780*

Single from $10,670*

Airfare not included

Dates: Jan. 30–Feb. 7, 2025

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plan. Book early for the highest savings.

9 days | Limited to 176 guests

on a jeep tour, exploring picturesque streets of lively Port Elizabeth. Take in views of Admiralty Bay from the remains of 18th-century Hamilton Fort; then meet the owner at the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary and to hear about efforts to raise and release endangered hawksbill sea turtles. Or set off on a catamaran cruise and drop anchor to snorkel the reefs and swim. Enjoy a full day on the tiny island of Mayreau to swim, stroll the beach, and snorkel or scuba dive among the reefs. Gather for a barbecue lunch with a local steel band on a private beach.

Day 6 Grenada: Set out on a full-day island tour, exploring rainforest waterfalls, nutmeg and cacao plantations, and a stunning crater lake. Visit the world-renowned Diamond Chocolate factory and enjoy a Creole lunch at the historic Belmont Estate. Alternatively, hike among towering mahogany trees and tropical flora and fauna in Grand Etang National Park or board a catamaran and snorkel at an underwater sculpture park.

Day 7 Tobago Cays: Snorkel, swim, and dive among the five uninhabited isles of Tobago Cays—a protected marine park whose turquoise lagoons and fringing reefs provide a haven for a wide range of marine life, including sea turtles, colorful sponges, conchs, and tropical fish.

Days 8–9 Bridgetown, Barbados and Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia: Arrive in Bridgetown, the World Heritage-listed capital of Barbados, known for its colonial architecture. Go snorkeling and swimming among sea turtles or tour the island’s historic sites. Toast your Caribbean adventure with a glass of the island’s famous rum. The next day, disembark in Saint Lucia and transfer to the airport.

Optional Extension: Add a two-night pre-tour extension in St. Lucia.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. The experts on this cruise include field geologist and geophysicist Carola Stearns. Visit our website to see the additional expert.

Bequia

PANAMA AND COSTA RICA BY SEA: THE NATURAL WONDERS OF CENTRAL AMERICA

Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot

HIGHLIGHTS

• Make a full daylight transit of the Panama Canal, one of the greatest wonders of engineering in history.

• Visit the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s Punta Culebra Nature Center on a specially arranged tour guided by Smithsonian staff.

• Explore World Heritage-listed Darién National Park, and visit a village of the indigenous Emberá people to learn about their rich culture.

• Go snorkeling among coral reefs in Panama’s remote San Blas Islands.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Colón, Panama: Embark the ship in Colón, and sail east along Panama’s coast. Le Bellot for the entire journey

Day 2 San Blas Islands: Enjoy a day to explore the San Blas Islands, a string of more than 300 islands and cays governed by the indigenous Kuna people. Stroll the long white sand beaches, and go swimming and snorkeling amid an incredible array of marine life. Meet members of the Guna community and learn about their traditions, from their distinctive dress to handicrafts.

Day 3 Panama Canal: Today, set off on daytime transit of the Panama Canal. This marvel of engineering was begun by the French in 1881 but completed by the United States and opened in 1914. Delve into the dramatic history of its construction and engineering as you pass through three levels of locks.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,054*

Single from $11,404*

Airfare not included

Dates: Jan. 6–13, 2025

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plan. Book early for the highest savings.

8 days | Limited to 176 guests

Day 4 Darién National Park: Venture into the World Heritage site of Darién National Park, where indigenous peoples live among extraordinary biodiversity. Ride Zodiacs to Playa Muerto, a small coastal village of the Emberá people, and meet the chief to learn more about this culture, which has changed little over the centuries. Witness everyday customs and traditional dances, and opt for a short hike to a nearby waterfall.

Days 5–6 Panama City/At Sea: Discover this attractive capital city, founded in 1519 by Spanish explorers and rebuilt in the late 17th century by the French. Tour the Biomuseo, designed by architect Frank Gehry, and view its exhibition on Panama’s ecology—executed by scientists from the Smithsonian Institution and the University of Panama. Then take a specially arranged tour of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s Punta Culebra Nature Center, an open-air museum dedicated to marine science and conservation. Spend a relaxing day at sea, taking advantage of the ship’s superb amenities as you sail toward Costa Rica.

Days 7–8 Quepos, Costa Rica and Puntarenas: From Quepos, venture into Manuel Antonio National Park with a naturalist on the lookout for sloths, several species of monkey, toucans, terns, and more. Emerge from the rainforest and enjoy time to swim and relax in the sand. Alternatively, choose a rafting adventure on the Savegre River or a riverboat cruise among the mangroves. The next day, disembark in Puntarenas and transfer to the airport.

Optional Extension: Add a three-night post-tour extension in Costa Rica.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. The experts on this cruise include Hugh Neighbour, a former diplomat with specialty in political and economic affairs. Visit our website to see the additional expert.

San Blas Islands

Panama Canal locks

HIGHLIGHTS

CRUISING THE AMAZON WATERWAYS

Aboard the 44-guest Delfin III

• Experience the highlights of Lima, from the world-class Museo Larco and the artsy Barranco district to its stunning colonial manors.

• Sail Amazon waterways on a 4-night cruise on the elegant Delfin III, enjoying naturalist talks, tastings, and cooking classes on board.

• Explore Pacaya Samiria National Reserve from its blackwater lagoons to its canopy, watching for pink dolphins, squirrel monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds.

• Get acquainted with the everyday life of the ribereños on a visit to a traditional village along the riverbanks.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 U.S./Lima, Peru: Fly to Lima and transfer to your hotel. Visit Plaza Mayor and the Convent of San Francisco, and tour the 16th-century Casa Aliaga, a private colonial home. Enjoy lunch at the Museo Larco before a guided tour of its renowned pre-Columbian art collection. Gather for a welcome dinner accompanied by local musicians. Pullman Miraflores Hotel

Day 3 Lima: Explore bohemian Barranco, a 19th-century beach town filled with street art. See the Bridge of Sighs, and visit the Jade Rivera Museum, dedicated to a celebrated muralist. The rest of the day is at leisure. Pullman Miraflores Hotel

Day 4 Iquitos/Nauta: Take a morning flight to Iquitos and continue to Nauta, perched on the banks of the Marañon River. Embark your elegant river boat and enjoy an introductory talk on the Amazon’s biodiversity as you set sail. Delfin III through Day 7

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,995

Single from $8,290

Limited singles available Airfare not included Port charges are an additional $495 per person.

Dates: Feb. 1–9, Mar. 1–9, Oct. 11–19, Oct. 25–Nov. 2, 2025

9 Days | Limited to 24 guests

Day 5 Cruising the Amazon River Basin: Skim along the Samiria River in skiffs, watching and listening for capybaras, river otters, and squirrel monkeys as well as scarlet macaws and toucans. On an afternoon nature walk, discover the medicinal uses of native plants and stroll through the treetops on a canopy walkway. After dinner, set out on a nighttime safari, searching for caimans and other nocturnal creatures.

Day 6 Pacaya Samiria National Reserve: Venture into the pristine flooded forests of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Choose to kayak the placid waterways and, if the opportunity arises, swim with pink dolphins. Pay a visit to a traditional river community to meet the ribereños (villagers) and learn about their everyday life. After lunch and a discussion about modern-day Peru, walk jungle trails to seek out the plant and animal life in the non-flooded parts of the forest, including poison dart frogs, rainbow boas, and the elusive two-toed sloth.

Day 7 Cruising the Amazon River Basin: Glide along quiet waterways, discovering herons, monkeys, and massive lily pads along the edges of hidden lagoons. Pass timeless villages where the riberenõs go about their daily activities, and try your hand at fishing for piranhas. This afternoon, cruise to the confluence of the Ucayali and Marañon Rivers, known by many as the headwaters of the Amazon River. Toast your Amazon voyage at a farewell dinner this evening.

Days 8–9 Nauta/Iquitos/Lima: Disembark after breakfast and visit the Manatee Rescue Center to observe manatees and other rescued animals. Fly to Lima and check in to day rooms before your overnight flight home.

Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport Hotel

Optional Extension: Add a six-day post-tour extension to Machu Picchu and Peru’s Sacred Valley.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Ed Smith (Feb./Oct. 25)–former biologist at the Smithsonian National Zoo. Visit our website to see the experts on other departures.

Pacaya Samiria National Park

Three-toed sloth

LEGENDARY PERU: ANDEAN CULTURE AND INCA TREASURES

HIGHLIGHTS

• Dine at Lima’s Museo Larco, an 18th-century manor that houses a renowned collection of pre-Columbian art.

• Meet traditional weavers in the Andean village of Chinchero, and ride a boat on Lake Titicaca to reed islands woven by the Uros people.

• Explore Machu Picchu with an expert, then return in the early morning for a second guided visit before the crowds arrive.

Admire Inca stone masonry at Sacsayhuaman and Korikancha.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 U.S./Lima, Peru: Depart for Lima and transfer to your hotel upon arrival. Embark on a morning tour that includes the world-class Museo Larco. Enjoy a welcome dinner at the museum, housed in an elegant 18th-century mansion. AC Hotel Lima Miraflores

Days 3–4 Cusco and the Sacred Valley: Fly to Cusco, once the capital of the Inca empire, and visit the Inca sun temple of Koricancha and the colonial church of Santo Domingo. Then descend into the Sacred Valley, where villages and Inca ruins are nestled amid Andean peaks. Stroll the open-air market at Pisac; attend an Andean ceremony; then visit Ollantaytambo. In Chinchero, watch a demonstration of traditional Andean weaving. Sonesta Posada del Inca

Days 5–7 Machu Picchu and Cusco: Take a scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes. Check in to your casita at a stunning cloud forest lodge and head out for your first guided visit to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, learning about the incredible engineering and innovations of the Inca. Rise early to experience Machu Picchu in the morning light, before the crowds arrive. Return by train to the World Heritage site of Cusco. Delve into the city’s fascinating history on a guided tour that includes the Pre-Columbian Art Museum and the fortress of Sacsayhuaman. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo and Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Days 8–9 Puno and Lake Titicaca: Journey to Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world. On the way, stop to visit picturesque villages, the sacred Inca site of Raqchi, the Llama and Alpaca Research Center in La Raya, and the ceramics center of Pucara. Arrive at your hotel on Esteves Island just outside the town of Puno. The next day, ride a boat to floating reed islands where the Uros people live. On Taquile Island, learn about the rich cultural heritage of local textile traditions. Toast your Peruvian adventure at a farewell dinner. GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca

Days 10–11 Puno and Lima: At nearby Lake Umayo, visit the Sillustani chullpas, mysterious pre-Inca burial towers. Fly to Lima and check in to your day room at the airport hotel before departing on an overnight flight home.

Optional Extension: Add a four-night post-tour extension in the Amazon Rainforest.

“This was trip of a lifetime. Every detail was anticipated and taken care of, the pace was perfect, the sites and the cities visited were just right. I will definitely look to Smithsonian Journeys for my next adventure!” –Cecile R., TRAVELER

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,887

Single from $7,082

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: May 13–23, Sept. 18–28, 2024 & Mar. 3–13, May 12–22, Sept. 17–27, Oct. 27–Nov. 6, 2025

11 days | Limited to 24 guests

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Tom Mirenda (May 13)–horticulturist.

Bill Sapp (Sept. 18)–archaeologist with expertise in the Andes. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Traditional weavers Lake Titicaca

MACHU PICCHU AND THE GALÁPAGOS

HIGHLIGHTS

• Examine indigenous artifacts at the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, housed in a historic mansion in Cusco.

• Explore Machu Picchu on two guided visits and stay at an adjacent hotel, experiencing the spirit of the site once the crowds are gone.

• Set out by private yacht to discover the unique wildlife of the Galápagos Islands, and snorkel amid colorful marine life.

• Observe endemic animals with naturalists, including giant Galápagos tortoises, playful sea lions, iguanas, parrotfi sh, and blue-footed boobies.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 U.S./Lima, Peru: Depart for Lima and transfer to your hotel upon arrival. The next day, trace 3,000 years of Peruvian history at the Museo de Arte de Lima and tour colonial Lima before a welcome dinner. Westin Lima Hotel

Days 3–4 Cusco and the Sacred Valley: Fly to Cusco, the epicenter of the Inca Empire, and visit the sun god temple of Koricancha. In the Sacred Valley, experience the colorful markets of Pisac and visit Ollantaytambo, built upon the original Inca grid. Meet weavers who are keeping ancient practices alive, and attend a traditional Andean ceremony. Aranwa Sacred Valley Hotel

Days 5–7 Machu Picchu and Cusco: Take a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes and ascend by coach to Machu Picchu. Explore the “Lost City of the Inca” with a guide, and spend the night at a hotel next to the ruins, absorbing their mystique

after the crowds have left. Rise early for a second guided tour. Ride the train to Cusco and check into your historic hotel. On a tour of this World Heritage-listed city, visit the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art and Sacsayhuaman fortress. Belmond Sanctuary Lodge and Belmond Hotel Monasterio

Days 8–9 Quito: Fly to Quito, whose beautifully preserved 16th-century old city is built atop an Inca city high in the Andes. Tour the historic churches and palaces of colonial Quito, a World Heritage site. Swissotel Quito

Days 10–12 Baltra and Santa Cruz Island, the Galápagos: Fly to the Galápagos island of Baltra and transfer to your hotel in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. Observe giant Galápagos tortoises in the wild and explore lava tunnels on the grounds of your hotel. Board the Santa Fe, a privately chartered yacht, and sail to Santa Fe Island. On a walk with naturalists, watch for endemic land iguanas and rice rats as well as blue-footed boobies and Galápagos hawks. Later, plant native trees as part of a reforestation program. Cruise to North Seymour to observe magnificent frigate birds, sea lions, and marine iguanas up close. At Bachas Beach on Santa Cruz, see flamingos, nesting sea turtles, and Darwin’s finches. Then snorkel amid colorful reef fish at Punta Carrion. Royal Palm Hotel Galápagos

Days 13–16 Quito: Fly back to Quito, and take a day trip to a rose plantation before a festive farewell dinner. Tour Quito’s Botanical Gardens and Iñaquito Market and enjoy free time to explore. Return home on an overnight flight. Swissotel Quito

Optional Extension: Add a four-night pre-tour extension in the Amazon Rainforest.

“This is a once in a lifetime trip—an outstanding travel and learning adventure.” –Mary H., TRAVELER

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $10,293

Single from $12,988

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: May 4–19, May 18–June 2, June 1–16, July 13–28, Aug. 24–Sept. 8, Sept. 21–Oct. 6, Oct. 19–Nov. 3, 2024 & Feb. 22–Mar. 9, Mar. 15–30, May 3–18, May 17–June 1, May 31–June 15, July 12–27, Aug. 23–Sept. 7, Sept. 20–Oct. 5, Oct. 18–Nov. 2, 2025

16 days | Limited to 24 guests

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Bill Sapp (May 4) and Anita Cook (Sept. 21)–archaeologists with expertise in the Andes. Regina Harrison (July 13)–expert in the language and literature of South America. Paul Goldstein (Oct. 19)–anthropological archaeologist. Visit our website to see experts on other departures

Blue-footed boobies

Machu Picchu

CHILE EARTH AND SKY

A stargazing journey from Santiago to the Atacama Desert

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit cutting-edge observatories and use powerful telescopes to stargaze.

• Taste wines on a premium winery tour in Casablanca Valley, and stop at a distillery in Elqui Valley to sample Chilean pisco.

• Discover the otherworldly wonders of the Atacama Desert, from the Valley of the Moon to the high-altitude geysers of El Tatio.

• Explore the World Heritage site of Valparaiso and the 16th-century beach town of La Serena.

ITINERARY

Days 1–4 U.S./Santiago and Valparaiso, Chile: Fly overnight to Santiago and transfer to your hotel in the historic Barrio Lastarria. Meet for a welcome dinner. On a full-day excursion, journey to the World Heritage site of Valparaiso and explore its labyrinthine streets and rich architecture. Enjoy a private tasting tour and lunch at a renowned Casablanca Valley winery before returning to Santiago for an evening at leisure. Take a morning walking tour of the city and visit the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art. At nightfall, head to the National Astronomical Observatory at Cerro Calan to stargaze with an astronomer. The Singular Santiago

Days 5–6 La Serena: Fly to La Serena, a seaside city founded in 1544, and discover its long beaches, historic lighthouses, and lovely Spanish colonial architecture. Travel into the Andes to Las Campanas Observatory for a day-long tour, and see two 6.5-meter Magellan optical telescopes operated by a consortium including the Harvard-Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory. Enjoy an in-depth presentation

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $9,990

Single from $12,490

Airfare not included

Dates: Oct. 23–Nov. 4, 2024 & Mar. 22–Apr. 3, 2025

13 days | Limited to 24 guests

about the observatory from one of the astronomers, followed by lunch at the observatory’s dining room. Hotel Costa Real

Days 7–8 Vicuña and Elqui Valley: Explore the striking Elqui Valley, the world’s first International Dark Skies Sanctuary, where picturesque villages dot miles of vineyards. At Puclaro Dam, take in sweeping views, then continue to a distillery for a tour and tasting of pisco, a grape brandy. Check in to your spa hotel and enjoy time to relax. The next day, on a private visit to the Vera Rubin Observatory, learn about its ambitious 10-year survey of the Southern Hemisphere sky. In the evening, ascend to Mamalluca Observatory to stargaze. Terral Hotel & Spa

Days 9–13 Calama/San Pedro de Atacama: Fly to Calama, gateway to the surreal landscapes of the Atacama Desert. From your base at the stunning Explora Lodge in the adobe town of San Pedro de Atacama, spend two days discovering this natural wonderland, choosing from a variety of activites. Options include an excursion to the Salar de Atacama salt pan to look for flamingos at Laguna Chaxa, or a scenic riverside walk followed by a soak in the Puritama hot springs. Later, gather at the hotel’s observatory to view the skies using a powerful telescope. Explore the surrounding countryside by foot, bike, or horseback; or head high into the Andes to the El Tatio geyser field, where more than 80 geysers and 100 fumaroles steam and erupt. Explore the lunar-like landscapes of Moon Valley, and sip a sundowner cocktail. Celebrate your stargazing adventure at a farewell dinner under the dark desert skies. The next day, return to Santiago for your overnight flight home. Explora Atacama Lodge

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

EXPERT

Alex Young (Oct.)–solar astrophysicist. Visit our website to see the expert on the other departure.

Atacama Desert night sky

PATAGONIAN EXPLORER

Featuring a 4-night cruise aboard the 210-guest Ventus Australis or Stella Australis

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy an evening in a tango house in Buenos Aires, and take a backstage tour of the world-renowned Teatro Colón.

• Spend four nights cruising the Chilean Fjords, discovering glaciers and encountering a colony of some than 120,000 Magellanic penguins.

• Experience the splendor of Torres del Paine National Park on a variety of hikes, walks, and excursions.

• Sample wines on a private tasting tour in Chile’s Casablanca wine district and explore the World Heritage site of Valparaiso with a guide.

ITINERARY

Days 1–4 U.S./Buenos Aires, Argentina: Fly overnight to Buenos Aires and transfer to your hotel upon arrival. Gather for a welcome dinner tonight. Delve into this captivating city on a tour of the Palermo, La Boca, and San Telmo neighborhoods. See the Casa Rosada, the presidential palace from which Eva Perón addressed the masses, and stroll through the Recoleta Cemetery. Then head to one of the city’s premier tango houses for dinner and a performance. Take a backstage tour of the Teatro Colón, one of the world’s most exquisite opera houses, and enjoy free time to explore the city. Hotel Emperador Buenos Aires

Days 5–8 Ushuaia and the Chilean Fjords: Fly south to Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city. After lunch at leisure, board your expedition ship and set sail on the Beagle Channel. Over the next three days, discover the pristine fjords, snowcapped peaks, and glaciers of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago. Sail to

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $12,382

Single from $17,377

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Oct. 31–Nov. 15, Dec. 2–17 & Jan. 11–26, Feb. 8–23, Mar. 8–23, 2025

16 days |

Limited to 24 guests

Cape Horn National Park, a World Heritage Biosphere Reserve; explore the forests of Wulaia Bay; and ride Zodiacs up close to Pia Glacier. Set out on a shore excursion to Garibaldi Glacier, one of the few that is gaining mass, and hike through Magellanic forest to viewpoints overlooking the glacier and fjord. Enter Agostini Sound, and walk along the lagoon to Aguila Glacier. Ventus Australis or Stella Australis

Days 9–12 Torres del Paine National Park and Punta Arenas: On an early morning visit to Magdalena Island, encounter an immense colony of more than 120,000 Magellanic penguins. Disembark at Punta Arenas, and continue overland to Torres del Paine National Park. Spend two full days exploring this astonishing wilderness, a 700-square-mile stretch of craggy peaks, turquoise lakes, and glaciers. Enjoy lunch at magnificent Lago Grey and venture to lakes and waterfalls, keeping an eye out for some 106 bird species and the iconic guanaco, a relative of the llama. Return to Punta Arenas and enjoy dinner and an overnight in the city center. Rio Serrano Hotel + Spa and Hotel Cabo de Hornos

Days 13–16 Santiago and Valparaiso: Board a flight to Santiago, and take a city tour before dinner together at the hotel. The next day, journey through vineyard-covered hills to the port city of Valparaiso, stopping en route for a private tour and tasting at a renowned winery. Enjoy a guided walk through the narrow streets and colorful houses of Valparaiso’s historic center, a World Heritage site. Return to Santiago for a celebratory farewell dinner. After a leisurely morning, pay a visit to the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art. Then transfer to the airport for an overnight flight to the U.S. Pullman Santiago Vitacura

Optional Extension: Add a two-night pre-tour extension to Iguazu Falls.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Carola Stearns (Oct.)–field geologist and geophysicist. John Grabowska (Dec.)–natural history filmmaker. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Torres del Paine National Park

AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST

Truly the trip of a lifetime! Great experts, great company, great accommodations, and amazing wildlife! I cannot recommend this trip more.

–

Grace C. TRAVELER ON SAFARI IN KENYA AND TANZANIA

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore numerous World Heritage sites including the imperial cities of Fez, Meknes, and Marrakech, and the ancient Roman city of Volubilis.

• Venture into the whitewashed Kasbah of the Oudaias in Rabat and enjoy lunch in a family home in the walled city of Salé.

• Ride a camel in the Sahara to watch the sunset on the dunes and stay in a kasbah-style desert hotel.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Casablanca, Morocco/Rabat: Fly overnight to Casablanca and travel to Rabat in time for a welcome dinner. Meander through the whitewashed Kasbah of the Oudaias and the Andalusian Gardens; and in the the walled city of Salé, enjoy lunch in a private home. Tour the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and dine at a restaurant in the medina. La Tour Hassan Days 4–6 Meknes, Volubilis, and Fez: Head east to Meknes to see the Bab el Mansour gateway and the 18th-century imperial stables; then view impressive mosaics at the ancient Roman city of Volubilis. Arrive in Fez and settle into your hotel. On a guided tour, see the Blue Gate and Bou Inania Madrassa, explore souks where locals come to shop, and observe ceramics artisans at work. Return to the medina the next day to visit artisan quarters where local crafts are produced. Enjoy a concert of traditional music, then dine at a family-run riad, or guesthouse. Hotel Sahrai

SPLENDORS OF MOROCCO

Days 7–9 Erfoud and the Sahara: Traverse the cedar forests of the Atlas Mountains and descend to the arid steppe, passing date palm oases as you approach the Sahara. Settle into your kasbah-style hotel in Erfoud. Visit the market town of Rissani, and explore an 18th-century ksar, or walled village. Set out in 4x4s toward Merzouga, and ride a camel into the Saharan dunes to watch the sunset. Le Palais du Désert Hotel

Day 9 Todra Gorge and Ouarzazate: Follow the Road of 1,000 Kasbahs, stopping to visit Tinerhir and Todra Gorge. In the Valley of the Roses, head to El Kelaa des MGouna, home of an annual rose festival. Stay in Ouarzazate, where Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator were filmed. Le Berbere Palace

Days 10–12 Ait ben-Haddou and Marrakech: See the fortified village of Ait ben-Haddou, then cross the High Atlas, passing Amazigh (Berber) villages. Ride a horse-drawn carriage through Marrakech and visit Majorelle Garden, a stunning botanical collection at the former home of Yves St.Laurent, and visit at the onsite Berber Museum. Venture into the souk with a guide, and emerge onto the Djemaa el Fna, a vast square crowded with acrobats, snake charmers, and musicians. View Koutoubia Mosque, El Badi Palace, and beautiful Bahia Palace. Later, visit with an imam for an insightful discussion about Islam. Sofitel Marrakech

Days 13–14 Casablanca: In Casablanca, visit the Corniche and the magnificent Hassan II Mosque. After a farewell dinner, depart the next day. Le Casablanca Hotel

“The Sahara alone is worth the trip, but to see Fez and the mountains on the same trip—in the same country—is amazing. Truly a sublime experience that I will always treasure.”

–Melanie P., TRAVELER

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,879

Single from $8,374

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Apr. 14–27, Sept. 10–23, Sept. 29–Oct. 12, Oct. 13–26, Dec. 1–14, 2024 & Feb. 4–17, Mar. 4–17, Mar. 30–Apr. 12, Apr. 13–26, Sept. 9–22, Sept. 28–Oct. 11, Oct. 12–25, Nov. 30–Dec. 13, 2025

14 days | Limited to 24 guests

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Chloé Capel (Apr. 14/Oct. 13)–field archaeologist with expertise in North and West Africa. Alia Kate (Sept. 29)–expert in international relations. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Doorway in Fez

Sand dunes of the Sahara

ANCIENT EGYPT AND THE NILE

HIGHLIGHTS

• Encounter the Pyramids of Giza as well as the Step Pyramid of Imhotep and the Bent Pyramid of Dahshur—both precursors to those at Giza.

• Experience the extraordinary temples of Abu Simbel, and spend time in Aswan discovering Nubian culture and visiting the Aswan High Dam.

• Embark on a three-night Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor, taking in scenes of everyday life and exploring ancient temples along the river.

• Descend into the pharaohs’ tombs in the Valley of the Kings, and venture to the village of Deir-el-Medina, home to the artisans who built the tombs.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Cairo, Egypt: Depart on an overnight flight to Cairo and transfer to your hotel upon arrival. After a morning briefing, set out for the Egyptian Museum, the renowned repository of Egyptian antiquities since the turn of the 20th century. Venture to Islamic Cairo to see the Alabaster Mosque of Mohamed Ali and take in views of the city from the Citadel of Saladin. Gather for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Four Seasons at the First Residence

Day 4 Giza and Cairo: Set out for Giza to encounter two of Egypt’s most iconic sites: the Pyramids—the only surviving Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—and the Sphinx, whose leonine body and human face was carved from a single piece of limestone. Later, visit the historic churches of Coptic Cairo, including the famous Hanging Church; and see the collection of royal mummies the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. Four Seasons at the First Residence

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,697

Single from $8,092

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Journeys depart every week from September through April. See our website for specific departure dates through December 2025.

14 days | Limited to 24 guests

Day 5 Aswan and Abu Simbel: Early this morning, fly to Aswan and connect with a flight to Abu Simbel, where colossal statues of Ramses II and his wife Nefertari guard two rock temples. Carved into a mountainside between 1264–1244 BC, the temples were moved stone by stone to higher ground in 1968 to avoid being submerged when the Aswan High Dam was built. On a tour of this World Heritage site, step inside the temples to see the incredibly well-preserved murals within. Fly back to Aswan and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before checking in to your hotel. Mövenpick Resort Aswan

Day 6 Aswan: Visit the Aswan High Dam, considered a marvel of engineering when it was completed in 1970 to control seasonal Nile flooding. Then tour the temples of Philae, once a pilgrimage site for the cult of Isis and one of the most important temples of ancient Nubia. Built between 380–362 BC on a small island in the Nile, Philae was also relocated to save it from flooding. After lunch, visit the Nubian Museum, an acclaimed showcase of Nubian art and architecture. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Mövenpick Resort Aswan

Day 7 Aswan: Start the day with a visit to the Unfinished Obelisk at the Aswan quarry, then board your ship in time for lunch. Step into feluccas, or traditional Nile sailboats, for a relaxing afternoon sail. Admire the Botanical Gardens on Kitchener’s Island, and see Elephantine Island and the hilltop tomb of the Aga Khan. Stay the night anchored in Aswan. Mövenpick M/S Hamees or M/S Nebu through Day 9 Day 8 Kom Ombo and Edfu: Set sail down the Nile, stopping to explore two important temples of the Ptolemaic Kingdom. Venture into the unusual double temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to both Horus and the crocodile god Sobek. Then sail on to the temple of Edfu, and take part in a shipboard celebration in the evening.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Annie Shanley (Apr. 6/Nov 2.)–art historian. Rozenn Bailleul-LeSuer (Sept. 28) and Peter Dorman (Oct. 31)–Egyptologists. Clare Fitzgerald (Oct. 17) and Amy Butner (Nov. 7/Nov. 23)–experts in Egyptian art. Debora Heard (Oct. 24)–anthropologist specializing in Nubian archaeology. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Egyptian hieroglyphics

A felucca on the Nile

Day 9 Luxor: Cruise north, watching scenes of everyday life along the banks of the Nile. Arrive in Luxor, where vast temple complexes, tombs, and statues dating from 2755 BC represent the pinnacle of Egyptian architecture. Get a close-up look at the antiquities found in the region at the Luxor Museum. Return to the ship for dinner and a belly-dancing performance.

Day 10 Luxor and Karnak: Disembark your ship late in the morning, and set out to explore the sites on the East Bank of the Nile. Encounter magnificent Karnak, which many different pharaohs embellished over the centuries, making it the greatest temple complex of them all. Then visit the smaller Luxor Temple, whose builders included both Tutankhamun and Alexander the Great. Enjoy lunch and an afternoon at leisure before meeting for dinner at your hotel.

Steigenberger Nile Palace

Day 11 Luxor and the West Bank of the Nile: In the Valley of the Kings, descend into the tombs of pharaohs and admire their intricate carvings, hieroglyphs, and bright paintings. Continue to the Valley of the Queens and visit the dramatic Temple of Hatshepsut, honoring one of the few female pharaohs. See the Colossi of Memnon, two 64-foot statues of Amenhotep III that once guarded the gates of his tomb. As an added highlight, tour the village of Deir el-Medina, home to the artisans who constructed the tombs of the Valley of the Kings. Return to Luxor late this afternoon and enjoy dinner together at your hotel. Steigenberger Nile Palace

Days 12–14 Cairo and Memphis: Fly back to Cairo and get a taste of local culture on a visit to the bustling Khan el-Khalili bazaar and Old Cairo. The next day, explore the open-air museum at Memphis, Egypt’s first capital—believed to be some 5,000 years old. Continue to nearby Sakkara, the vast burial ground for Memphis, and encounter its distinctive Step Pyramid. At the lesser-known site of Dahshur; see the Bent and Red pyramids. Celebrate your Egyptian adventure at a farewell dinner and depart early the next morning.

Four Seasons at the First Residence

Optional Extension: Add a four-night post-tour extension to Jordan.

“I dreamed for so long of visiting Egypt. When I went with Smithsonian, it was everything I ever imagined. Literally a dream come true.

Thank you for such a magical, wonderful experience!”

–Elizabeth S., TRAVELER

Temple of Kom Ombo

Karnak

Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza

AFRICAN SAFARI: A WILDLIFE ADVENTURE

South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Victoria Falls

HIGHLIGHTS

Visit Nelson Mandela’s home on a tour of Soweto, site of a historic youth uprising against apartheid.

• View majestic Victoria Falls from the catwalks of Victoria Falls Bridge, and watch the sunset on a Zambezi dinner cruise.

• Encounter the world’s largest concentration of elephants on wildlife drives and boat safaris in Botswana’s Chobe National Park.

• Stay three nights inside Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park and observe wildlife on open-vehicle drives and bushwalks.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Johannesburg, South Africa: Depart on an overnight flight to Johannesburg and transfer to your hotel. On a tour of Soweto township, see the home of Nobel laureate Desmond Tutu, visit Nelson Mandela’s house, and learn about the youth uprising of 1976 at the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum. Hear a firsthand account of the uprising from a resident who was there, then cap off the day with a welcome dinner. Hotel 54 on Bath

Days 4–6 Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe: Fly to Livingstone, Zambia, and cross into Zimbabwe to settle into your elegant lodge. Set off on a morning wildlife drive in Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve, home to the “big five” and many other species. Learn about the reserve’s black rhino breeding program and search out these elusive animals. Later, embark on a “sundowner” dinner cruise on the Zambezi River. Witness the power and beauty of Victoria Falls on a guided tour of a historic steel

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $9,484

Single from $10,479

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: June 2–15, June 30–July 13, July 31–Aug. 13, Aug. 21–Sept. 3, Sept. 23–Oct. 6, Oct. 27–Nov. 9, 2024 & Apr. 16–29, June 1–14, July 2–15, July 30–Aug. 12, Aug. 24–Sept. 6, Sept. 22–Oct. 5, Oct. 26–Nov. 8, 2025

14 days | Limited to 24 guests

bridge, then enjoy a free afternoon. Later, gather for a lecture on David Livingstone. Pioneers Lodge

Days 7–9 Chobe National Park, Botswana: Journey to Chobe National Park and take an afternoon cruise on the Chobe River. Watch for elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and some 450 bird species, and see the sun set over the river. Spend two days discovering the park and its biodiversity on early morning wildlife drives and afternoon boat safaris. Chobe harbors the world’s largest elephant population (some 120,000), as well as zebras, lions, giraffes, impalas, wildebeests, and buffalo. Chobe Marina Lodge

Days 10–12 South Luangwa National Park, Zambia: A morning flight brings you to Zambia’s remote South Luangwa National Park. Settle into your stunning lodge within the park, and head out on an open-vehicle or walking safari. Enjoy two full days exploring with seasoned rangers on morning, daytime, and nocturnal safaris. Look for unusual species like Zambia’s endemic Crawshay’s zebra, the elusive bushbuck, and the spiral-horned kudu; as well as wild dogs, giraffes, lions, leopards, and much more. You’ll also have the opportunity to discover lesser-known flora and fauna on guided walking safaris, meet children at a local school, and visit a borehole project that provides water for the community. Celebrate your wildlife adventure at a festive farewell dinner. Mfuwe Lodge

Days 13–14 Lusaka: Travel by light aircraft to Lusaka, Zambia’s capital, where you’ll have a day room to rest before your overnight flight home. Ciêla Lusaka

Optional Extension: Add a three-night post-tour extension in Cape Town.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Grant Nel (June 2/Sept. 23)–naturalist. Robyn Keene-Young (June 30)–travel and nature writer on southern Africa. Melissa Hawkins (Aug. 21)–curator and research zoologist for the division of mammals at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Cheetah Victoria Falls

HIGHLIGHTS

• Observe mountain gorillas and golden monkeys at close range in Volcanoes National Park, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• Paddle a canoe along the Mukungwa River, passing traditional rural villages and landscapes teeming with birdlife.

• Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial and the Nyamirambo Women’s Center, and enjoy dinner in a local home.

• Extend your trip with an optional week in Kenya: meet rescued elephants at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, hike through Hell’s Gate National Park, and go on safari in the Masai Mara.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Kigali, Rwanda: After an overnight flight, arrive in Kigali and meet for a welcome orientation and dinner. Spend a day learning about the history and culture of Rwanda. Listen to inspiring stories of survival and rebirth at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, and learn about education and vocational training for disadvantaged women at the Nyamirambo Women’s Center. After a walking tour of the lively Nyamirambo neighborhood, enjoy a traditional Rwandan meal in a family home. Kigali Serena Hotel

Days 4–6 Volcanoes National Park: Drive north through rippling green hills to Volcanoes National Park. After lunch at the hotel, embark on a guided canoeing adventure on the Mukungwa River, where nearly 40 species of birds can be found. Paddle past farming settlements, enjoying a unique perspective on rural life in

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $8,999

Single from $10,299

Airfare not included

Dates: May 24–31, Aug. 2–9, Sept. 6–13, 2024

8 days |

Limited to 12 guests

GORILLAS OF RWANDA An Active Journey

Rwanda. Rise early the next morning to head into Volcanoes National Park for a gorilla trek. With Rwanda National Parks Authority guides, set out in small groups to locate a troop of mountain gorillas, hiking on trails left by elephants and buffalos. Your trek may last from three to six hours and climb to altitudes up to 8,000 feet. Once you find the gorillas, spend an unforgettable hour sitting quietly among them, observing them as they eat, groom, interact, and play. After a leisurely afternoon back at the hotel, gather on the terrace for talk by a park warden and magnificent views of the volcanoes. Return to the park the next morning, riding in 4x4s to the trailhead of the Dian Fossey hike. Learn about the work and legacy of this pioneering scientist, who lived among the gorillas for more than 18 years. As you hike, look for forest elephants and forest hogs as well as a variety of primates and birds. Visit Fossey’s grave and continue to her original Karisoke research site. Alternatively, choose to set out on a second gorilla trek (at an additional charge). Meet for lunch at the hotel followed by a free afternoon.

Virunga Inn Spa and Resort

Days 7–8 Volcanoes National Park and Kigali: Set out on a final hike that focuses on the endemic golden monkey. Venturing into thick bamboo forests, observe the antics and behavior of these large monkey families. Drive back to Kigali in the afternoon and toast your gorilla trekking adventure at a farewell dinner of East African specialties. The next day, return home or continue your wildlife adventure on a post-tour extension to Kenya. Kigali Serena Hotel

Optional Extension: Add a six-night post-tour Kenya safari extension.

ABOUT THIS ACTIVE JOURNEY

Activity Level: Energetic

This is an energetic level Active Journey that features 3–6 miles hiking per day at elevations up to 8,000 feet—as well as a canoeing excursion with Class II rapids—and will be led by an engaging trip leader. Visit our website for details about activity levels.

Mountain gorilla

Volcanoes National Park

TREASURES OF SO UTH AFRICA, ZIMBABWE, AND BOTSWA NA

Featuring the Rovos Rail

HIGHLIGHTS

• Admire the views from Cape Town’s Table Mountain, see the penguins of Boulder Beach, and visit Nelson Mandela’s prison cell on Robben Island. Cross sweeping landscapes aboard the vintage carriages of the Rovos Rail on a three-night train journey to Victoria Falls.

• Stay at a historic hotel near Victoria Falls and experience the awesome power of this World Heritage site.

• Observe elephants, lions, and giraffes up close on safari in three important wildlife reserves.

ITINERARY

Days 1–5 U.S./Cape Town, South Africa: Depart for Cape Town and arrive on Day 3. Gather for a welcome reception. The next day, enjoy a spectacular drive between mountains and sea to Cape Point Nature Reserve. Ride the funicular for a panorama of the rugged coast and see the resident African penguins at Boulders Beach. Travel by boat to Robben Island and tour the prison where Nelson Mandela was held from 1964 to 1982. Hear a firsthand account from a former prisoner. Later, explore Cape Town’s highlights and, weather permitting, take the cable car to the top of Table Mountain. Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

Day 6–8 Kapama Nature Reserve: Fly to Hoedspruit, gateway to Kapama Nature Reserve, and enjoy lunch at your five-star lodge. In the late afternoon, set out with a ranger and tracker in an open-air vehicle to encounter diverse flora and

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $10,690

Single from $14,580

Includes $250 special savings

Airfare not included

Dates: Dates: Mar. 5–20, Aug. 13–28, Sept. 17–Oct. 2, 2024 & Mar. 25–Apr. 9, July 14–30,* Sept. 30–Oct. 15, 2025

16 days* | Limited to 24 guests

fauna. Over the next two days, rise at dawn for a safari when animals are actively preparing for the day. Watch for “the big five”—lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and Cape buffalo—along with many other species. Enjoy relaxing afternoons and talks by naturalists before a sunset safari. Kapama River Lodge

Days 9–12 Johannesburg/Pretoria/Rovos Rail: Take a short flight to Johannesburg, and see the homes of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu on a tour of historic Soweto. Visit a local youth project in Kliptown. The next day, travel to Pretoria and board the legendary Rovos Rail. Settle into handsome, wood-paneled coaches and enjoy gracious service and excellent cuisine paired with South African wines. Along the way, take in scenery from the observation car, visit traditional villages, and set out on a game drive in Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park. Hotel 54 on Bath and Rovos Rail

Days 13–16 Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe/Chobe National Park, Botswana: Disembark the train and transfer to your historic hotel. Experience Victoria Falls, where the Zambezi River plunges 328 feet into the narrow Batoka Gorge, creating huge clouds of mist. Travel into Botswana for a full-day safari in Chobe National Park, home to the world’s largest population of elephants. Be on the lookout for leopards, giraffes, impalas, and baboons as well as some 460 bird species. On an afternoon wildlife cruise on the Chobe River, spot hippos and elephants bathing in the shallows. Celebrate your adventure at a farewell dinner. Transfer to Johannesburg for flights home the next day. Victoria Falls Hotel

Optional Extension: Add a two-night pre-tour extension in Cape Town.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Robert Schrire (Mar. 5)–South African political analyst. Mark Geraghty (Aug. 13)–expert on African wildlife and history. Robyn Keene-Young (Sept. 17)–travel and nature writer. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

*The July 2025 departure is 17 days and includes one additional night on the Rovos Rail.

Rovos Rail Leopard

HIGHLIGHTS

• Spend four days exploring the Serengeti and Masai Mara with knowledgeable wildlife guides, and descend into the Ngorongoro Crater.

• Meet a researcher at the Elephant Research Center in Amboseli National Park, and observe elephant behavior on morning and afternoon wildlife drives.

• Visit a Maasai village to see everyday life up close, meeting with familes and stopping by a school.

ITINERARY

Days 1–3 U.S./Nairobi, Kenya: Fly overnight to Nairobi. The next day, tour the Karen Blixen Museum and learn about efforts to protect endangered Rothschild’s giraffes at the Giraffe Centre. Gather for a welcome dinner. Fairmont The Norfolk

Days 4–5 Amboseli National Park: Journey to Amboseli National Park, set against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Hear about conservation efforts at the Elephant Research Camp, then watch for these majestic creatures and more on an afternoon wildlife drive. Gain insight into Maasai traditions and everyday life at a village and later, head out on a sunset safari. Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge

Day 6 Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania: Cross into Tanzania and travel to Lake Manyara National Park, set beneath an escarpment in the Great Rift Valley. Enjoy a relaxing evening at your lodge. Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Days 7–8 Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Watch for wildlife interacting along

SAFARI IN KENYA AND TANZANIA

the picturesque lakeshore during an early morning safari. Then ascend into the highlands to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a World Heritage site. Venture into the 100-square-mile Ngorongoro Crater on the lookout for rare black rhinos, hippos, wildebeests, crowned cranes, gazelles, and cheetahs. Later, take in the views from your lodge, perched on the crater’s rim. Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

Days 9–10 Serengeti National Park: Visit Oldupai Gorge, where anthropologist Mary Leakey discovered a 1.8-million-year-old skull in 1959. Continue to the Serengeti and embark on an afternoon safari, discovering the park’s varied landscapes and abundant wildlife—including some 70 large mammal and 500 bird species. Look for lions, leopards, teeming herds of zebra, and much more on morning and afternoon wildlife drives. Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge

Days 11–13 Masai Mara National Park, Kenya: A short flight across the border brings you to Masai Mara National Park. Check in to a luxurious tented camp before an afternoon safari. Enjoy two days of early morning and late afternoon game drives, observing a stunning array of wildlife during prime viewing hours. During down time, relax at your camp’s spa and swimming pool. Sarova Mara Game Camp

Days 14–16 Masai Mara/Nairobi: Return to Nairobi and enjoy a free afternoon. Toast your safari adventure at a farewell dinner and catch your overnight flight home the next day. Fairmont The Norfolk

Optional Extension: Add a two-night post-tour extension to the Mpala Research Center and Jane Goodall Chimpanzee Sanctuary near Mount Kenya.

“You will be awed by this trip. Not only are the animal views better than you can imagine but the knowledge you gain about Africa exceeds your every dream.” –Jill G., TRAVELER

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $11,696

Single from $13,491

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: July 2–17, Aug. 27–Sept. 11, Sept. 1–16, Sept. 29–Oct. 14, Oct. 24–Nov. 8, 2024 & July 3–18, Aug. 7–22, Aug. 28–Sept. 12, Sept. 28–Oct. 13, Oct. 16–31, 2025

16 days | Limited to 17 guests

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Grant Nel (July 2/Oct. 24)–naturalist. Robyn Keene-Young (Aug. 27)–travel and nature writer on Africa. Ed Smith (Sept. 29)–former biologist at the Smithsonian National Zoo. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

On safari in Tanzania Lions in Kenya

CRUISING FROM MOROCCO TO SPAIN’S ANDALUSIAN COAST

Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot

HIGHLIGHTS

• In Morocco, explore the ancient medina of Tetouan, a World Heritage site, or discover local culture in Tangier.

• Sail the Strait of Gibraltar and discover the dramatic cliffs and caves of Portugal’s Algarve region.

• Take a tour of the Alhambra, Granada’s stunning Moorish palace; and visit the ancient town of Ronda, built dramatically on a cliff top.

• Tour the captivating sites of Seville, or enjoy a flamenco performance in Cadiz.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Casablanca, Morocco: Arrive in Casablanca and settle into your cabin aboard the ship. Le Bellot for the entire journey

Days 2–3 Tangier or Tetouan: Sail to Tangier, an ancient city on the Strait of Gibraltar. Visit the Tangier American Legation Museum, a tribute to the long relationship between the U.S. and Morocco, and learn about local heritage at the Kasbah Museum of Mediterranean Cultures. Alternatively, choose an excursion to Tetouan and tour its World Heritage-listed medina.

Day 4 Málaga, Spain and Granada: Spend the morning discovering Granada, seat of the last Moorish kingdom in Spain. Visit the Royal Chapel, the final resting place of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, and explore the incomparable palaces and courtyards of the Alhambra.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,090*

Single from $8,650*

Airfare not included

Dates: Apr. 13–20, 2025

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plan. Book early for the highest savings.

8 days | Limited to 176 guests

Day 5 Marbella or Ronda: Arrive this morning in Marbella. Visit its whitewashed old town and a see a collection of sculptures by Salvador Dalí, or travel to Ronda, a World Heritage site built atop a deep gorge. Uncover layers of history amid the twisting streets of its Moorish-influenced center, and see the Plaza de Toros, Spain’s oldest bullfighting ring and one of its most beautiful.

Day 6 Seville or Cadiz: Anchor in Cadiz and continue overland to Seville. Stroll through the Murillo Gardens and visit the Real Alcázar, the Gothic Cathedral, and La Giralda bell tower—together considered a World Heritage site. Meander through the charming, cobbled lanes of the Barrio de Santa Cruz, the city’s former Jewish quarter. Alternatively, set out on a walking tour of Cadiz’s old town, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Europe, and enjoy a thrilling flamenco performance and a traditional tapas lunch.

Days 7–8 Portimão, Portugal/Lisbon: From the fishing port of Portimão, travel inland to the town of Silves, once the seat of the Moors in Portugal. Visit the Castelo de Silves, a Moorish fortress with imposing red stone walls, and meander along cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses. Continue to the picturesque mountain village of Monchique before heading back to Portimão for free time to explore the stunning Algarve coast. Disembark in Lisbon after breakfast the next morning.

Optional Extension: Add a three-night pre-tour extension in Morocco or a two-night post-tour extension in Lisbon.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Our experts on this cruise include Alia Kate, an expert in international relations with a focus on the Middle East and North Africa. Visit our website to see the additional expert.

Tetouan

Alhambra, Granada

CRUISING THE ARABIAN COAST

Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville

HIGHLIGHTS

• Encounter enthralling art, architecture, and design, from the Burj Khalifa and the Louvre Abu Dhabi to I.M. Pei’s Museum of Islamic Art in Doha.

• Venture into the timeless souks of Dubai and Doha, and visit historic forts and mosques in Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.

• Sit down to a Bedouin-style lunch and opt for a thrilling 4x4 drive through the desert dunes.

• Explore the dramatic fjords of Oman’s Musandam Peninsula by traditional sailing dhow.

ITINERARY

Days 1–2 Dubai, United Arab Emirates (U.A.E): Arrive in Dubai and embark the ship. Set out on a guided tour of this boundary-pushing city, from the traditional spice and gold souks to the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world.  Visit the Dubai Museum, housed in a historic fort; then delve into Emirati culture at the Sheikh Mohammed Center of Cultural Understanding and enjoy a Bedouin-style lunch. Le Bougainville for the entire journey

Days 3–4 Abu Dhabi/Sir Bani Yas: In Abu Dhabi, the capital of the U.A.E, see the impressive exhibitions at the Louvre Abu Dhabi and admire its stunning architecture—designed by Pritzker Prize-winner Jean Nouvel. Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, home to 82 marble domes and more than a thousand gemstone inlaid columns; and explore Masdar City. The next day, enjoy a safari in Sir Bani Yas island and hear about the work being done to protect indigenous wildlife.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,765*

Single from $11,225*

Airfare not included

Dates: Jan. 16–24, 2025

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plan. Book early for the highest savings.

9 days | Limited to 176 guests

Days 5–6 Doha, Qatar/At Sea: Delve into dynamic Doha, a burgeoning center of culture and style filled with striking high-rises and age-old souks. Visit the Museum of Islamic Art, designed by I.M. Pei, and venture into the colorful Souk Waqif, built on the site of an ancient marketplace. Learn about Qatari history and culture at the new National Museum, another architectural marvel. Visit the mecca of architecture and culture known as Katara village and see the glamorous residences of the Pearl-Qatar. Enjoy talks by your Smithsonian Journeys Experts during a day at sea.

Day 7 Khasab, Oman: Oman’s remote Musandam Peninsula is a place of deep fjords and craggy peaks, with fishing villages perched on the shore. From the lively town of Khasab, set out to explore the peninsula in a traditional sailing dhow. Glide into narrow fjords, on the lookout for dolphins.

Day 8 Fujairah, U.A.E.: In the commercial hub of Fujairah, visit the oldest and largest castle in the Emirates, and learn about its colorful history. Examine archaeological finds in the museum, and visit a mud-and-stone mosque in the oasis of Al Bithnah. Gather for a festive farewell reception and dinner this evening.

Day 9 Muscat, Oman: After breakfast, disembark in Muscat and transfer to Nizwa. Visit the grand Nizwa Fort and explore one of the oldest souks in the country. After lunch, return to Muscat for an evening at leisure and dinner before transferring to the airport for your evening flight home.

Optional Extension: Add a one-night pre-tour extension in Dubai or a two-night post-tour extension in Muscat.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Visit our website to see the experts on this cruise.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat

Doha souk

ASIA & THE PACIFIC

Our trip to the five ‘Stans with Smithsonian Journeys was extraordinary. Exploring the Silk Road fulfilled a lifelong dream and revealed some of the most magnificent Islamic architecture on the planet.

–Laura G. TRAVELER ON THE THE SILK ROAD: A JOURNEY TO CENTRAL ASIA

TIMELESS INDIA

Rajasthan, Varanasi, and the Taj Mahal

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore seven World Heritage sites, including Old Delhi’s Red Fort, the 18th-century Jantar Mantar observatory, and the exquisite Taj Mahal.

• Seek out sloth bears and langurs on safari in Ranthambore National Park, home to the iconic Bengal tiger.

• Witness Hindu rituals on the sacred Ganges in Varanasi and visit Sarnath, one of Buddhism’s holiest sites.

• Watch artisans at work in Sanganer, enjoy a cooking lesson in a private home in Agra, and attend a private sitar performance.

ITINERARY

Days 1–4 U.S./Delhi, India: Depart on an overnight flight to Delhi, arriving late on Day 2. Set out on a tour of Old Delhi, visiting Gandhi’s mausoleum at Raj Ghat, the stunning Red Fort, and the Jama Masjid mosque. Ride a rickshaw through the Chandni Chowk markets before a welcome dinner. Encounter more of Delhi’s highlights, including the towering Qutb Minar, the India Gate, and a Sikh temple; and explore Gandhi’s legacy at the Gandhi Smiriti. Taj Palace New Delhi

Days 5–7 Jaipur: Journey to the “Pink City” of Jaipur and delve into the rich heritage of this World Heritage site. View the facade of the Hawa Mahal, or “Palace of the Winds,” and venture to Amber Fort—considered the pinnacle of Rajput architecture. Tour the Jantar Mantar, an observatory dating to 1728, and the City Palace Museum. The next day, watch artisans crafting pottery, block prints, and paper in nearby Sanganer. Dine at the home of a Rajasthani family. Jai Mahal Palace

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $6,887

Single from $8,482

Airfare not included

Dates: Oct. 22–Nov. 7, Dec. 7–23, 2024 & Jan. 19–Feb. 4, Feb. 27–Mar. 15, 2025

17 Days | Limited to 24 guests

Days 8–9 Ranthambore National Park: Journey to Ranthambore National Park, once a royal retreat and now home to diverse flora and fauna—including endangered Bengal tigers. On morning and afternoon game drives, watch for sambar deer, leopards, sloth bears, and perhaps even a tiger. View the evocative ruins of Mughal palaces and see the 1,000-year-old Ranthambore Fort. Later visit an organization that works with the local communities to reduce poaching. Sawai Madhopur Lodge

Days 10–12 Gadoli/Agra: Travel to the village of Gadoli for a taste of rural life. Ride camel carts to farming communities of the Mina people and learn about their vibrant culture. The next day, encounter the extraordinary stepwell of Abhaneri on the way to Agra. After lunch at leisure, visit the Baby Taj and view the Taj Mahal from the gardens of Mehtab Bagh. Take an in-depth tour of the fabled monument to love the next morning. Venture into the World Heritage-listed Agra Fort before a cooking lesson in a local home. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Dera Village – The Clement Retreats and Courtyard by Marriott Agra

Days 13–17 Varanasi and Sarnath/Delhi: Transfer to Delhi and fly to Varanasi, Hinduism’s holiest city. Take an excursion to Sarnath, one of Buddhism’s four holiest sites, and return to Varanasi to witness a traditional aarti offering ceremony on the Ganges. Rise early to watch the morning rites along the river and explore important ghats by boat. After time at leisure, gather for a private sitar performance by a famous musician. Celebrate your adventure at a farewell dinner, and fly back to Delhi the next day to catch your overnight flight home.

Taj Ganges and Pullman New Delhi Aerocity

Optional Extension: Add a four-night post-tour extension to Nepal.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Minhazz Majumdar (Oct. 22)–writer and curator of Indian art. Rita Sodha (Jan. 19)–art historian with expertise in Indian painting.

Jonathan GoldbergBelle (Feb. 27)– expert in Asian language and literature. Visit our website to see experts on other deparures.

Taj Mahal Stepwell in Jaipur

SOUTHEAST ASIA

Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Laos

HIGHLIGHTS

• Step into history in legendary cities from Hanoi and Hoi An to Luang Prabang, and explore the extraordinary Khmer capital of Angkor.

• Sail Vietnam’s fabled Ha Long Bay, a World Heritage site, and cruise the Mekong.

• Delve into local culture during cooking classes, traditional performances, and visits to artisan workshops.

• Experience everyday life in farming villages, and spend time with rescued elephants and their mahouts.

ITINERARY

Days 1–4 U.S./Hanoi, Vietnam/Ha Long Bay: Depart on an overnight flight to Hanoi and arrive the next evening. Tour the city’s highlights, including the One Pillar Pagoda and the 11th-century Temple of Literature, where students still worship today. Step into Hoa Lo Prison, once known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” then take a walk through the Old Quarter. On a full-day excursion to mystical Ha Long Bay, explore the limestone cliffs and grottos of this World Heritage site by boat. Meliá Hanoi

Days 5–6 Hanoi/Da Nang/Hoi An: Fly to Da Nang and continue to the ancient port of Hoi An. Cruise into the vibrant central market and take a guided walk through the World Heritage-listed Old Town to the Japanese covered bridge. Enjoy free time and a cooking class with a local chef. Hotel Royal Hoi An MGallery

Days 7–9 Da Nang/Siem Reap and Angkor, Cambodia: Visit a farming community before touring the Museum of Cham Sculpture in Da Nang. Fly to Siem

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $8,597

Single from $10,492

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Oct. 24–Nov. 11, 2024 & Jan. 12–30, Feb. 20–Mar. 10, 2025

19 Days | Limited to 24 guests

Reap and enjoy two days to explore the ancient Khmer capital of Angkor. Ride tuk-tuks to the walled city of Angkor Thom and see Ta Prohm, tangled in tree roots. Experience Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious complex, as well as the lesser-known Banteay Srei and Preah Khan temples. Later, witness a traditional Cambodian dance performance. Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra

Days 10–13 Luang Prabang and the Mekong River, Laos: Meet craftspeople at Les Artisans d’Angkor, before flying to the World Heritage site of Luang Prabang. Awaken early to witness monks collecting alms. Browse the morning market and visit Wat Xieng Thong temple and the National Museum, housed in the former royal palace. Meet rescued elephants and their mahouts at the Elephant Village, and enjoy a Laotian lunch at a rice farm. Then board a private boat for a Mekong River cruise, going ashore at the Pak Ou Buddha Caves and remote riverside villages. MyBanLao Hotel and Le Grand Pakbeng

Days 14–19 Chiang Rai and Bangkok, Thailand: Sail the Mekong to Thailand, then travel overland to Chiang Rai. Here, enjoy a Thai cooking class, tour Wat Rong Khun, and venture into the night market. During two days in Bangkok, explore the flower market and ride tuk-tuks to Wat Pho temple, home of the Reclining Buddha. Visit the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and see a prized Asian art collectione at the Jim Thompson House. Gather for a farewell dinner and depart the next day. The Riverie by Katathani and Royal Orchid Sheraton

Optional Extension: Add a three-night post-tour extension in Singapore.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Sandra Cate (Oct.)–anthropologist and folklorist with expertise in Southeast Asia. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Mekong fishermen

Angkor Thom

DISCOVERING VIETNAM

HIGHLIGHTS

• Glide past mystical karst cliffs and islands during a full-day excursion on Ha Long Bay by local boat.

• Discover the medieval port of Hoi An, and ride local boats to the floating markets and traditional villages of the Mekong Delta.

• Enjoy lunch with a local historian and encounter historic sites from Hanoi and imperial Hue to the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Delve into local culture during a cooking class, traditional music and water puppet performances, and a visit to a rural village.

ITINERARY

Days 1–4 U.S./Hanoi, Vietnam and Ha Long Bay: Fly overnight flight to Hanoi and settle into your hotel. Meet for a morning walking tour of Ba Dinh Square, flanked by the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh and the Presidential Palace. Learn the legend of the One Pillar Pagoda, and later, visit the Temple of Literature and Hoa Lo Prison—known as the “Hanoi Hilton” during the Vietnam War. Enjoy a welcome dinner in the Old Quarter. On a full-day excursion to the World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay, ride a local boat through a mystical landscape of karst peaks, tufted islets, and hidden caves. InterContinental Hanoi Westlake

Days 5–7 Da Nang and Hoi An: Fly south to Da Nang and visit the acclaimed Cham Museum, dedicated to the cultural heritage of the indigenous Cham people, whose kingdom ruled this region for 15 centuries. Check in to a beachfront hotel and enjoy time at leisure. Explore the World Heritage site of Hoi An, a beautifully preserved medieval port town that drew traders from across Europe and Asia, and

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $5,997

Single from $7,592

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Oct. 17–31, Dec. 2–16, 2024 & Jan. 11–25, Feb. 17–Mar. 3, Feb. 27–Mar. 13, 2025

15 days | Limited to 24 guests

take part in a cooking lesson. Then venture through rice fields to a farming settlement to get acquainted with everyday life in rural Vietnam. Hyatt Regency Da Nang

Days 8–9 Hue: Journey to Hue and discover the Imperial City of the Nguyen Dynasty, now a World Heritage site. Visit the Central Market, where locals shop, and gain insights into Hue’s heritage during lunch at the home of a local historian. Later, enjoy a traditional music performance. During a cruise on the Perfume River, tour Thien Mu Pagoda, a Buddhist monastery, and the tombs of the Nguyen emperors. Have lunch at Thien, then meet the head nun at a working Buddhist nunnery. Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel

Days 10–11 Mekong Delta and Can Tho: Return to Da Nang by coach and board a flight to the Mekong Delta, arriving in Can Tho. Travel by boat to the vibrant floating market at Cai Rang, where merchants sell their wares from sampans filled with colorful produce and goods. Victoria Can Tho Resort

Days 12–15 Mekong Delta and Ho Chi Minh City: Ride motorized sampans for a closer look at life on the Mekong River before returning to Ho Chi Minh City. Tour Reunification Palace, the wartime headquarters of the South Vietnamese government, and visit the History Museum and the Ho Chi Minh Fine Art Museum. Later, attend a traditional water puppet performance. Venture into the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Toast your sojourn at a farewell dinner and depart the next day.

Sofitel Saigon Plaza

Optional Extension: Add a three-night post-tour extension to Angor Wat and Phnom Penh in Cambodia.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Jonathan GoldbergBelle (Oct.)–expert in South Asian language and literature. Barry Till (Dec.)–art historian with expertise in Asian art. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Ha Long Bay

Hanoi

CULTURAL AND NATURA L TREASURES OF JAPAN BY SE A

Aboard the 264-guest Le Soléal

HIGHLIGHTS

• Tour a samurai home and an Edo-period teahouse.

• Learn the art of papermaking or washi; visit a gold-leaf workshop; and sample sake at a historic brewery.

• Dock in Busan, South Korea and discover the city’s markets, museums, and temples; or travel to the World Heritage site of Gyeongju.

• On the May 2024 voyage, enjoy onboard performances throughout the cruise by Reison Kuroda, a master player of the shakuhachi (traditional bamboo fl ute).

ITINERARY

Day 1 Maizuru, Japan: Arrive in Osaka and transfer to Maizuru, a port city on the Sea of Japan. Embark the ship late in the afternoon. Le Soléal for the entire journey

Day 2 Matsue and Yasugi: Encounter a world-class collection of Japanese modern art at the Adachi Museum of Art. Then stroll through Yushien Garden or explore 17th-century Matsue Castle. Try your hand at the ancient art of papermaking, or washi, at a museum, and set sail for Korea this evening.

Days 3–4 Busan or Gyeongju, South Korea/At Sea: In the port city of Busan, visit Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, tour the Busan Museum of Arts, and experience the Jagalchi Fish Market. Or choose a full-day excursion to Gyeongju, cradle of the eighth-century Silla Kingdom. Spend a day at sea enjoying the ship’s amenities and attending talks by your experts.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $7,970*

Single from $14,240*

Airfare not included

Dates: May 21–28, 2024 & Apr. 12–20, 2025†

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plan.

Book early for the highest savings

†The 2025 departure is 9 days and follows a different itinerary—see website for details.

8 days† | Limited to 256 guests

Day 5 Kanazawa or Shirakawa-go, Japan: On a guided tour of Kanazawa, walk through the lively Omicho Market and past the traditional teahouses of the Edo-period geisha district, or experience the world-renowned Kenrokuen Garden. Witness an authentic Japanese tea ceremony at the Gyokusen-an teahouse and visit the stunning Nomura Samurai Residence. Alternatively, journey to the World Heritage-listed mountain villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama.

Day 6 Sado Island: On Sado Island, visit the Edo-era fishing village of Shukunegi and the Ogi Folk Museum, and taste rice wine at the 150-year-old Hokusetsu Sake Brewery. Or venture to the northern part of the island to explore Senkaku-wan Bay Ageshima Yuen Park and the Sado Kinzan Gold Mine. Attend an exclusive presentation of taiko drumming by the world-famous drumming group, Kodo.

Day 7 Sakata and Yamagata: In the Yamagata region, see traditional Japanese arts and images of post-war Japan; then visit the Sankyo Rice Storehouse. Or discover a 600-year-old pagoda on sacred Mount Haguro and ascend to the thatched shrine of Sanjin Gosaiden. Alternatively, visit Mount Chokai and Tamasudare Falls or the Kamo Aquarium.

Day 8 Hakodate, Hokkaido: Disembark in Hakodate and depart for home.

Optional Extension: Add a four-night pre-tour extension in Tokyo and Kyoto.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Our experts on the May 2024 departure are John Freedman, an Asian studies expert, and Timon Screech, a historian of Japanese art. Visit our website to see the experts on the other departure.

Gyeongju

Tea ceremony

ETERNAL

HIGHLIGHTS

• Experience the stunning temples from Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple to Kyoto’s golden Kinkaku-ji to the ancient shrines of Nara.

• Take in views of Mount Fuji and enjoy a relaxing cruise on nearby Ashi Lake.

• Venture to the World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, where farming families in remote mountain villages maintain a unique lifestyle.

• Enjoy a cooking class in the alpine town of Takayama, and visit a gold leaf museum and an Edo-period teahouse in Kanazawa.

ITINERARY

Days 1–4 U.S./Tokyo, Japan: Fly overnight to Tokyo. Set out to visit the serene Shinto Meiji Shrine and the gallery of renowned calligrapher Koshun Masunaga. Explore the dazzling Ginza entertainment district on your own before a welcome dinner. Then next day, continue your tour at the Imperial Palace, and visit the Buddhist Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple. Stroll past curiosities on the lively Nakamise shopping street. Then see art and antiquities at the Tokyo National Museum before free time to explore. Dai-ichi Hotel Tokyo or Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo

Day 5 Mount Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and Hakone: Travel to Mount Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, where the volcanic cone of Mount Fuji rises majestically 12,388 feet above the surrounding landscape. Learn about conservation efforts at the Mount Fuji World Heritage Center, then set sail on Ashi Lake for views of the iconic

peak. Continue to Hakone and spend the night at a ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn. Hakone Setsugetsuka or Hakone Yunohana Prince Hotel

Days 6–7 Takayama: Journey to the lovely town of Takayama in the Japanese Alps. Stroll past the wooden merchant houses and attend a traditional tea ceremony. Meet a chef at the Miyagawa market and gather ingredients for a cooking lesson. On a walking tour of the Old Town, admire its well-preserved Edo period homes. Hida Hotel Plaza Takayama or Takayama Green Hotel

Days 8–9 Shirakawa-go and Kanazawa: Explore the World Heritage-listed villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, and learn how handmade Japanese washi paper is crafted. In the coastal town of Kanazawa, take a walk in the world-renowned Kenrokuen Garden and see the remains of the town’s castle. Visit a gold leaf center and a ceramics workshop, and tour the Edo-period geisha district, with a stop at a local teahouse.

Hotel Nikko Kanazawa or The Kanazawa New Grand Hotel Premier

Days 10–13 Kyoto: Board the train for Kyoto, Japan’s imperial capital for over a thousand years. Visit Kinkaku-ji, the lakeside Golden Pavilion, and see the Zen garden at Ryoan-ji temple. In the eighth-century capital of Nara, visit ancient Todai-ji and other important Buddhist and Shinto shrines. Tour Nijo Castle, and Sanjyusangendo Hall, and explore Nishiki Market before a farewell dinner. Depart from Osakathe next day. The Thousand Kyoto Optional Extension: Add a two-night post-tour extension in Hiroshima.

“Eternal Japan is a fabulous overview of Japanese culture, with plenty of hands-on experiences and marvelous Smithsonian Journeys Expert and guides.” –Kathy A., TRAVELER

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $8,384

Single from $10,179

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Apr. 1–13, Apr. 20–May 2, Sept. 16–28, Sept. 26–Oct. 8, Oct 17–29, Oct. 26–Nov. 7, 2024 & Apr. 3–25, Apr. 21–May 3, May 5–17, May 17–29, Sept. 15–27, Oct. 6–18, Oct. 23–Nov. 4, 2025

13 days | Limited to 24 guests

JAPAN JAPAN

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Carol Morland (Apr. 20)–Japanese art historian. Jonathan Hall (Oct. 26)–expert in Japanese history, culture, film, and literature. Geeta Mehta (Sept. 16)–expert in Japanese architecture. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Ashi Lake and Mount Fuji

Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto

THE SILK ROAD: A JOURNEY TO CENTRAL ASIA

Featuring the five “Stans” of Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan

HIGHLIGHTS

• Encounter the breathtaking madrassahs and grand squares of Silk Road trading centers such as Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand, and Tashkent.

• Explore the ancient city of Nisa, Turkmenistan with an archaeologist.

• Enjoy lunch at a family home in Kyrgyzstan and watch a demonstration of Kyrgyz horse games and a Manas folk performance.

• Tour the delightful Museum of Musical Instruments in Almaty, and visit a traditional Kazakh falcon farm.

ITINERARY

Days 1–4 U.S./Ashgabat, Turkmenistan: Fly to Ashgabat and arrive early on Day 3. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy a morning at leisure. Tour the city’s marble palaces and historic sites, then gather for a welcome dinner. Explore the ancient Parthian fortresses at Nisa with an archaeologist. Then tour the National Museum of History and Ethnography and browse the Russian Bazaar. Hotel Oguzkent

Days 5–6 Dasoguz/Khiva, Uzbekistan: Fly to Dasoguz and take a city tour. Cross the border to the World Heritage site of Khiva, Uzbekistan, and enjoy a performance of Khorezmian music and dance over dinner. Visit Tash Hauli Palace and the ninth-century Dzhuma Mosque; and take in the views of Khiva’s architectural masterpieces from the Kunya Ark fortress. Asia Hotel Khiva

Days 7–11 Bukhara and Samarkand/Panjikent, Tajikistan: Cross the Red Sands Desert to Bukhara and enjoy dinner and a performance at a madrassa. Tour the World Heritage-listed Old Town and the Jewish Quarter, and meet with the scientific advisor of the Ark citadel. Travel by rail to Samarkand and dine in a family home. Experience the majesty of Registan Square, Bibi Khanum Mosque, and the Shah-i-Zinda mausoleums. See Ulug Bek’s Observatory and Tamerlane’s tomb at the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, and explore a colorful bazaar. Take a day trip to the ancient city of Panjikent in Tajikistan. Hotel Suzangaron and Emir Han Days 12–14 Tashkent/Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan: Visit a papermaking workshop and a silk carpet factory and watch a bread-making demonstration. In Tashkent, venture into the Old Town and see the Tillya Sheikh Mosque, home to the world’s oldest Koran. Admire Uzbek artistry before flying to Bishkek. Explore the Burana Tower and try Kyrgyz dishes during lunch at a family home. Later, witness traditional horse games and a folk performance.

Lotte City Hotel Tashkent Palace and Novotel Bishkek City Center Day 15–17 Bishkek/Almaty, Kazakhstan: Visit Bishkek’s central square and the National History Museum; then hear a firsthand account of the Kyrgyz Revolution at the Ata-Beyit Memorial. In Almaty, Kazakhstan’s former capital, watch a falconry demonstration and visit Zenkov Cathedral. Enjoy a performance at the Museum of Musical Instruments, and tour the State Central Museum. After a festive farewell dinner, depart the next day.

“Central Asia with Smithsonian Journeys was an eye-opening experience to a little-known part of the world. One of the most memorable trips I have ever taken.” –Janice S., TRAVELER

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $8,795

Single from $10,040

Airfare not included

Dates: Apr. 10–26, May 8–24, Sept. 4–20, Oct. 2–18, Oct. 9–25, 2024 & Mar. 26–Apr. 11, Apr. 9–25, May 7–23, Sept. 10–26, Sept. 17–Oct. 3, Oct. 1–17, Oct. 15–31, 2025

17 days | Limited to 24 guests

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Barry Till (May 8)–art historian with expertise in Asian art. Pamela Spratlen (Oct. 2)–former diplomat. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Registan Square,Samarkand

SPLENDORS OF AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND

HIGHLIGHTS

• Watch the sunset over Uluru and savor dinner under the stars.

• Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef or explore it in a semi-submersible vessel; and observe koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and kiwis on visits to wildlife parks.

• Cruise New Zealand’s breathtaking Milford Sound, explore Aoraki Mount Cook, and enjoy wine tasting near Queenstown.

• Take a Dreamtime walk with the Ngadiku people, and learn about New Zealand’s Māori culture during a traditional hangi dinner.

ITINERARY

Days 1–5 U.S./Sydney, Australia: Depart for Sydney, cross the international date line, and arrive on Day 3. Discover the city’s historic sites on a guided tour, then enjoy a lunchtime cruise on Sydney Harbour. The next day, tour the Opera House; then observe koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and dingoes at Featherdale Wildlife Park before free time to explore. Sofitel Sydney Wentworth

Days 6–7 Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: Fly to the Outback, and settle into your hotel near Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Learn about local Aboriginal culture, watch the sun set over the sacred monolith of Uluru, and dine under the stars at a Sounds of Silence experience. Explore the otherworldly rock formations of Kata Tjuta, and take part in an Anangu dot-painting workshop. Sails in the Desert

Days 8–10 Cairns: Travel to tropical Cairns. During a full day on the Great Barrier Reef, snorkel or explore in a semi-submersible vessel at Michaelmas Cay. Head to the ancient Daintree Rainforest and embark on a Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk at Mossman Gorge. Then travel to the village of Kuranda and descend by cable car over the rainforest canopy. Pullman Reef Hotel Casino

Days 11–14 Christchurch, New Zealand and Aoraki/Mount Cook NP: Fly via Sydney to Christchurch. Stroll through the Botanic Gardens and Cathedral Square, and see the memorial to the victims of 2011 earthquake. Stop at a farm to watch sheep-shearing and sheepdog demonstrations. In Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Center, then enjoy free time. Rydges Latimer Christchurch and The Hermitage Hotel or Scenic Franz Josef

Days 15–17 Queenstown and Milford Sound: Visit the former gold mining town of Arrowtown, then enjoy a wine tasting on the way to Queenstown. Experience the incomparable Milford Sound on a nature cruise, and opt for a scenic flight over the Fiordland. Enjoy a day at leisure in Queenstown. Hotel St. Moritz

Days 18–22 Rotorua and Auckland: Fly to the North Island and tour Rotorua. At a Māori cultural center, experience a traditional hangi dinner and a performance. Take a nature walk at Paradise Valley Springs; then learn about kiwi rehabilitation at the National Kiwi Trust. Surround yourself with thousands of glowworms at Ruakuri Caves, and continue to Auckland. Gather for a farewell dinner and depart the next day. Regent of Rotorua, Grand Millennium Auckland

“There was something new and wonderful to experience every day… it truly was a trip of a lifetime, and our memories of it will last for years to come.” –Marcia and Bill L., TRAVELERS

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $12,184

Single from $14,579

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Sept. 20–Oct. 11, Oct. 9–30, Nov. 1–22, 2024 & Jan. 15–Feb. 5, Feb. 9–Mar. 2, Mar. 9–30, Apr. 9–30, 2025

22 days | Limited to 24 guests

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERT

Brent Garry (Sept. 20)–geologist. Jan Post (Nov. 1)–former curator of the gem and mineral collection at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Green sea turtle

Sydney Harbour

JOURNEY THROUGH NEW ZEALAND

HIGHLIGHTS

• Sail Auckland’s harbor and learn about Māori culture at a traditional hangi feast and performance.

• Discover Napier’s art deco heart; the creative capital of Wellington; and Christchurch, known for its innovative rebuilding after the 2011 earthquake. Cruise a catamaran on Doubtful Sound and ride the TranzAlpine train on a spectacular rail journey through the Southern Alps.

• Enjoy a sheepdog demonstration and a barbecue at a local farm, and sample wines at vineyards in Hawke’s Bay and Central Otago.

ITINERARY

Days 1–4 U.S./Auckland, New Zealand: Travel across the international date line and arrive in Auckland on Day 3. Set off on a walking tour before a welcome dinner. The next morning, see Māori and Pacific Islander art at the Auckland Museum, and enjoy a lunch cruise on Auckland Harbour. Take the afternoon to explore as you wish. Grand Millennium Auckland

Days 5–7 Rotorua and Napier: Venture into the Ruakuri Caves, illuminated by thousands of glowworms. Continue to Rotorua, a center of Māori culture and geothermal activity. See carved Māori houses and handicrafts, and enjoy a hangi dinner and a cultural performance. Take a nature walk in Paradise Valley Springs and tour a rehabilitation center for kiwi birds. Journey to the Hawke’s Bay wine region for a wine tasting and lunch at a celebrated winery. Arrive in seaside Napier and admire its art deco architecture on a walking tour.

Millennium Hotel Rotorua and Scenic Hotel Te Pania

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $9,174

Single from $10,769

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: Oct. 17–Nov. 1, Nov. 7–22, 2024 & Feb. 27–Mar. 14, Mar. 27–Apr. 11, 2025

16 days | Limited to 24 guests

Days 8–10 Wellington and Christchurch: At a local farm, witness sheepdogs at work and watch a sheep-shearing demonstration before a barbecue lunch. Continue to Wellington and enjoy a free evening. Ride a historic cable car for panoramic views of the capital, and visit Te Papa, New Zealand’s acclaimed national museum. Fly to Christchurch on the South Island and visit its Botanic Gardens as well as Re:START Mall, a vibrant civic area that rose from the rubble of the 2011 earthquake. Mövenpick Hotel Wellington and Rydges Latimer Square

Days 11–12 Franz Josef and the Southern Alps: Embark the TranzAlpine train for one of the world’s great rail journeys, winding from the plains to the peaks of the Southern Alps. Disembark in Arthur’s Pass and take a scenic drive to Franz Josef. In Westland Tai Poutini National Park, encounter Franz Josef Glacier, which descends from the mountaintops to a rainforest. Take a guided walk through Glacial Valley and observe kiwi birds at a wildlife center.

Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

Days 13–16 Queenstown and Doubtful Sound: Travel south, pausing in lakeside Wanaka for lunch at leisure. In Central Otago, enjoy a private tasting and tour at an award-winning winery. Check in to your hotel in Queensland. The next day, set off on an exhilarating full-day excursion to Fiordland National Park and Doubtful Sound. Journey across lakes and mountain passes to reach this World Heritage site. On a catamaran cruise, admire enchanting landscapes and look for dolphins, fur seals, Fiordland crested penguins, and perhaps whales. Enjoy a morning sail on Lake Wakapitu aboard a vintage steamer before a free afternoon in Queensland. Celebrate your adventure at a farewell dinner and depart the next day. The Millennium Hotel Queenstown

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Lori Blanc (Oct.)–conservation biologist.

Tom Mirenda (Nov.)–horticulturist. Visit our website to see experts on other departures.

Southern Alps

NEW ZEALAND’S NORTH & SOUTH ISLANDS BY SEA

Aboard the 184-guest Le Jacques Cartier

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ride a historic railway through the Taieri River Gorge or spot penguins and fur seals at a nature reserve on the Otago Peninsula.

• Experience World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park, exploring the magnifi cent Dusky, Doubtful, and Milford Sounds.

• Enjoy a tasting tour in Marlborough wine country. • Learn about the ancient culture of the Māori, spending time with families, witnessing traditional dances, and taking part in timeless ceremonies.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Christchurch, New Zealand: Arrive in Christchurch, and board the ship in nearby Lyttelton. Le Jacques Cartier for the entire journey

Day 2 Dunedin: Your first port of call is Dunedin, nestled at the base of the beautiful Otago Peninsula. Set off on a scenic train ride through the Taieri River Gorge; or explore Nature’s Wonder Reserve in a specially designed vehicle, looking for little blue and yellow-eyed penguins as well as breeding colonies of New Zealand fur seals. Alternatively, tour the Scottish-influenced town of Dunedin.

Day 3 At Sea/Dusky and Doubtful Sounds: Enter the glacier-carved waterways of Fiordland National Park, a World Heritage site known for its narrow fjords, vertical cliffs, and old-growth forests. Sail into remote Dusky Sound and get a close-up look at wildlife such as the Fiordland crested penguin, navigate Secretary Island and nearby Thompson Sound, and view the spectacular waterfalls of narrow Doubtful Sound.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $8,212*

Single from $11,812*

Airfare not included

Dates: Jan. 7–16, 2025

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plan. Book early for the highest savings.

10 days | Limited to 176 guests

Day 4 Milford Sound: Experience Milford Sound, which meanders inland between the steep slopes of the Southern Alps, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. Spend the morning immersed in the sound’s natural majesty, taking in the views from on deck and keeping an eye out for fur seals and an array of birdlife.

Days 5–6 At Sea/Picton: During a leisurely day at sea, take advantage of the ship’s many amenities. Go ashore at Picton to explore the Marlborough wine region. Enjoy tasting tours at three wineries and visit a local chocolate maker. Or view an impressive collection of World War I and II aircraft at the Omaka Heritage Aviation Centre in Blenheim before a visit to a brewery and a confectionery shop.

Day 7 Napier: On the North Island, delve into the rich culture of the Māori people on a tour of their ancestral lands led by a Māori guide. Take part in a traditional greeting ceremony and learn about their daily life, music, and age-old customs. Admire the art deco architecture of Napier before returning to the ship.

Day 8 Whakatane: Dock at Whakatane and head inland on one of two excursions. Encounter colorful mineral springs and geysers in Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland and Te Puia, and witness Māori craft demonstrations and dances. Or visit a family-run farm to see truffle hunting dogs at work and sample truffle-infused foods paired with local wine and beer.

Days 9–10 Auckland: Arrive in lovely Auckland and embark on a unique city tour. Or ride the ferry to beautiful Waiheke Island for a tour of several wineries and lunch. Disembark the next day and transfer to the airport.

Optional Extension: Add a four-night pre-tour extension in New Zealand’s North Island.

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. The experts on this cruise include Jim Zimbelman, senior geologist emeritus at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, and Lori Blanc, a conservation biologist.

Milford Sound

Fiordland penguin

HIGHLIGHTS

ANTARCTICA: THE WHITE CONTINENT

Aboard the 264-guest L’Austral

• Encounter spectacular polar panoramas, navigating among towering glaciers, lava-sculpted mountains, and immense icebergs.

• Walk among large colonies of penguins, including gentoo, chinstrap, and Adélie; and watch for breaching whales, orcas, and leopard seals.

• Enjoy excursions by Zodiac with expert naturalists, getting a closer look at icebergs, glaciers, and wildlife, and, conditions permitting, stepping onto the continent itself.

• Take a nature walk in Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego National Park and discover its unusual fl ora and fauna.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Buenos Aires, Argentina: Arrive in cosmopolitan Buenos Aires and check into your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to explore the city on your own. Hilton Madero or similar

Day 2 Ushuaia: This morning, fly to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city, and set out on an excursion to Tierra del Fuego National Park. Here, the southernmost peaks of the Andes—known as the Darwin Range—are interspersed with lagoons, bogs, and rivers. Discover the park’s flora and sub-Antarctic landscapes on a nature walk with our guides, and, with luck, encounter beavers, birds, wild orchids, and more. Enjoy lunch in the park before returning to Ushuaia to embark the ship. Set sail on the Beagle Channel, named after the ship that carried Charles Darwin on his South American voyages. L’Austral for the remainder of the journey

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $12,960*

Single from $14,010*

Includes round-trip air between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, but airfare to/from Buenos Aires is not included.

Dates: Feb. 18–Mar. 1, 2025

*Pricing reflects a savings from 5% to 30%, based on availability at catalog printing. See our website for current pricing and deck plan. Book early for the highest savings.

12 days |

Limited to 200 guests

ARGENTINA

Days 3–4 Drake Passage: Cross the legendary Drake Passage, enjoying time to get familiar with the ship and deepen your knowledge of Antarctica. Your Smithsonian Journeys Experts and the team of naturalist guides on board will present insightful lectures on the history and wildlife of the world’s oldest continent. Watch the crew navigate on the ship’s bridge, and spend time on deck with naturalists observing seabirds such as albatrosses and cape petrels. Indulge with a spa treatment or a visit to the onboard hammam, or relax with a book in one of the ship’s lounges. Once the ship reaches the Antarctic Convergence, where cold Antarctic currents merge with warmer waters of the South Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, look for orcas and fin, humpback, and minke whales as well as seabirds feeding on plankton and krill.

Days 5–9: Discovering the Antarctica Peninsula: Spend five days exploring the outer shores and islands of the Antarctic Peninsula, ethereal landscapes defined by lava and ice. Here, abrupt mountains create precipitous coastlines and massive glaciers calve icebergs of all shapes and sizes into the sea. In this seemingly harsh environment, a vast array of wildlife flourishes, including millions of penguins and seabirds, as well as numerous species of seals and whales. At this time of year, you may get the chance to observe humpback and minke whales, pods of orcas, elephant seals and leopard seals, giant petrels, and great skuas. Go ashore on volcanic islands to walk among fur seals and gentoo and chinstrap penguins—and their newly hatched chicks. As the ship navigates deeper into the realm of ice, encounter playful Adélie penguins and unusual marine life. In this hushed and magical atmosphere, you may find yourself cruising past tabular icebergs that dwarf the vessel, ice floes where Weddell seals loll after their

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. The experts on this cruise include Dyan deNapoli, a penguin expert, TED speaker, and award-winning author. Visit our website to see the additional expert.

Hiking on the pack ice

A PONANT ship in Antarctica

meal, and sculpted ice that glows ethereal shades of turquoise and teal. Along the way, attend talks about polar wildlife and geology, and learn about the history of Antarctic exploration, from Sir Ernest Shackleton’s ill-fated expedition to the ventures of explorers such as Jean-Baptiste Charcot and Adrien de Gerlache. Time and conditions permitting, you may have the chance to visit a research station. Keep in mind that you are privileged guests in these extreme lands, and the ship’s course is dependent on weather, sea, and ice conditions. Every cruise is unique, and your seasoned captain and crew are expert at making the most of the conditions at hand.

Days 10–11 Drake Passage: Relax and reflect on board as the ship turns north and makes its way back across the Drake Passage. Enjoy lively, informative discussions with our Smithsonian Journeys Experts and the ship’s naturalists. Watch for albatrosses, many different species of petrels, and marine life as the ship cruises across the Antarctic Convergence and on the way to the Beagle Channel.

Day 12 Ushuaia and Buenos Aires, Argentina: Disembark in Ushuaia and fly to Buenos Aires to catch your flight home.

Optional Extension: Add a four-night pre-tour extension in Patagonia and/or a two-night post-tour extension in Buenos Aires.

“This was a once-in-a-lifetime expedition trip. Arrangements and execution of all facets of the Antarctica journey were rewarding and memorable.”

–Charles L., TRAVELER

Gentoo penguins

Taking in views from the deck

AROUND THE WORLD BY PRIVATE JET

A Classic Journey

HIGHLIGHTS

• Circumnavigate the globe by private jet, experiencing a host of World Heritage sites, from Angkor Wat and the Taj Mahal to enchanting Marrakech.

• Gain insight into the legendary archaeological sites of Machu Picchu, Easter Island, and Ancient Egypt.

• Observe astonishing wildlife while snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef and on safari in the Serengeti or the Ngorongoro Crater.

• Meet artisans in Peru, visit a floating village in Cambodia, and witness a traditional Maasai dance in Tanzania.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Miami, Florida: Arrive at your hotel and meet fellow travelers, tour staff, and your Smithsonian Journeys Expert for a welcome reception and dinner. Four Seasons Hotel Miami

Days 2–4 Cusco and Machu Picchu or Pisco, Peru: Fly by private jet to Pisco on Peru’s coast. Continue by chartered plane to Cusco, and discover its Inca and Spanish colonial heritage on a city tour. Watch an Andean weaving demonstration, then ride a private train to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu for a guided tour. Or stay in Pisco to explore Paracas National Reserve and, weather permitting, take a scenic flight over the 2,000-year-old Nazca Lines.

Belmond Palacio Nazarenas or Hotel Paracas, A Luxury Resort Collection

Days 5–8 Easter Island, Chile/Papeete, Tahiti: The private jet flies next to Easter Island, home to the moai of the ancient Rapa Nui civilization. Come face to face with these mysterious statues, and learn about the “birdman” competition at the ceremonial village of Orongo. Continue to Tahiti and enjoy time at leisure and a festive dinner at your waterfront hotel. Nayara Hangaroa and Hilton Hotel Tahiti

Days 9–10 Great Barrier Reef, Australia: Cross the international date line and lose a day on the way to Cairns. Ride a private boat to the Great Barrier Reef to snorkel or dive amid incredible marine life. Or explore the ancient Daintree Rainforest, inhabited by the Kuku Yalanji people for some 50,000 years. Silky Oaks Lodge

Days 11–13: Angkor and Tonle Sap, Cambodia: Fly next to Siem Reap. Meet Buddhist monks for a blessing during an early morning tour of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, or explore this World Heritage site after breakfast. Visit Ta Prohm, tangled in vegetation, and marvel at the carved faces of Bayon Temple. Then cruise Tonle Sap lake to a floating village to witness daily life. Peruse the Siem Reap market or or visit an elephant sanctuary. Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor

Days 14–15 Agra, India: Your next stop is Agra, home to the extraordinary Taj Mahal, commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to his second wife.

Stroll the grounds of this marble mausoleum, admiring its exquisite artistic details, which blend Persian, Hindu, and Islamic elements. The Oberoi Amarvilas–Agra

Days 16–18 Serengeti Plain or Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania: Arrive in Tanzania and continue by private aircraft to Serengeti National Park or the Ngorongoro Crater. In the Serengeti, enjoy morning and evening safaris, watching for giraffes, elephants, lions, rhinos, wildebeests, and some 500 bird species. Enjoy a picnic in the bush and opt for a hot-air balloon ride. Or stay on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater and encounter extraordinary wildlife in the world’s largest intact caldera. Both options include a visit to a Maasai village.

Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti or Ngorongoro Lodge Melia Collection

Days 19–21 Luxor and Cairo, Egypt: Fly to Luxor and embark on an afternoon cruise on the Nile. In the Valley of the Kings, visit the tombs of legendary pharaohs; then explore the spectacular Karnak Temple. Jet on to Cairo to encounter the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Tour the new Grand Egyptian Museum, now home to the treasures of Tutankhamun.

Hilton Luxor Resort (or similar) and Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza

Days 22–23 Marrakech, Morocco: Delve into the enchanting medina of Marrakech, admiring the delicate architecture of its madrassas and palaces. Tour the Musée Yves Saint Laurent Marrakech and the Museum of Berber Arts, and see rare botanical species at the Jardin Majorelle. Or head into the High Atlas Mountains to visit a traditional Amazigh (Berber) village and have tea with the village chief. La Mamounia

Days 24–25 Miami, Florida: Return to Florida by private jet and depart on independent flights the next day. Four Seasons Hotel Miami

This private jet tour is operated by TCS World Travel and uses aircraft operated by Titan Airways Limited. We are closely monitoring the effect of world events on this itinerary. Please visit our website to see the most up-to-date itinerary, in the event any changes have been made following the printing of this catalog.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $144,950 / Single from $154,950

Airfare to/from Florida is not included

Dates: Dec. 30, 2024–Jan. 22, 2025* & Jan. 23–Feb. 16, Oct. 27–Nov. 20, Dec. 29, 2025–Jan. 22, 2026

25 days* | Limited to 52 guests

*The itinerary shown describes the 2025 departures. The December 2024 departure is 24 days and follows a slightly different itinerary, beginning in Orlando, visiting Fiji instead of Tahiti, and stopping in Jaipur, India with a day in Agra. Some departures feature different world-class hotels than those listed here. Please visit our website for details about each departure.

Peruvian weaver

“From the moment we booked the trip, every single detail was taken care of thoughtfully, professionally, and beyond comprehension.” –Keith and Julie J.,

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERTS

Don Wilson (Dec. 30)–senior scientist and curator emeritus at the Smithsonian Natural History Museum. Nam Kim (Jan. 23)–anthropological archaeologist. Peter Bobrowsky (Oct. 27)–archaeologist and geologist. Katryn Wiese (Dec. 29)–geologist.

SERENGETI PLAIN OR NGORONGORO CRATER, TANZANIA

ANGKOR WAT, CAMBODIA

GREAT BARRIER REEF, AUSTRALIA PAPEETE, TAHITI

CUSCO AND MACHU PICCHU OR PISCO, PERU

EASTER ISLAND, CHILE MIAMI, FLORIDA

LUXOR AND CAIRO, EGYPT MARRAKECH, MOROCCO TAJ MAHAL, INDIA BEGIN AND END

TRAVELERS

Machu Picchu

Great Barrier Reef

Jardin Marjorelle, Marrakech

Lions in Tanzania

Aspara dancers, Cambodia

ANCIENT CROSSROADS BY PRIVATE JET

HIGHLIGHTS

• Journey to eight countries across the eastern hemisphere, from Southeast Asia to the Himalaya to the isles of the Mediterranean.

• Encounter an astonishing range of World Heritage sites, such as the medieval capitals of Georgia and Malta and the ancient cities of the Kathmandu Valley.

• Explore important centers of culture and trade including the Silk Road outpost of Samarkand and the historic port of Hoi An, Vietnam.

• Witness Bhutan’s textile arts, set off on a culinary adventure in Bangkok, and delve into the timeless souks of Doha, Qatar.

ITINERARY

Day 1 London, England: Arrive in London and transfer to your hotel overlooking Hyde Park. Meet fellow travelers, trip staff, and your Smithsonian Journeys Expert for a welcome reception and dinner. Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane

Days 2–4 Tbilisi, Georgia: Ride the funicular over the ancient city of Tbilisi and visit the Georgian National Ballet. In the former capital of Mtskheta, tour World Heritage-listed religious monuments; and delve into wine-making traditions that date back 8,000 years. The Stamba Hotel

Days 5–6 Samarkand, Uzbekistan: Fly to fabled Samarkand, an important crossroads on the ancient Silk Road. In Registan Square, admire madrassas and mosques covered with luminous mosaics. Visit the Ulugh Beg Observatory and Bibi Khanum Mosque, and view the tomb of the conqueror Tamerlane at Gur-e-Amir. Stop in at a silk carpet-weaving workshop. Samarkand Regency Amir Temur

Days 7–9 Hoi An, Vietnam: Fly to the World Heritage site of Hoi An, a trading port that thrived from the 15th to the 19th century. Experience its vibrant cultural mix of Chinese guildhalls, French colonial gems, teahouses, temples, and a Japanese covered bridge. Venture into the countryside, where brilliant rice fields are dotted with traditional villages. Savor the region’s unique cuisine, which incorporates flavors from across East and Southeast Asia. Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai

Days 10–12 Bangkok, Thailand: Cruise the Chao Phraya River through Bangkok, passing temples and palaces and detouring into the klongs, or canals, for a glimpse of local life. See the world’s largest reclining Buddha at Wat Po, then stroll past street art and innovative businesses in the Creative District. Experience Bangkok’s exciting culinary scene, sampling street food and local specialties in hole-in-thewall joints and at an acclaimed restaurant. You’ll also have the chance to take a Thai cooking class. Venture into the Grand Royal Palace and admire the mysterious Emerald Buddha at Wat Phra Kaew temple. Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok

Days 13–15 Bhutan: Travel by chartered jet to Paro, Bhutan, and begin your visit at the Rinpung Dzong, a spectacular example of Bhutanese architecture. Travel to the capital city of Thimphu, and view 12th-century paintings and other important artifacts at the Dechen Phodrang Monastery. Learn about thangka weaving techniques at the National Textile Museum, and see examples of local textiles and traditional dress. During free time in Paro, take part in a range of activities or relax at your hotel, a showpiece of Bhutanese craftsmanship. If you wish, set off on a vigorous hike to the cliffside Taktsang Palphug, also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Zhiwa Ling Heritage Hotel

Day 16 Kathmandu, Nepal: Fly above soaring Himalayan peaks to Kathmandu, where Buddhist and Hindu traditions have intermingled for centuries. Set out into the World Heritage-listed Kathmandu Valley to visit two ancient cities: Patan and Bhaktapur. Then venture into the Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, built in the Nepalese pagoda style; or explore the iconic Boudhanath Stupa. Dwarika’s Hotel Kathmandu

Days 17–18 Doha, Qatar: Discover Doha, a flourishing hub of culture and astonishing architecture. Venture into the bustling markets of the 19th-century Souq Waqif and tour the National Museum of Qatar, an architectural masterpiece by French architect Jean Nouvel. Embark on a thrilling 4x4 drive across towering sand dunes that stretch to the Inland Sea, a World Heritage site. Board a traditional dhow and sail the West Bay for an enchanting perspective on Doha’s glittering skyline. Raffles Doha

Days 19–21 Valletta, Malta: Travel by private jet to the World Heritage site of Valletta. Enjoy a harbor cruise followed by a walking tour, visit the World Heritage-listed megalithic tombs of Gozo and Hagar Qim, and visit a Maltese winery. The Phoenicia Malta

Days 22–23 London, England: Take a final flight by private jet back to London. Toast your journey at a celebratory farewell dinner and fly home independently the next day. Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square

This private jet tour is operated by TCS World Travel and uses aircraft operated by Titan Airways Limited. We are closely monitoring the effect of world events on this itinerary. Please visit our website to see the most up-to-date itinerary, in the event any changes have been made following the printing of this catalog.

TRIP DETAILS

Price: Double from $155,950 / Single from $171,545

Airfare to/from London is not included

Dates: Feb. 3–25, 2025

23 days | Limited to 52 guests

Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Bhutan

SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS EXPERT

Visit our website to see the expert on this tour.

Tibilisi

Samarkand

Kathmandu

Thailand

Doha

EVEN MORE WAYS TO EXPLORE THE WORLD

SPAIN’S ANDALUSIA

A one-week stay in Antequera

Price: Double and Single from $4,390 / Airfare not included

Limited singles available on 2024 and 2025 departures at no extra charge.

Dates: Apr. 11–19, May 2–10, Sept. 12–20, Oct. 3–11, 2024 & Apr. 24–May 2, May 15–23, Sept. 4–12, Sept. 25–Oct. 3, Oct. 2–10, 2025

Itinerary: 9 Days | Limited to 24 guests

From your home base in the medieval town of Antequera, immerse yourself in the unique culture of Andalusia, drawn from Moorish, Christian, and Jewish roots. Enjoy day trips to Seville, Cordoba, Ronda, and Granada.

EUROPE’S GREAT RIVERS: THE DANUBE, MAIN, AND RHINE

Aboard the 168-guest Amadeus Silver III

The journeys described in these pages are just a sampling of all we have to offer. If you are unable to join the advertised dates of any trip, our specialists can create a similar itinerary just for you. Take a look at more of our trips below, and head to our website for a full listing of our travel programs—including our new Active Journeys; custom Tailor-Made Journeys to any of 70 destinations; and Student Travel for students finishing grades 8 through 12. You’ll also find detailed itineraries and dates, photo galleries, ship deck plans, and bios for the wonderful Smithsonian Journeys Experts who lead our tours.

Visit SmithsonianJourneys.org to see all the ways to travel with us.

COUNTY CLARE

A one-week stay in western Ireland

Price: Double and Single from $4,990 / Airfare not included Limited singles available on 2024 departures at no extra charge.

Dates: June 8–16, Sept. 7–15, Sept. 21–29, 2024

Itinerary: 9 Days | Limited to 24 guests

Stay in historic Ennis and experience the essence of Irish culture, visiting castles, prehistoric sites, and timeless villages across western Ireland. Delve into Irish traditions from music to sports and explore dramatic landscapes.

MYSTERY LOVER’S ENGLAND

Price: Double from $6,995 / Single from $8,390 / Airfare not included

Dates: Sept. 28–Oct. 6, 2024 & Sept. 20–28, 2025

9 Days | Limited to 24 guests

Experience Devon, Oxford, and London—all of which have served as settings for stories by mystery and detective writers. Gain insight into famous detective novelists from our expert and from the contemporary authors you’ll meet.

OLD WORLD EUROPE

Price: Double from $7,097 / Single from $8,592 / Airfare not included

Dates: May 7–22, Aug. 27–Sept. 11, Sept. 17–Oct. 2, 2024 & Apr. 12–27, May 3–18, Aug. 23–Sept. 7, Sept. 13–28, 2025

16 Days | Limited to 24 guests

Make your way through five distinctly different countries in Central and Eastern Europe, encountering capitals of history and culture and exploring World Heritage sites from Krakow to Prague.

Price: Double and Single from $6,890 / Airfare not included

Limited singles available on the 2025 departure at no extra charge.

Dates: Oct. 15–30, 2024 & Oct. 8–23, 2025

Itinerary: 16 Days | Limited to 55 guests

Explore the cultural landscapes along three legendary European rivers—the Danube, Main, and Rhine. Enjoy a choice of daily excursions and tour World Heritage sites from Austria’s Wachau Valley to the Bavarian old town of Regensburg.

THE LIFE AND WORK OF VAN GOGH IN FRANCE

Price: Double from $5,990 / Single from $7,240 / Airfare not included

Dates: May 29–June 4, Sept. 18–24, 2024

7 Days | Limited to 24 guests

Retrace the life and works of Vincent van Gogh on a journey through France, exploring his haunts from Paris to Saint-Remy-de-Provence and Arles, and enjoying private tours of renowned collections and exhibitions.

HEART OF SCOTLAND

A one-week stay featuring the Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Price: Double and Single from $4,990–Very limited singles

Includes $250 special savings / Airfare not included

Dates: July 29–Aug. 6, Aug. 12–20, 2024

9 Days | Limited to 24 guests

Settle into medieval Stirling and spend a week ensconced in Scotland’s history and culture. Cruise Loch Lomond, visit the country’s oldest distillery, and experience Edinburgh’s Military Tattoo.

TANZANIA AND ZANZIBAR

Featuring the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater

Price: Double from $9,997 / Single from $10,992

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Dates: July 14–27, Sept. 22–Oct. 5, 2024

14 Days | Limited to 18 guests

Experience Tanzania’s diverse habitats and abundant wildlife on safari in four national parks—from Tarangire to the Serengeti—and discover a rich cultural heritage on the enchanting island of Zanzibar.

SMITHSONIAN AT THE TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Price: Double from $5,590 / Single from $6,985

Includes $250 special savings / Airfare not included

Dates: Sept. 4–9, 2024

6 Days | Limited to 24 guests

Enjoy a coveted industry pass to the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival and join film historian Marc Glassman as he guides you through a remarkable range of cinematography, from independent films to Hollywood features.

Please Note: See Terms and Conditions and detailed itineraries and pricing on our website. Meals are included as noted in the itinerary descriptions on the website.

Photography Credits: Getty, iStock, Dreamstime, Shutterstock. Front covers: Northern Lights, Finland–Getty/Kevin Gorton; Dolomites, Italy–Getty/Achim Thomae; Giraffes–Getty/Darrell Gulin. Back covers: Floating market, Thailand–Getty/Mint Images/Art Wolfe; Kyoto, Japan–iStock/coward_lion; Pena Palace, Portugal–Dreamstime/Mikhail Kokhanchikov. Additional photos courtesy of the following: p.5/Peruvian woman–Richard Stanoss; p.82/weavers–Richard Stanoss. PONANT Studio: p.9/ship suite–Nicolas Matheus; p.11/whale Zodiac–Lorraine Turci; p.12/ship pool–Nicolas Matheus; p.12/ship cabin–François Lefebvre; p.12/Zodiac–Nathalie Michel; p.12/ship lounge–Nicolas Matheus; p.13/ship–Nathalie Michel; p.28/Santorini ship–Nathalie Michel; p.61/Norway ship–Violette Vauchelle; p.80/San Blas ship–Thibault Barnier; p.106/ship–Adrien Morlent; p.106/ snow hikers–Olivier Blaud; p.107/gentoo penguins–Olivier Blaud; p.107/ice and deck–Romain Farge. Additional Photos: Smithsonian Institution Museums and Research Stations; Smithsonian Journeys Experts, staff, tour operators, and providers. Printed December 2023.

Irish musicians

van Gogh’s Sunflowers Tanzania

Ronda, Spain

Warsaw

London Amsterdam

CULTURE, ART AND CUISINE OF ITALY

Suggested Itinerary: 10 days from $7,995

SMITHSONIAN TAILOR-MADE JOURNEYS

We invite you to discover a destination you’ve always dreamed about on a trip designed just for you and the traveling companions of your choice. Simply decide where you’d like to go and whom you’d like to travel with—your spouse or your extended family, a favorite travel partner, or a group of close friends. You’ll be paired with a country specialist with firsthand knowledge of the region who will curate a day-by-day itinerary that matches your interests, your pace, and your budget. We’ll hand select every route and guide; choose accommodations based on your style; and arrange activities and excursions that will be meaningful to you.

We’ve highlighted a few sample itineraries here to get you started. Remember, you can customize them any way you wish. Also, if you are interested in one of our group trips but cannot join the advertised dates, our specialists can develop a similar itinerary for you—just make sure to include the trip name when you submit your request. The possibilities are endless!

Call 855.215.8690 to speak with a country specialist or visit our website for more Tailor-Made Journeys destinations: SmithsonianJourneys.org/Tailor-Made

Celebrate Italy on a journey that will have you admiring the artistic masterpieces of Florence, tasting wines and olive oils at an agriturismo in Tuscany, walking the medieval streets of Siena, and exploring Rome’s magnificent sites with a private guide.

JAPAN PAST AND PRESENT

Suggested Itinerary: 11 days from $6,995

Immerse yourself in the captivating culture of Japan as you encounter vestiges of its imperial past and the dynamism of contemporary life on a journey to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hakone.

GREECE FAMILY

Suggested Itinerary: 9 days from $6,995

Introduce your family to the world of the ancient Greeks—and the rich culture of modern-day Greece—on a journey for all ages to Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and beyond.

HIGHLIGHTS OF AUSTRALIA

Suggested Itinerary: 12 days from $6,495

Discover the highlights of Australia on a journey that combines sophisticated Sydney, the sacred sites of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, and the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.

FRANCE: PARIS, NORMANDY, AND THE LOIRE VALLEY

Suggested Itinerary: 12 days from $9,850

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of France as you make your way from incomparable Paris to the sites of Normandy and Brittany and the châteaux of the Loire Valley.

Mount Fuji

EASTER ISLAND AND THE ATACAMA NEW!

Suggested Itinerary: 11 days from $6,995

Experience two unparalleled destinations—the otherworldly Atacama Desert and Easter Island, scattered with the enigmatic stone figures of a lost culture—on a journey that explores the geological wonders as well as the enduring archaeological mysteries of Chile.

VIETNAM, LAOS, AND CAMBODIA

Suggested Itinerary: 14 days from $6,760

From the shrines of Luang Prabang to the temples of Angkor, experience Southeast Asia on a journey to historic towns and timeless villages of Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

MOROCCO FROM SEA TO SAHARA NEW!

Suggested Itinerary: 11 days from $6,595

Discover Morocco from its ancient cities to the Sahara Desert on a Tailor-Made Journey. You can explore the imperial cities of Marrakech, Meknes, and Fez, and venture to ancient kasbahs and everyday villages along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs.

SOUTH AFRICA AND VICTORIA FALLS

Suggested Itinerary: 10 days from $9,995

Experience southern Africa from three unique perspectives as you explore Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula, observe wildlife on safari in Greater Kruger National Park, and encounter the mist and thunder of Victoria Falls.

GERMANY AND AUSTRIA NEW!

Suggested Itinerary: 10 days from $6,995

Immerse yourself in the worlds of Mozart and Wagner as you explore the classical music capitals of Munich, Salzburg, and Vienna on a journey that features a host of concerts and performances as well as cooking classes and private tours.

PEAKS AND GLACIERS OF PATAGONIA

Suggested Itinerary: 11 days from $6,435

Explore the spectacular landscapes of Patagonia from both the Chilean and Argentinian sides, discovering Torres del Paine National Park and the Perito Moreno Glacier with naturalist guides.

Easter Island moai Lion in South Africa

Moroccan tea