Smithsonian Journeys Travel Catalog (Jan. 2023)

Travel with Smithsonian Journeys

Our 2023–2024 Travel Collection

51 Across the Alps: A Deluxe Rail Journey NEW!

52 Great European Journey

53 Holiday Markets

108 Art Meets Science in Switzerland

108 Old World Europe

109 Smithsonian at the Cannes Film Festival

Northern Europe

54 Prehistoric Mysteries of England and Ireland: Stonehenge to the Aran Islands NEW!

55 Smithsonian at Oxford

56 County Clare

56 England’s Lake District NEW!

57 Heart of Scotland: A One-Week Stay NEW!

58 Scotland’s Treasures

59 Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage

60 Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea

61 The Emerald Isle

62 Waterways of Holland and Belgium

63 A Stay in Holland: Featuring the special exhibition Johannes Vermeer NEW!

64 Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea

65 Cruising the Norwegian Fjords

66 Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice

67 Adventure in Iceland

Other Europe

33 Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba NEW!

41 France and Spain’s Basque Region

42 Prehistoric Caves of France and Spain

42 Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea NEW!

44 D-Day: A Journey from England to France

The Americas

North America

69 Alaska’s Glaciers and the Inside Passage

70 Alaska’s Natural Wonders

71 A Voyage Along the Great Lakes

72 Symphony on the St. Lawrence: From Québec to the Canadian Maritimes NEW!

103 Splendors of Australia and New Zealand

104 New Zealand’s South Island by Sea: A Voyage to the Fiordland NEW!

Antarctica

105 Antarctica: The White Continent

Private Jet

106 Around the World: A Classic Journey by Private Jet

107 Wonders of Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific by Private Jet NEW!

More Resources

109 Film Festivals with Smithsonian

110 Calendar

South America

Africa & the Middle East

Asia & the Pacific

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 nearly two centuries. And traveling with Smithsonian Journeys Experts offers a deeper dive into a wide variety of subjects, from fine art to natural history.

We founded our first observatory in 1890—and now we invite astronomy aficionados to gaze at the night sky from world-class observatories in South America on our Chile Earth and Sky journey, or join us in the path of totality on a solar eclipse tour in 2024: A Journey from Austin to the Texas Hill Country. Wildlife enthusiasts can meet scientists at the Smithsonian’s Punta Culebra Nature Center in Panama on our Panama and Costa Rica by Sea voyage.

If you’ve enjoyed our museums dedicated to Native American history and culture, get an even closer look at our nation’s rich cultural heritage on trips to Pueblo country or Alaska. If your passion is history, encounter it firsthand with seasoned historians on in-depth journeys into past—from cruises to legendary GrecoRoman ruins across the Mediterranean to a poignant exploration of Normandy’s D-Day sites. And for those who treasure lifelong learning, Smithsonian at Oxford is the ultimate continuing education program, offering compelling courses in English literature, archaeology, and more.

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.

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; commitment to safety; and knowledgeable and experienced trip staff.

2. Travel With Our Experts

Smithsonian Journeys Experts bring meaningful enrichment and an insider perspective to every trip, engaging with our travelers throughout the journey.

3. Small Groups, Big Experiences

Almost all of our land trips feature groups of 12 to 24 people, 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 preserve natural and cultural heritage, drive research, and engage and inspire people on critical issues affecting our nation and world.

7. Sustaining Our Planet

With Smithsonian Journeys, you have the comfort of knowing that you are traveling with an organization that is committed to sustaining the character and biodiversity of the places we visit by selecting partners and suppliers who meet our standards for responsible travel and supporting regional economies. We believe that Smithsonian's global work in the area of research, engaging the public, and mitigating our carbon footprint and the impact of climate change on our facilities and collections can lead to solutions that make life on this planet more sustainable.

8. Peace of Mind

The well-being of our guests, staff members, and partners has always been our highest priority. We have implemented health and safety measures across all facets of our programs. To learn more, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org/Safety-Protocols.

Michelle was super prepared, super knowledgeable, super insightful, and an expert in every way. She is magnetic and dynamic, and an exceptional speaker.

– Smithsonian Journeys traveler

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.

1. Michelle Thaller – astrophysicist with over two decades of science communication experience. Michelle will join Treasures of the Alps (see page 48) and the new Solar Eclipse 2024: A Journey from Austin to the Texas Hill Country (see page 77).

2. Jonathan Øverby – ethnomusicologist, conductor, and lyric baritone. Jonathan will join Heart of Scotland:

A One-Week Stay in Stirling, which features the Edinburgh Military Tattoo (see page 57).

3. Rafael Chacón – professor of art history and criticism who lectures on a broad range of art historical subjects. Rafael will join Ancient Egypt and the Nile (see page 87).

4. Elisabeth Ward – expert in Scandinavian languages and literature, and assistant of the Smithsonian Institution’s past traveling exhibition, "Vikings: The North Atlantic Saga." Elisabeth will join our Iceland Voyage (see page 66), where she has both lived and studied.

5. Geoff Cox – New Zealand author and illustrator with expertise in the natural sciences, the environment, and marine biology. Geoff will join our our new cruise, New Zealand’s South Island by Sea: A Voyage to the Fiordland (see page 104).

6. Pamela Spratlen – diplomat, public speaker, and former ambassador in Central Asia. Pamela will join The Silk Road: A Journey to Central Asia (see page 101).

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

Rafael made the trip exceptional, and that’s how we describe the difference between Smithsonian and other tours.

– Barbara M.

Be at Home in the World

On Land, River, or Sea

Whether you’re immersed in the cultural treasures of Europe or watching wildlife from a deluxe safari tent 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 an agriturismo estate in Chianti, 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.

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 hands-on cooking class or demonstration, 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 into its history, culture, and people.

We love the ease of traveling when Smithsonian sets the itinerary… Everything is always first-class from the accommodations to the modes of transportation.

– Deborah B.

Our Travel Styles

A World of Possibilities

Discover a journey that speaks to your aspirations and interests! All Smithsonian Journeys feature a unique blend of enriching insights, exceptional quality, engaging experts and travel companions, and personal attention.

Narrow your search—from 130 different itineraries— by using our online Trip Finder. You can discover your perfect trip in just seconds by filtering your interests by travel style (featured on these pages), interests, activity level, destination, dates, and trip duration.

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. Choose from a single cultural capital or a smaller town that showcases the intrinsic character of the region. Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy an insightful experience that features both highlights and lesser-known sites, and opportunities to meet with local people.

Special Interest Tours

Join travelers who share your interest in art to astronomy or military history. Become a student at Oxford, delve into the life and work of Van Gogh, or explore prehistoric cave art in Europe. You can also stargaze with astronomers and witness the total solar eclipse of 2024! 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 brand-new world every day on an ocean or river voyage aboard a fleet of ideal ships that range from a river boat of just 36 guests to small vessels that accommodate up to 264 guests. All of our small upscale cruises share the same hallmark qualities of superb amenities, excellent cuisine, an informal ambiance, and top-notch Smithsonian Journeys Experts who travel with you. Read more about our alliance with PONANT on the next page.

We loved being in one city for a week, getting a real feel for it, being able to see a number of its sights, and having the opportunity to walk around in the evenings.

– Ronald P., Barcelona: A One-Week Stay in Spain

Train Journeys

There’s a magical quality to traveling by train as you watch your destination unfold from the comfort of your train car. Whether you are a true train buff or simply enjoy the “romance of the rails,” you will find several fascinating train trips to fulfill your dreams.

Tailor-Made Journeys

Now you can experience the world your way on a Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey, custom designed just for you and your favorite traveling companion(s)—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 page 106–107.

Our Alliance With PONANT

Enriching Experiences on the Seas

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 continue to create new and unique Smithsonian experiences on each voyage that embrace cultural immersion and discovery. On each of these curated itineraries, you’ll explore with fellow Smithsonian Journeys travelers and enjoy an included excursion or activity in every port of call. Each cruise features two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, who enrich your experience with their passion, insight, and in-depth knowledge, and bring you deeper into the history and natural world of the region you’re exploring.

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 al fresco 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 to and from the ship on cruise embarkation and disembarkation days

• Welcome and farewell cocktail receptions

• Complimentary open bar and free Wi-Fi aboard ship

• Gratuities to ship personnel, porters, guides, drivers

Take a look at the Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Cruises for 2023–2024

∙ A Circumnavigation of Sicily – page 18

∙ Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights: Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily NEW! – page 25

∙ Cruising the Dalmatian Coast and the Ionian Sea – page 26

∙ Cruising the Mediterranean: Greece, Sicily, and Malta NEW! – page 27

∙ Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean – page 28

∙ Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea NEW! – page 32

∙ Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba NEW! – page 33

∙ Cruising Southern Spain and Portugal – page 34

∙ Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage – page 59

∙ Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea – page 60

∙ Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea – page 64

∙ Cruising the Norwegian Fjords – page 65

∙ Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice – page 66

∙ A Voyage Along the Great Lakes – page 71

∙ Symphony on the St. Lawrence:

From Québec to the Canadian Maritimes NEW! – page 72

∙ Cruising the Caribbean’s Windward Islands – page 78

∙ Panama and Costa Rica by Sea – page 79

∙ Cruising the Arabian Coast – page 93

∙ Ancient Civilizations by Sea: Israel, Egypt, Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey NEW! – page 94

∙ Cultural and Natural Treasures of Japan by Sea NEW! – page 97

∙ New Zealand’s South Island by Sea:

A Voyage to the Fiordland NEW! – page 104

∙ Antarctica: The White Continent – page 105

∙ Cruising from Morocco to Spain’s Andalusian Coast NEW! – page 108

Europe

Highlights of Italy was truly the trip of a lifetime. We did and saw things we never would have had we made the trip on our own.

– Diane C., Highlights of Italy

Highlights of Italy

16 days from $6,374

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Apr. 11–26, May 2–17, Sept. 5–20, Sept. 12–27, Oct. 10–25, Oct. 26–Nov. 10, 2023 & Apr. 9–24, Apr. 16–May 1, Apr. 30–May 15, May 14–29, Sept. 3–18, Sept. 10–25, Oct. 8–23, Oct. 24–Nov. 8, 2024

Set off on a grand tour of Italy’s most beloved sites, making your way from the spectacular Amalfi Coast to the canals of Venice. Encounter history and world-renowned art in the captivating cities of Rome and Florence, and follow guides into the storied walled towns of Siena and San Gimignano. Along the way, enjoy wine tasting and visits to lesser-known sites; and stay in wonderful lodgings including a stunning resort on the Amalfi Coast, a Tuscan villa in the Chianti hills, and a canal-side hotel in Venice.

Highlights Include

Amalfi Coast and Pompeii: Take a cruise along the Amalfi Coast, explore gem-like hilltop towns overlooking the sea, and enjoy a coastal drive with spectacular views. Tour the stunning Villa Rufolo in Ravello, the excavated city of Pompeii, and the lovely Benedictine abbey of Montecassino.

Rome: Capture the essence of ancient Rome with a tour of the Colosseum and the Forum. Step inside the Borghese Gallery to view masterpieces by Bernini, Titian, Caravaggio, and other major artists. Then spend a day at the Vatican, touring St. Peter’s Basilica; the Sistine Chapel; and the Vatican Museums, featuring works by Michelangelo and Raphael.

Umbria and Tuscany: Stay in enchanting Orvieto, perched high above the surrounding landscape, and delve into art and culture. View Giotto’s renowned frescoes in the basilica at Assisi, and see how the traditions of hand-painted Majolica ceramics continue today in Deruta. In Tuscany, experience the World Heritage site of San Gimignano, and get a close-up look at medieval life at the interactive exhibits of San Gimignano 1300. Continue to Siena to explore the fan-shaped Campo and see works by Michelangelo and Donatello at the Duomo.

Florence: See Michelangelo’s David and other sculptures at the Galleria dell’Accademia and visit the revered Duomo, capped by the stupendous dome by Brunelleschi. Enjoy free time to explore the city’s treasures on your own.

Venice: From your base at a centrally located waterfront hotel, tour St. Mark’s Square and explore the museums and canals of this magical city at leisure.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Allan Langdale (May 2/May 14)–architectural historian. Sara James (Apr. 11), Gary Radke (Sept. 12), and Ashley Elston (Oct. 10)––art historians. Joanne Ferraro (Sept. 5)–historian. Janet Duncan Jones (Oct. 26)–expert in archaeology and the classics.

Amalfi

Rome

Venice

Assisi Siena

ITALY Adriatic Sea

Orvieto

Pompeii

Montecassino Tyrrhenian Sea

Naples

Florence San Gimignano

Amalfi Coast

Trevi Fountain, Rome

Gondolas in Venice

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

15 days from $6,674

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Apr. 19–May 3, May 24–June 7, Sept. 13–27, Oct. 4–18, 2023 & Apr. 17–May 1, May 18–June 1, 2024

Make your way across five regions of Northern Italy, exploring a plethora of natural and cultural treasures including seven World Heritage sites. Soak up the delights of the Italian Lake District, and sample premier vintages at a winery in Barolo. Stay on the Italian Riviera and cruise the rugged Ligurian coast to Portofino and to the spectacular Cinque Terre. In the Tuscan cities of Florence and Siena, enjoy guided tours of Renaissance masterpieces and plenty of free time. Then get acquainted with the unique culture of South Tyrol, and travel through the mighty Dolomites to end your journey amid the storied canals of Venice.

Highlights Include

Italian Lake District: Spend three nights in Stresa, a haunt of Ernest Hemingway situated on beautiful Lake Maggiore. Cruise to Isola Bella to explore a 17th-century palace and its extravagant gardens. Then travel to nearby Lake Orta to meander through the medieval, cobblestone lanes of lovely Orta San Giulia

Italian Riviera and Cinque Terre: Stay in the resort town of Santa Margherita and experience the highlights of the Ligurian coast on a morning boat ride to Portofino and a full-day cruise to the villages of the World Heritagelisted Cinque Terre.

Florence and Tuscany: Settle into a palace in the Chianti hills and set out to explore Tuscany. Gain insights into the Renaissance treasures of Florence on a guided tour of the Accademia and the Duomo. Explore the narrow streets of Lucca, fortified by thick medieval walls. In Siena, discover the Piazza del Campo and the unusual Duomo, and learn about the city’s 500-year-old Paleo horserace at a contrada museum.

South Tyrol: Soak up the unique, German-influenced culture of South Tyrol during two nights in the captivating city of Bolzano. See the mummy and artifacts of Ötzi the Iceman and take in views of the majestic Dolomites. The Veneto: Visit the World Heritage site of Verona, renowned for its Roman arena and the setting for three Shakespeare plays. Conclude in Venice with a walking tour of St. Mark’s Square, a visit to a gondola workshop, and free time to explore on your own.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Sheri Shaneyfelt (Apr. 19) and Stephen Clancy (Oct. 4)–art historians. Allan Langdale (May 24/Sept. 18)–art and architectural historian. Charles Ingrao (Sept. 13)–historian.

Vernazza

Florence

Santa Margherita

Venice

Stresa

Siena Ligurian Sea

Adriatic Sea Tuscany

Cinque Terre

Lucca

Milan Florence

Italian Lake District

Bolzano

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Southern Italy and Sicily

15 days from $6,374

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Apr. 2–16, Apr. 22–May 6, Sept. 14–28, Sept. 30–Oct. 14, Oct. 16–30, 2023 & Apr. 4–18, Apr. 24–May 8, Sept. 12–26, Sept. 28–Oct. 12, Oct. 18–Nov. 1, 2024

Italy’s southernmost regions present an array of distinct landscapes and cultures—from the Greco-Roman ruins of Sicily to the whitewashed villages of Apulia, Italy’s “boot heel,” to the rugged splendor of the Amalfi Coast. Immerse yourself in these spectacular regions, savoring delightful culinary and architectural traditions, exploring one World Heritage site after the next, and enjoying plenty of free time to soak up the charms of gems like Taormina, Matera, and Capri.

Highlights Include

Sicily: Spend four nights in lovely Taormina and set out on daily excursions to visit some of eastern Sicily’s highlights. Tour the town’s Greek Theater and the World Heritage-listed Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. Enjoy lunch at a family farm on the slopes of Mt. Etna—and a private lesson in making cannoli.

Matera: Take a guided tour of this cliff-top tufa town, venturing into ancient troglodyte churches and sassi cave houses where humans lived as far back as the Paleolithic era. Discover the unique urban plan established centuries ago and learn how Matera was transformed from “the shame of Italy” into a World Heritage site during the late 20th century. Stay in a restored cave dwelling in the heart of the town.

Apulia: Travel down Italy’s “boot heel” visiting remarkable sites such as Alberobello, home to hundreds of cone-shaped trulli houses; the whitewashed hilltop gem of Ostuni; and Lecce, “the Florence of the South,” where you’ll learn about the town’s papier-mâché tradition at a private demonstration. Savor a wine tasting and dinner in the gardens of a palazzo.

Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast: During four nights in the lovely town of Sorrento, learn about ongoing excavations on a tour of the evocative ruins of Pompeii, take a hydrofoil to Capri for time to explore, and wind along the dramatic Amalfi Coast on a breathtaking drive from Sorrento to Amalfi. Take part in a hands-on Neapolitan cooking lesson—and savor your concoctions over dinner.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Allan Langdale (Apr. 2/Sept. 14/Sept. 30/Oct. 16)–art and architectural historian. David Price Williams (Apr. 22)–expert in archaeology. Gary Radke (Apr. 24)–art historian.

Greek theater, Taormina

Trulli in Alberobello

Naples Sorrento

Agrigento

ITALY Adriatic Sea

Overnight Featured Site Motorcoach

Alberobello Pompeii

Tyrrhenian Sea

Catania/ Taormina

Matera Lecce Sicily Ionian Sea

A Circumnavigation of Sicily

Round-trip from Valletta Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

9 days from $6,500*

Apr. 14–22, 2024

Step into antiquity as you cruise all the way around Sicily, discovering the extraordinary ruins of cities that flourished in the Greco-Roman era. On a voyage that begins and ends in Malta’s walled capital, explore five World Heritage sites, including the ancient Greek cities of Agrigento and Syracuse. Sample Sicilian wines on the slopes of Mount Etna, and enjoy a range of excursions to choose from along the way.

Highlights Include

Valletta and Gozo, Malta: Sail out of and into one of Europe’s most stunning harbors, the fortified city of Valletta. On the island of Gozo, encounter megalithic sites that predate Stonehenge, or visit the town of Xewkija before sampling island vintages at a local winery.

Sicily, Italy: Encounter captivating towns and important archaeological sites as you circumnavigate Sicily. Explore the ancient temples of Agrigento, a powerful city in antiquity and now a World Heritage site. See the impressive ruins at Segesta, visit medieval Erice, and admire the mosaics in Palermo’s Norman cathedral. Delve into the lively bustle of Taormina, or sample local wines on the slopes of Mount Etna. Make a final stop in Syracuse to stroll amid the stunning architecture of Ortigia.

Lipari and Stromboli, Italy: Tour the Aeolian Island of Lipari, and visit the Aeolian Archaeological Museum to see an excellent exhibit of ancient artifacts. Then cruise by Stromboli in the evening, watching for activity from its active volcano.

Add a one-night extension in Malta.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise include Allan Langdale, an art and architectural historian. Visit our website for the additional expert.

Cefalù, Sicily

Inside Sicily

12 days from $5,674

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Apr. 7–18, Apr. 25–May 6, Sept. 8–19, Oct. 10–21, 2024

Blanketed in orchards and scattered with vestiges from antiquity, Sicily is home to seven World Heritage sites and one of Europe’s largest active volcanos. Explore the island’s north, south, east, and west, discovering the legacies of the many cultures that ruled here, from the ancient Greeks to the Normans. Encounter unique cuisine and architecture in Palermo, and meander among Doric ruins in the Valley of the Temples. See the breathtaking frescos of the Villa Romana del Casale and cruise the Ionian Sea, admiring views of Ortigia. Sample wines at a family farm on Mount Etna before ending your sojourn in enchanting Taormina.

Palermo: Take guided tours of the World Heritage-listed palaces and cathedrals of Palermo, known for their unique Arab-Norman architectural style, and admire gold-drenched mosaics in the cathedral in Monreale. Visit local markets to experience Palermo’s famous street food scene and enjoy a lunch of local specialties.

Erice and Trapani: Explore the delightful hilltop town of Erice, taking in sweeping views of the coast and the sea beyond. Then descend to the salt pans of Trapani to learn how salt is still harvested using centuries-old techniques.

Agrigento and Villa Romana del Casale: Enjoy a wine tasting and a home-cooked meal at a farm on the way to the World Heritage site of Agrigento. Take an in-depth tour of the legendary Valley of the Temples and cap off the visit at the Museum of Agrigento. Then journey to Villa Romana del Casale to see the stunning decor of this well-preserved 4th-century home.

Syracuse and Ortigia: Discover layers of history at the World Heritage site of Ancient Syracuse, home to both a Greek and a Roman theater as well as the gem-like isle of Ortigia, laden with monuments from antiquity. Set sail on the Ionian Sea, cruising along the tiny islands and caves that dot Sicily’s western coast and taking in views of Ortigia from the sea.

Mount Etna and Taormina: Ascend Mount Etna to see its simmering crater and the evocative lava formations on its slopes. Stop on the way down to enjoy a meal at a family farm accompanied by excellent Sicilian wines. Continue to Taormina for a city tour and free time to explore on your own.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Gary Radke (Apr. 7)––art historian. Allan Langdale (Apr. 25)–art and architectural historian.

Palermo

Agrigento

Villa Romana del Casale

Mount Etna

Taormina Catania

Tyrrhenian Sea

Erice Trapani

Monreale Sicily

Sicilian ceramics

Piazza in Taormina

Greek theater, Taormina

Cultural Stays in Italy

On the next five pages, find five unique Cultural Stay tours in Italy that offer immersive experiences. Discover your home away from home among the pastel-colored villages of the Amalfi Coast or explore Greek temples in the shadow of Mt. Etna from your base in Sicily. Whichever you choose, you’ll have an insightful experience that features both highlights and lesserknown sites, as well as opportunities to meet with local people. Enjoy this special opportunity to delve deeper into a destination and discover its unique sense of place.

The one-week stay exceeded my expectations! The travel details were well-handled, allowing me to focus on the country. I met extraordinary people, was inspired by the sights, and delighted in all I learned.

– Katherine M.

Palermo and Taormina

A Stay in Sicily

10 days from $5,690

Includes $250 special savings

Special air rates available

Apr. 19–28, May 10–19, Sept. 6–15, Oct. 25–Nov. 3, 2023

At the crossroads of the Mediterranean, Sicily reflects a fascinating blend of cultural influences—from the Greeks, Romans, Moors, and Normans to later civilizations. Explore this fascinating island from two locations, staying in the upscale hotels of the Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa in Palermo and Eurostars Monte Tauro in Taormina.

Highlights Include

Palermo and Environs: Stand in wonder before stunning Byzantine mosaics in Palermo’s Palatine Chapel and Monreale’s cathedral. Venture to the medieval hill town of Erice where you’ll see the Castle of Venus and panoramic sea views. Discover the picturesque fishing village of Cefalù.

Taormina and Environs: En route to Taormina, explore the Greek temples of Agrigento and the Roman Villa of Casale at Piazza Armerina. Your hotel in Taormina features spectacular views of the famed coastline. Tour

the city’s highlights, including the famed Greek theater. Journey to the ancient Greek town of Syracuse, once a strong rival of Athens, and tour the Old Town of Ortygia and the extensive archaeological park, featuring a Greek theater with perfect acoustics.

History and Cuisine: Gain insight into Sicily as a crossroads of cultures and learn about prize-winning virgin olive oil during lunch at a family farm.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Gary Radke (Apr.) and Valerie Hedquist (Oct.)–art historians. Joanne Ferraro (May)–historian.

Amalfi Coast

Agrigento

The Italian Riviera

A One-Week Stay on the Ligurian Coast

9 days from $4,790

Includes $250 special savings

Special air rates available

Apr. 15–23, June 10–18, Sept. 2–10, Oct. 21–29, 2023

Stretching along the Mediterranean and dotted with jewel-like villages, the rugged Ligurian Coast is known as the Italian Riviera. From your base in Sestri Levante, spend a delightful week soaking up the culture and ambiance of northwestern Italy. Explore warm-hued coastal villages from Santa Margherita to Cinque Terre, and go on excursions to historic sites in nearby Tuscany and Piedmont. Between wine tasting, a cooking class, and walking tours, enjoy free time to discover the spectacular Italian Riviera on your own.

Highlights Include

Sestri Levante: Settle into the gem-like town of Sestri Levante, perched on a narrow peninsula. In your free time, relax on the beaches that edge the town, stroll past coralcolored houses along the Bay of Silence, and watch the sunset from the rooftop lounge of your elegant hotel.

Sailing the Italian Riviera: Cruise to the glitzy resort town of Portofino by boat and enjoy time at leisure to explore. Then sail into the sheltered harbor of beautiful Santa Margherita for a walking tour.

Lucca and Carrara: Travel into Tuscany and take a walking tour of the walled city of Lucca. See carvings by 13th-century sculptor Nicola Pisano at the Duomo di San Martino, and enjoy free time in this enchanting town. At the quarries of Carrara, where Michelangelo sourced his marble, see artisans at work at a privately owned quarry.

Piedmont Wine Region: Venture into the vineyardcovered hills of Piedmont, a World Heritage site, and enjoy lunch and wine tasting at the Castle of Tagliolo, where wines have been produced for centuries.

Cinque Terre: Experience the dramatic Cinque Terre, where steep coastal slopes shelter five picturesque villages. Take a walk in Portovenere and Manarola, and ride a boat to Vernazza for a traditional seafood lunch at a trattoria.

Local Experts: Delve deeper into the art history, geography, current events, and cuisine of the Italian Riviera during presentations—and a tasting—led by local experts.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

ITALY

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Luca Zavagno (Apr.)–historian. Janetta Benton (June)–professor and author with expertise in art history. Sanjaya Thakur (Sept.) and Glenn Bugh (Oct.)–experts in the classics.

Portofino Lucca

Italy’s Lake District

A One-Week Stay Featuring Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, and Lake Orta

9 days from $5,390

Includes $250 special savings / Special air rates available June 6–14, Aug. 29–Sept. 6, Oct. 3–11, 2023 & May 11–19, June 6–14, Sept. 5–13, Oct. 12–20, 2024

Join us on a unique stay program in Italy’s breathtaking Lake District and experience a region that has inspired painters, writers, and poets as you enjoy la dolce vita. Stay at the lovely Hotel la Palma, located in the lakeside town of Stresa on Lake Maggiore, which features breathtaking lake and mountain views.

Highlights Include

Lake Maggiore: Delight in visits to Isola Madre, Isola Bella, and Isola dei Pescatori. A private boat takes you to Isola Madre, the largest of the Borromean Islands, for a guided tour of the impressive English-style gardens, where exotic peacocks stroll amid lush flowerbeds. Extolled by writers for centuries, Isola Bella comprises a baroque villa with an astounding art collection and exquisite hanging gardens adorned by Greek and Roman statues. Other highlights during your stay in Stresa include an interactive cooking class of regional specialties; presentations on the gardens, arts, and contemporary life of the Lake District; and a day at leisure to explore independently.

Lake Orta: Take a walking tour of the lovely resort town of Orta San Giulio, then board a boat for the enchanting Isola San Giulio and its Romanesque basilica.

Lake Como: Enjoy time on beautiful Lake Como. Explore Bellagio’s charming streets lined with pastel houses and villas built by the region’s noble families. Enjoy lunch at a delightful lakeside restaurant and admire sweeping Alpine and lake vistas during a private boat ride to the town of Como.

Milan: See world-famous treasures during a day excursion to cosmopolitan Milan. Highlights include the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, a World Heritage site and home to Leonardo’s The Last Supper; the museum at the legendary La Scala, Italy’s opulent opera house; and the exquisite Duomo, a Gothic masterpiece. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Allan Langdale (June 2023)–art and architectural historian. Sara James (Aug.) and Sheri Shaneyfelt (Oct. 3)–art historians.

Isola Bella

Milan

e Alps Lake Orta Stresa

Lake Como

Isola Madre Como

Bellagio Isola San Giulio Italian Lake District

Lake Maggiore

Varenna, Lake Como

Italy’s Amalfi Coast

A One-Week Stay in Vietri Sul Mare

9 days from $5,090

Includes $250 special savings / Special air rates available

Apr. 26–May 4, Sept. 6–14, Sept. 27–Oct. 5, Oct. 25–Nov. 2, 2023 & Apr. 17–25, May 8–16, Sept. 4–12, Oct. 16–24, 2024

Italy’s Amalfi Coast is renowned for its stunning coastline of pastel-colored villages perched on steep cliffs above the Mediterranean. For centuries, writers, artists, and emperors have found inspiration and respite in this stunning region, as have travelers. Join us for a cultural stay in Vietri sul Mare, and enjoy a leisurely sojourn that features World Heritage sites, breathtaking landscapes, and luscious cuisine and wine.

Highlights Include

The Amalfi Coast: Explore the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic hairpin curves and stunning views. Visit Ravello, where you’ll discover the exquisite Villa Rufolo, the place that provided German composer Richard Wagner inspiration for his opera Parsifal. Hear about the villa’s history, and then take a walk through the central piazza in the iconic town of Amalfi. Board a boat for a scenic cruise along the coastline to the delightful town of Positano.

Archaeological Sites: Travel to Paestum to see three of the most well-preserved Greek temples in the world. Later, spend a day exploring the ancient Roman towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum with an expert guide. These World Heritage sites were both destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79, buried and preserved by mud and ash.

Naples: Gaze upon stunning art and artifacts discovered at Pompeii and Herculaneum, now housed at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale. Take in panoramic views of the city and its sites from Posillipo Hill, and enjoy a lunch of Neapolitan pizza.

Capri and Sorrento: Discover the enchanting Isle of Capri, known for its grottoes and rocky promontories,

both by boat and on foot. Sample a limoncello as you stroll along Sorrento’s Corso Italia, then continue to the hills above town and visit a farm to see how virgin olive oil and local cheese is produced.

Local Culture: Savor the traditional cuisine of Campania during meals, farm visits, and on your own. Gain insight into contemporary Italy during a discussion with residents, and hear about the wonders of the Naples’

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Sanjaya Thakur (Apr. 26)–professor of classical studies. Allan Langdale (Sept. 6)–art and architectural historian. Stephen Clancy (Oct. 25)–art historian.

Positano

Amalfi

Overnight Featured Site

Vietri sul Mare

Naples Positano

Paestum Tyrrhenian Sea

Isle of Capri

Bay of Naples Pompeii

Herculaneum Amal Coast

Amalfi Coast

Italy’s Apulia

A One-Week Stay in Polignano a Mare

9 days from $4,590

Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement / Special air rates available

Apr. 26–May 4, May 17–25, Sept. 20–28, Oct. 11–19, 2023 & Apr. 17–25, May 15–23, Sept. 11–19, Oct. 2–10, Oct. 23–31, 2024

Gaining new recognition, Italy’s southeastern Apulia (or Puglia) is a magical landscape of ancient towns with unique architecture, diverse cultural sites, and outstanding culinary traditions. Explore this region during a one-week Cultural Stay in Polignano a Mare, at the Hotel Covo dei Saraceni, perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Adriatic.

Highlights Include

Trulli of Alberobello: In the World Heritage site of Alberobello, walk amid iconic trulli, the whitewashed limestone buildings with conical roofs found nowhere else in the world. These ancient and unique dwellings are pieced together without mortar and are decorated with enigmatic Christian and pagan symbols.

Sassi of Matera: Named European Capital of Culture in 2019, Matera (located in nearby Basilicata), is home to the rock-hewn cave dwellings known as sassi, which were carved into the limestone by prehistoric people thought to be the first human settlers in present-day Italy. Experience this unique town during a walking tour, including a visit inside a cave house and rock church.

Greek to Baroque Towns: Explore the presence of early Greeks and Romans at Egnazia, an archaeological site dating back to the 13th century B.C. Stop in the “white town” of Ostuni, with its tightly packed white homes perched on the coastline; and take a tour of Trani, noted for its medieval fort, cathedral, and Jewish neighborhoods. In Lecce, witness the town’s exuberant and minutely detailed baroque architecture; and wander amid a maze of medieval streets and alleyways in Bari.

Culture and Cuisine: Savor regional specialties and learn about culinary traditions at a family olive mill and a local vineyard. Plus, hear about the rich cultural heritage, slow-paced lifestyle, and architecture of Apulia from local speakers.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Allen Fromherz (Apr. 26)–historian. Rebecca Schindler (May 17/Oct. 11)–professor of classical studies. Stephen Clancy (Sept. 20)–art historian.

Polignano a Mare

Trulli in Alberobello

Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights: Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily

From Valletta to Livorno Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $6,300* Sept. 8–15, 2024

Join a renowned Italian chef on a voyage from Malta to Tuscany and experience the wonders—and flavors—of Sicily and southern Italy. Gain insight into the ancient past among the Greco-Roman treasures of Syracuse and Rome; explore a delightful fishing village in Calabria and the ruins of Pompeii; and visit family-owned farms. Through culinary tours and classes, savor local cuisine wines.

Highlights Include

Syracuse and Taormina, Sicily: Tour the archaeological sites of Ancient Syracuse and Taormina. Enjoy lunch at an agriturismo or sample wines and local cuisine at a vineyard on Mount Etna.

Calabria: Discover this lesser-known region on Italy’s “toe,” viewing the exquisite Riace Bronzes in Reggio Calabria, exploring a beautiful fishing village, and visiting historic churches.

Paestum and Pompeii: Experience some of Italy’s most remarkable ruins during in-depth tours of two World Heritage sites: the Greek temples of Paestum and the city of Pompeii, buried beneath volcanic ash for nearly 2,000 years.

Naples and Rome: Anchor in Naples and opt for a tour of the city’s famous street food—and its historic center—or head for the hills above Sorrento for a lunch and a cooking lesson at a working farm. Then spend a day discovering incomparable Rome on a VIP visit to the Colosseum, an art-filled excursion at the Vatican, or on a foodie tour.

Culinary Experiences: Travel with a renowned Italian chef and sample local delicacies during culinary experiences such as a pizza-making class at a mozzarella-

producing dairy. Enjoy the unique flavors of Sicily and southern Italy, from arancini to sfogliatella.

Add a one-night extension in Malta or a two-night extension in Tuscany.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise include Al Leonard, an archaeologist and an expert in both culinary arts and wine. Visit our website for the additional expert.

Livorno

Adriatic Sea

Tyrrhenian Sea

Ionian Sea

ITAL Y Rome

Reggio Calabria Taormina

Agropoli

Naples

Florence Pompeii Paestum Ortigia Syracuse

Taormina shop

Cruising the Dalmatian Coast and the Ionian Sea

From Athens to Venice Aboard the 244-guest Le Lyrial or Le Bougainville

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $5,520*

Sept. 17–24, 2023 & July 16–23, 2024

Discover the treasures that lie along the Adriatic’s shores as you sail from Athens to Venice along Croatia’s islandstudded Dalmatian Coast. Encounter an array of World Heritage sites—from Montenegro’s breathtaking Gulf of Kotor to the walled town of Dubrovnik—exploring the legacy of Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and Byzantines across the Balkan Peninsula.

Highlights Include

Delphi and the Corinth Canal: Explore ancient Delphi, home to the mythical Oracle, or visit St. Lucas Monastery, a spectacular monument of Middle Byzantine architecture. Make a thrilling passage through the ultra-narrow Corinth Canal.

Sarandë and Butrint: In Albania, uncover layers of history at the World Heritage site of Butrint or discover an Ottoman castle and an ancient Illyrian city on a walking tour of Sarandë.

Kotor: Sail into Montenegro’s spectacular Bay of Kotor, a World Heritage site surrounded by towering peaks, and tour the historic town of Kotor.

Dubrovnik: Enjoy a full day in exquisite Dubrovnik to see the famous landmarks of this iconic World Heritage-listed walled city.

Mostar and Ston: In Bosnia and Herzegovina, tour the Ottoman outpost of Mostar, now a World Heritage site, and see the famous Stari Most bridge. Or visit the centuries-old saltworks in the walled town of Ston, and cruise in a local boat to see how oysters and mussels are farmed here—and taste the fresh catch.

Hvar: Step into history on a walking tour of the 17th-century squares and monuments of Hvar town; or

travel into the countryside to view lavender fields and enjoy an easy hike to the beach.

Add a one-night extension in Athens or a two-night extension in Venice.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on the 2023 departure are art historian Aneta Georgievska-Shine and journalist Adam Tanner.

Fort Walls, Dubrovnik

Cruising the Mediterranean: Greece, Sicily, and Malta

From Athens to Valletta Aboard the 184-guest Le Jacques Cartier

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $5,410*

Sept. 26–Oct. 3, 2023

Set sail across the Aegean and Ionian Seas, discovering sites that span almost six millennia. Experience World Heritage sites in almost every port of call, including the archaeological sites of Delphi and Olympia, the megalithic temples of Malta, and the gem-like Sicilian towns of Ortigia and Noto. Sample wines and specialties from local producers, and enjoy a final evening at leisure in the spectacular port of Valletta.

Highlights Include

Patmos: Explore the World Heritage site of Patmos, from the Monastery of St. John, built in 1088 and still inhabited by monks, to the Cave of the Apocalypse. Or opt for a photography excursion, training your lens on the whitewashed lanes of Chora and the turquoise Aegean.

Hydra and the Corinth Canal: Enjoy a guided tour of Hydra, a Saronic island where no motor vehicles are allowed. Make a thrilling passage through the Corinth Canal, which is navigable only by small ship.

Delphi and Olympia: Step back in time on visits to two important sites from antiquity: Delphi, home to the mythical Oracle; and Olympia, where the world’s first Olympic Games were held in 700 B.C.

Syracuse and Ortigia or Noto, Sicily: In Syracuse, visit Greek and Roman theaters and venture into the Earof Dionysius cave. Or spend time in the 18thcentury town of Noto, a splendid example of Sicilian baroque architecture.

Gozo and Valletta, Malta: Encounter megalithic sites that predate Stonehenge on a tour of Gozo Island, or visit the town of Xewkija before sampling island vintages. Then

enjoy free time to explore the stunning fortified city of Valletta as the ship stays anchored overnight. Add a one-night extension in Athens or a one-night extension in Malta.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are archaeologist David Price Williams and historian Hamish Scott.

Hydra, Greece

Gozo

Ortigia

Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean

Round-trip from Athens Aboard the 184-guest Le Jacques Cartier or Le Champlain, or the 264-guest L’Austral A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $5,360*

July 12–19, Oct. 22–29, 2023 & Oct. 3–10, 2024

Strung like gems across the Aegean, the Greek Isles are legendary for their beauty and their importance in the history of Western civilization. Delve into the Classical world and see important World Heritage sites from Patmos to Delos on a voyage to two island groups: the Dodecanese and the Cyclades. Along the way, explore historic sites and delightful villages, get acquainted with local life, and immerse yourself in some of the most spectacular scenery in the Greek Isles.

Highlights Include

Patmos: Explore the World Heritage site of Patmos, from the working 11th-century Monastery of St. John to the Cave of the Apocalypse.

Amorgos: Take a guided tour of the Chora and the cliff-side Monastery of Hozoviotissa. Or visit an olive oil producer and a traditional Cycladic home where essential oils are distilled.

Delos and Mykonos: Tour the evocative ruins of Delos, the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, then spend a free afternoon exploring beautiful Mykonos.

Rhodes: Delve into the legacy of ancient Greeks, Romans, and the knights of the Crusades as you visit the Acropolis of Lindos or the Street of the Knights, and more.

Santorini: Cruise into the spectacular caldera of Santorini. Visit the ruins at Akrotiri and the Prehistoric Museum, sail a catamaran to Nea Kameni to hike up the volcano, or visit the village of Oia and enjoy a tour and tasting at a local winery.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on the July 2023 departure are historian Hamish Scott and John Dobbins, an expert in the classics, archaeology, and history.

Aegean Sea

GREECE

Patmos Mykonos Delos

Athens

Port of Call Ship

Nafplio Santorini Rhodes

Mycenae

Amorgos

Santorini caldera Mykonos

Classical Greece

14 days from $7,292

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Apr. 18–May 1, May 2–15, May 16–29, Aug. 24–Sept. 6, Sept. 7–20, Oct. 12–25, 2023 & Apr. 18–May 1, May 5–18, May 19–June 1, Aug. 27–Sept. 9, Sept. 10–23, Oct. 8–21, 2024

Trace the spark of Greek genius as you explore some of the most consequential sites in antiquity—and soak up contemporary Greek culture. Visit the Acropolis and the excellent museums of Athens, and tour the sacred site of Delphi. On the Peloponnese Peninsula, tour the ancient sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus and enjoy free time to explore charming Nafplio. Roll back the centuries in Crete as you tour the Minoan capital of Knossos and the fortified island of Spinalonga. Then cap off your Greek sojourn on incomparable Santorini, discovering ancient ruins and timeless cliff-top villages.

Highlights Include

Athens and Delphi: Experience the grandeur of the Parthenon and the Acropolis, and see important artifacts at the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum. View a magnificent collection at the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture. At nearby Delphi, explore the ancient Sanctuary of Apollo and visit the superb museum.

The Peloponnese: Trace Greek mythology in two World Heritage sites: Mycenae, the capital of western civilization for hundreds of years, and Epidaurus, home to a 2,300-yearold theater known for its excellent acoustics. Stroll the narrow lanes of picturesque Nafplio and spend a day on the nearby island of Hydra, soaking up a traditional way of life among age-old stone houses and waterfront cafés.

Crete: Venture to the storied Palace of Knossos, the political center of Minoan civilization and legendary home of King Minos. Explore the fortress-turned-leper colony of Spinalonga and the delightful village of Kritsa.

Santorini: Then take a high-speed ferry to spectacular Santorini, where you’ll tour Akrotiri, once a flourishing

Bronze Age Minoan town. During time at leisure, immerse yourself in the Cycladic towns of Thira and Oia.

Local Culture: Stop in at an olive oil factory in the Peloponnese to learn how oils are pressed, and enjoy a tasting and lunch. On Santorini, sample local vintages at a winery high on the cliffs overlooking the caldera. Gather for a special lunch at a women’s cooperative in Kritsa, and enjoy plenty of time to linger in traditional towns and lively waterfronts.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Veronica Kalas (Apr. 2023/May 16/Sept. 7)–art historian and field archaeologist. Bella Vivante (May 2/Aug. 24)–classicist with a focus on Homer, oral traditions, Greek drama, and the role of women. David Price Williams (Oct. 12)–archaeologist.

Athens

Delphi

Peleponnese

GREECE Kantia Thira

Corinth Epidaurus

Agios Nikolaos

Crete

Santorini Heraklion

Mycenae Nafplion Hydra Knossos Spinalonga

Oia, Santorini

Legendary Turkey and the Turquoise Coast

15 days from $5,592

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Sept. 5–19, Oct. 1–15, Oct. 15–29, 2023 & Apr. 5–19, May 7–21, May 31–June 14, Sept. 3–17, Sept. 24–Oct. 8, Oct. 15–29, 2024

Along Turkey’s western shores lie the vestiges of great empires, from the marble cities of the ancient Greeks to the opulent palaces of the Ottomans. Uncover layers of fascinating history as you make your way from captivating Istanbul to the Turquoise Coast, discovering world-renowned mosques, charming harbor towns, and legendary Greco-Roman cities from Ephesus to Pergamum. Venture into local bazaars and visit a rug cooperative; swim in gem-colored coves on a private yacht cruise; and enjoy free time to explore Istanbul, Fethiye, and Antalya on your own.

Highlights Include

Istanbul: Take three full days to discover the many sides of this incomparable city, with guided tours of celebrated sites from Hagia Sophia to Topkapi Palace, visits to lively bazaars and ancient Roman cisterns, and free time to explore on your own. Take in the views on a private Bosphorus cruise.

Gallipoli and Kayakoy: Retrace 20th-century history at two evocative sites: the World War I battlefield of Gallipoli where Ataturk’s forces defeated the Allies in 1915, and the centuries-old ghost town of Kayakoy, abandoned in the 1920s.

Ephesus, Pergamum, and Troy: Explore some of the most storied cities in antiquity. Retrace the tale of Troy, thought to be a mythological city until the 1800s, and venture to the royal city of Pergamum, set spectacularly on a lone hilltop. Spend a full day and a half at fabled Ephesus, visiting the Library of Celsus, the theater, the Terrace Houses, and much more.

Fethiye and the Turquoise Coast: Ride a skiff along intricate waterways from Dalyan to Lake Koycegiz,

spotting ancient cliff tombs along the way. From the lovely harbor town of Fethiye, and set sail on a “blue voyage” aboard a private yacht, stopping in secluded coves along the Turquoise Coast to swim or snorkel.

Antalya: Visit the historic church of Demre and the Greco-Roman harbor of Phaselis on the way to Antalya. Stay on the waterfront and set out to discover the city sites, from the enchanting old town of Kaleiçi to the Roman ruins of Perge.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Add a four-night extension in Cappadocia and Konya. Visit our website for details.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Stephanie Larson (May 7)–professor of classics with expertise in the modern history of Turkey. Allan Langdale (Sept. 3)–art and architectural historian.

Turquoise Coast

Hadrian’s Gate

Pearls of Croatia and Slovenia

15 days from $6,484 Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Apr. 24–May 8, May 13–27, Sept. 7–21, Sept. 21–Oct. 5, Oct. 7–21, 2023 & Apr. 25–May 9, May 13–27, Sept. 5–19, Sept. 23–Oct 7, Oct. 7–21, 2024

Croatia and Slovenia are at the crossroads of history and culture—influenced by empires from the ancient Greeks to the Habsburgs. Discover relics of the past among the effervescent modern-day cities of Zagreb, Ljubljana, and Split; and explore fabled resort towns on Lake Bled and the Opatija Riviera. Experience the unique heritage of the Istrian Peninsula, and venture to natural highlights such as Slovenia’s Postojna Caves and Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia. Along the way, visit six World Heritage sites, including the fertile plains of Hvar and the walled city of Dubrovnik.

Highlights Include

Lake Bled: In the fairy-tale Alpine setting of Lake Bled, tour Bled castle and enjoy spectacular views during a boat ride on the lake.

Historic Cities: Immerse yourself in the vibrant openair markets of Zagreb on a city tour, then discover lovely Ljubljana, admiring the World Heritage-listed architecture and urban planning of native son Jože Plečnik. In Split, encounter another World Heritage site: the 4th-century Diocletian’s Palace.

Natural Wonders: Venture into a labyrinth of tunnels and cathedral-like chambers on a train ride through Slovenia’s Postojna Caves. Then discover an ethereal web of waterfalls and lakes on a guided walk in Plitvice Lakes National Park—another World Heritage site.

Istrian Peninsula: Stay in the Habsburg retreat of Opatija at the edge of the Istrian Peninsula, and venture to the historic ports of Pula and Rovinj, variously ruled by the Venetians, the Habsburgs, Yugoslavia, and others. On a special visit to a family-owned olive farm, enjoy a tour and tasting.

Trogir, Hvar, and Dubrovnik: Delight in the many treasures of the Dalmatian Coast. Stay within the medieval walls on the tiny island of Trogir, a World Heritage site. Ferry to Hvar for two nights in Hvar Town and cross the island to Stari Grad for a guided tour. Cap off your journey in Dubrovnik with a guided tour of the Old Town, a full free day to explore on your own, a sunset cruise around the walls, and a festive farewell dinner. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Lawrence Butler (Apr. 24)–art historian. Carol Reynolds (May 2023)–expert in European art, music, and history. Dennis Romano (Sept. 7) and Tim Blanning (Sept. 21)–historians with expertise in Europe. Hamish Scott (Oct. 2023)–historian

Lake Bled

Istrian Peninsula Pula Rovinj Opatija Trogir

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea

From Barcelona to Civitavecchia Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

9 days from $6,340* Oct. 8–16, 2023

Climb aboard 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. Make a final stop in the captivating cliff-top village of Bonifacio, Corsica before ending your voyage near Rome.

Highlights Include

South of France: Spend the day discovering the medieval walled city of Carcassonne, a World Heritage site that seems straight out of a fairy tale. Explore Aix-en-Provence, once home to Paul Cézanne; or take an excursion to Arles and Avignon. From Nice, tour Monte Carlo or the hilltop medieval village of Eze.

Cinque Terre and Tuscany: Sail along the Italian Riviera to the picturesque fishing village of Portofino and take a walking tour. Then set off in private boats from Porto Venere to visit two of the villages of the Cinque Terre— Monterosso and Vernazza; or spend a day in the historic Tuscan towns of Lucca and Pisa. Encounter revered Renaissance art in fabled Florence or visit Roman ruins and the Etruscan Museum in Volterra.

Bonifacio, Corsica: In the cliff-top fortress town of Bonifacio, venture into the labyrinthine streets of the medieval Citadel, or ride a local boat along coastal cliffs to impressive grottos.

Add a two-night extension in Barcelona or a two-night extension in Rome.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are art historian Mary O’Neill and archaeologist and geologist Peter Bobrosky.

Arles, France Cinque Terra, Italy

Mediterranean

Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba

From Valletta to Nice Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $5,910*

May 15–22, 2024

Step through the centuries on a voyage to the Mediterranean islands of Italy and France, exploring the temples of the ancient Greeks in Sicily, Napoleon’s elegant villa-in-exile on Elba, and the lively harbor towns of Taormina and Cagliari. Make three stops in glorious Sicily, encountering a wealth of World Heritage sites. Then sail on to Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba to discover vestiges of history amid the rugged beauty of these unique islands.

Highlights Include

Syracuse and Ortigia or Noto, Sicily: Venture to Ancient Syracuse, visiting Greek and Roman amphitheaters that still stage events and the beautiful palazzi and temples of Ortigia. Or encounter Sicilian baroque architecture in the 18th-century town of Noto, a World Heritage site.

Taormina: Take a walking tour of Taormina, and visit its Greek amphitheater or the fortified hilltop village of Castelmola. Alternatively, sample local wines on the slopes of Mount Etna, and peer into its volcanic craters.

Palermo: Discover Palermo’s World Heritage-listed Arab-Norman architecture and travel into orchard-covered hills to see the spectacular cathedral of Monreale. Or instead, delve into the city’s centuries-old markets and sit down to a lunch of local specialties, or travel to the delightful medieval port of Cefalù for a walking tour.

Sardinia: Tour the capital city of Cagliari from its baroque palazzi to its hilltop fortress and take in views from Monte Urpino. Then explore the remarkable ruins of ancient Nora, once a thriving port under the Carthaginians and the Romans.

Bonifacio, Corsica: Ride a mini train through the oldest parts of cliff-top Bonifacio, enjoying an overview of the town and views as far as Sardinia. Then set off on a walking tour of the medieval Citadel. Or ride a local boat along coastal cliffs to secluded grottos and the beaches of the Lavezzi Islands.

Elba: In historic Portoferraio, visit the Medici fortress and a villa and theater built by Napoleon. Then head to a wine farm to sample local wines, cheeses, and charcuterie. Alternatively, take a scenic drive across Elba to visit Ottone Botanical Garden.

Add a one-night extension in Malta or a two-night extension in Nice. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise include Dennis Romano, a historian with expertise in Europe and the Mediterranean. Visit our website for the additional expert.

Cagliari

Portoferraio

Sardinia Mediterranean

Corsica Tyrrhenian Sea

Sea

Adriatic Sea Elba

Portoferraio, Elba

Bonifacio, Corsica

Cruising Southern Spain and Portugal

From Lisbon to Barcelona Aboard the 184-guest Le Dumont-d’Urville A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $5,360* Sept. 30–Oct. 7, 2024

Trace the Iberian coast from Lisbon along the southern shores of Spain, experiencing a rich cultural heritage. Discover the captivating cities of Andalusia, venturing into the World Heritage-listed Alcázar and Alhambra. Then sail to magnificent Mallorca to experience the lively seaside city of Palma. Encounter a wide range of architecture in sophisticated Valencia before concluding your voyage in Barcelona.

Highlights Include

Seville: Admire Mudéjar architecture on a tour of the 14th-century Alcázar, once the residence of Seville’s Moorish and Spanish rulers. Enjoy a lunch of Andalusian tapas, then stroll through the charming Jewish quarter.

Granada: Spend an afternoon in splendid Granada, where the Moors left a priceless architectural legacy: the Alhambra. On a walking tour of the city, see the cathedral where King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella are buried. Take a private evening tour of the Alhambra and the beautifully landscaped Generalife Palace and Gardens.

Mallorca, Balearic Islands: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Mallorca, an island of idyllic coves, soaring limestone cliffs, and almond orchards and vineyards. Step into history in Palma de Mallorca, the cosmopolitan capital of the Balearic Islands, and discover its sandstone cathedral.

Valencia: Admire a wealth of architecture, visiting the 13th-century cathedral, home to paintings by Goya and Maella; the World Heritage-listed La Lonja de la Seda, a

masterpiece of late Gothic architecture; and the modern creations of Santiago Calatrava. Enjoy a Valencian specialty—paella—at a local restaurant, and stroll through the modernist Mercado Central, a gastronomic hub. Add a one-night extension in Lisbon or a two-night extension in Barcelona.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30%

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Visit our website for the experts on this cruise.

Palma de Mallorca

Seville

Plaza de España, Seville

Portrait

of

P

ortugal: Lisbon, Porto, and Cruising the Douro River

Aboard the 132-guest Amalia Rodrigues

12 days from $5,490 / Includes $250 special savings No Single Supplement / Special air rates available May 20–31, Sept. 12–23, Sept. 26–Oct. 7, Oct. 3–14, 2023 & May 3–14, Sept. 13–24, Sept. 27–Oct. 8, Oct. 4–15, 2024

Portugal is renowned for the Age of Discovery, Old World towns and centers of learning, rabelo (sail boats) loaded with casks of port plying the Douro, and distinctive blue azulejos (tiles). Encounter all this and much more during our land and river cruise program featuring seven nights aboard an intimate riverboat.

Highlights Include

Lisbon to Coimbra: Explore World Heritage sites in Lisbon, including the Jeronimos Monastery, renowned for its Manueline style of architecture, and the Tower of Belém, part of the city’s defense system as well as a ceremonial gateway. Both sites also reflect the strong maritime impact of the Age of Exploration during the 15th and 16th centuries. You’ll also see the modern Monument to the Discoveries, and later enjoy a performance of traditional Portuguese fado music. The next day, travel to the ancient town of Sintra to tour the palace, a medieval royal residence and World Heritage site, as well as the fishing village of Cascais and the elegant resort of Estoril. After your drive to Coimbra, a center of fine arts and learning, tour the spectacular university library and the Royal Palace, including the Ceremonial Hall. Cruising the Douro: In Porto, embark your riverboat and enjoy a selection of fascinating shore excursions. First, discover Porto during a walking tour or tram tour and savor a taste of the area’s port wine. Then visit the town of Guimarães (a World Heritage site) or take a hike along the river. Cruise along the meandering Douro River to the Spanish border. From here, choose from two excursions that feature the glories of Salamanca. During two more

days on the river, explore historic sites and traditional towns and vineyards along the famous wine trail.

Amalia Rodrigues: This recently built ship features three decks, a spacious lounge with large picture windows, a full-service restaurant, a terrace, an elevator, and a spacious sundeck to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Douro River Valley.

Port charges are an additional $395 per person. Space reserved for 30 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about the

Hamish Scott (May 20)–historian. Kerri Lesh (Sept. 12)–cultural and linguistic anthropologist. Lawrence Butler (Sept. 26)–art historian. Bob Smolik (Oct. 3)–veteran diplomat and scholar.

Tower of Belém, Lisbon Douro River

Call/Overnight

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Treasures of Southern Spain and Portugal

Featuring Historic Paradores and Pousadas

15 days from $5,974

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Apr. 17–May 1, Sept. 11–25, Sept. 28–Oct. 12, Oct. 9–23, Oct. 23–Nov. 6, 2023 & Mar. 25–Apr. 8, Apr. 18–May 2, May 6–20, Sept. 7–21, Sept. 28–Oct. 12, Oct. 12–26, 2024

A riveting history of Romans and Moors, explorers and invaders is etched across the gentle landscapes of the Iberian Peninsula. The interplay of hilltop citadels, ancient Roman cities, Mudejar palaces, and Gothic cathedrals speak of the many cultures that graced Portugal and southern Spain. Trace the Golden Age of Exploration in Lisbon and spend two nights in the delightful town of Évora. Then cross into Spain, discovering World Heritage sites and enchanting towns from Seville and Ronda to Granada and Toledo.

Highlights Include

Paradores and Pousadas: Experience Iberia’s heritage up close while staying in a medieval convent, a Moorish castle, a stately Renaissance palace, and a medieval town hall overlooking a dramatic gorge.

Lisbon and Évora: Admire the architecture of the World Heritage sites of Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, and visit the Monument to the Discoveries and the National Palace in nearby Queluz. Cross the Alentejo to the university town of Évora, another World Heritage site, and explore the Roman and Moorish sites from your base at one of Portugal’s finest pousadas.

Mérida, Seville, and Córdoba: Discover some of Spain’s most wellpreserved Roman ruins in Mérida, touring the amphitheater, temple, and aqueduct. From your parador in the charming town of Carmona, venture to Sevilla to tour the magnificent Gothic cathedral and the Alcázar. Then explore the Mezquita of Córdoba, a city where Moorish, Christian, and Jewish cultures flourished.

Ronda and Granada: Stay at the edge of a plunging gorge in cliff-top Ronda, and discover the town’s impressive Moorish architecture on a walking tour. In Granada, take a guided tour of the World Heritagelisted Alhambra, the legendary palace-fortress that epitomizes Moorish architecture.

Toledo and Madrid: Experience medieval Toledo, the city of El Greco, visiting the Gothic cathedral, the exquisite synagogue, and other sites. Then take a city tour of Madrid, including the Plaza Mayor, the Moorish medieval district, and the Royal Palace; and enjoy time at leisure to discover the city as you wish.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Linda Ehrlich (Apr. 17)–film and art historian. Janet Duncan Jones (Sept. 28, 2023)–expert in archaeology and the classics. Lawrence Butler (Oct. 9)–art historian.

Lisbon

Alcázar, Seville

Across Northern Spain and Portugal

Featuring Historic Paradores and Pousadas

17 days from $6,974

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Apr. 14–30, May 12–28, May 30–June 15, Sept. 15–Oct. 1, Oct. 3–19, Oct. 22–Nov. 7, 2023 & Apr. 12–28, May 10–26, May 31–June 16, Sept. 15–Oct. 1, Oct. 6–22, Oct. 20–Nov. 5, 2024

Travel the breadth of the Iberian Peninsula, crossing Portugal and northern Spain and encountering captivating cities such as Porto and Barcelona, fortified villages and fishing harbors, stunning coastlines and soaring mountain peaks. Visit stops along the legendary Way of St. James pilgrimage route, and explore an array of World Heritage sites. Admire the architecture of Gehry and Gaudí. Spend a day ensconced in Basque Country, and discover the hidden villages and valleys of the Pyrenees. Throughout the trip, stay in historic pousadas and paradores and enjoy free time to pursue your own interests.

Highlights Include

Paradores and Pousadas: Stay in three historic accommodations, including a seaside palace in Porto, a 15th-century hostel established by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, and a mountain lodge in the Pyrenees.

Lisbon and Porto: Discover the treasures of Lisbon, including the rococo-style Queluz Palace, and visit the fortified village of Óbidos and seaside Nazare. In Porto, a World Heritage site, take a city tour and short cruise on the Douro River, and enjoy a special tasting tour at a traditional port lodge.

Santiago de Compostela: Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims who walked the Way of St. James on a tour of the city’s magnificent cathedral, now a World Heritage site.

León and Bilbao: Visit León’s 12th-century basilica and Casa Botines, a fairy-tale building designed by Antoni Gaudí. In Bilbao, stroll through the medieval Old City and see the cathedral. Tour the Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, and admire Spanish and Basque art at the Fine Arts Museum.

Basque Country and the Pyrenees: Stop in poignant Gernika, the town razed during the Spanish

Civil War, and visit seaside villages that reflect Basque culture. Travel through Pamplona on your way to the Pyrenees and spend a day exploring the majestic mountains near Bielsa.

Barcelona: Trace the life and works of architect Antoni Gaudí at Casa Mila, Parc Güell, and his surreal cathedral, La Sagrada Familia. Stroll through the Gothic Quarter and bustling Las Ramblas and enjoy time at leisure to

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Allen Fromherz (May 12)–historian. Michael Ryan (May 30)–expert in Spanish history, culture, and literature. Linda Ehrlich (Sept. 2023)–film and art historian. Dianne Konz (Oct. 3)–expert in Spanish history, culture, and literature. Cameron Watson (Oct. 22)–historian.

Lisbon

León Bilbao

Santiago de Compostela

Bay of Biscay

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

Lisbon

Living In...

Immersive Three-Week Stays

Fulfill your dream of living abroad during one of our three-week immersion programs. Become immersed in the culture, history, and language of your chosen destination. You’ll explore many of the must-see sites as well as off-the-beaten-path treasures with a local expert, and enjoy time on your own (or with new friends!) to pursue personal interests.

Local Experts: Enjoy learning from local experts who share their knowledge of art, history, and culture and join you on select excursions.

Resident Director: An engaging and resourceful resident director handles logistics and helps you plan your free time.

Special Enrichment Tracks: Personalize your experience with any (or all) of the enrichment tracks in your destination, at an additional cost.

Italy: Language lessons, from $990; Culinary, from $620; Art and architecture, from $550.

France: Language lessons, from $1,250; Culinary, from $650; Art and culture, from $990.

Spain: Language lessons, from $525; Food and traditions, from $560; Active discovery, from $560.

Social Connection: In addition to group activities, you’ll enjoy the camaraderie of convivial gatherings of Smithsonian Journeys travelers, with some group meals included. (Note that the majority of meals are not included on these programs.)

Accommodations: Stay in a residential hotel located near the historic city center. Studio and one-bedroom apartments offer convenient amenities, plus hotel services such as friendly, helpful staff. Each departure is limited to 36 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience with their Living in France program. The resident director was exceptional and excursions were hosted by knowledgeable local experts. Plus, the accommodations were perfect for a long stay. I will be going on another Smithsonian tour!

– Deborah W., Living in France

Living in Italy

A Three-Week Stay in Florence

23 days from $5,890

Includes $250 special savings

Special air rates available

Apr. 19–May 11, May 19–June 10, June 9–July 1, Oct. 27–Nov. 18, Nov. 24–Dec. 16, 2023 & Apr. 30–May 22, May 21–June 12, June 11–July 3, Aug. 27–Sept. 18, Oct. 8–30, 2024

Florence boasts a wealth of Renaissance splendors, yet many of its riches elude all but the most experienced travelers. During our three-week immersive cultural stay, you’ll soon feel at home and enjoy the time and opportunity to reach new depths of understanding into Italy’s arts, history, and culture. Walking tours and museum visits plus day trips into greater Tuscany provide insight into this favorite Italian destination. Yet you’ll also enjoy la dolce vita (the sweet life) as you meet new friends and find yourself irresistibly lulled into the unhurried pace of daily life, sipping espresso at a local bar, getting to know vendors at the market, and savoring the cuisine at neighborhood restaurants. Reside in a renovated, modern apartment at the PopArtment, located near the heart of the city’s historic center.

Highlights Include

Excursions, Day Trips, Presentations: Take an indepth walking tour of Florence led by an expert guide and enjoy tours of the Uffizi and Accademia galleries. Learn more about Tuscany during day trips to Chianti, Lucca, Siena, Colle di Val d’Elsa, and Cortona. Attend sessions by a local expert on Renaissance art and contemporary life, and enjoy a wine tasting.

Duomo of Florence

Living in France

A Three-Week Stay in Aix-en-Provence

23 days from $5,590

Includes $250 special savings

Special air rates available

May 10–June 1, Aug. 9–31, Aug. 30–Sept. 21, Oct. 18–Nov. 9, 2023 & Apr. 17–May 9, May 8–30, Aug. 7–29, Aug. 28–Sept. 19, 2024

Provence—the very name evokes images of idyllic days of dazzling light illuminating the countryside’s lush olive groves and sloping vineyards. It was the same colorful scenery and light that drew artists such as Cézanne, Chagall, and Van Gogh to this region. On this special immersive cultural stay in Aix-en-Provence, let this charming small city, which boasts a 600-year-old university and numerous art and cooking schools, become your home for three weeks. Stroll cobblestone streets on your way to an outdoor market, and explore medieval hilltop villages and Roman ruins. Linger over a glass of wine at a neighborhood café and dine in restaurants that few tourists could hope to find. Stay in a modern apartment at the Adagio Aix-en-Provence Centre, a residential hotel located on a peaceful street near the shops along Cours Mirabeau.

Highlights Include

Excursions, Day Trips, Presentations: Take an indepth walking tour of Aix-en-Provence led by an expert guide. Learn about the region’s history as you explore greater Provence during day trips to Avignon and the Pont du Gard, Marseille, and the Luberon Valley. Plus, enjoy a wine tasting and attend sessions on history and art by a local expert during your stay.

Living in Spain

A Three-Week Stay in Andalusia

23 days from $6,290

Includes $250 special savings

Special air rates available

Apr. 16–May 8, May 7–29, Oct. 1–23, 2023 & Mar. 31–Apr. 22, Apr. 21–May 13, May 12–June 3, Oct. 6–28, Oct. 27–Nov. 18, 2024

Whitewashed villages laced with bougainvillea, the seductive rhythms of flamenco, historic cities filled with delicate Moorish architecture, scalloped beaches and rugged mountains: Andalusia is a place to savor. Settle into your apartment in the inviting town of Marbella, perched on the Mediterranean Sea, and spend three weeks immersed in sun-kissed southern Spain. Burnish your Spanish skills, learn a few steps of flamenco, or cook authentic paella with a local chef. Trace the history and enduring influence of the Moors, and then see that influence firsthand on guided excursions to beautiful mountain villages and world-class cities like Granada and Málaga. Watch the sunset from the beach or while sipping sangria on a town square, and revel in the unhurried pace of life on Spain’s Costa del Sol.

Highlights Include

Excursions, Day Trips, Presentations: Discover seaside Marbella on a walking tour and venture to the nearby caves of Nerja and the Moorish village of Frigiliana. Learn about Andalusia’s unique cultural heritage from local experts, and enjoy an evening of flamenco and a wine tasting. Delve deeper into the region’s history and character on day trips to Granada, Málaga, Ronda, the White Villages, and more; and opt for a weekend escapade to Seville and Cordobá.

Lavender field, Provence

Marbella

Spain’s Andalusia

A One-Week Stay in Antequera

9 days from $4,290 Includes $250 special savings No single supplement

Special air rates available

Apr. 27–May 5, May 18–26, Sept. 14–22, Oct. 19–27, 2023

Immerse yourself in the heart of Andalusia and explore the influence of Moorish, Christian, and Jewish cultures as reflected in its art and architecture, cuisine, and culture. Settle into the lovely white hill town of Antequera and the Parador de Antequera, ideal settings for exploring the region.

Highlights Include

Antequera: Take delight in this classic medieval town, where you’ll also find the largest megalithic tomb in Europe, a 14th-century fortress that watches over the city, and more than 30 churches and cathedrals.

Granada, Seville, Ronda, and Córdoba: Gaze at the elaborate Moorish design of Granada’s Alhambra, a palace with ornate buildings, courtyards, and gardens. In Seville, admire the tile work at the Plaza de España and visit the immense Gothic cathedral and Alcázar. Explore the smaller towns of Ronda, dramatically perched on the El Tajo Gorge, and Córdoba, with its grand La Mezquita (mosque) later transformed into a cathedral. And in Málaga, take in the art of native son Pablo Picasso at the Museo Picasso.

Cultural Traditions: Admire the passionate music and dance of flamenco and savor the region’s culinary specialties, including a wine tasting.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Janet Duncan Jones (Apr.)–expert in archaeology and the classics. Aneta Georgievska-Shine (May)–art historian. Samuel Amago (Sept.)–expert on Spanish literary history, cinema, and culture.

Walking the Camino de Santiago

Spain’s Historical Pilgrimage Route

11 days from $6,995

May 10–20, Sept. 20–30, Oct. 18–28, 2023

For over a thousand years, pilgrims have hiked the Camino de Santiago across northern Spain, one of the most important Christian pilgrimage routes during the Middle Ages. Walk along those same trails yourself, from Pamplona to Santiago de Compostela. Along the way, experience the ancient villages and dramatic landscapes of Spain’s mighty Basque region, where nature and history are revered, and local wine and cuisine are cherished.

Highlights Include

The Pilgrimage Route: From the charming foothills of the Pyrenees, hike nearly 41 miles of the Camino’s most scenic sections, averaging five miles per day of low-impact hiking through pastoral landscapes and ancient villages.

Storied Cities: Enjoy guided tours of historic cities and towns frequented by pilgrims, including Pamplona, Burgos, León, Lugo, and Bilbao, some of which are home to important cathedrals and World Heritage sites.

Santiago de Compostela: Your journey concludes by hiking into Santiago de Compostela, arriving at the legendary cathedral where you can reflect on your experience, and if you wish, attend a Pilgrim Mass. While here, stay two nights at the Parador de Santiago de Compostela, built to accommodate pilgrims, first as a royal hospital in 1499 and later as a hotel.

Gastronomic Traditions: Indulge in authentic Galician flavors where recipes and culinary traditions have been passed on through generations as you dine in familyowned restaurants.

Limited to 20 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Daily hikes from 4 to 8 miles.

El Tajo Gorge

Walking through Los Arcos

France and Spain’s Basque Region

A One-Week Stay at the Parador de Hondarribia

9 days from $4,790

Includes $250 special savings Special air rates available

Apr. 22–30, Sept. 23–Oct. 1, 2023 & Apr. 20–28, May 11–19, Sept. 14–22, Oct. 5–13, Oct. 12–20, 2024

Delve into the soul of the Basque region in both France and Spain. Settle into the historic Parador de Hondarribia and be fully immersed in Spanish Basque culture. Highlights Include

Spain: Enjoy a walking tour of the medieval Old Town of Hondarribia. Venture to Bilbao to visit the renowned Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry; explore nearby San Sebastián; and discover Pamplona.

France: Learn about the heritage of Bayonne, capital of the French Basque region. Spend time in the seaside resort of Biarritz and explore smaller gems in the shadow of the Pyrenees. Highlights include Espelette with its traditional Basque homes, and St. Jean Pied de Port, a crossroad for pilgrimage routes.

Culture and Cuisine: Meet with local people to discuss Basque history and culture. Taste local French vintages and savor Basque cuisine. Try out a txoko (a members-only dining society), a traditional cider house, and local pintxos bars.

Parador de Hondarribia: Enjoy a one-week stay at this historic upscale Spanish property. Located in the medieval center of Hondarribia, the fortified parador is also known as the Castle of Charles V and dates from the 10th century. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Kerri Lesh (Apr. 22)–anthropologist. Barbara Whitehead (Sept. 23)–historian.

A Seine River Cruise

Aboard the 148-guest Amadeus Diamond

9 days from $4,690 Includes $250 special savings No single supplement

Special air rates available Sept. 19–27, 2023 & May 7–15, Sept. 24–Oct. 2, 2024

Cruise the legendary River Seine and discover the historic, artistic, and cultural highlights of Ile-de-France and Normandy.

Highlights Include

Conflans-Sainte-Honorine and Versailles: Tour the iconic Palace of Versailles. Then learn about Conflans-Sainte-Honorine’s history on a walking tour.

Rouen: Explore the nearby abbeys of Jumièges and Wandrille, then visit the Rouen cathedral.

Normandy Coastline: Stroll cliff-top paths to view impressive chalk formations and dramatic cliffs along the coast of Normandy.

Honfleur: Explore the charming old port, which dates to the 17th century and served as a favorite subject of the Impressionist painters, and enjoy a choice of activities.

Caen and D-Day Beaches: Focus on modern history at the Caen Memorial Museum and visits to Omaha Beach and the American Military Cemetery.

Giverny: Trace Monet’s passion for gardening to his artistic genius while touring his house and gardens.

Paris: Enjoy a scenic cruise in the “City of Light,” followed by a walking tour focused on the city’s history and architecture.

Port charges are an additional $395 per person. Space reserved for 35 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about the Amadeus Diamond on our website.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Madeline Díaz (Sept. 19)–art historian.

San Sebastián

CRUISE

Paris and the Seine River

Atapuerca archaeological site

Prehistoric Caves of France and Spain

10 days from $6,995 Apr. 22–May 1, May 6–15, Sept. 2–11, Sept. 30–Oct. 9, 2023 & Apr. 13–22, May 4–13, May 11–20, Oct. 12–21, Oct. 19–28, 2024

Altamira Cave art

Dordogne: Spend three days immersed in a fairy-tale landscape of spectacular karst cliffs and castles along the Dordogne River. Settle into the charming village of Les Eyzies-de-Tayac, built into the cliffs in the heart of the Vézère Valley.

Cave Art: Visit a fascinating range of prehistoric cave art sites, from the celebrated caves of Lascaux IV and Altamira to lesser-known sites such as Font-de-Gaume and Puente Viesgo.

Local Archaeology Experts: Gain insights from leading archaeologists and anthropologists working in the field, who join us for private lectures and tours of important paleontological sites.

Atapuerca: Venture into the World Heritage site of Atapuerca with an archaeologist and learn about the incredible range of fossils and artifacts that continue to be unearthed here, including 1.2-millionyear-old hominin fossils—the oldest ever found in Europe.

Basque Country: Explore the superimposed caves of Isturitz and Oxocelhaya in France’s Basque region, and get acquainted with Basque culture during a free afternoon in Bilbao, the largest city in Spain’s Basque country.

Unique Accommodations: Stay in a cliff-side village on the Vézère River, a historic monastery on Toulouse’s main square, an 18th-century mansion in the heart of medieval Santillana del Mar, and a contemporary boutique hotel just steps from Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.

Exceptional Cuisine: Try out Neanderthal cuisine during a prehistoric lunch and enjoy gastronomic dining experiences and excellent French and Spanish wines throughout your journey. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Les Eyziesde-Tayac Lascaux IV Bay of Biscay FRANCE

Santillana del Mar Font-deGaume Toulouse Pech Merle

Puente Viesgo caves Atapuerca

Highlights Include

April Nowell (Apr. 22/Sept. 2)–Paleolithic archaeologist. Anna Kathryn Kendrick (May 6)–historian.

France Through the Ages

15 days from $6,997

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Apr. 24–May 8, May 22–June 5, Sept. 11–25, Oct. 2–16, 2023 & Apr. 22–May 6, May 17–31, Sept. 9–23, Sept. 30–Oct. 14, 2024

Immerse yourself in many facets of France—from cuisine and history to architecture and geology—on a journey to five distinct regions. Explore the ramparts of Carcassonne and Albi, and delve into prehistory among the cliffside villages and caves of the Dordogne region. Then venture to the Loire Valley to encounter the sumptuous Renaissance châteaux built by kings and nobility. Trace centuries of history in Normandy, visiting the medieval abbey of Mont St. Michel as well as the poignant World War II sites along the coast. Enjoy an inside perspective on the delightful cities of Paris and Toulouse on guided tours, and experience the hospitality and gastronomy of provincial France.

Highlights Include

Southern Treasures: Stay in the historic heart of Toulouse, and explore the fortified town of Carcassonne, surrounded by some of the longest medieval city walls in Europe. Venture to the market town of Albi, birthplace of artist Henri Toulouse-Lautrec.

Dordogne River Valley: See world-renowned prehistoric cave art at the International Center for Cave Art at Lascaux IV and visit the cliffside pilgrimage site of Rocamadour. Tour medieval Sarlat and cruise the Dordogne River past dramatic karst formations and cliff-top castles. Enjoy a private, guided tour of the Château de Milandes, once the home of American entertainer Josephine Baker.

Loire Valley: From your base at an 18th-century manor in Saumur, discover a romantic landscape dotted with historic châteaux. Tour the Château de Chenonceau, a Renaissance masterpiece that spans the River Cher; the Château du Clos Lucé, where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years; and the World Heritage site of Fontevraud Abbey.

Normandy: Ascend cobblestone streets to the fortified abbey of Mont St. Michel, and see the renowned Bayeux Tapestry. Then gain insight into the extraordinary events of D-Day while visiting Utah Beach, Sainte-Mère-Église, Pointe du Hoc, the American cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach, and Le Mémorial museum in Caen.

Along the Seine: Stroll through Monet’s gardens at Giverny, the artist’s country estate, and end your journey in Paris with a highlights tour.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Christopher Brennan (Apr. 24) and Cassandra Potts Hannahs (Sept. 11)–historians. Stephen Clancy (May 22)–art historian.

Mont St. Michel

Village in Dordogne

D-Day: A Journey from England to France

8 or 9 days from $7,195 May 31–June 7, 2023 & May 31–June 8, 2024*

Exclusive tours, poignant excursions, and thoughtful lectures provide in-depth insight to your understanding and appreciation of the monumental military feat of Operation Overlord. Plus, attend the special anniversary ceremonies on June 6 (pending confirmation), when dignitaries, officials, and the public gather to pay homage to the brave soldiers who changed the course of history.

Highlights Include

England: Learn about the behind-the-scenes preparations necessary to stage the largest amphibian landing in history. In London, visit Winston Churchill’s underground Cabinet War Rooms, then continue to the Thames River and step aboard the HMS Belfast, the most significant surviving Royal Navy warship of World War II. You’ll also travel to Bletchley Park where you will hear the story behind the Enigma code breakers, credited with shortening the war by successfully deciphering the encryption used by the Wehrmacht to safeguard its messages.

Portsmouth and the Channel: Travel to Portsmouth to tour the D-Day Museum. Just outside the city, visit the Supreme Headquarters of the Allied Expeditionary Force by special arrangement. Then take a ferry to Normandy.

France: Stand atop the dramatic bluffs of Pointe du Hoc, where U.S. Rangers scaled hundred-foot cliffs to knock out the gun emplacements. Visit the village of Sainte-MèreÉglise, where paratroopers dropped from the sky in a hail of gunfire. With your expert historian, walk along Utah Beach, site of one of two American amphibious landings in the early hours of D-Day. Stop at Arromanches, where the prefabricated concrete harbors (or mulberries) still dot the water, and visit the Arromanches Landing Museum. During your time in Normandy, you’ll also visit museums that

provide further insight into D-Day, including the Overlord Museum and the Pegasus Memorial Bridge and Museum. Spend time at Omaha Beach, site of the bloodiest fighting of the invasion day, and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Commemorate the D-Day anniversary with a wreath laying ceremony at the American Military Cemetery in Collevile-sur-Mer.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

*The 2024 departure will commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. The itinerary is one day longer and will include an official ceremony at the American Military Cemetery in

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Mitch Yockelson (2023) and Steven Mrozek (2023)–military historians.

Arromanches, France

Normandy A One-Week Stay in France

9 days from $4,890

Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement / Special air rates available

May 20–28, June 10–18, Sept. 2–10, Oct. 14–22, 2023 & Apr. 20–28, May 24–June 1,* June 7–15,* Aug. 31–Sept. 8, Oct. 5–13, 2024

Normandy is renowned as a center of Impressionism and for its charming towns and fine cuisine. It’s also remembered for major military efforts, from the Norman Conquest to the D-Day invasion of World War II. Join us for a one-week stay at the centrally located Hotel Mercure in Honfleur, the ideal base to explore this region.

Highlights Include

Battle of Normandy: Visit the beaches where World War II’s Operation Overlord took place. Stirring sites include Omaha Beach; Arromanches; and Pointe du Hoc, where U.S. Rangers scaled the cliffs to take out the German gun emplacement. You’ll visit the Caen Memorial and Museum, which focuses on World War II, the D-Day landings, and the Cold War through a variety of exhibitions; as well as the Arromanches Museum. To honor the many brave soldiers who gave their lives, you’ll also visit the U.S. Military Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer.

Artistic Legacy: Travel to Bayeux to view the embroidered story of William the Conqueror’s victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. The Bayeux Tapestry, nearly 230 feet in length, offers historians insight into the battle as well as the weapons, clothing, food, and other details of daily life in that age. During a walking tour of Honfleur, see why artists like Claude Monet, Gustave Courbet, and native son Eugène Boudin were in awe of this charming seaside town.

Mont St. Michel: Discover this breathtaking tidal island with its iconic abbey and historic church, one of the most remarkable sites in France and a World Heritage site.

Cultural Traditions: Savor traditional culinary products such as Calvados (apple brandy), and visit a nearby estate farm to sample Norman cheeses. At the Château du Bec, attend a presentation on local cooking traditions by Chef Régine, a local chef, who will proceed with the preparation of your lunch.

(May 20/Oct. 14)–military historian. Lisa Passaglia Bauman (June 10)–art historian. Cassandra Potts Hannahs (Sept.)–historian with expertise in France and Great Britain.

Pointe du Hoc

Paris

Honfleur FRANCE

English Channel Seine River

Overnight Featured Site

Bayeux

Mont St. Michel

Omaha Beach Caen Arromanches Le Havre Étretat

Honfleur

The Life and Work of Van Gogh in France

7 days from $5,790

Oct. 4–10, 2023 & Apr. 24–30, May 29–June 4, Sept. 18–24, Oct. 9–15, 2024

Trace the artistic evolution and compelling life story of Vincent Van Gogh on a journey from Paris to the south of France. Among the cobbled lanes of Montmartre, discover how his acquaintance with the Impressionists changed the way he used light and paint. Visit the house of Dr. Gachet, who cared for him during his final days, and see his simple gravesite in Auvers-sur-Oise. Then head south to Arles and St.-Rémy-de-Provence, where he created some of his most iconic pieces amid his own internal turmoil, and experience firsthand the light and color that Van Gogh so vibrantly captured.

Highlights Include

Paris and Auvers-Sur-Oise: Immerse yourself in the great works of the Impressionists at the Musée d’Orsay, home to many works by Van Gogh including his room in Arles. Explore his haunts in hilltop Montmartre, where the artist lived with his brother Theo. Then journey to Auvers-Sur-Oise and visit the inn where he died and the home of Dr. Gachet.

Avignon and Arles: Join a local guide for a walking tour of Avignon, including the excellent Musée Angladon. Stay in central Arles and discover the city sites associated with Van Gogh. Meet a curator at the Fondation Van Gogh to discuss the artist’s influence on contemporary art. St.-Rémy-de-Provence: Stroll the Van Gogh Trail, seeing the very landscapes the artist immortalized during his year in the asylum of Saint Paul de Mausole. Visit the

Romanesque monastery where he lived and painted under the care of nuns and nurses.

Private Tours and Museum Visits: Enjoy private tours of world-renowned museums and specially arranged visits to acclaimed collections from the Auberge Ravoux in Auvers-sur-Oise to the Musée d’Orsay in Paris.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Visit our website for the expert on this tour.

Van Gogh’s Café Terrace at Night Saint Paul de Mausole Asylum

A River Cruise of Provence

Aboard the 140-guest Amadeus Provence

9 days from $5,090 / Includes $250 early booking savings

No Single Supplement / Special air rates available

May 3–11, Aug. 16–24, Sept. 13–21, Oct. 4–12, 2023 & May 1–9, Sept. 18–26, Oct. 23–31, 2024

Feel the essence of sun-drenched Provence and historic Burgundy as you cruise along the Rhône and Saône Rivers on a round-trip journey from Lyon. Trace the history of the Romans in southern France, hear stories of medieval popes, see many World Heritage sites, savor Burgundy and Beaujolais wines, and appreciate the landscapes and ambiance that drew famous artists.

Highlights Include

Historic Sites: In Arles, explore the magnificently restored Roman amphitheater, built in the first century B.C., and the Romanesque Cathédrale de St. Trophime. In Avignon, visit the 14th-century Palais des Papes, a World Heritage site. Choose to see other ancient sites such as the Pont du Gard aqueduct or the Roman theater and Triumphal Arch in Orange, and medieval sites such as Vieux Lyon. Plus, everyone explores the Benedictine Abbey of Cluny, once home to 10,000 monks, and the World Heritage site of Beaune with its 15th-century Hôtel Dieu.

Rhône and Saône Wines: Visit the historic wine regions of the Beaujolais and Mâconnais, which produce some of the finest wines in the world. Enjoy a morning tour through peaceful vineyards, followed by a wine tasting. Tour the Côte de Beaune region and its famed winegrowing villages, and drive the Route des Grands Crus (Road of Great Wines)—one of the oldest and most celebrated wine routes in France.

Memorable Landscapes: View the horses, pink flamingos, egrets, and herons that make their home in the marshy fields of the coastal Camargue, a nationally designated protected wetland, and visit the nearby coastal

town of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. Choose other nature excursions such as a tour to the Ardèche Gorges and a cycling tour along the Rhône River.

Port charges are an additional $395 per person. Space reserved for 35 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about the

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Vivien Green Fryd (May 3) and Janetta Benton (Aug.)–art historians. Joan Grimbert (Sept. 13)–professor and author with expertise in medieval French literature. Madeline Díaz (Oct. 4)–expert in art history and museum studies.

Port

Call

Ardeche Gorge

Le Pouzin

Avignon

Treasures of the Alps

Swiss Trains and Italy’s Lake District

14 days from $7,492

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

June 22–July 5, Aug. 10–23, Aug. 31–Sept. 13, Sept. 9–22, Sept. 14–27, 2023 & May 27–June 9, June 20–July 3, Aug. 8–21, Aug. 29–Sept. 11, Sept. 12–25, 2024

With their multitude of craggy, snow-dusted peaks and sweeping valleys dotted with timeless villages, the Alps inspire a sense of awe and a sense of peace. Experience some of the gems of these legendary mountains as you travel by train, ferry, coach, and cable car to charming medieval towns, historic medieval resorts, and sky-high summits in Switzerland, Italy, and Austria. Ride the Glacier Express to Zermatt and cruise to isolated villages on the shores of Lake Lugano. Wind through the lovely Italian Lake District on a scenic drive, spend a morning exploring German World War II sites, and attend a concert in an ornate palace in Salzburg.

Highlights Include

Legendary Swiss Trains: Gaze upon extraordinary mountain views from the legendary Glacier Express and the Pilatus Railway. Riding along the Gornergrat Bahn, Europe’s highest open-air railway, take in dramatic vistas of 29 Alpine peaks, including the majestic Matterhorn.

Charming Swiss Towns: Stay in lakeside Lucerne, with its medieval old town and distinctive covered bridge, and the alpine retreat of Zermatt, gateway to the Matterhorn.

Ticino and the Italian Lake District: During three days on Lake Lugano, visit castles and gardens, cruise to remote villages, and set off on a scenic drive to Stresa and Lake Maggiore in the Italian Lake District.

Innsbruck and Salzburg, Austria: Enjoy a walking tour of charming Innsbruck, and take a cable car into the mountains for a panoramic view of the city and the

surrounding Alps. Then travel through the stunning Tyrolean countryside to Salzburg and spend three nights in the hometown of Mozart. Explore the city’s historic sites, and attend a chamber music concert in the Marble Room of Mirabell Palace. Your final day features a trip to the clifftop Eagle’s Nest, the Nazi Party’s Bavarian retreat. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Christopher Brennan (Aug. 10)–historian. Michelle Thaller (Aug. 31)–astrophysicist. Peter Bobrowsky (Sept. 14)–archaeologist and geologist.

Gornergrat Bahn, Switzerland

Europe’s Great Rivers

Featuring the Danube, Main, and Rhine Rivers

Aboard the 168-guest Amadeus Silver III

16 days from $6,790

Includes $250 early booking savings

No Single Supplement—Limited Availability

Special air rates & services available

Oct. 14–29, 2023 &

Oct. 15–30, 2024

Explore the cultural landscapes of five European countries and three legendary rivers on this cruise, featuring a choice of excursions and many World Heritage sites.

Highlights Include

Hungary: Begin your river voyage in Budapest as you discover the city’s highlights. See the city illuminated from the waters of the Danube as our ship sails this evening.

Slovakia: Learn about Slovakia’s history in Bratislava and then choose a tour featuring its musical heritage, medieval architecture, or local wines.

Austria: Enjoy a choice of activities in elegant Vienna. Cruise along the beautiful Wachau Valley and stop in Dürnstein before continuing to the Benedictine abbey at Melk.

Germany: Cruise along the Danube to lovely Passau and Regensburg. Dock in Nuremberg and visit the medieval towns of Bavarian Bamberg, Wurzburg, Miltenberg, and Cologne. Marvel at hilltop castles as you sail through the breathtaking Rhine Gorge and enjoy a guided walk through historic Koblenz.

The Netherlands: In Amsterdam, take in the impressive collection of Dutch art at the Rijksmuseum, or embark on a guided walking tour of the canal district. Alternatively, enjoy a guided bicycle tour among rural historic villages. Space reserved for 55 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Port charges are an additional $495 per person.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

Carol Reynolds (Oct. 14)–expert in European art, music, and history.

Cruising the Rhine & Moselle

A Family Program Featuring a Voyage From Basel to Amsterdam Aboard the 162-guest

Amadeus Queen

12 days from $5,690

Includes $250 early booking savings

No Single Supplement and Special Children’s Pricing Available

Special air rates & services available

July 3–14, 2023

Create memories with your family as you enjoy a wide selection of family and adult excursions.

Highlights Include

Switzerland: From your base at the luxurious VictoriaJungfrau Grand Hotel Resort and Spa in Interlaken, discover the majestic beauty of the Swiss Alps.

France: In Strasbourg, enjoy a canal cruise and walking tour of the Petite France district, a World Heritage site, or choose a historical walking tour or Alsatian culinary excursion.

Germany: Explore the medieval castle and town of Heidelberg, and in Rüdesheim, enjoy a wine tasting or visit a mechanical musical instrument museum. Be on deck as you cruise through the Rhine Gorge, and visit Reichsburg Castle. Tour Cologne and explore the Chocolate Museum.

The Netherlands: Visit Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum; learn about the historic Jordaan district during a walking and culinary tour; or enjoy a family bike ride. Later, take a scenic canal cruise showcasing the city’s architecture and waterways.

Space reserved for 60 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Port charges are an additional $395 per person. Learn more about the Amadeus Queen on our website.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

Carol Reynolds–expert in European art, music, and history. Youth directors provide onboard activities for young people.

A Danube River Cruise

From Prague to Sofia Aboard the 160-guest Amadeus Silver III, Riva, or Queen

15 days from $6,790

Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement—Limited availability / Special air rates available May 15–29, May 24–June 8,* Aug. 19–Sept. 2, Aug. 28–Sept. 12,* 2023 & May 18–June 1, May 27–June 11,* Aug. 9–24,* Oct. 6–20, 2024

The fabled Danube River flows through the heart of Central and Eastern Europe—an evocative landscape of ancient capitals; lovely villages; and magnificent churches, palaces, and castles. This unique itinerary showcases eight countries and many World Heritage sites, plus features a choice of specialty excursions.

Highlights Include

Czech Republic: Your journey begins in Prague, the capital of Old World Europe. During a three-night hotel stay, you’ll enjoy tours of the Charles Bridge and the historic district; a choice of excursions, including Lobkowicz Palace, the Jewish Quarter, or Prague’s architectural treasures; and some time at leisure.

Germany and Austria: Travel to Passau, located at the confluence of three rivers—the Danube, Inn, and Ilz. Before boarding your ship, visit magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral, among other sites. Then sail through the beautiful Wachau Valley, a World Heritage site, stopping at the Benedictine abbey at Melk and lovely Dürnstein. In Vienna, tour the lavish Imperial Apartments of the Hofburg Palace, Schönbrunn Palace, or Klosterneuburg Monastery; and enjoy an evening of Viennese waltz.

Slovakia and Hungary: In Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital, view St. Michael’s Gate and the Primate’s Palace during a walking tour, bike along the storied Slovak-Austrian border, or explore sites associated with renowned composers. Cruise into the heart of Hungary’s Budapest, one of Europe’s most striking capitals, nestled along the banks of the Danube. Visit the Great Market Hall, tour the old Jewish Quarter, or explore both the Buda and the Pest sides of the Danube. Later, see Ottoman mosques in Pécs.

Croatia, Serbia, and Romania: Visit the small towns of Kopacevo, Osijek, and Vukovar, plus enjoy a wine tasting. In Belgrade, a choice of excursions features the Nikola

Tesla Museum, a culinary tour, or a highlights tour with a stop at Kalemegdan Park. Then sail through the Iron Gate Gorge, a remarkable passage just 530 feet wide along the Serbian-Romanian border.

Bulgaria: Visit a historic church in Vidin. Then continue to Sofia for a two-night hotel stay, where you’ll learn about the city’s history and culture during a tour featuring the Royal Palace and Battenberg Square.

Port charges are an additional $395 per person. Space reserved for 35 to 75 Smithsonian Journeys guests, depending on departure. Learn more about the ships on our website. *These departures will run in the reverse.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Benjamin Sutherland (May 15)–expert in European geopolitics, globalization, and conflict. Tim Blanning (May 24), Hugh Agnew (Aug. 19), and Christopher Brennan (Aug. 28)–historians with expertise in Europe.

Prague

Danube River ROMANI A

Port of Call/Overnight Featured Site Ship Motorcoach

New Year’s in Europe: Vienna, Prague, and Budapest by Deluxe Rail

With A Special New Year’s Eve Gala in Vienna

10 days from $13,995

Includes $1,000 special savings

Dec. 27, 2023–Jan. 5, 2024

Immerse yourself in the enchantment of rail travel, making your way through four Central European countries, and toast the new year at a gala event in magnificent Vienna.

Highlights Include

Travel by Private Train: Settle into your private cabin aboard the deluxe Golden Eagle Danube Express and journey in a loop through Hungary, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia.

Budapest: Tour Buda and Pest, examining architectural marvels from the neo-Gothic Parliament to the opulent Opera House. Enjoy free time to explore the city’s Christmas markets.

Lake Balaton: Venture to lakeside Keszthely, a centuriesold summer retreat, and explore the magnificent Festetics Palace.

Vienna: Ring in the New Year in Viennese style at a champagne reception and a special New Year’s dinner at the city’s iconic Rathaus. Cap off the night with a balcony view of the city’s fireworks.

Historic Old Towns: Set off on guided walking tours of three Old Towns with exceptional architecture and Old World ambiance: Graz, Austria;ČČeský Krumlov, Czech Republic; and Slovakia’s Košice.

Prague: Explore the storied sites of this vibrant city’s Old Town, including Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and the Jewish Quarter; and attend a private concert. Limited to 32 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Laurie Koloski–historian with expertise in modern Europe.

Across the Alps: A Deluxe Rail Journey

From Budapest to Venice aboard the Danube Express

12 days from $17,995

Includes $1,600 special savings

May 14–25, 2023

Surround yourself with extraordinary mountain vistas as you cross the Alps—and five countries—aboard the stunning Golden Eagle Danube Express on a rail journey from Budapest to Venice that includes stops in Innsbruck, Zürich, Lake Como, Lake Bled, and more.

Highlights Include

Travel by Deluxe Train: Settle into your private cabin and set off toward the Alps, taking in majestic mountain views. Budapest and Vienna: Explore the twin cities of Buda and Pest on a guided tour. In Vienna, venture into the bustling stalls of the historic Naschmarkt or tour Schönbrunn Palace before a private classical concert.

Austria and Switzerland: Take to the Austrian Alps on the World Heritage-listed Semmering Railway, and cruise Lake Achen. Then travel to Zürich and enjoy a tour of this Swiss-German speaking city.

Northern Italy: Make your way across northern Italy, stopping to cruise stunning Lake Como, enjoy a pizza tasting in Milan, discover Verona, and explore the legacy of the Byzantines in Trieste.

Slovenia and Venice: Travel to Slovenia’s iconic Lake Bled and visit the medieval castle perched high above the water. Admire Ljubljana’s enchanting mix of architectural styles, and end your journey in glorious Venice, enjoying a guided walking tour and a gondola ride.

Limited to 32 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Alex Motyl–professor of political science.

Vienna fireworks

The Danube Express

Great European Journey

A River Cruise and Train Trip from Holland to Switzerland

Aboard the 160-guest Amadeus Imperial and Featuring

12 days from $4,195

June 28–July 9, July 10–21, 2023 & June 28–July 9, July 10–21, 2024

Reminiscent of the 19th-century “Grand Tour,” this unique and popular journey features the heart of Western Europe—with both river cruising and train travel. In Amsterdam, board your deluxe riverboat for a five-night cruise through Holland, Germany, and France, and then enjoy panoramic vistas of the Swiss Alps from the windows of historic trains.

Highlights Include

Holland: Take a private cruise along Amsterdam’s legendary canals, with their 16th- and 17th-century gabled row houses, designated a World Heritage site.

Germany and the Rhine River: Visit Cologne’s Old Town and the historic Gothic cathedral. Follow the Mosel River to the charming medieval town of Cochem. Then cruise through the most scenic section of the Rhine River Valley, a World Heritage site where each bend in the river features a medieval castle and tranquil village. Travel to a vineyard renowned for its Riesling where you’ll enjoy a private wine tasting. And in Heidelberg, visit the magnificent 13th-century castle perched above the river.

France: Arrive in Alsace, a region whose ownership has moved between Germany and France for generations. In lovely Strasbourg, visit the Old City, a World Heritage site featuring medieval houses and covered bridges spanning picturesque canals.

The Swiss Alps and Legendary Railways: Cross the rolling Swiss countryside to Bern, the capital and a World Heritage site. Travel through the spectacular Bernese Oberland to the snowcapped mountain peaks of the Alps and the towering Jungfrau. Enjoy two nights each in Lucerne and Zermatt, dramatically set beneath the iconic

Three Historic Swiss Railways

Matterhorn. Explore these charming towns and experience the soaring majesty of the Swiss Alps from three legendary railways: the Gornergrat Bahn, the Glacier Express, and the Pilatus Railway, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway.

Port charges are an additional $55 per person. Space reserved for 60 Smithsonian Journeys guests, depending on the departure. Learn more about the Amadeus Imperial on our website.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Christopher Brennan (June 2023), Glenn Kranking (June 2023), and Cathal Nolan (July 2023)––historians. Adam Tanner (July 2023)–journalist.

Zermatt and the Matterhorn

Amadeus Imperial, Cologne

Holiday Markets

A Rhine River Cruise Aboard the 168-guest Amadeus Silver II, Cara, or Imperial and Featuring a Stay in Alpine Interlaken

11 days from $3,990 / Includes $250 special savings

No Single Supplement Limited Availability / Special air rates available

Nov. 24–Dec. 4, Dec. 4–14,* Dec. 9–19, 2023 & Dec. 2–12, Dec. 3–13, and Dec. 8–18, 2024

Welcome the start of the holiday season during a delightful river cruise as towns along the Rhine open their cheerful Christkindlmarkts (Christmas markets) with holiday food specialties, hot mulled wine, and beautifully crafted holiday decorations. Personalize your cruise with a choice of excursions in select ports of call and visit many World Heritage sites.

Highlights Include

Heart of the Swiss Alps: Enjoy a two-night hotel stay in Interlaken, situated in the Bernese Oberland. Explore the charming town of Interlaken at leisure, and take a tour of nearby Bern with its historic Old Town en route to the ship.

Alsace and Germany: From Basel, cruise north along the Rhine, the border between France and Germany. See the highlights of the historic German town of Freiburg and stroll through the charming holiday market. In the afternoon, choose between two tours of lovely French towns: the 16th-century town of Riquewihr with its Alsatian wines, or Colmar with its many holiday markets and 14th-century Dominican church. Then spend a day in the principal Alsatian city of Strasbourg, and discover its history and architecture or culinary heritage, in addition to time to peruse the city market and a presentation about local family holiday traditions.

Heidelberg, Rüdesheim, and the Rhine Gorge: Take a walking tour of Heidelberg, showcasing the imposing hillside castle and the cathedral, and enjoy a special afternoon musical performance. The next day, choose from two tours around Rüdesheim: take in the Old Town and its special Christmas Market of the Nations, or visit the Abbey of St. Hildegard and enjoy a wine tasting. Then enjoy a leisurely afternoon cruising one of the most scenic sections of the Rhine, considered a World Heritage site, which features the famous Lorelei Rock and hillside castles around every bend.

Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Aachen: Join a walking tour of Cologne’s Old Town, Cathedral Square, and the magnificent Gothic Dom, a World Heritage site and one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe. Then choose to explore either Düsseldorf, with its mix of old and new architecture, or Aachen, the city of Charlemagne with its World Heritage site cathedral and “Throne of Charlemagne.” The afternoons are at leisure to discover the various Christmas markets.

Port charges are an additional $395 per person. Space reserved for 35 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about the ships on our website.

Rhine

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Tim Blanning (Nov. 24) and Christopher Brennan (Dec. 4)–historians with expertise in modern Europe. Carol Reynolds (Dec. 9)–expert in European arts, culture, and music history.

Strasbourg

Bernese Oberland village

Prehistoric Mysteries of England and Ireland: Stonehenge to the Aran Islands

9 days from $6,450 Sept. 21–29 2023 & Apr. 18–26, Sept. 19–27 2024

Venture back in time to an age of Celts and ancient kings as you make your way from England’s Neolithic standing stones to the prehistoric sites of Ireland’s west coast. In the company of local archaeologists and authors, delve into the mystical origins of Avebury and Stonehenge. Venture to Ireland’s glorious west coast, discovering a Celtic ring fort on the cliffs of the Aran Islands and prehistoric relics scattered across County Clare.

Highlights Include

Avebury and Stonehenge: Enjoy a closer look at the famous stone circles of Avebury and Stonehenge—and the people who built them—as you explore these World Heritage sites with a local expert. Visit the adjacent sites of Woodhenge and Durrington Walls, and examine artifacts found among these prehistoric monuments.

National Museum of Ireland: On a visit to the acclaimed archaeology wing of Ireland’s premier museum with an archaeology expert, view the Cashel Man, stunningly preserved for millennia six feet deep in a peat bog.

Newgrange and Knowth: Journey to Brú na Bóinne, a World Heritage site brimming with intriguing ruins that date back 6,000 years. Delve into the symbolism of the Hill of Tara and venture into the passage tombs of Newgrange and Knowth.

Rathcroghan and Galway: Learn about ongoing excavations at Rathcroghan and discover the site’s connection with Halloween. Then spend two nights in lively Galway, soaking up the traditional arts and music scene during free time.

Aran Islands: Take a ferry to Inishmore for a visit to the Celtic ring fort of Dun Aonghosa, perched at the edge of a sea cliff. Learn about traditional Irish culture as you explore the island’s quaint villages.

County Clare: Discover Bronze Age monuments scattered across the otherworldly limestone landscapes of The Burren on a walk with a local author. Then see the famous Cliffs of Moher, a five-mile ribbon of vertical cliffs that drop some 700 feet to the Atlantic Ocean below.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. The internal flight is an additional cost starting at $250 per person.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

Visit our website for the expert on this tour.

Stonehenge

Cliffs of Moher

Brú na Bóinne Rathcroghan

Smithsonian at Oxford

Featuring Five Courses of Study

8 days from $5,850 Book early—course capacity is limited!

July 1–8, Sept. 16–23, 2023 & June 29–July 6, Sept. 14–21, 2024

Join fellow Smithsonian Journeys travelers who share a deep and unbridled love of learning and wish to study a subject in depth. Immerse yourself in the intellectual and cultural environment of Oxford University—one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the world, where Smithsonian Journeys travelers have congregated since 1979.

We return to Merton College—a renowned academic institution that has produced multiple Nobel laureates and cultural giants such as J.R.R. Tolkien and T.S. Eliot. Here, you’ll explore the libraries and grounds, dine in the college hall, sample life as an Oxford student, and study with Oxford tutors after choosing a course from five fascinating themes.

Highlights Include

Courses of Study: Stimulate your mind in pursuit of knowledge as you spend your mornings learning from an Oxford tutor. 2023 course selections include The Rise and Fall of the British Empire, The British Monarchy, Archaeology of Britain, and The Beatles (July) or Jane Austen (September). Visit our website for 2024 course selections.

Excursions: During a tour of Oxford, learn about this historic city, the British educational system, and the connection between James Smithson (founding donor of the Smithsonian Institution) and the university, which he attended as a student. Plus, take an excursion tailored to your specific course. Find details on our website.

Optional Activities: Tour staff will help arrange alternative afternoon outings, including punting, a guided tour to the Ashmolean Art Museum, and a walking tour based on the popular British drama, Inspector Morse.

Lifestyle: Stay at historic Merton College, featuring the university’s oldest quadrangle, and sample life as an Oxford student. Live in a dormitory room (with en suite bathroom), dine in the college hall (including High Table, a privileged tradition), and use Merton’s common rooms and gardens. Explore the charming town of Oxford, take tea at local eateries, and enjoy Evensong at Christ Church College. The average course size is 14 to 16 guests. Book early to ensure your preferred choice. See our website for information on a four-day extension in London.

Oxford Tutors

Historians, authors, and heritage professionals from the Oxford community will serve as Smithsonian faculty. See our website for more information.

Smithsonian Journeys traveler on campus

County Clare

A One-Week Stay in Western Ireland

9 days from $4,790

Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement

Special air rates available

June 10–18, Sept. 2–10, Sept. 16–24, 2023 & June 8–16, Sept. 7–15, Sept. 21–29, 2024

Experience the essence of Irish culture in Ennis, County Clare, where you’ll view Ireland through the eyes of its people. The Old Ground Hotel, situated in the heart of Ennis, provides the perfect base for your discoveries.

Highlights Include

Music: Listen to live music throughout your stay in Ennis, a stronghold of traditional Irish music. Enjoy exclusive performances and more informal gatherings in charming local pubs. Plus, meet a musician in his home to hear more about Irish musical history.

Other Cultural Traditions: Gain insight into the Irish game of hurling, dating back 2,000 years, and learn about Irish history and genealogy from a local expert.

Dramatic Landscapes: Enjoy walking along the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren, special areas of outstanding geology and beauty. You’ll also drive along the Wild Atlantic Way and the scenic Loop Head Peninsula.

Aran Islands: Travel to Inis Mór, inhabited since ancient times and a center for the Irish language. Learn about its history and meet a family who are modern purveyors of culinary seaweed.

Castles and Gardens: Learn about Irish castles, gardens, history, and science at Birr Castle and Bunratty Folk Park.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Christopher Griffin (June 10) and Hilary Lennon (Sept. 2)–experts in Irish literature.

England’s Lake District

A One-Week Stay in Historic Cumbria

9 days from $5,790

Includes $250 special savings

Special air rates available

Aug. 22–30, Sept. 5–13, Sept. 19–27, 2023 & June 4–12, July 9–17, Aug. 6–14, Sept. 18–24, 2024

On excursions by foot, boat, and road, experience the evocative beauty of England’s Lake District. Visit castles, ancient ruins, and timeless villages; and explore Hadrian’s Wall and the Yorkshire Dales.

Highlights Include

Bowness-on-Windermere: Explore the Lake District from your base at a lovely waterfront hotel in this village.

Northern Lake District: Take a driving tour, visiting a 5,000-year-old stone circle and stopping for a tasting tour at a renowned whisky distillery. Cruise beautiful Derwentwater, one of the region’s largest lakes.

Hadrian’s Wall: Enjoy a full-day excursion to the World Heritage site of Hadrian’s Wall, an ancient Roman fortification that stretches 73 miles from coast to coast.

Castles and Gardens: Tour Muncaster Castle, a 14th-century family home, and visit its Hawk and Owl Centre. Later, choose to hike along the shores of Lake Windermere to Wray Castle.

Lake District Literary Tour: Set out to discover the haunts of the writers who settled here, including William Wordsworth, John Ruskin, and Beatrix Potter.

Yorkshire Dales: Encounter waterfalls and expansive moors on a morning excursion to the Yorkshire Dales, and sample local cheeses at a creamery.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Cassandra Potts Hannahs (Aug. 22) and Carol Ann Lloyd (Sept. 19)–historians. Katherine Forsyth (Sept. 5)–expert in Celtic languages, literature, and art.

Irish musicians

Derwentwater, Lake District

Heart of Scotland

A One-Week Stay in Stirling

Featuring the Edinburgh Military Tattoo

9 days from $4,990 Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement / Special air rates available

July 31–Aug. 8, Aug. 7–15, Aug. 14–22, 2023

Immerse yourself in the ancient heart of Scotland, getting acquainted with its history, natural beauty, and contemporary culture during a weeklong stay. From your base in the medieval old town of Stirling, discover the legacy of Scottish heroes King Robert the Bruce and Sir William Wallace, the subjects of the movie Braveheart. Explore the childhood home of Mary, Queen of Scots, and tour the majestic cathedral ruins in seaside St Andrews. During a full day in Edinburgh, experience the enchanting Military Tattoo, staged on the castle grounds. Enjoy a wide variety of activities, from a distillery visit to a cruise on Loch Lomond, as well as free time to explore Scotland’s enchanting towns and cities.

Highlights Include

Stirling: Stay in a Victorian landmark within the medieval walls of Stirling, and explore the history of this royal town and its region— where both William Wallace and Robert the Bruce defeated the English in the wars for Scottish independence. Venture to famous battlefields, and take a guided tour of the town’s castle, once the home of Mary, Queen of Scots.

Edinburgh and the Military Tattoo: On a full-day excursion to this World Heritage-listed city, take a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile as well as the Georgian New Town. Experience the Military Tattoo, a thrilling annual spectacle of military bands from around the world and traditional Highland dancing set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park: discovering this vast and wild landscape of lochs and Munros, or mountains over 3,000 feet. Set out on a scenic cruise on Loch Lomond and enjoy a lakeshore lunch in charming Luss. Admire the stunning views on a drive through Queen Elizabeth Forest Park.

St Andrews: Take a day trip to seaside St Andrews, a pilgrimage destination and Scotland’s oldest university town. Meander among the evocative ruins of the town’s castle and its 12th-century cathedral, once one of the most magnificent buildings in the country; and enjoy time to explore the town further.

Perth and Crieff: Visit the opulent Scone Palace, set on the site where Scottish kings were crowned. Then head to Glenturret Distillery, the oldest working distillery in Scotland, for a tour and a tasting single malt whisky.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Jeffrey Williams (July)–expert in British history. (Aug. 7)–ethnomusicologist. Katherine Forsyth

Celtic languages, literature, and art.

Edinburgh

St Andrews

Edinburgh

North Sea SCOTLAND

Stirling

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs

Perth

Crieff

Scotland’s Treasures

Featuring the Royal Military Tattoo*

12 days from $6,796

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

May 27–June 7, Aug. 26–Sept. 6, 2023 & May 27–June 7, July 27–Aug. 7,* Aug. 10–21,*

Aug. 31–Sept. 11, 2024

Experience the enduring appeal of Scotland on a journey from the sweeping Highlands to Edinburgh’s storied Royal Mile. Delve into history and architecture in the cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh. Hear the tales of the Highlands clans in Glencoe and Culloden, and visit important castles and battlefields. Soak up the mystique of the Isle of Skye, then make your way east to seaside St Andrews. Delve deeper into Scottish culture, getting a firsthand view of traditions such as falconry, whisky distilling, and sheepdog training.

Highlights Include

Glasgow: Discover Glasgow’s distinctive architectural style and visit the remarkable Kelvingrove Art Gallery. Enjoy a curator-led tour of Pollok House, home of the Maxwell clan, and see the Riverside Museum, designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid.

The Highlands: Take a scenic cruise on Loch Lomond and see historic Glencoe and Glenfinnan Monument. Follow the shores of fabled Loch Ness and explore the ruins of the 13th-century Urquhart Castle. Visit Culloden Moor, site of the last battle of the Jacobite Rising; discover prehistoric sites along the Pictish Trail; then witness a falconry demonstration on a tour of Dunrobin Castle and Gardens.

Isle of Skye: Set off on a full-day excursion to the Isle of Skye, known for its strong Gaelic influence. Enjoy a traditional pub lunch in Portree and explore the mystical Black Cuillin mountains.

Kincraig, Pitlochry, and St Andrews: Cross Scotland, gaining insight into local traditions. Watch a sheepdog demonstration in Kincraig; sample handcrafted single malt at a 150-year-old distillery in Pitlochry; and explore St Andrews, renowned for Scotland’s oldest university and as the birthplace of golf.

Edinburgh: Explore the “Old Town” on a castle visit and a walk along the Royal Mile to Holyrood House. Then tour the 18th-century Georgian “New Town.” Meet an ambassador from the Scotch Malt Whisky Society for a private whisky tasting.

Edinburgh Military Tattoo:* On select departures in July and August, attend an evening performance of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a spectacular annual pageant set in the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

Rab Houston (July/Aug. 31)–expert in modern Scottish history.

Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Urquhart Castle

Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage From Bergen to Glasgow

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

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $6,440*

May 27–June 3, 2023† & June 8–15, June 15–22,† 2024

Follow in the wake of ancient seafarers on a voyage from Norway’s spectacular coast to the far-flung archipelagos of Scotland. Experience the Norwegian fjords by train and cable car, encountering glaciers, traditional fishing villages, and breathtaking vistas. Then sail to the Shetland and Orkney Islands to explore prehistoric sites and the legacy of the Vikings, and observe vast colonies of breeding seabirds. Learn local legends on the mystical Isle of Skye, and end your journey in the Scottish Highlands.

Highlights Include

Norwegian Fjords and Glaciers: Embark on a thrilling—and spectacular—train journey aboard the Flåm Railway. From the fjordside village of Olden, encounter continental Europe’s largest ice cap by exploring the edge of a glacier or riding a cable car for a panoramic view of the ice.

Shetland Islands: At the crossroads where Scotland meets Scandinavia, discover the extraordinary settlement of Jarlshof, inhabited for 5,000 years; trace history and local culture on an in-depth tour of Lerwick; or go hiking on the Island of Mousa to encounter seabirds and marine life.

Orkney Islands: Visit the World Heritage-listed settlement of Skara Brae, and see the Neolithic Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar. In lively Kirkwall, venture into a Viking-built cathedral.

Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands: Visit Eilean Donan Castle and Armadale Castle; or discover the rugged Isle of Skye from the Trotternish Peninsula to Dunvegan Castle. From Fort William, take a scenic drive into the Scottish Highlands, tour Fort Augustus, and cruise fabled Loch Ness.

Add a one-night extension in Bergen and/or a two-night extension in Edinburgh. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

†The May 27, 2023 and June 15, 2024 departures run in the reverse and follow a slightly modified itinerary. Visit our website for details.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on the May 2023 departure include Miriam Davis, an expert in medieval history and archaeology. Visit our website for the additional expert.

Port of Call Ship Kyle of Lochalsh

Ring of Brodgar, Orkney Islands

Traditional boats along Sognefjord

Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea

From London to Glasgow Aboard the 184-guest Le Dumont-d’Urville

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

9 days from $6,460*

May 5–13, 2023 & May 21–29, 2024

Delve into a realm of legends and lore among the historic sites and breathtaking landscapes of the British Isles and Ireland. Walk atop the White Cliffs of Dover, and spot seabirds and rare plants on the Isles of Scilly. Experience the charming port of Kinsale and effervescent Cork; then get acquainted with timeless Welsh culture in North Wales. Tour the intriguing sites of Belfast or the natural wonders of North Ireland’s coast, and cap off the voyage in the magical Scottish Hebrides.

Highlights Include

Dover: Admire the iconic White Cliffs of Dover from above on a cliff-top walk or explore Dover Castle, which played an important role in the rescue of soldiers from Dunkirk during World War II.

Isles of Scilly and Wight: Venture to Queen Victoria’s summer residence on the Isle of Wight, and spot seabirds on a wildlife cruise in the Isles of Scilly.

Ireland: Soak up the lively spirit of Cork, visiting its fortress or its historic old town.

Wales: Experience North Wales, where old traditions linger and Welsh remains the mother tongue. Tour the 13th-century Caernarfon Castle, or meander through a stunning collection of rare plants from around the world at Bodnant Garden.

Northern Ireland: Sail to Belfast to explore the Titanic Belfast Museum; or travel along Northern Ireland’s coast to the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, Giant’s Causeway, and Dunluce Castle.

Scotland’s Hebrides: On tiny Iona, tour the early Christian monastery and its Celtic crosses. See the

vividly painted houses of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, and delve into the intriguing history of the Clan MacLean at Duart Castle.

Add a two-night extension in the Scottish Highlands.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on the 2023 departure are Miriam Davis, an expert in early British history, and Hugh Neighbour, a former diplomat with expertise in history, culture, and current affairs.

Caernarfon Castle, Wales

Tobermory, Scotland

Rock of Cashel

13 days from $6,892

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

July 13–25, Aug. 13–25, Sept. 7–19, Sept. 28–Oct. 10, 2023 & May 12–24, June 16–28, July 7–19, Aug. 11–23, Sept. 8–20, 2024

From the lively streets of Dublin to the windswept Aran Islands, Ireland is a land where prehistoric and medieval monuments seem to appear around every corner and age-old traditions mingle with a vibrant contemporary culture. Immerse yourself in the magic of the Emerald Isle, exploring the interplay of past and present in the captivating cities of Dublin, Killarney, and Kilkenny. Experience ethereal landscapes rich in legend as you explore Connemara, Inishmore, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Ring of Kerry; and venture into castles and abbeys that tell the dramatic tales of Ireland’s history.

Highlights Include

Dublin: During a day in Dublin, take a guided tour of St. Patrick’s Cathedral and visit the library at Trinity College to view the medieval illuminated manuscript known as the Book of Kells. Later, visit the interactive EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum.

Aran Islands and Galway: Enjoy a personal perspective on the Aran Islands, exploring local life in traditional Ireland on a tour of Inishmore with an islander. In the artistic hub of Galway, sit down to dinner accompanied by spirited Irish music.

Natural Wonders: Explore the enchanting boglands and mountains of Connemara and visit its stunning Kylemore Abbey. View the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, and visit a prehistoric dolmen on your way through the Burren’s craggy lunar landscape. Then spend a day discovering the spectacular Ring of Kerry, including a stop at the Kerry Bog Village, where thatched homes and traditional farming equipment show everyday life in 19th-century Ireland.

Killarney: Explore the vibrant town and Ross Castle by traditional jaunting car, and watch traditional weavers and

Galway

potters at work on a tour of fascinating Muckross House. Witness a sheepdog demonstration and enjoy a dinner in a family-run guesthouse.

Blarney, Cashel, and Kilkenny: Visit well-known castles and historic sites such as Blarney and the Rock of Cashel, once home to the High Kings of Munster. In medieval Kilkenny, explore the 12th-century castle on a walking tour and enjoy time at leisure to discover the town. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Miriam Davis (July 13)–expert in history and archaeology. Christopher Griffin (Aug. 13)–expert in Irish literature. Cassandra Potts Hannahs (Sept. 28)–historian with expertise in Great Britain.

Galway

Ocean

Clonmacnoise

Dublin

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Waterways of Holland and Belgium

From Amsterdam to Antwerp

Aboard the 160-guest Amadeus Queen, Star, or Riva

Featuring a special Vermeer exhibition at the Rijksmuseum

9 days from $3,690

Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement

Special air rates available

Apr. 6–14, Apr. 13–21,* Apr. 28–May 6,* 2023 & Apr. 6–14, Apr. 10–18, Apr. 13–21,* Apr. 17–25,* 2024

Our popular cruise from Holland to Belgium showcases magnificent art and architecture, spellbinding gardens, and enchanting medieval villages. Cruise along delightful canals and rivers from Amsterdam to Antwerp, observing windmills, fields of spring flowers, and local traditions while you enjoy a choice of included excursions.

Highlights Include

Amsterdam: Take a private cruise along Amsterdam’s historic canals, lined with 16th- and 17th-century gabled row houses, which have been designated a World Heritage site. Stroll through the worldrenowned Keukenhof Gardens, where more than seven million tulips, daffodils, and other spring flowers are expected to be in bloom. Our 2023 departures will visit the Rijksmuesum for the special exhibition Johannes Vermeer

Kampen: Rich in history, Kampen is known for its former prominence as a Hanseatic town. Enjoy a walking tour to see its towering Gothic church and other historic stone buildings. The Hague, Delft, or Gouda: Choose from three compelling excursions. In The Hague, see sites associated with the seat of Dutch government during a city tour, then visit the Mauritshuis museum to view paintings by Vermeer and other Dutch Masters. Or travel to the charming town of Delft to stroll through Market Square and visit the Royal Delft Porcelain Factory. Alternatively, stroll through Gouda’s Market Square; visit Sint Jan Church, the longest church of the Netherlands; and enjoy a cheese tasting.

Zeeland Coast: Come to understand the country’s continuous battle with the sea at the educational Delta Expo, then visit one of the storm surge barriers.

Bruges and Antwerp: The World Heritage site of Bruges features treasured 15th-century architecture, picturesque canals, and arched footbridges. Following a walking tour, choose from three excursions that focus on Flemish art, Belgian chocolate, or Belgian beer. Your cruise concludes in Antwerp with a walking tour of this medieval city. Port charges are an additional $395 per person. Space reserved for up to 94 Smithsonian Journeys guests, depending on departure. Visit our website for information on both ships.

*These departures will run in the reverse.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Henry Luttikhuizen (Apr. 6, 2023), Catherine Scallen (Apr. 13, 2023), and Paula Swart (Apr. 28)–art historians.

Bruges canal

Holland tulip field

A Stay in Holland

9 days from $4,990 Includes $250 Special savings / Special air rates available May 9–17, 2023

From your base in the picturesque city center of Hals’s native Haarlem, immerse yourself in the world of Dutch fine arts, beginning with a once-in-a-lifetime exhibition of Vermeer’s masterpieces at the Rijksmuseum. Explore the Hague, Delft, Rotterdam, and Gouda on full-day excursions; discover an enormous collection of Van Goghs; and enjoy presentations on art by your Smithsonian Journeys Expert. Highlights Include

Vermeer at the Rijksmuseum: Enjoy two opportunities to view the largest exhibition ever of the works of Johannes Vermeer, open only from February through June 2023. Savor his works on a guided tour, from lesser-known paintings to iconic pieces like The Milkmaid, on loan from museums around the world.

Haarlem: Settle into the rhythms of everyday life in Haarlem, a picturesque Dutch town of gabled houses, windmills, and timeless cobbled streets. Just 15 minutes by train from Amsterdam, Haarlem is an ideal base to discover the cultural hubs of the Netherlands.

The Hague and Delft: On a day trip, take a guided tour of the Mauritshuis, home to one of the largest collections of Dutch Golden Age art. Travel to Delft, hometown of Vermeer, to visit a special exhibition on the history and culture of the Netherlands during Vermeer’s lifetime.

Hoge Veluwe National Park: Traverse this sweeping landscape to the Kröller-Müller Museum, where a stunning array of European art includes pieces by Monet and Picasso as well as the second-largest collection of works by Van Gogh. Soak up the symbiosis of art and nature on a stroll or a bike ride through lovely sculpture gardens.

Gouda and Rotterdam: On a city tour, view the famous stained-glass windows of Sint Jan Church and enjoy a tasting and history lesson about Gouda’s namesake cheese. Continue to Rotterdam to encounter innovative architecture, and cap off your excursion with a harbor cruise.

Amsterdam: Take advantage of two free afternoons to explore Amsterdam as you wish, visiting museums dedicated to Rembrandt or Van Gogh, taking a canal cruise, or simply strolling its picturesque bridges and lanes, soaking up the charms of everyday life.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Haarlem windmill

Amsterdam Haarlem

The Hague Delft Gouda

Rotterdam

Hoge Veluwe National Park

Featuring the special exhibition Johannes Vermeer

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Paula Swart–art historian.

Vermeer’s The Milkmaid

Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea

From Stockholm to Copenhagen Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain or Le Dumont-d’Urville

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 or 9 days from $7,570*

Aug. 10–18, 2023 & July 18–25, 2024†

Discover the rich history and culture of the Baltic Sea region as you cruise to some of northern Europe’s most intriguing cities. Step into the past in the medieval old towns of Tallinn and Visby, and experience the innovative architecture and design of Helsinki. Trace 20th-century history in Gdansk, during an exclusive presentation by Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Lech Walesa. Explore the islands of Gotland and Bornholm, and soak up local culture in seaside Klaipeda, Lithuania.

Highlights Include

Helsinki: Discover Helsinki’s renowned architecture and innovative design aesthetic on a city tour that includes Temppeliaukio Church, and meander through Market Square at leisure. Or take the ferry to Suomenlinna Island for a tour of its World Heritage-listed fortress.

Tallinn: Revel in the medieval charms of Tallinn’s World Heritage-listed Old Town. Visit Toompea Castle and the only intact Gothic-style Town Hall in northern Europe. Or delve into Estonia’s 20th-century history at Maarjamäe Palace, where an interactive exhibit traces the hardships of the Communist era.

Riga, Latvia:† Cruise Riga Canal through the heart of this World Heritage site and take a walking tour of the Old Town, including Dome Cathedral. Or take an overview city tour and linger at the cathedral to hear a recital on its 6,700-pipe organ.

Visby: On the Swedish island of Gotland, venture to Visby, a fortified center of the medieval Hanseatic League. Retrace the history of Vikings and merchants at the excellent Gotland Museum and take a walking tour of the picturesque walled old city.

Klaipeda, Lithuania: Stroll among half-timbered houses in seaside Klaipeda and listen to traditional Lithuanian songs. Alternatively, venture to the World Heritage-

listed Curonian Spit to explore a fishing village and the legendary Hill of Witches, or travel into the countryside to a family-owned bee farm.

Gdansk, Poland: Meet Polish statesman Lech Walesa to learn firsthand about the Solidarity movement that changed the course of history in eastern Europe. Add a one-night extension in Stockholm.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on the 2023 departure are journalist and author Robin Wright and Glenn Kranking, a historian with expertise in Scandinavian studies.

Gdansk, Poland

Tallinn, Estonia

Cruising the Norwegian Fjords

From Bergen to Oslo Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $6,835* July 20–27, 2024

Sail into the heart of the Norwegian fjords, discovering extraordinary landscapes of sheer cliffs, snowcapped peaks, jewel-toned lakes, and picturesque villages. See natural wonders from the Jostedal ice cap to precipitous Pulpit Rock, and venture to historic sites from Viking settlements to centuries-old ironworks. Opt for active excursions by electric bike or Nordic walking, and explore local music, art, and cuisine.

Highlights Include

Alesund: Admire Art Nouveau architecture on a city tour, encounter the marine life of the region on an excursion to the Atlantic Ocean Park, or explore this stunning city of islands by electric bike.

Norwegian Fjords and Glaciers: Venture deep into the fjord lands to the spectacular Geirangerfjord, and set out to explore a dramatic landscape of snowcapped mountains, verdant valleys, and glittering lakes. Then encounter continental Europe’s largest ice cap, exploring the edge of a glacier or riding a cable car for a panoramic view of the ice. Stavanger and Lysefjord: Explore Norway’s history at the important Viking site of Ullandhaug and the oil town of Stavanger, hear a recital at the 13th-century Utstein Monastery, or discover Stavanger the Norwegian way—on a guided Nordic walking excursion. Then sail the magnificent Lysefjord along iconic Pulpit Rock, rising nearly 2,000 feet above the water.

Arendal: Explore the fascinating Naes Ironworks Museum to see equipment that dates back to the 1600s and learn about the evolution of iron and steel production. Then visit picturesque Tvedestrand and enjoy free time to meander among the wooden houses of this “international book town.” Or opt to hike along the coast in beautiful Raet National Park.

Gothenburg, Sweden: During a day in Sweden, discover lively Gothenburg on a panoramic tour, and visit either the world-renowned Museum of Fine Art—one of the best in Northern Europe—or the Volvo Museum, where every model since 1927 is on display.

Add a one-night extension in Bergen.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on the number of staterooms available at the time of printing. See our website for current pricing and details on the ship and deck plan. Book early for higher savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are archaeologist and geologist Peter Bobrowsky and Terje Leiren, a professor emeritus of Scandinavian studies and history.

A PONANT ship navigates Nordfjord

Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice

Round-trip from Reykjavík Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $7,680* Aug. 13–20, 2023 & June 15–22, 2024†

Encounter the geological extremes of Iceland, where glaciers and still-warm lava fields coexist, and emerald mountains give way to bursting geysers and waterfalls. On a voyage that includes some of Iceland’s most remote corners—including the Arctic island of Grimsey—discover spectacular landscapes imbued with mythology, encounter sea birds and whales, and learn about the resilient people who have made their life in these rugged lands.

Highlights Include

Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Arrive at the iconic cone-shaped peak of Kirkjufell and explore this mystical peninsula, from black-pebble beaches to charming villages set amid stunning lava landscapes. Grimsey: Spend an afternoon in the Arctic on Grimsey Island, a birdwatcher’s paradise that straddles the Arctic Circle. Enjoy the often-mild weather to watch for auks, puffins, and more.

Lake Myvatn: Spend a day near cerulean Lake Myvatn, where volcanic activity—both past and current—is seen in the steaming geothermal field of Namaskard, the unique pseudo-craters Skútustaðir, and the surreal lava formations of Dimmuborgir. Another highlight is legendary Godafoss, “Waterfall of the Gods.”

Westfjords: Experience the beauty of this rugged region of mountains and fjords as you explore fishing villages and the town of Isafjördur. Learn about the area’s rich maritime history and fishing traditions at the Heritage Museum and explore the turf-roofed fishing shacks of Osvör Maritime Museum. Or visit the abandoned whaling village of Hesteyri, set on the edge of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve.

Southern Islands: At Heimaey Island, witness one of Iceland’s largest puffin colonies; see Mount Eldfell, with its still-warm lava fields; and view Surtsey, the youngest island in the world. Or observe belugas in a private sanctuary and learn about efforts to protect puffins.

Golden Circle and Reykjavík: Encounter some of Iceland’s most iconic sites: Thingvellir, home of shifting tectonic plates and the world’s first legislative body; the two-tiered waterfall of Gullfoss; and the geothermal landscape of Geysir. Then take in panoramic views of Reykjavík from the viewing deck of the Pearl.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

†The June 2024 itinerary will follow a modified itinerary, featuring the same stops but in a different order. Visit our website for details.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on the August 2023 departure are Katryn Wiese, a professor of geology and oceanography, and Elisabeth Ward, an expert in Scandinavian literature.

Myvatn Godafoss Grundarfjördur

Grímsey Island Heimaey

Godafoss

Puffins

Adventure in Iceland

11 days from $6,292

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

May 20–30, June 13–23, July 6–16, Aug. 3–13, Sept. 12–22, Oct. 10–20, 2023 & May 21–31, June 13–23, July 4–14, Aug. 1–11, Aug. 24–Sept. 3, Sept. 12–22, Oct. 15–25, 2024

Experience Earth’s incredible power and diversity, exploring fascinating geological phenomena as you make your way from the black-sand beaches of the south to the glacier-covered volcanoes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Along the way, admire five of the island’s most impressive waterfalls; watch for seabirds or whales; and enjoy free time to soak up the character and charm of cities and towns.

Highlights Include

Dramatic Waterfalls: Encounter Iceland’s iconic waterfalls, each one breathtaking in its own way. See twotiered Gullfoss, and admire Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss along the southern coast. Witness the thundering cascades of Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls, and behold of Godafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods.”

Lake Myvatn: Venture to the bubbling, steaming, lavacrusted landscapes of Lake Myvatn, discovering massive explosion craters, craggy lava sculptures, popping mud pools, and more. Venture into dramatic canyons in Vatnajoküll National Park and, from Husavik, go whale-watching or take a bird-watching cruise to Puffin Island (depending on the season).

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Walk along the shell-sand beach at the abandoned fishing village of Budir, surrounded by a vast lava field. Explore the caves and bizarre basalt rock formations near Arnarstapi, site of thousands of nesting cliff birds. Then stroll the black-pebble beach of Djupalonssandur.

Southern Iceland: At Thingvellir National Park, witness the spot where the world’s oldest Parliament met and walk the rift valley between the North American and European tectonic plates. Watch geysers erupt at Geysir and walk the black-sand beach at Reynisfjara to caves

lined with basalt columns. Stop in lovely Vik, and visit the interactive Lava Centre for a close encounter with Iceland’s geological forces. Enjoy time at leisure to explore Reykjavík, or take an optional tour to the Blue Lagoon. The Northern Lights: Iceland is an ideal place to view the aurora borealis. You’ll have the best chance of experiencing this celestial phenomenon on the September or October departures.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Peter Bobrowsky (May 20/Aug. 3), Katryn Wiese (July 6), Jim Reynolds (Sept. 2023), and Pat Dickerson (Oct. 10)–geologists. Steven Williams (June 2023)–physicist, geologist, and former Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum staff.

Seljalandsfoss

Borgarbyggo

Reykjavik

Akureyri ICELAND

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Lake Myvatn Godafoss

Selfoss

Thingvellir Nat’l Park Gullfoss Vik

Skogafoss

Pu n Island

Siglufjordur

The Americas

The Smithsonian is known worldwide for excellence in all that they do. This trip was no exception. I will choose them for my next natural history adventure.

– Dan H., Bryce, Zion, and the Grand Canyon

Alaska’s Glaciers and the Inside Passage

A Cruise from Vancouver to Juneau

Aboard the 300-guest Star Breeze

8 days from $4,995 July 13–20, 2023

Join us for an adventure of a lifetime as you experience the magnificent natural wonders and mosaic of cultural traditions of Alaska during our popular small-ship cruise featuring southeast Alaska and the Inside Passage.

Highlights Include

Dramatic Landscapes: Experience the natural wonders of the fabled Inside Passage—one of the most scenic waterways in the world— cruising amidst countless islands, lush forests, secluded bays and coves, sandy beaches, and lofty waterfalls cascading from mountain cliffs inaccessible to larger ships. Explore coastlines near Vancouver to tiny Elfin Cove in the north. Venture through narrow straits and into the heart of Tracy Arm and Endicott Arm, where sheer cliffs rise thousands of feet. Listen to the thunder of large ice calving into the water at South Sawyer Glacier and Dawes Glacier and see their iconic icebergs up close on naturalist-led expeditions.

Wildlife: As nature unfolds before you, take delight in watching hundreds of harbor seals basking on icebergs, a pod of whales feeding off the ship’s bow, and Steller sea lions and sea otters in the water. Look to the sky to see bald eagles soaring overhead, plus myriad other birdlife, including guillemots and Arctic terns. You may even spot brown bears hunting for fish on nearby banks.

Cultural Experiences: In Ketchikan, visit a recreated Native Alaskan village with totem poles and clan houses at Potlatch Totem Park. Sitka is laden with the art and history of its Tlingit culture and 19th-century Russian fur-trading era. Converse with Tlingit artisans in Sitka National Historical Park, where trails are lined with intricately carved totem poles, and watch a master carver during an exclusive demonstration. Marvel at priceless Russian Orthodox icons in the onion-domed St. Michael’s Cathedral. And get up close to eagles, hawks, and falcons at the Alaska Raptor Center.

Port charges are an additional $290 per person. Space reserved for up to 100 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about the Star Breeze on our website.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Carola Sterns–field geologist and geophysicist. Nadia Kizenko–historian.

Alaska’s Natural Wonders

11 days from $7,897

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

May 30–June 9, July 4–14, Aug. 4–14, Aug. 29–Sept. 8, 2023 & June 4–14, July 9–19, Aug. 6–16, Aug. 25–Sept. 4, 2024

Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Alaska on a journey that combines three of the state’s pristine national parks. Travel deep into Denali National Park and Preserve with local naturalists, discovering the flora and fauna of its wild tundra. Fly by prop plane over jaw-dropping peaks and glaciers to the heart of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Then venture up close to tidewater glaciers and rugged coasts on a wildlife cruise in Kenai Fjords. Encounter a wealth of wildlife, from grizzly bears and moose to Dall sheep and whales; meet puppies in training for the Iditarod race; and in Anchorage, get acquainted with the vibrant Native cultures of Alaska.

Highlights Include

Denali National Park: Travel from Talkeetna to Denali aboard a glass-domed railcar, admiring the spectacular scenery. Then travel deep into the park with an expert ranger, stopping for an easy hike across the alpine tundra and encountering forests, snow-capped mountains, and a wide array of wildlife.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park: Fly by prop plane from Chitina to historic Kennicott, taking in incredible aerial views of the mountains and glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Settle deep within this rugged wilderness, and don crampons for a half-day hike out to icefields. Tour the National Historic Landmark of Kennicott, once a bustling copper mine.

Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park: Set out on thrilling day cruise of Kenai Fjords National Park, getting up close views of glaciers and pristine fjords, and spotting plenty of wildlife such as whales, harbor seals, bears, mountain goats, and moose, as well as puffins and other birds.

Anchorage: Delve into the Alaskan experience on a city tour and during visits to the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum and its Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center, and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

John Grabowska (May)–natural history filmmaker. Jim Reynolds (July 4)–expert in natural and Earth sciences. Pat Dickerson (Aug. 4) and Allen Glazner (Aug. 29)–geologists.

Seward

Anchorage Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Knik Valley

Denali National Park

A LASKA

Gulf of Alaska

Kenai Fjords National Park

Chitina Talkeetna

Denali mountain

Grizzly bear

A Voyage Along the Great Lakes

From Toronto to Milwaukee Aboard the 184-guest Le Dumont-d’Urville or Le Champlain

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $6,980*

Aug. 28–Sept. 4, Oct. 9–16, 2023 & Aug. 28–Sept. 4, Oct. 11–18, 2024

Straddling the shores of the United States and Canada, the Great Lakes are a freshwater treasure trove of wild islands, unusual geology, and legendary waterfalls. Cruise four of the five Great Lakes, discovering a wealth of natural wonders and historic sites and getting to know an intriguing cultural heritage.

Highlights Include

Niagara Falls: Cross Lake Ontario and travel to the Welland Canal, known for its 1,377-foot lock, one of the world’s longest. Enjoy a scenic drive to legendary Niagara Falls, then take a thrilling boat right up to the spray of Horseshoe Falls, the largest of Niagara’s three falls.

Georgian Bay: Navigate the bays, islets, and inlets of “The Ten Thousand Islands” on a local cruise on Lake Huron’s Georgian Bay. Or venture into Killbear Provincial Park, a World Heritage Biosphere Reserve, and discover the beaches, lush forests, and unusual geology.

Manitoulin Island: On the world’s largest freshwater island, learn about the local First Nations traditions at the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation, take part in a cleansing ceremony, and witness a typical pow-wow. Alternatively, hike the Cup and Saucer Trail for sweeping views, or kayak on the Kagawong River and take in views of Bridal Veil Falls.

Sault Ste. Marie: See the spectacular falls at Tahquamenon Falls State Park and trace maritime history at the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum. Or experience the engineering marvel of the Soo Locks, explore an authentic freighter at the Valley Camp Museum Ship, and navigate the locks on a local cruise.

Mackinac Island: Tour this timeless island in a horsedrawn carriage, viewing the iconic Grand Hotel and visiting Fort Mackinac, a 19th-century army outpost; then cruise Lake Michigan to Milwaukee.

Add a one-night extension in Toronto.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on the August 2023 departure are geologist and geophysicist Carola Stearns and naturalist and educator David Catlin.

Niagara Falls

Symphony on the St. Lawrence: From Québec to the Canadian Maritimes

Featuring Boston Pops Conductor Keith Lockhart

From Toronto to Boston Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

15 days from $13,160*

Oct. 16–30, 2023

Follow the St. Lawrence River through Québec and continue along the Canadian Maritimes, experiencing world-class cities and islands illuminated by fall foliage.

Highlights Include

A Sailing Symphony: Enjoy a program of on-board musical performances—a rare opportunity to attend intimate concerts by celebrated Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart and six talented musicians.

Montréal and Québec City: Soak up the Old World ambiance in Montréal and Québec City. Set out on guided walking tours of the historic city centers and tailor your visits with a choice of excursions.

Whale-watching: Go whale-watching in the rich waters off Tadoussac, which are known to draw more than a dozen species, including humpbacks and blue whales.

Canadian Maritimes: Trace the history of Canada—and the tale of Anne of Green Gables—amid the landscapes of Prince Edward Island, and get acquainted with Frenchderived Acadian culture on remote Îles de la Madeleine.

Nova Scotia: Delve into the life and inventions of Alexander Graham Bell at his historic home in Baddeck; recall battles between the French and the British at the Fortress of Louisbourg; and spend a day in lovely Lunenburg, a World Heritage site.

Eastport, Maine: Explore the quaint shops and colorful galleries of historic Eastport. Visit the Tides Institute & Museum of Art and chat with an artist-in-residence, or

admire fall foliage on a scenic hike at Shackford Head State Park.

Add a one-night extension in Toronto.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are Conductor of the Boston Pops Keith Lockhart and Eric Roorda, a historian with expertise in maritime studies.

Baddeck Cap-auxMeules

Seascapes of the Canadian Maritimes

12 days from $6,597

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

June 11–22, July 23–Aug. 3, Aug. 27–Sept. 7, 2023 & June 9–20, July 28–Aug. 8, Sept. 4–15, 2024

Experience history and natural splendor in Canada’s maritime provinces on a journey to Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. Venture to the charming fishing village of Lunenburg and the iconic lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove. Trace Canada’s road from colonialism to independence at the Fortress of Louisbourg and the statehouses of Charlottetown, and learn about the early French Acadian settlers who deeply influenced local culture. Encounter incredible feats of nature from the wave-battered Hopewell Rocks to the stunning landscapes of Cape Breton Highlands National Park. As you travel between the islands and the mainland, get acquainted with contemporary life in the lobster capital of Shediac and the compelling cities of Halifax and Saint John.

Highlights Include

Nova Scotia and Cape Breton Island: Discover the historic sites of British Lunenburg and French Acadian Grand-Pré, and visit picturesque Mahone Bay and Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse. On Cape Breton Island, see the inventions of Alexander Graham Bell at his estate in Baddeck, and tour the living museum within the 18th-century French fortress in Louisbourg. Then set off on a magnificent drive along the river canyons and coastal cliffs of Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

New Brunswick: Cross the Bay of Fundy by ferry to visit historic Saint John and take a tour of the oldest city in North America. Make your way down the coast to St. Andrew’s-by-the-Sea and set out on a whalewatching cruise to search for some of the bay’s 12 cetacean species. Explore the unusual Hopewell Rocks, where the water level changes 45 feet with the tides, and then visit Shediac, a charming vacation town with Acadian roots.

Prince Edward Island: In Charlottetown, learn about Canada’s early political history and discover the musical traditions of the Acadian people. Travel to the island’s scenic North Shore to discover the red cliffs, white-sand beaches, gentle dunes, and green fields of Prince Edward Island National Park. Stop in at the Green Gables Heritage Place, where the author of Anne of Green Gables set her stories.

Culinary Traditions: Enjoy a lobster dinner aboard a working lobster boat as you learn about this vital regional industry, visit Canada’s longest running farmer’s market, and savor a lunch of specialty scallops in Digby.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

David Catlin (June 11)–naturalist and educator. Eric Roorda (July 23/Aug.)–historian with expertise in maritime studies.

Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse

The Northern Rockies

Featuring Glacier, Banff, and Jasper National Parks

11 days from $6,491

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

June 19–29, July 3–13, Aug. 23–Sept. 2, 2023 & June 15–25, July 10–20, Aug. 24–Sept. 3, 2024

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.

Highlights Include

Waterton Lakes National Park: Surround yourself with dramatic peaks on a drive through Waterton Lakes, and stop for lunch at the historic Prince of Wales Hotel.

Glacier National Park: Hike along St. Mary Lake before a lake cruise. Ride a historic “Red Jammer” up the Goingto-the-Sun Road and go for a hike in Whitefish, Montana.

Banff National Park: Hike along emerald Lake Louise and rise early to see the lake in the morning light. Then explore the southern reaches of the park: ride a gondola up 8,000-foot Sulphur Mountain and drive Tunnel Mountain Road to the Hoodoos and Bow Falls. At the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, take a painting lesson from a local artist.

Athabasca Glacier and Columbia Icefield: Take an “ice coach” tour of Athabasca Glacier and venture out onto the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, an observation deck with a transparent floor suspended nearly 1,000 feet above the valley.

Jasper National Park: Discover the fascinating geology of Maligne Canyon and cruise past Spirit Island. Soar into the peaks on the Jasper Skytram, and drive along the Columbia Icefields Parkway, watching for bears, moose, elk, and mountain goats.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

Martin Magne (all 2023 dates)–expert in the history, archaeology, and anthropology of Canada.

Treasures of Yosemite

7 days from $4,995

May 13–19, June 10–16, Sept. 2–8, Sept. 30–Oct. 6, 2023

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.

Highlights Include

Classic Sites: Walk amid the giant sequoias of Mariposa Grove, home to some 500 giant trees hundreds of feet tall. Then travel into the heart of Yosemite to witness the classic features of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Sentinel Peak. For many, Half Dome is the park’s signature landmark, with walls etched by vertical joints and the trails of past glaciers. Take off on the best hikes based on weather and trail conditions, which may include Bridalveil Fall and Lower Yosemite Fall.

John Muir and Ansel Adams: Learn about the legacies of the important naturalist and photographer and their roles in preserving California’s Sierra Nevada. Plus, hear about conservation efforts to protect the park’s majestic character and visit the Pioneer History Museum.

Yosemite’s High Country: Drive over Tioga Pass Road and take easy hikes with incredible views of the valley below or explore Hetch Hetchy Valley. Depending on weather, highlights could include Mono Lake, Tuolumne Meadows, Tenaya Lake, and Olmsted Point. Hike to Wapama Falls along a quiet trail leading to the 1,000-foot two-part cascade.

Historic Lodges: Stay at the National Historic Landmark Wawona Hotel and Yosemite Valley Lodge, both located within the park. Plus, enjoy a tour of the historic Ahwahnee hotel, followed by a festive farewell dinner in the dining room.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

Visit our website for the expert on this tour.

Banff National Park Yosemite National Park

Yellowstone in Winter

6 days from $5,295 Jan. 3–8, Jan. 24–29, Feb. 19–24, 2024

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.

Highlights Include

Mammoth Hot Springs: Stay in the historic Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, and take walks among Mammoth’s travertine terraces edged in snow and ice. Enjoy the opportunity to photograph this ethereal site without the daytime crowds.

Wildlife: Spend a day with naturalists in the wild expanse of the Lamar Valley, watching for bison, elk, pronghorns, and perhaps wolves; and learn about the effort to reintroduce wolves to the valley. Meet with wildlife photographers Dan and Cindy Hartman to hear their tales from many years of exploring Yellowstone and photographing its creatures.

Geysers, Waterfalls, Mud Pots, and Mineral Pools: Take in extraordinary views of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and the ice created by its waterfall. Watch Old Faithful erupt, spraying the landscape with frozen mist, and explore the surrounding wilderness by cross-country ski or snowshoe.

Montana’s Paradise Valley: Immerse yourself in the splendor of Montana’s Paradise Valley on a scenic drive along the Yellowstone River, and soak in the therapeutic waters of Chico Hot Springs.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

Visit our website for the expert on this tour.

Yellowstone and the Tetons

7 days from $5,595

Aug. 21–27, Sept. 3–9, Sept. 11–17, 2023

Discover the wonders of Yellowstone, America’s first national park, and nearby Grand Teton National Park as you enjoy leisurely walks or more strenuous hikes, learn about geology, and observe plentiful wildlife.

Highlights Include

Yellowstone National Park: Watch for bears, bison, bald eagles, coyotes, and elusive wolf packs in the wildliferich Hayden Valley and Lamar Valley, often called the “American Serengeti.” Learn about geology as you marvel at the awesome Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone; and walk around the geysers, hot pools, and mud pots at Norris Geyser Basin, Old Faithful, and Mammoth Hot Springs. You’ll also visit with renowned landscape and nature photographer Dan Hartman at his home studio.

Grand Teton National Park: Enjoy a calm-water float trip along the Snake River, offering spectacular vistas and wildlife viewing. Take a boat ride across jewel-like Jenny Lake and visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art. Plus, enjoy the lively town of Jackson during your two-night stay.

Lodgings: Spend two nights at a hotel located on the banks of the Yellowstone River in Gardiner; two nights at a lodge within Yellowstone National Park; and two nights at an upscale boutique property just a short walk from the heart of downtown Jackson.

Limited to 18 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

Visit our website for the expert on this tour.

Yellowstone and the Tetons for Families

7 days from $5,195 (adult) & $4,160 (child) June 26–July 2, July 16–22, July 30–Aug. 5, 2023

Yellowstone National Park

Coyote

More Yellowstone Trips

Bryce, Zion, and the Grand Canyon

11 days from $5,195

Apr. 19–29, May 10–20, Aug. 30–Sept. 9, Oct. 4–14, 2023 & Apr. 21–May 1, May 15–25, Sept. 4–14, Oct. 6–16, 2024

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.

Highlights Include

Sedona: Venture off road on a jeep excursion, traveling into the red-rock landscapes of Sedona. Take in panoramic views of rock towers and arches, and visit the Honanki Heritage Site, a 700-year-old Sinagua cliff dwelling.

Grand Canyon National Park: Spend a full day in this awe-inspiring park, learning about the canyon’s cultural and geological history on a guided hike/walk, and enjoying free time for hikes or walks on the South Rim.

Lake Powell and Upper Antelope Canyon: Explore the canyons of Lake Powell by motorized raft and walk between the sinuous, red walls of Upper Antelope Canyon.

Bryce Canyon National Park: Encounter thousands of red, orange, and pink dramatically sculpted stone spires. Learn about Bryce Canyon’s unusual geology at the visitor center, then visit scenic overlooks or hike into the canyon during a day at leisure in the park.

Zion National Park: Discover the diverse landscapes of this wondrous park, from river valleys to natural arches. Go on a guided hike among colorful sandstone cliffs, then enjoy ample free time to experience Zion as you wish.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Howard Topoff and Carol Simon (Apr. 19/Aug.)–biologists. Carola Sterns (May 10)–field geologist and geophysicist.

Pueblo Culture and History

Mesa Verde, Chaco Culture, Canyon de Chelly, and Pueblo of Acoma

8 days from $5,295

May 5–12, Oct. 8–15, Oct. 24–31, 2023

For over 2,000 years, the Ancestral Puebloan people occupied a vast region of the Colorado Plateau in the Southwest’s Four Corners area. Here, they built highly sophisticated communities on mesa tops, canyons, and cliffs, where they carried out ceremonies, agriculture, and trade. Learn about the traditions, legends, and archaeological finds of Mesa Verde National Park and Chaco Culture, both World Heritage sites, and other significant sites of the Southwest during this tour.

Highlights Include

Durango’s Center for Southwest Studies: View rare and historic artifacts from the center’s private collections.

Mesa Verde National Park: Some 600 cliff dwellings have been recorded at this ancient site, including the famous multi-story Cliff Palace with 150 rooms. Learn about this impressive ancestral site and visit several of the significant dwellings.

Chaco Culture National Historical Park: Witness this remarkable site, renowned for its monumental public buildings and distinctive architecture, especially the ancient urban ceremonial center.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument: Hike into this unique and jointly managed park. Then take a fullday, four-wheel-drive excursion to Fortress Rock and Antelope House with a Navajo guide who shares ancient and modern insights.

Pueblo of Acoma: Visit Sky City, built on top of a mesa and the oldest continually inhabited site in North America. Limited to 20 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Grand Canyon National Park

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Brian Vallo (May/Oct. 24)–member of the Pueblo of Acoma tribe and expert in Native American arts and culture.

Mesa Verde

Solar Eclipse 2024: A Journey from Austin to the Texas Hill Country

5 days from $4,995 Apr. 5–9, 2024

Head for the wildflower-filled meadows of Texas Hill Country in spring to experience wonders both celestial and earth-bound on a journey that features the total solar eclipse in April 2024. From your base in energetic Austin, set out to discover the hidden waterfalls, endangered birds, and serene native grasslands of the Hill Country. Then turn your eyes to the sky to interpret the constellations on a night visit to a state park, go stargazing with astronomers, and toast the eclipse at an idyllic vineyard that lies in the path of totality.

Highlights Include

Total Solar Eclipse: Witness the eclipse from the comfort of a Hill Country winery located in the path of totality. Take an exclusive tasting tour, enjoy panoramic views of Texas Hill Country, and then enjoy a private watch party and lunch as the total eclipse darkens the sky. After the eclipse, each of the Smithsonian Journeys experts leading a group will come together for a panel discussion.

Austin: Set out on a sunset cruise, listening to live music as you sail past Austin’s skyline and beneath the iconic “bat bridge”—one of the world’s largest colonies of urban bats. Surround yourself with bluebonnets and other flora on a guided tour of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center and learn about efforts to conserve native species.

Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center: During an exclusive visit to this fascinating nature preserve, go on a guided walk through a canyon to find a lush hidden grotto, watch for migratory and resident species from a bird blind, and see a solar observatory at the award-winning Environmental Learning Center.

Texas Hill Country: Visit the inspiring Selah, Bamberger Ranch Preserve, where a major habitat restoration project

transformed barren ranch land into a haven of native flora and fauna. Then join naturalists to go birding, hiking, and fossil-finding on a guided visit to Pedernales Falls State Park.

Astronomy: Gaze at constellations, planets, and distant galaxies during a private star party with astronomers on the rooftop of University of Texas’s astronomy building or at the Reimer Observatory. Meet with a park interpreter on a nighttime visit to Pedernales Falls State Park to hear the legends associated with the stars.

Smithsonian Journeys guests will be divided into groups of no more than 40 travelers.

TEXAS

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Each expert will lead one group and all will be joining the eclipse day panel discussion. Richard Miller, Michelle Thaller, and Alex Young–astrophysicists. Steven Williams–expert in solar system science.

Solar Eclipse

Texas Longhorn

THE AMERICAS / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Cruising the Caribbean’s Windward Islands

Round-trip from St. Lucia Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

9 days from $5,010* Jan. 28–Feb. 5, 2024

From the lush rainforests of Dominica to the World Heritage-listed architecture of Barbados, discover history, culture, and natural wonders as we make our way across the eastern Caribbean. Sail by catamaran to remote islands in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and enjoy plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel or dive amid colorful reefs and rich marine life.

Highlights Include

Dominica: Experience the lush beauty of the Caribbean’s “Nature Island” on a hike to spectacular viewpoints; a boat ride through enchanting, tangled forests; or a tour and tasting at a family-owned chocolate factory.

Les Saintes: In this mostly uninhabited French archipelago, go island-hopping in a local boat, watching for wildlife and swimming and snorkeling. Or visit a historic French fortress with incredible island views.

Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines: On a jeep tour, explore the lively town of Port Elizabeth, enjoying views of Admiralty Bay from the 18thcentury Hamilton Fort; and visit the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary to hear about efforts to raise and release endangered hawksbill turtles. Or set off on a catamaran cruise around Bequia and its neighboring isles, and drop anchor off a tiny island to snorkel the reefs and swim.

Grenada: Dubbed the “Spice Island,” visit this hilly island of unspoiled beauty and the southernmost isle of the Lesser Antilles. Grenada is home to Grand Etang National Park, which you may choose to visit.

Mayreau and Tobago Cays Marine Park: During a day on tiny Mayreau, stroll along the beach, go swimming and snorkeling, and enjoy a beach barbecue. Then head for the turquoise lagoons of Tobago Cays Marine Park for excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.

World Heritage sites: Experience two very different World Heritage sites—the dramatic, jungle-clad peaks

of St. Lucia’s Pitons and the colonial architecture of Bridgetown in Barbados.

Add a two-night extension in St. Lucia.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise include Franklin Knight, a professor and lecturer with expertise in the Caribbean. Visit our website for the additional expert.

Port of Call Ship

Vieux Fort Bridgetown DOMINICA

Caribbean Sea Windward Islands Bequia Mayreau

GUADELOUPE Portsmouth Les Saintes

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Panama and Costa Rica by Sea

From Colón to Puntarenas

Aboard the 184-guest Dumont D’Urville

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $5,325*

Feb. 10–17, 2024

Discover the rare tropical ecosystems of Panama and Costa Rica on a voyage that features a full daylight transit of the Panama Canal. Venture to Panama’s pristine Caribbean islands, then cross the historic canal to the Pacific Coast. Gain insight from today’s scientists on an exclusive visit to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s Punta Culebra Nature Center. Visit Darién National Park, and cruise to Costa Rica to explore the tropical habitats of Quepos.

Highlights Include

San Blas Islands: Go snorkeling among coral reefs, walk whitesand beaches, and meet the indigenous Kuna people in this remote archipelago.

Panama Canal: Make a full daylight transit of the Panama Canal, one of the greatest wonders of engineering in history. Later in the tour you will have the opportunity to learn about the history, biodiversity, and operation of the Panama Canal at the Miraflores Visitor Center.

Darién National Park: Within this World Heritage-listed park, ride Zodiacs to a traditional village of the indigenous Emberà people, who have maintained their timeless lifestyle. Learn about their rich culture, from their excellent craftwork to their music and dance traditions.

Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute and Panama City: On a specially arranged tour of the Smithsonian’s Punta Culebra Nature Center guided by scientists, hear about the latest studies, observe marine species up close, and explore the unique flora and fauna of the tropical dry forest. Then take a guided tour of the Biomuseo, designed by architect Frank Gehry. The museum’s interactive biodiversity exhibitions were created by scientists from the Smithsonian Institution and the University of Panama. Enjoy lunch and a walking tour in the charming colonial center of Casco Antiguo.

Costa Rica: Dock in Quepos and choose from a guided nature walk in Manuel Antonio National Park, a wildlife cruise through the thick mangroves, or a rafting adventure on the Savegre River.

Add a three-night extension in Costa Rica.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise include Ralph Nurnberger, an expert in international relations. Visit our website for the additional expert.

Scarlet macaw

San Blas Islands

Legendary

Peru: Andean Culture and Inca Treasures

World of the Inca and Machu Picchu

11 days from $5,287

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

May 15–25, Sept. 20–30, Nov. 27–Dec. 7, 2023 & Mar. 4–14, May 13–23, Sept. 18–28, 2024

Amid the soaring flanks of the Peruvian Andes lie the treasures of a once-great empire and villages where age-old traditions endure. Explore the legacy of rich pre-Columbian cultures and the marvelous creations of the Inca as you travel from Cusco through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, visiting artisans and ancient ruins. Then head higher into the Andes, getting acquainted with everyday life in the altiplano. Cap off your journey on the shores of Lake Titicaca, where contemporary communities live on islands woven from reeds.

Highlights Include

Lima: Begin your odyssey with a tour of colonial Lima that includes the wonderful Museo Larco, where a renowned collection of pre-Inca ceramics is housed in an 18th-century manor.

Sacred Valley: Soak up Andean culture during two nights in the majestic Sacred Valley. Browse the colorful wares of the market in Pisac and visit the awe-inspiring Inca ruins at Ollantaytambo. Witness an indigenous ceremony, and watch the ancient techniques of traditional Andean weavers in the farming village of Chinchero.

Machu Picchu: Experience the beauty and mystery of the “Lost City of the Inca” during two visits with an expert guide. Gain insight into the engineering and significance of the ruins on an afternoon visit. Stay in casitas nestled in the cloud forest below the site and return to visit the citadel again in the morning light— before the crowds arrive.

Cusco: Visit the excellent Pre-Columbian Art Museum and admire the incredible stone masonry of the Inca on visits to the evocative ruins of Sacsayhuaman and Korikancha. Enjoy a traditional meal in the home of a local family and take advantage of free time to explore on your own.

Lake Titicaca: Travel through the rugged altiplano, stopping to visit remote villages and the Llama and Alpaca Research Center. Stay in a stunning property on an island in Lake Titicaca and explore artisan villages and the reed islands of the Uros people by boat. On nearby Lake Umayo, examine the Sillustani chullpas, mysterious pre-Inca burial towers set on the lake’s shores. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Dennis Ogburn (May 15) and Bill Sapp (Sept. 20)–archaeologists with special expertise in the Andes. Wayne Ranney (Nov.)–geologist.

Andean woman

(Amazon)

Amazon River Cruise

Featuring Lima and a Round-trip Cruise from Nauta Aboard

9 days from $5,495 Oct. 7–15, 2023 & Feb. 10–18, Mar. 2–10, 2024

Exploring the mysterious Amazon River Basin—one of Earth’s most exotic natural realms and our planet’s largest rainforest ecosystem—is an unforgettable and once-in-alifetime experience. Witness a spectacular variety of lush flora and extraordinary fauna during daily expeditions by excursion boat and on nature walks. As you discover this enthralling world of verdant tropical waterways and rainforests, learn about the relationship the local villagers have with their environment as well as the critical global issues of biodiversity and sustainability.

Highlights Include

Lima and Iquitos: Tour the historic center of Peru’s capital city, a World Heritage site, and vibrant Iquitos, an important rubber boom city in the 19th century.

River Exploration: In an authentic atmosphere of exploration, cruise past the confluence of the Río Ucayali and Río Marañón—the legendary inception of the Amazon River—where the primeval calls of birds and wildlife echo across the rainforest. Far removed from civilization, cross into the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve, the largest wetlands refuge in the world. Here, cruise along sinuous tributaries and serpentine blackwater rivers and see rare indigenous wildlife as well as the Victoria amazonica waterlilies, which can grow nine feet in diameter.

Tropical Wildlife: Gain close-up views of gray and pink Amazon River dolphins, red howler and squirrel monkeys, monk sakis, sloths, and other animals. Walk through forests where the number of butterfly species climbs into the thousands, and see colorful large-billed toucans, blue-and-gold and scarlet macaws, kites, hawks, jabiru storks, and the distinctive hoatzin.

River Villages: Visit villages along the shore, accompanied by your local guides. You’ll learn about the ribereño people who live here and their special relationship with the

Amazon, meet a local shaman who explains indigenous medicinal plants, and watch preparations of a traditional meal.

Zafiro: Launched in 2015, this deluxe small river ship is ideal for traveling on the Amazon with its modern comforts (including air-conditioned cabins), spacious public areas, and superb service. The delightful top deck features a lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows, which serves as a hub for lectures, while the outdoor bar is ideal for stargazing. Find more details on our website. Port charges are an additional $395 per person. Space reserved for 36 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

the 36-guest Zafiro

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Nina Zitani (Oct.)–naturalist with expertise in biodiversity and conservation.

Squirrel monkey

Zafiro

Galápagos Islands Cruise

A Voyage Aboard the 90-guest La Pinta

9 days from $7,995

Apr. 13–21, Oct. 12–20, 2023

The Galápagos Islands comprise a mysterious landscape of wonder, beauty, and the most unusual wildlife found anywhere on Earth. Wake up to new vistas each day—cruising to seven of the Galápagos Islands, including rarely visited western islands. You’ll learn about this fascinating World Heritage site, where Darwin developed his theory on evolution, from a highly qualified and diverse team of experts.

Highlights Include

Unique Wildlife: Watch the antics of blue-footed boobies and observe the beauty of Nazca boobies, flamingos, and frigate birds. Get up close to sea lions, seals, Sally Lightfoot crabs, iguanas, penguins, giant land tortoises, and other amazing wildlife in their native habitat. Learn about efforts to protect the rare giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Research Station.

Featured Islands: Enjoy a day in an area that is rarely visited—the Western Galápagos Islands. Cruise through the Bolivar Channel, offering stunning views of the volcanic peaks of Isabela and Fernandina Islands. Your time at seahorse-shaped Isabela features snorkeling along the cliffs and searching the northern shores for wildlife. Isabela is also known for its orca and dolphin populations as well as land iguanas and tortoises. Then continue to the moon-like landscapes of Fernandina, which showcases one of the densest concentrations of wildlife in the archipelago. You’ll also call at Floreana, one of the first islands to be settled by European whalers and buccaneers; the small Champion Islet, known for its sea horses, coral hawkfish, and other aquatic wonders; and Baltra Island.

Active Adventure: Throughout your voyage, discover the islands through nature walks, kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, or excursions by glass-bottom boat.

La Pinta: Cruise for six nights aboard our small, upscale expeditionstyle ship, featuring a fleet of Zodiacs, a glass-bottom boat, and everything you need to explore the islands. Our vessel is the ideal size—allowing ample exploration of the islands while offering an intimate experience. Find more details on our website.

Machu Picchu Extension: Add a seven-day extension to explore Lima and the charming city of Cusco, then ride the PeruRail Vistadome train to tour the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu. Space reserved for 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Jesus Rivas (Apr.)–naturalist with expertise in biodiversity and conservation. Brent Garry (Oct.)–geologist.

ALÁPAGOS I SLANDS

Santa Cruz

Seymour

Punta Vicente Punta Espinoza

Quito Guayaquil ECUADOR Floreana

Isabela

Fernandina Champion Islet

Puerto Ayora Cormorant Point Post Office Bay

Rabida Urbina Bay Tagus Cove Las Bachas

Galápagos sea lions

Galápagos tortoise

Machu Picchu and the Galápagos

16 days from $9,793

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Apr. 29–May 14, May 20–June 4, June 3–18, July 15–30, Aug. 26–Sept. 10, Sept. 23–Oct. 8, Oct. 21–Nov. 5, 2023 & Feb. 24–Mar. 10, May 4–19, May 18–June 2, June 1–16, July 13–28, Aug. 24–Sept. 8, Sept. 21–Oct. 6, 2024

Experience two of South America’s most celebrated destinations on a journey that combines the Inca treasures of Peru with the natural wonders of the Galápagos. Venture into the realm of the Inca, exploring a string of World Heritage sites, including historic Cusco, the sites of the Sacred Valley, and the “lost city” of Machu Picchu. Then spend three magical days in the Galápagos, discovering the unique endemic wildlife that Darwin once studied. Encounter giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and much more on nature walks, yacht cruises, and snorkeling excursions. Along the way, stay in a stunning hotel adjacent to Machu Picchu’s ruins and plant native trees from your lodge in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island.

Highlights Include

Cusco and the Sacred Valley: In the World Heritage site of Cusco, examine a fascinating collection of indigenous artifacts at the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, or MAP, housed in a historic mansion. Witness the cut-stone building style of the Inca on a visit the fortress of Sacsayhuaman. Gain insights into Inca history and Andean culture during excursions to Pisac, Chinchero, and Ollantaytambo.

Machu Picchu: Enjoy two guided visits to the “Lost City of the Inca,” exploring with a nimble small group; and stay overnight nearby to experience the spirit of Machu Picchu once the crowds are gone.

The Galápagos Islands: Stay in the lush highlands of Santa Cruz Island and immerse yourself in the incredible natural phenomena of the Galápagos. Explore lava tubes and local farms, plant endemic trees to help maintain the island’s natural balance, and set out by privately chartered yacht to explore neighboring islands, including North Seymour and Santa Fe.

Active Adventure: Experience the natural wonders of the Galápagos while swimming and snorkeling and during nature walks and yacht cruises.

Wildlife: Observe a wide range of endemic animals with naturalists, including giant Galápagos tortoises, sea lions, iguanas, colorful marine life, blue-footed and red-footed boobies, and frigate birds. Limited to 19 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Paul Goldstein (May 20/Aug. 26)–anthropologist with expertise in Andean South America. Katryn Wiese (June 3)–expert in geology and oceanography. Regina Harrison (July 15)–expert in the language and literature of South America. Anita Cook (Sept. 23)–archaeologist with expertise in the Inca Empire.

Machu Picchu

Blue-footed boobies

Chile Earth and Sky

A Stargazing Journey from Santiago to the Atacama Desert

13 days from $9,990

Oct. 5–17, 2023 & Jan. 3–15, Mar. 1–13, 2024

Delve into the world of astronomy beneath the clear skies of northern Chile, enjoying exclusive access and behindthe-scenes tours of major observatories on a journey that balances culture, food and wine, and stargazing under the dark skies of the new moon—from Santiago to the luxurious Explora Lodge in the Atacama Desert.

Highlights Include

World-class Observatories: Visit three cuttingedge observatories and learn about the innovative optical instruments that promise to revolutionize our understanding of the universe. Gaze through telescopes at El Pangue Observatory in Elqui Valley—the world’s first International Dark Skies Sanctuary. Then enjoy exclusive access to the Las Campanas Observatory and its five optical reflecting telescopes, and the Paranal Observatory—the largest optic-infrared observatory in the Southern Hemisphere.

Casablanca Valley and Santiago: Sample local wines during a premium tour and tasting at the Kingston Family Vineyard, known for producing award-winning red wines in a valley known for its whites. Enjoy the art museums, cafés, and restaurants of Santiago’s historic Lastarria neighborhood, and discover the city’s highlights such as the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, Parque Forestal, and the Plaza de Armas.

La Serena and Elqui Valley: Stay in the heart of La Serena, an appealing beach town that dates back to the 16th century. Venture into the picturesque Elqui Valley, visiting tiny villages tucked among vineyards and stopping at a distillery to taste Chilean pisco made from the valley’s grapes.

Atacama Desert: From your base at the beautiful Explora Lodge, spend two full days discovering the otherworldly wonders of the Atacama Desert. Witness the El Tatio geysers and fumaroles steam against a dramatic mountain landscape, observe flamingos on salt-encrusted lakes, visit sapphire lagoons set among simmering volcanoes, sip an unforgettable sundowner overlooking the Valle De Luna, and marvel at the celestial constellations under the new moon with the lodge’s private advanced optics telescope.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Pacific Ocean

San Pedro de Atacama

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Richard Miller (Oct.) and Trae Winter (Mar.)–astrophysicists.

Atacama Desert night sky

Patagonian Explorer

Argentina and Chile by Land and Sea

Featuring a Four-Night Cruise Aboard the 210-guest Ventus Australis or Stella Australis

16 days from $11,082 / Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Nov. 4–19, Dec. 2–17, 2023 & Jan. 7–22, Feb. 8–23, Mar. 11–26, 2024

Venture to the southernmost reaches of South America, exploring the spectacular landscapes of Patagonia. Board a comfortable expedition ship to encounter the glaciers and wild islands of the Chilean fjords on a four-night cruise. Then spend two days in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park, discovering gem-like lakes and stunning mountain vistas. Bookend your experience with visits to three wonderful cities: Buenos Aires, Santiago, and the World Heritage site of Valparaiso.

Highlights Include

Buenos Aires: Capture the essence of Argentina’s capital while spending time in captivating neighborhoods, visiting a renowned tango house, and taking a backstage tour of the Teatro Colón.

Cruising the Chilean Fjords: From Ushuaia, Argentina, cruise the Beagle Channel and Cape Horn National Park, as well as remote fjords and bays. Watch for sea lions, Antarctic fur seals, and Magellanic penguins; and go ashore to explore glaciers and forests.

Torres del Paine National Park: Spend two days immersed in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, renowned for its twisting mountain peaks, glaciers, turquoise lakes, and thunderous waterfalls. Explore the park on a variety of walks and hikes, and keep your eye out for some of the park’s 106 species of birds and 26 species of mammals.

Santiago: Take a city tour of this sophisticated Chilean capital. See an excellent collection of indigenous art and artifacts at the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art.

Valparaiso and Chile’s Wine Country: Enjoy a private tour and tasting at a renowned winery in Chile’s Casablanca wine country. Continue to the culture hub of Valparaiso and stroll the historic port, a World Heritage site.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Don Wilson (Jan.)–senior scientist and curator emeritus at Smithsonian’s Natural History Museum.

Paci c Ocean

(Air) Cape Horn

Santiago Buenos Aires

CHILE

Ocean

ARGENTINA

Iguazu Falls

Torres del Paine Punta Arenas Ushuaia

Torres del Paine National Park

Africa & the Middle East

The Egypt journey with Smithsonian fulfilled a twenty-year dream of traveling to Egypt. This tour captured the essence of the history of ancient Egypt and the arts that are still in existence today. – Joyce N., Ancient Egypt and the Nile

Ancient Egypt and the Nile

Featuring Abu Simbel

14 days from $6,297

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Apr. 1–14, Sept. 30–Oct. 13, Oct. 7–20, Oct. 14–27, Oct. 21–Nov. 3, Oct. 28–Nov. 10, Nov. 4–17, Nov. 18–Dec. 1, Nov. 25–Dec. 8, Dec. 2–15, 2023 & Jan. 6–19, Jan. 27–Feb. 9, Feb. 3–16, Feb. 10–23, Feb. 17–Mar. 1, Feb. 24–Mar. 8, Mar. 2–15, Mar. 9–22, Mar. 16–29, Mar. 23–Apr. 5, Apr. 6–19, 2024

From intricately carved temples to the legendary pyramids, the wonders of ancient Egypt have astonished visitors for millennia. Venture into a world of pharaohs and gods, discovering temples and tombs adorned with elaborate hieroglyphs and colossal statues that have stood the test of time. Unravel the mysteries of Egypt as you explore Cairo, Giza, and Abu Simbel and sail the mighty Nile from Aswan to Luxor.

Highlights Include

Cairo and Giza: See treasured artifacts from the tombs of the pharaohs at the Egyptian Museum and visit the famous mummies in their new home: the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. In Giza, encounter the Pyramids and the Sphinx, and see the intact Solar Boat of King Khufu excavated near the Great Pyramid. Explore Memphis, Egypt’s first capital; the step pyramid of Imhotep at Sakkara; and the lesser-known pyramids of Dahshur—precursors to those at Giza.

Aswan and Abu Simbel: At Abu Simbel, stand before the immense statues of Ramses II and his wife Nefertari, who guard temples housing incredibly well-preserved murals. Visit the Aswan High Dam, considered a marvel of engineering when completed in 1965; tour the temples of Philae; and see the Unfinished Obelisk in the Aswan Quarry. Sail in a traditional felucca past Elephantine Island and the botanical gardens on Kitchener’s Island.

Nile River Cruise: Take in timeless scenes along the banks of the Nile during a three-night cruise. Visit Kom Ombo, with its unusual double temple, and Edfu, the largest temple dedicated to Horus.

Luxor: In the Valley of the Kings, visit royal tombs, the stunning Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon. Venture to the village of Deir-el-Medina, home to the artisans who worked on the pharaohs’ tombs. See the influence of generations of pharaohs at the extraordinary temple complex at Karnak, and tour the lovely Luxor Temple and the Luxor Museum.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. See our website for information on a five-day extension to Jordan.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Rafael Chacón (Apr. 1) and Annie Shanley (Nov. 4)–art historians. Debora Heard (Oct. 21/Mar. 9)–anthropologist specializing in Nubian archaeology. Emily Teeter (Jan. 27) and Solange Ashby (Mar. 23)–Egyptologists. Ashley Arico (Feb. 24)–expert in ancient Egyptian art and archaeology.

Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza

Ramses II statues at Abu Simbel

CRUISE

Elephant calf with mother

African Safari: A Wildlife Adventure

South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Victoria Falls

14 days from $8,984 / Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees Apr. 2–15, June 4–17, July 2–15, July 24–Aug. 6, Aug. 16–29, Sept. 25–Oct. 8, Oct. 29–Nov. 11, 2023 & Mar. 31–Apr. 13, June 2–15, June 30–July 13, July 31–Aug. 13, Aug. 21–Sept. 3, Sept. 23–Oct. 6, Oct. 27–Nov. 9, 2024

Embark on thrilling wildlife drives in search of the “Big Five,” marvel at magnificent Victoria Falls, and trace the life of Nelson Mandela in Johannesburg on one of our “Top 10” tours. Observe elephants and hippos on the banks of Botswana’s Chobe River, and explore a private game reserve known for its black rhino conservation program in Zimbabwe. Then head to South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, an unspoiled wilderness that harbors one of Africa’s highest concentrations of wildlife. You’ll stay in stylish boutique hotels and stunning safari lodges, and learn from local experts about the history, ecology, and culture that define southern Africa.

Highlights Include

Victoria Falls: Spend three days on the Zimbabwe side of this World Heritage site, taking in views of the thundering falls from different perspectives. Set out on wildlife drives in Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve, on the lookout for hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and the elusive black rhino. Learn about the region’s history as you stroll the catwalks of Victoria Falls Bridge, and cap off your stay with a “sundowner” dinner cruise on the Zambezi River.

Botswana’s Chobe National Park: During your three-day stay, take early morning game drives and boat safaris that provide abundant opportunities to view wildlife, including the world’s largest elephant population (120,000), along with zebras, lions, giraffes, impalas, and some of the park’s 450 species of birds.

South Luangwa National Park: Enjoy two days of exceptional wildlife viewing on open-vehicle drives and bushwalks. This remote park boasts one of Africa’s highest concentrations of wildlife, from Cape buffalo and leopards to wild dogs and the endemic Crawshay’s zebra. Get acquainted with everyday life on a visit to the local community.

South Africa: Delve into South Africa’s turbulent 20th-century history during a special tour of Johannesburg’s Soweto district. See the home of revered peacemaker Desmond Tutu and visit Nelson Mandela’s home. At the Hector Pieterson Museum, learn about the pivotal Soweto youth uprising, and meet a local resident to hear stories of contemporary life in this township.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Grant Nel (Apr./June 4/Sept. 25)–naturalist with expertise in biodiversity and conservation. Mark Geraghty (July 2)–expert on African wildlife and history.

Lusaka

South Luangwa National Park ZAMBIA

Johannesburg

Livingstone/ Victoria Falls

AFRICA

Cheetah

Safari in Kenya and Tanzania

From the Serengeti to the Masai Mara

16 days from $10,996

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

July 6–21, Aug. 6–21, Aug. 27–Sept. 11, Oct. 19–Nov. 3, 2023 & July 2–17, Aug. 6–21, Aug. 27–Sept. 11, Oct. 24–Nov. 8, 2024

Go on safari in five national parks while staying in deluxe lodges and tented camps.

Highlights Include

The Serengeti and Masai Mara: Home to the annual wildebeest migration, these adjacent parks offer some of the best safari experiences in Africa. Spend four days on game drives with knowledgeable wildlife guides.

Amboseli: Meet a researcher at the Elephant Research Center to learn about these creatures, then observe their behavior on morning and afternoon wildlife drives. Visit a Maasai village to see everyday life up close.

Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro: See abundant birdlife, tree-climbing lions, and hippos during game drives in Lake Manyara National Park. Descend into Ngorongoro Crater to see all of Africa’s “Big Five” in one place.

Nairobi: Tour the Karen Blixen Museum, former home of the author of Out of Africa, and see the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe at the Giraffe Centre.

Extension to Mount Kenya: During an optional extension, visit the Mpala Research Centre, where Smithsonian fellows and research staff lead scientific studies, and visit the Jane Goodall Chimpanzee Sanctuary. Limited to 17 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Tiiu Lukk (July 6) and Grant Nel (Aug. 2023/Oct. 19)–naturalists. Don Wilson (Aug. 6)–senior scientist and curator emeritus at Smithsonian’s Natural History Museum.

Tanzania and Zanzibar

Featuring the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater

14 days from $8,997

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

July 16–29, Sept. 24–Oct. 7, 2023 & Feb. 18–Mar. 2, Mar. 17–30, July 14–27, Sept. 22–Oct. 5, 2024

Journey to the depths of Ngorongoro Crater and the vast plains of the Serengeti, then to exotic Zanzibar. Experience the thrill of seeing wildlife up close, learn about the “Cradle of Humanity,” and encounter varied cultures.

Highlights Include

Arusha National Park: With a backdrop of snowcapped Mt. Kilimanjaro, take a game drive in search of leopards, zebras, and giraffes.

Ngorongoro Crater: Descend to the floor of the crater, home to some 25,000 mammals. Plus, visit a local Maasai village to learn about their traditional lifestyle.

Olduvai Gorge: Stop at one of the world’s most important prehistoric sites where in 1959, anthropologist Mary Leakey discovered the 1.8 million-year-old skull of Australopithecus boisei

Serengeti National Park: Take exciting game drives through the Serengeti’s treeless plains teeming with Africa’s “Big Five” of lion, elephant, leopard, Cape buffalo, and rhino.

Zanzibar: Fly to tropical Zanzibar and explore its ancient capital. Tour a spice plantation to learn about Zanzibar’s centuries-old reputation as the “Spice Island.”

Safari Comfort: Stay in deluxe Serena safari lodges that put you where the largest concentration of wildlife flourishes. Limited to 18 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Kate Evans (July 16)–conservation biologist. Robyn Keene-Young (Sept. 24)–travel and nature writer on southern Africa.

Lion pride

On safari in Tanzania

Treasures of South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana

Featuring the Rovos Rail

16 days from $10,290

Includes $250 special savings / Special air rates available

July 30–Aug. 14*, Oct. 10–25, 2023 & Mar. 5–20, 2024

Discover the rich natural and cultural heritage of southern Africa as you explore three of the continent’s most fascinating countries: South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. Our extraordinary adventure features the cultural and political heritage of South Africa, a rail journey aboard the legendary Rovos Rail, safaris in three important parks, and a stay at dramatic Victoria Falls.

Highlights Include

South Africa: A comprehensive overview of Cape Town includes views from Table Mountain and Cape Point, a visit to Boulders Beach to see African penguins, and a tour of Robben Island prison where Nelson Mandela and other political dissidents made strides in attaining equal rights. In Soweto township, visit many of the sites associated with important leaders in the anti-apartheid movement.

Safari Adventures: Experience the thrill of close-up encounters with animals in the wild—lions, elephants, leopards, Cape buffalo, rhinos, zebras, giraffes, hippos, and more—during safaris at three important parks. Spot the “Big Five” on game drives during a three-night stay at South Africa’s Kapama Private Game Reserve. Stop at Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park to watch animals gather at The Hide’s water hole. Plus, see the renowned elephant herds at Botswana’s Chobe National Park.

Rovos Rail: Savor the romance of the “golden age” of train travel during a three-night rail journey from Pretoria to Victoria Falls. Ride in vintage carriages that have been restored to mint condition and take in sweeping

landscapes and wildlife from the observation car or lounge. Find more details on our website.

Victoria Falls: Feel the awesome power of Victoria Falls, a World Heritage site and one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World. These immense falls plunge into the basalt gorges below creating a mist that can be seen for 50 miles. Enjoy a two-night stay at the historic Victoria Falls Hotel.

Space reserved for 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. *The July 2023 departure will run in the reverse direction and follow a

Watching wildlife from the Rovos Rail

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Robert Schrire (Oct.)–South African political analyst.

Splendors of Morocco

From Imperial Cities to the Sahara

14 days from $6,679

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Apr. 11–24, Sept. 1–14, Sept. 22–Oct. 5, Oct. 8–21, Nov. 24–Dec. 7, 2023 & Feb. 2–15, Mar. 3–16, Mar. 31–Apr. 13, Apr. 14–27, Sept. 10–23, Sept. 29–Oct. 12, Oct. 13–26, Dec. 1–14, 2024 Morocco is a land of dramatic contrasts—desert dunes and snowcapped mountains, Roman ruins and sacred mosques, ancient adobe fortresses and spirited souks. Explore four imperial cities from Rabat to Marrakech, encountering incomparable Moroccan artistry in palaces and madrassas covered in intricate mosaics and stucco work. Step back in time in the enchanting alleyways of Fez’s medieval medina, where artisans ply their age-old crafts. Between your city stays, venture to red-rock gorges, fortified kasbahs, and oasis towns, and watch the sunset over the Saharan dunes.

Highlights Include

Imperial Capitals of Rabat, Meknes, and Fez: Explore Morocco’s ancient imperial capitals, each now a World Heritage site. Venture into the Kasbah of the Oudaias in Rabat and enjoy lunch in a family home. Visit the Bab el Mansour gateway and the imperial stables in Meknes, then admire mosaics at the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Spend two days in Fez, discovering artisans’ quarters and madrassas in the medina. Visit a 17th-century synagogue and the home of 12th-century Jewish scholar Maimonides in the old Jewish quarter.

High Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert: Travel through the cedar forests of the Atlas Mountains to the edge of the Sahara in a single day. Ride a camel to watch the sunset over the dunes and stay in a kasbah-style hotel. Witness everyday life in Berber villages and palm oases as you make your way along the “Route of a Thousand Kasbahs,” and explore dramatic Todra Gorge and the World Heritage–listed adobe village of Ait ben-Haddou.

Marrakech and Casablanca: Experience marvelous Marrakech and its architectural gems such as Koutoubia Mosque and El Bahia Palace. Stroll the lively square of Djemaa el-Fna, watching snake charmers, acrobats, and merchants vie for attention. Tour the Majorelle Garden and its excellent Berber Museum, and enjoy a free afternoon to explore. Conclude the trip in Casablanca with a tour featuring the magnificent Hassan II Mosque.

Cultural Experiences: Meet a family for dinner in their riad in Fez, and enjoy a discussion on Islam with an imam in Marrakech. Watch artisans craft pottery and attend a concert of enchanting gnaoua music. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Chloé Capel (Apr. 11)–archaeologist specializing in the medieval history of northern and western Africa. Alia Kate (Sept. 22/ Sept. 29)–expert in international relations. Wil Rollman (Nov.)–historian with expertise in northern African, Middle Eastern, and Islamic history.

Doorway in Fez

Sand dunes of the Sahara

Israel: Unique Perspectives on the Holy Land

11 days from $6,995 Oct. 10–20, Nov. 7–17, 2023 & Feb. 27–Mar. 8, Apr. 30–May 10, Sept. 3–13, Sept. 18–27, Nov. 12–22, 2024

Experience the Holy Land through the unique and varied viewpoints of the people who call it home. Inspired by Geraldine Brooks’ 2019 Smithsonian magazine article, “Two Tour Guides—One Israeli, One Palestinian—Offer a New Way to See the Holy Land,” this trip brings together the knowledge and perspectives of both Israeli and Palestinian guides as we make our way from Jerusalem to Haifa, the Galilee, and beyond. Hear from voices across the political and cultural spectrum, visiting a kibbutz and a West Bank settlement and meeting representatives of Arab and Jewish community centers and peace-building organizations. Go wine tasting, spend time with local families, float in the Dead Sea, and enjoy unparalleled access to local experts and thought leaders.

Highlights Include

Unique Perspectives: Retrace the recent history of the Holy Land with both an Israeli and a Palestinian guide, engaging in dynamic discussions and hearing sometimes divergent viewpoints on the events and conflicts that have made world headlines for decades.

Jerusalem: Stay in the heart of Jerusalem and experience the fascinating cultural blend of the Old City, examine the Dead Sea Scrolls at the Israel Museum, and spend time in the poignant Holocaust remembrance halls of Yad Vashem. Family Visits: Try your hand at making challah during a joyous Shabbat dinner in the home of a Jewish family, and enjoy a festive evening of food and traditional music at the home of a Palestinian family. In the Golan Heights, sit down to lunch with a Druze family and learn about their traditions and beliefs.

Sacred Monuments: Meet with a rabbi, a pastor, and an imam, and experience some of the most sacred sites of Islam, Judaism, and Christianity, including the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. In Haifa, learn about the Bahai faith at its World Heritage-listed center.

Archaeological Sites: Explore evocative archaeological sites that tell thousands of years of history, from King Herod’s fortress atop Masada to early churches and synagogues in the Galilee, to the once-thriving Roman port city of Caesarea.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem

Jaffa

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Aziz Abu Sarah (Feb.)–peace activist and journalist.

Cruising the Arabian Coast

From Dubai to Muscat Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $5,950*

Jan. 26–Feb. 2, 2024

Trace the northern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, discovering world-class cities and ancient cultures, desert islands and dramatic fjords, from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Doha and Muscat. Experience some of the most architecturally exciting cities in the world, and venture back in time in bustling souks.

Highlights Include

Architecture and Design: Delve into an enthralling concoction of futuristic design and Arabian tradition. Ascend Dubai’s iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and admire the craftsmanship of the Qasr al Watan in Abu Dhabi. In Doha, Qatar, visit museums and other buildings built by renowned architects.

Dubai: Meander through the aromatic spice souk and the glittering gold souk, and visit the Dubai Museum, housed within a historic fort. Then explore Emirati culture at the Sheikh Mohammed Center of Cultural Understanding, and sit down to a Bedouin-style lunch.

Qatar: Visit the exquisite Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, designed by IM Pei, or take a city tour and sail a dhow off the coast. Then delve into the colorful bustle of Souk Waqif, learning about falconry and traditional handicrafts.

United Arab Emirates: In cosmopolitan Abu Dhabi, enjoy high tea at the presidential palace, trace the evolution of world art the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and stroll beneath archways and marble domes on an evening visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Later, visit the 16thcentury fort and museum of Fujairah, and see a mud-and-

stone mosque in the Al Bithna oasis.

Oman: From Khasab, Oman, sail a traditional dhow into the fjords of the Musandam Peninsula, and end your voyage in the enchanting capital of Muscat.

Add a one-night extension in Dubai or a two-night extension in Oman.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Visit our website for experts on this cruise.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat

Doha

Ancient Civilizations

by Sea: Israel, Egypt, Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey

From Aqaba to Malta Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

13 days from $9,440*

Apr. 2–14, 2024

Experience a vast sweep of history on a voyage from the Red Sea to Malta, encountering the palaces of the Bronze Age Minoans on Crete, the Pyramids of Giza, and the Greco-Roman city of Ephesus. Explore the holy sites of three world religions in Jerusalem’s Old City, and discover the legacy of the knights of the Crusades in Rhodes. Along the way, float in the Dead Sea, sail the Suez Canal, and enjoy a delectable culinary adventure in the charming villages of Cyprus.

Highlights Include

The Holy Land: Explore the ancient mountaintop fortress of Masada, then descend to the Dead Sea for lunch and a swim. Or discover the archaeological site of King Solomon’s copper mines and see the marine life of the Red Sea at an underwater aquarium. Spend a day discovering the sacred sites of Jerusalem’s Old City.

Giza, Egypt and the Suez Canal: Encounter the extraordinary Pyramids and the Sphinx on a guided visit. Gain insights into ancient Egypt during a talk by a renowned professor, then see King Tut’s treasures—and much more—at the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum.

Cyprus: On a culinary tour of western Cyprus, learn how halloumi is made and knead your own Cypriot sourdough. Taste wine made from the island’s varietal grapes, and savor a traditional mezze lunch. In Paphos, discover the underground Tombs of the Kings and the stunning mosaics of the House of Dionysos.

Rhodes and Ephesus: Explore the legacy of ancient Greeks, Romans, and the knights of the Crusades as you visit the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Masters. Travel to beautiful Lindos to visit its hilltop Acropolis and its temples. Then sail to the Turkish coast for a visit to the World Heritage site of Ephesus.

Crete: Venture to the storied Palace of Knossos, the political center of Minoan civilization and legendary home of King Minos and the Minotaur. Then browse an impressive collection of ancient Greek artifacts at the Archaeology Museum in Heraklion.

Add a three-night extension in Jordan or a one-night extension in Malta. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise include journalist Adam Tanner. Visit our website for the additional expert.

Rhodes, Greece

Egypt’s Pyramids

Dubai and Abu Dhabi

A Stay in the United Arab Emirates

10 days from $5,490

Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement / Special air rates available

Nov. 28–Dec. 7, 2023 & Jan. 16–25, 2024

On the shores of the Persian Gulf, the glittering cities of the United Arab Emirates have sprung up in just the past few decades, becoming world-class centers of culture and innovation where not long ago there were only Bedouin villages and sandy trading ports. Delve into the past, present, and future of this exciting country on a journey that takes to you to two of its emirates: Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Highlights Include

Old and New Dubai: Venture into enchanting souks where gold and spices have been traded for centuries, meander through the labyrinthine lanes of the historic center, and explore Emirati culture with local scholars at the Sheikh Mohammed Center of Cultural Understanding. Then trace the city’s evolution at the Dubai Frame and zoom up to the highest floors of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.

Arabian Desert: Discover the second largest desert in the world, setting out on a wildlife drive to spot indigenous flora and fauna such as the Arabian oryx.

Abu Dhabi: See exquisite examples of Arabian artistry at the Qasr al Watan presidential palace and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Drive along the seaside Corniche and see the skyscrapers of this innovative city, and visit the 18thcentury fort of Qasr al Hosn. Enjoy Emirati hospitality as you share a meal with a family in a private home.

Cutting-edge Museums: Experience some of the most exciting museums to open in recent years, known for their extraordinary architecture as well as their unparalleled exhibitions. Visit the soaring Dubai Frame, and take a guided tour of the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Overnight

Featured Site

Persian Gulf

Gulf of Oman

Dubai Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

Arabian Desert

Abu Dhabi

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Jodi Magness (Nov.)–archaeologist specializing in the Middle East.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi

Asia & the Pacific

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

– Nicky S., Eternal Japan

Cultural and Natural Treasures of Japan by Sea

From Maizuru to Hakodate Aboard the 264-guest Le Soléal A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT 8 days from $7,180* May 21–28, 2024

Sail the Sea of Japan along the coast of Honshu, discovering lesserknown towns and villages that harbor the hallmarks of Japan’s rich culture: from traditional arts and gardens to historic castles and shrines. Visit intimate art museums and stroll through world-renowned Japanese gardens. Venture into lush mountains to find revered shrines and timeless thatched villages. Participate in a gold leaf or a washi papermaking workshop, and witness fishing traditions on Sato Island. Spend a day in South Korea visiting the temples and markets of Busan and the World Heritage site of Gyeongju.

Highlights Include

Matsue and Yasugi: Admire a phenomenal collection of Japanese modern art, including many works by Yokoyama Taikan, at the Adachi Museum of Art, then visit the lovely Yushien Garden; explore Matsue Castle and learn about washi, the Japanese art of papermaking; or surround yourself with blossoms at the Tottori Hanakairo Flower Park before a visit to a castle where traditional sweets are sold.

South Korea: Spend a day in the dynamic port city of Busan, exploring the Busan Museum of Art, the lively fish market, historic temples, and more. Or travel to World Heritage-listed Gyeongju and see the glorious sites of the cradle of the eighth-century Silla Kingdom.

Kanazawa: Explore the Edo-period Higashi Chayagai geisha district, and choose to visit a gold leaf workshop or tour the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden and a samurai home. Alternatively, travel to the World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama to discover timeless thatched-roof villages and a unique way of life.

Sado Island: Encounter age-old fishing traditions and an interesting history on Sato Island, where political prisoners were once exiled. Visit the charming village of Shikunegi and the Ogi Folk Museum, or explore the beautiful coast and venture into a once-prolific gold mine.

Sakata and Yamagata: Admire lacquerware and ceramics at the stunning Homma Museum of Art, set in an Edo-period home, and see post-war images at the Ken Domon Museum of Photography. Visit the Sankyo Rice Storehouse, gaze at hundreds of ethereal jellyfish at the Kamo Aquarium, or explore the serene mountains of Yamagata and the shrines they shelter.

Add a four-night extension in Tokyo and Kyoto or a two-night extension in Hokkaido.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are John Freedman, an Asian studies expert, and Timon Screech, a Japanese art historian.

Tea ceremony

Gyeongju

Eternal Japan

13 days from $7,984

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Sept. 13–25, Sept. 18–30, Oct. 2–14, Oct. 25–Nov. 6, 2023 & Apr. 1–13, Apr. 20–May 2, May 15–27, Sept. 16–28, Oct. 7–19, Oct. 26–Nov 7, 2024

From the neon lights of Tokyo to the misty peak of Mt. Fuji, and from the winding lanes of Kanazawa to the shimmering temples of Kyoto, delve into the essence of Japan. Step into spectacular temples and stroll world-renowned gardens, explore the palaces of shoguns and thatched homes of remote farmers, and encounter artisans of gold leaf and ceramics. Along the way, meet local people, stay in a ryokan (traditional inn), and experience age-old traditions, including a tea ceremony and a sake tasting.

Highlights Include

Tokyo: Visit the Shinto Meiji Shrine; stroll the gardens of the Imperial Palace; and venture into Tokyo’s oldest temple, the Asakusa Kannon, or Senso-ji.

Mt. Fuji: Take in majestic views of Mt. Fuji, learn about local conservation efforts, and enjoy a relaxing cruise on nearby Ashi Lake.

Japanese Alps: Go off the beaten path in lovely Takayama, nestled among high mountain peaks. Spend a day exploring the World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, where farming families in thatched-roof villages maintain a unique lifestyle adapted to their remote setting.

Kanazawa: Tour the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden, visit a museum celebrating the art and craft of gold leaf technology; and meander through the Edo-period Higashi Chayagai tea house and geisha area.

Kyoto and Nara: Enjoy two days to explore Kyoto’s many temples, shrines, gardens, and well-preserved architecture. Highlights include visits to the gold-covered Kinkaku-ji temple and Nijo-jo Castle, the lavish seat of the shoguns. During a day trip to nearby Nara, Japan’s ancient capital, take a walking tour that features Todai-ji temple, the Kasuga Taisha shrine, Nara National Museum, and the treasures of the eighth-century Kofuku-ji temple.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Barry Till (Sept. 13) and Carol Morland (Oct. 2)–art historians with expertise in Asian art. Jonathan Hall (Oct. 25/May 15/Oct. 26)–expert in Japanese history, culture, film, and literature.

Ashi Lake and Mt. Fuji

Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto

Treasures of Southeast Asia

Featuring Bali, Singapore, Thailand, and Angkor Wat

16 days from $7,690

Includes $250 special savings / Special air rates & services available Oct. 17– Nov. 1, 2023

Take an exotic journey to East Asia that showcases a vast array of ancient histories, diverse cultures, and many World Heritage sites. Fly between four countries, enjoying unforgettable experiences such as listening to an Indonesian gamelan to exploring the ancient temples of Angkor Wat.

Highlights Include

Bali: Enjoy a variety of options to experience traditional Balinese life that include visiting a local school or learning about the traditional irrigation system used in rice fields. Travel inland to the artist community of Ubud and discover Balinese painting, listen to an Indonesian gamelan, and visit the colorful local market.

Singapore: Explore the fascinating medley of Chinese, Indian, and Malay culture, architecture, and cuisine in this historic city-state. An introductory tour takes you from the iconic Merlion Park to the city’s oldest Chinese temple. Discover the landmark Gardens by the Bay, featuring vertical “Supertree” gardens, the largest glass greenhouse in the world, and aerial walkways. You’ll also enjoy visits to the Malay enclave of Kampong Glam, bustling Chinatown, and Little India’s exotic flower and spice market.

Bangkok: During two full days of excursions, highlights include the Grand Palace with its Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the famous Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, and the World Heritage site of Ayutthaya—Thailand’s ancient capital. You’ll also enjoy a cruise along the Chao Phraya River, a tuk-tuk ride through the city, a sampling of Thai cuisine, and a captivating Thai dance performance.

Angkor Wat: Fly to Cambodia’s Siem Reap for a threenight stay to explore the Angkor Archaeological Park, a World Heritage site. Enjoy time for in-depth visits to

the enthralling temples of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and Thommanon, each site a unique and fascinating experience. Traditional performances and a visit with local artisans complement your stay.

Local Cuisine: Throughout your journey, indulge in the culinary specialties of each country you visit. Browse the spice-laden markets of Bali, learn the secrets of making Chinese dumplings in Singapore, savor an array of flavors and textures during a Thai feast, and learn to make noodles in a Cambodian family home. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Sandra Cate (Oct.)–anthropologist and folklorist with expertise in Southeast Asia.

Angkor Wat

Discovering Vietnam

15 days from $5,497

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees Oct. 19–Nov. 2, Nov. 27–Dec. 11, 2023 & Jan. 11–25, Feb. 17–Mar. 2, 2024

Travel the length of Vietnam, uncovering centuries of history and culture in Hanoi, Hue, and Hoi An; and witnessing everyday life in spectacular places from Ha Long Bay to the Mekong Delta.

Highlights Include

Hanoi and Ha Long Bay: On a guided tour, discover the ancient Temple of Literature and the One-Pillar Pagoda, as well as more recent sites such as the “Hanoi Hilton” prison. Cruise breathtaking Ha Long Bay, a World Heritage site known for its mystical karst cliffs and islands.

Da Nang and Hoi An: Delve into ancient Cham culture in Da Nang, and spend a full day exploring the medieval trading port of Hoi An.

Hue: Experience the grandeur of imperial Hué, cruising the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda and visiting the palatial tombs of the Nguyen emperors.

Mekong River: Spend two days on the Mekong, riding local boats along small tributaries to traditional villages and the floating market at Cai Rang.

Ho Chi Minh City: Visit Reunification Palace, kept as it was when Saigon fell in 1975, and tour the city’s renowned museums. Venture into the Cu Chi Tunnels, used by the Viet Cong during the war.

Cultural Experiences: Enjoy a private cooking lesson, visit a farming settlement, and sit down to lunch in the home of a local historian.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Dana Sachs (Jan.)–writer. Elvira Masson (Feb.)–professor of Asian history.

Exploring Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia

17 days from $8,495

May 17–June 2, Sept. 13–29, Oct. 4–20, 2023

Wedged between the Caspian and Black Seas, the less visited countries of Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan showcase a wealth of cultural and historical treasures. Discover these special gems on this unique journey. Highlights Include

Azerbaijan: Explore Baku, the burgeoning capital on the Caspian Sea with its ancient and modern architecture. Venture outside the city to discover the archaeological sites of Gobustan and the Atashgah Zoroastrian Fire Temple. Spend a night in Sheki, one of the country’s oldest cities, and enjoy a performance of traditional Azeri music.

Georgia: Cross into eastern Georgia’s Kakheti region, renowned for its vineyards and some of the country’s most impressive religious architecture. Discover Georgian cuisine during a traditional feast complemented by polyphonic singing. Stop at the Stalin Museum in Gori, the impressive 12th-century Vardzia cave complex, and the Phoka Nunnery. In Tbilisi, Georgia’s famed capital, explore the Old Town, see the National Museum’s archaeological collection, learn about modern politics, and enjoy a classical music concert.

Armenia: With input from Smithsonian’s Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, you’ll enjoy the best of Armenia. In the Lori region, stop in at the Nurik Center, an NGO supporting women through cultural tourism, and learn to make traditional Armenian dishes with a local family. Enjoy day trips to Geghard Monastery and Noravank. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Adam Tanner (May)–journalist. Bob Smolik (Sept.)–former diplomat with expertise in Central Asia. Veronica Kalas (Oct.)–art historian and field archaeologist.

Ha Long Bay

Khor Virap Monastery, Armenia

The Silk Road: A Journey to Central Asia

Featuring the Five “Stans” of Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan

17 days from $8,695

Apr. 12–28, Apr. 26–May 12, Sept. 13–29, Sept. 27–Oct. 13, Oct. 11–27, 2023 & Apr. 10–26, May 8–24, Sept. 11–27, Sept. 25–Oct. 11, Oct. 9–25, 2024

Central Asia is the exotic heart of the Silk Road—ancient caravan routes used for the silk and spice trade between East and West. Experience the past and present of five Central Asian countries as you explore legendary cities, visit religious sites and museums, attend cultural programs, and meet local experts.

Highlights Include

Turkmenistan: Beginning in Ashgabat, visit the National Museum of History and Ethnography, then tour the ancient site of nearby Nisa with an archaeologist.

Uzbekistan: Explore the legendary cities of Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand, and Tashkent, with their noble squares and breathtaking architecture. Highlights feature religious sites, including madrassas and important mosques such as the 20th-century Tillya Sheikh Mosque, home to the oldest Koran in the world, and Bibi Khanum Mosque, built by Tamerlane to be the largest mosque in the world. You’ll meet with the scientific advisor of the Ark Citadel, artists at a renowned ceramics studio, and other local experts. Tour one of the ancient world’s most advanced observatories, drive across the Red Sands Desert, and enjoy performances of traditional music and dance.

Tajikistan: Penjikent is an isolated city of 130,000 that was built in the fifth century and is most famous for its past as an important Sogdian trade center. Visit the site of an archaeological dig at Old Penjikent, where excavations began over 50 years ago. Tour the remains of Shakristan, two Zoroastrian temples, the citadel, and the Rudaki Museum of History and Regional Studies—named after the founder of Tajik and Persian poetry.

Kyrgyzstan: In the capital of Bishkek, tour the central square, the National History Museum, and the State

Museum of Fine Arts, and meet with a Kyrgyz resident who participated in the 2010 revolution. In a nearby village, enjoy lunch with a family in their home and watch a demonstration of Kyrgyz horse games. Later, delight in a Kyrgyz Manas folk performance.

Kazakhstan: Highlights in Almaty include the Zenkov Cathedral, the delightful Museum of Musical Instruments, and the State Central Museum. Outside the city, visit a traditional Kazakh falcon farm.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Laura Kennedy (Apr. 12), Richard Hoagland (Apr. 26), and Pamela Spratlen (Oct. 11)–former diplomats. Paula Swart (Sept. 13)–art historian. Adam Tanner (Sept. 27)–journalist.

Registan complex, Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Journey Through New Zealand

From Auckland to Queenstown

16 days from $8,374

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Oct. 19–Nov. 3, Nov. 9–24, 2023 & Feb. 22–Mar. 8, Mar. 28–Apr. 12, 2024

Encounter bubbling volcanic landscapes and glaciers, rainforests and magnificent fjords on an unforgettable adventure through New Zealand’s North and South Islands. Get to know the local culture, meeting sheep farmers and winemakers and experiencing the traditions of the indigenous Maori people. Explore exciting cities from Auckland to Christchurch and encounter spectacular feats of nature as you make your way from the geothermal landscapes of the North Island to Doubtful Sound.

Highlights Include

Auckland and Rotorua: Cruise Auckland’s glittering harbor and browse a stunning collection of Maori and Polynesian artifacts at the Auckland Museum. Then travel to Rotorua to get acquainted with Maori culture during a traditional hangi feast and performance at Te Puai. Experience glowworm caves and geothermal wonders, and visit a kiwi rescue center at Rainbow Springs Nature Park.

Napier and Wellington: In seaside Napier, take a guided tour of one of the world’s most authentic Art Deco city centers. Then visit the acclaimed Te Papa National Museum and the Parliament House in Wellington and enjoy a free afternoon to discover this enchanting city on your own.

Christchurch and Queenstown: On the South Island, explore the “Garden City” of Christchurch, known for its innovative rebuilding after the devastating earthquake of 2011.

Natural Treasures of the South Island: Experience one of the world’s great rail journeys, riding the TranzAlpine train through the Southern Alps to Arthur’s Pass. In Westland National Park, encounter the spectacular Franz

Josef Glacier, take a walk through the Glacial Valley, and see rare kiwis at a wildlife center. Then set out on a full-day excursion to World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park and take an exhilarating, three-hour catamaran cruise on Doubtful Sound.

Wineries and Rural Life: Stop for a wine tasting and lunch at a renowned winery in the North Island’s Hawke’s Bay wine region. Meet local farmers at their sheep farm near Wellington for a sheepdog demonstration and a barbecue. In the Central Otago wine region near Queensland, visit the award-winning Gibbston Valley Vineyard for a private tour and tasting. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown

Josef

Maori sculpture

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Peter Bobrowsky (Feb.)–archaeologist and geologist.

Splendors of Australia and New Zealand

22 days from $11,084 / Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Sept. 23–Oct. 14, Oct. 28–Nov. 18, 2023 & Jan. 13–Feb. 3, Feb. 12–Mar. 4, Mar. 11–Apr. 1, Apr. 8–29, 2024

Explore a host of wonders across Australia and New Zealand—from the Great Barrier Reef to Milford Sound. Snorkel the world’s largest reef system and soar through Queensland’s rainforest canopy in a gondola. Experience the sacred monolith of Uluru as well as stunning Aoraki Mount Cook in New Zealand’s Southern Alps—and gain insights into the ancient cultures of Australian Aboriginal people and the Maori. Cruise the extraordinary Milford Sound, and delve into the dynamic cities of Sydney, Churchill, and Auckland. Along the way, encounter rare endemic wildlife and visit renowned wineries.

Highlights Include

Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef: Ride the historic Kuranda Railway through spectacular landscapes, and soar through the canopy of Queensland’s World Heritage-listed rainforests on the world’s longest gondola cableway. Gain insights about the Great Barrier Reef from a marine biologist, and see the reef up close as you swim, snorkel, or view it from a glass-bottomed boat.

Uluru and the Australian Outback: Watch the sun set over the sacred site of Uluru (formerly known as Ayers Rock). Savor a traditional “bush” dinner around a campfire under the southern constellations, and learn about the Walpiri Aboriginal people during a Dreamtime tour.

Sydney: Spend two full days exploring fascinating Sydney. Tour the iconic Sydney Opera House; enjoy a luncheon cruise on Sydney Harbour; and see koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and more at Featherdale Wildlife Park.

New Zealand’s South Island: In the stunning Southern Alps, visit sites associated with Sir Edmund Hillary, the first to summit Mount Cook’s south face. Take an afternoon cruise to breathtaking Milford Sound, and savor local wines at a renowned winery near Queenstown. The North Island: In Rotorua, meet with members of the Maori community, and enjoy a traditional hangi dinner and a cultural performance. Witness geysers and other geothermal features, and venture into a glowworm cave. In Auckland, tour the War Memorial Museum, Auckland Harbour, and the America’s Cup Village. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

Visit our website for the expert on this tour.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

New Zealand’s South Island by Sea: A Voyage to the Fiordland

From Wellington to Dunedin Aboard the 184-guest Le Laperouse

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $6,120*

Feb. 15–22, 2024

New Zealand’s South Island is edged with spectacular coastlines, where mountains rise dramatically just beyond the shore; pristine fjords cut between towering cliffs; and whales, fur seals, and penguins are drawn by unspoiled marine habitats. Sail from Wellington to the World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park, stopping to discover captivating Christchurch and watch sperm whales in seaside Kaikoura. Then venture to the glacier-carved waterways of the Fiordland, exploring four glorious sounds: Dusky, Doubtful, Thomson, and the extraordinary Milford Sound.

Highlights Include

Kaikoura: Explore this attractive small town, poised on a narrow peninsula between dramatic mountains and the sea. Then set out on a wildlife cruise to observe the diverse creatures drawn here by nutrient-rich waters: sea lions, dolphins, and several species of whales—including sperm whales, which can be found off Kaikoura year-round.

Akaroa and Christchurch: Dock in lovely Akaroa and travel inland to Christchurch, New Zealand’s “Garden City.” Discover the creative ways that Christchurch has rebounded following the earthquake of 2011, from the Cardboard Cathedral to a thriving community arts scene. Ride the Christchurch gondola for an aerial city view or stroll through the Botanic Garden to see native flora.

Dusky and Doubtful Sounds: In remote Dusky Sound, encounter rich wildlife such as New Zealand fur seals and Fiordland crested penguins. Glide into the narrow Doubtful Sound—named by Captain James Cook, who was unsure it was navigable—and discover spectacular waterfalls.

Milford Sound: Experience the majesty of Milford Sound, taking in a cathedral of vertical cliffs and peaks that tower above the serene waters. Ride Zodiacs for a

closer view of wildlife and scenery along the shores.

Ulva Island: Take a guided walking tour on Ulva Island, a predator-free haven for bird and plant species that are rarely found on New Zealand’s main islands. Watch for the flightless Stewart Island weka and the South Island saddleback, and meander through an unspoiled podocarp forest. Add a four-night extension in New Zealand’s North Island. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are archaeologist and geologist Peter Bobrowsky and Geoff Cox, an expert in the natural sciences, the environment, and marine biology.

Milford Sound

Fiordland penguin

Antarctica: The White Continent

Aboard the 264-guest Le Boreal

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

12 days from $12,950*

Includes round-trip air between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia and one hotel night in Buenos Aires

Feb. 25–Mar. 7, 2024

Venture to a magnificent realm of ice and intriguing wildlife on an unforgettable 12-day voyage to Antarctica. During the lingering light of the austral summer, encounter fantastically shaped icebergs, dramatic rocky promontories, and immense glaciers that rise hundreds of feet above the sea. Take walks on volcanic islands alive with seals, seabirds, and penguins, and set out by Zodiac to discover firsthand how a diverse array of marine wildlife flourishes in this seemingly harsh environment.

Highlights Include

Tierra del Fuego and the Beagle Channel: From Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city, explore the enchanting landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park; then cruise the legendary Beagle Channel on the way to the open sea.

Exploring Antarctica: Cross the legendary Drake Passage en route to the outer shores and islands of the Antarctic Peninsula. Here, below the 60th parallel south, explore some of the world’s most stark and spectacular wilderness areas, where towering glaciers and lavasculpted mountains plunge to an ice-choked sea. Our route will be determined by weather and ice conditions, making every trip a unique encounter with this mystical and marvelous land.

Wildlife: Observe up close the antics of chinstrap and gentoo penguins as they fish, molt, and feed their young; and watch for breaching fin, humpback, and minke whales in icy bays. See crabeater and leopard seals lazing on the ice between meals and discover the unusual creatures of the polar seas.

Zodiac and Land Excursions: Embark on sturdy Zodiacs with expert naturalists for unforgettable excursions to islands, among ice floes and icebergs, and, conditions permitting, to the continent itself. During shore excursions,

walk among wildlife on rugged islands and black-sand beaches, and witness how volcanic activity has played a pivotal role in Antarctica’s natural history. Learn about the work of scientists at research stations and hear tales of the whalers and spies who made their base here.

Add a two-night extension in Buenos Aires. Limited to 200 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are astrophysicist Richard Miller and Wayne Ranney, a geologist and writer.

Exploring by Zodiac

Around the World by Private Jet: A Classic Journey

24 days from $135,950

Dec. 30, 2023–Jan. 22, 2024 & Feb. 15–Mar. 9, Oct. 6–29, Dec. 30, 2024–Jan. 22, 2025

Join our breathtaking Around the World journey and explore cultural and natural treasures that have inspired and captured the imagination of humankind for centuries. Experience the sights, sounds, and cultures of some of the world’s most iconic and remote places, as well as unforgettable activities. You’ll learn firsthand about the people, customs, and natural world of many World Heritage sites all in one trip as you travel aboard the private jet, which has been custom configured with 52 flatbed seats.

Highlights Include

Machu Picchu: Climb the terraced steps of the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and examine its artfully cut stone altars, temples, fountains, and terraced gardens. If you’ve already visited this iconic site, then explore Peru’s lesser-known North Coast.

Easter Island: Feel the protective gaze of the moai statues on Easter Island as you trace the history of a lost civilization with your archaeologist guides.

Fiji: Spend a quick overnight on the tropical paradise of Fiji during a logistical, non-touring stop.

Great Barrier Reef: Immerse yourself in the underwater splendor of the Great Barrier Reef with its vibrant collection of coral and tropical fish. Or opt to venture into the Daintree Rainforest, one of Australia’s truly wild areas.

Angkor Wat: Explore the mystifying site of Angkor, including the enigmatic Bayon Temple, the captivating overgrown remains of Ta Prohm, and majestic Angkor Wat.

Taj Mahal and Jaipur: Watch the play of light on the magnificent, beloved Taj Mahal, one of the world’s greatest architectural wonders. And discover the royal architecture and vibrant markets of Jaipur, fabled home of the maharajas.

Serengeti Plain or Ngorongoro Crater: Spot iconic African wildlife on game drives in Tanzania’s Serengeti Plain or the Ngorongoro Crater.

Egypt: Trace Egyptian history at the Karnak temple complex and Luxor Museum; venture into the tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings; and marvel at the Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx on a day trip to Cairo.

Marrakech: Immerse yourself in the exotic ambiance of Marrakech as you stroll through the winding pathways of the medina, see the spectacle of Djemaa el-Fna Square, and savor the lovely views of the Majorelle Garden.

Limited to no more than 52 Smithsonian Journeys guests. This private jet tour is operated by TCS World Travel and uses aircraft operated by Titan Airways Limited.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Peter Bobrowsky (Dec. 2023)–geologist and archaeologist. Katryn Wiese (Feb. 2024)–professor of geology and oceanography. Allan Langdale (Oct. 2024)–art and architectural historian. Don Wilson (Dec. 2024)–senior scientist and curator emeritus at Smithsonian’s Natural History Museum.

Moai statues, Easter Island

Wonders of Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific by Private Jet

23 days from $149,950 Oct. 29–Nov. 20, 2023

Soar across the South Pacific by private jet, discovering iconic sites, ancient cultures, and natural wonders in New Zealand, Australia, and Polynesia.

Vibrant Cities: Discover Christchurch, New Zealand on a city tour and follow a guide through the iconic Opera House during your stay in Sydney. Go wine tasting in Adelaide, and in Hobart, Tasmania, step back in time at the Cascades Female Factory Historic Site.

Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy a glass-bottom lagoon cruise, and soar over New Zealand’s majestic Milford Sound on a helicopter flight-seeing tour. Skim through the canyons of the Shotover River in a jet boat, and climb Sydney’s iconic Harbour Bridge.

Wildlife Encounters: Tour the Kiwi Birdlife Park in Queenstown with a zoologist, and spot kangaroos, wombats, and other endemic creatures in Wolgan

Valley, Australia. Go snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef, and learn about efforts to save Fiji’s crested iguana.

Indigenous Cultures: Meet the Wiradjuri people of the Wolgan Valley to take part in a centuries-old ceremony. Take a “Dreamtime” walk in the Daintree Rainforest, and discover the sacred landscapes of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Limited to no more than 52 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Pyramids and Sphinx, Egypt

Angkor Wat, Cambodia Serengeti Plain, Tanzania

This private jet tour is operated by TCS World Travel and uses aircraft operated by Titan Airways Limited.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert James Caruso–former diplomat with expertise in Asia and the Pacific.

Let the Journey Begin

Discover more trips at SmithsonianJourneys.org

The desire for new discoveries, knowledge, and a sense of wonder is stronger than ever for many of us. As the world opens up again, we are eager to provide you with opportunities for exciting, in-depth adventures, and the occasion to meet new and interesting people. We invite you to browse our website, where you’ll find even more tours plus detailed itineraries and pricing, photographs, expert bios, and hotel descriptions.

Old World Europe

16 days from $6,597

May 9–24, Aug. 29–Sept. 13, Sept. 19–Oct. 4, 2023 & Apr. 9–24, May 7–22, Aug. 27–Sept. 11, Sept. 17–Oct. 2, 2024

Cruising from Morocco to Spain’s Andalusian Coast NEW!

8 days from $5,690

Apr. 20–27, 2023

Astronomy and Natural Wonders of Hawai’i

8 days from $8,635

May 10–17, Nov. 8–15, 2023

Segovia: A One-Week Stay in the Heart of Spain

9 days from $4,690

Apr. 18–26, May 16–24, Sept. 5–13, Oct. 17–25, 2023

Barcelona: A One-Week Stay

9 days from $4,990

Apr. 22–30, May 13–21, Oct. 7–15, 2023

Mystery Lover’s England

9 days from $6,995

Sept. 30–Oct. 8, Oct. 14–22, 2023 & Sept. 28–Oct. 6, 2024

Alaska: The Last Great Frontier NEW!

8 days from $6,290

Aug. 6–13, Sept. 3–10, 2023

Costa Rica: Rainforests, Volcanoes, and the Pacific Coast

8 days from $4,995

July 15–22, 2023

Art Meets Science in Switzerland

9 days from $7,995

Oct. 1–8, 2023

The Genius of Michelangelo

9 days from $5,995

Nov. 4–12, 2023

Film Festivals with Smithsonian

Film buffs may have admired Dorothy’s ruby slippers at the National Museum of American History or examined an early motion picture camera at the Air and Space Museum. Now we extend an insider’s pass to world-famous film festivals in Cannes, Venice, or Toronto, where you can experience the excitement of the silver screen and consider new releases with a true connoisseur. Visit our website for more details.

Smithsonian at the Cannes Film Festival

9 days from $6,995

May 20–28, 2023

Experience the Cannes Film Festival, an international event that celebrates the best in film. Through a special accreditation granted by the festival, Smithsonian Journeys takes you into a world reserved only for film professionals.

Smithsonian at the Venice Film Festival

8 days from $6,990

Sept. 3–10, 2023

With the magical city of Venice as a backdrop, enjoy priority access to all screenings at this international film festival, including press events. Join an expert for a tour of film set locations, and visit a costume designer’s workshop.

Smithsonian at the Toronto International Film Festival

6 days from $5,390

Sept. 6–11, 2023

Enjoy an insider’s pass to the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival and join a film historian who guides you through a remarkable range of cinematography, from independent films to Hollywood features.

Terms and Conditions

See full Terms and Conditions online at SmithsonianJourneys.org/Terms-Conditions.

Please note: airfare is not included in the price unless specified on the itinerary page.

@smithsonianjourneys

Eager to learn more about our tours? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to get an inside perspective!

Smithsonian Journeys Calendar 2023–2024

For additional trips and more details on what’s featured in this catalog go to SmithsonianJourneys.org.

Highlights of Italy

Northern Italy: The Lake District, Tuscany, & Dolomites

Southern Italy and Sicily

A Circumnavigation of Sicily

Inside Sicily NEW!

Palermo and Taormina

The Italian Riviera

Italy’s Lake District

Italy’s Amalfi Coast

Italy’s Apulia

Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights NEW!

Cruising the Dalmatian Coast and the Ionian Sea

Cruising the Mediterranean: Greece, Sicily, and Malta NEW!

Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean

Classical Greece

Legendary Turkey and the Turquoise Coast NEW!

Pearls of Croatia and Slovenia

Cruising Southern Spain and Portugal

Portrait of Portugal

Treasures of Southern Spain and Portugal

Across Northern Spain and Portugal

Living in Italy

Living in Spain

Spain’s Andalusia

Walking the Camino de Santiago

Central/Western Europe

Living in France

A Seine River Cruise

France Through the Ages

Normandy

The Life and Work of Van Gogh in France NEW!

A River Cruise of Provence

Treasures of the Alps

Europe’s Great Rivers

Cruising the Rhine and Moselle

A Danube River Cruise

New Year’s in Europe by Deluxe Rail NEW!

Across the Alps: A Deluxe Rail Journey NEW!

Northern Europe

Prehistoric Mysteries of England and Ireland NEW!

Smithsonian at Oxford County Clare

England’s Lake District NEW!

Heart of Scotland NEW!

Scotland’s Treasures

Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage

Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea

The Emerald Isle

Waterways of Holland and Belgium

A Stay in Holland: Featuring Vermeer exhibition NEW!

Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea

Cruising the Norwegian Fjords

Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice Adventure

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS: Alamy, Getty, iStock, Dreamstime, Shutterstock, Adobe Stock. Front covers: Lake Como–Getty/John and Tina Reid; Hanoi woman–Getty/Pramote Polyamate; Amalfi Coast–iStock/Aleh Varanishcha. Back covers: Vietnam bicycle–iStock/Keith Molloy; Zebras–iStock/boezie; Flamingos–Dreamstime/Andrey Gudkov. Additional photos courtesy of the following: p.51/train–Danube Express; p.55/both–Wade Jennings; p.78/Pitons–St. Lucia Tourism Bureau; p.80/woman–Richard Stanoss; p.112/top–Erica Frisk; p.112/bottom–Rachel Langosch. PONANT Studio: p.9/spa–Francois Lef; p.11/penguin–Nathalie Michel; p.12/Zodiac–Laura Gelfged; p.12/cabin–Nicolas Matheus; p.12/kayak–Daniel Ernst; p.13/ship–Margot Sib; p.13/restaurant–Gilles Trillard; p.65–Violette Vauchelle; p.105–Nathalie Michel. Additional

tour

Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea NEW!

Mediterranean Island Voyage NEW!

France and Spain’s Basque Region

Prehistoric Caves of France and Spain

England

Glaciers and the Inside Passage

Alaska’s Natural Wonders

A Voyage Along the Great Lakes

Symphony on the St. Lawrence NEW!

Seascapes of the Canadian Maritimes NEW!

The Northern Rockies

Treasures of Yosemite

Yellowstone in Winter

Yellowstone and the Tetons

Bryce, Zion, and the Grand Canyon

Pueblo Culture and History

Solar

Legendary Peru: Andean Culture and Inca Treasures Amazon River Cruise Galápagos Islands Cruise

Ancient Egypt and the Nile

African Safari: A Wildlife Adventure

Safari in Kenya and Tanzania

Tanzania and Zanzibar

Treasures of South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana

Splendors of Morocco

Israel: Unique Perspectives on the Holy Land NEW!

Cruising the Arabian Coast

Ancient Civilizations by Sea: Israel to

Cultural and Natural Treasures of Japan by Sea NEW!

Eternal Japan

Treasures of Southeast Asia

Discovering Vietnam

Exploring Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia

The Silk Road: A Journey to Central Asia

Journey Through New Zealand

Splendors of Australia and New Zealand

South Island by

Antarctica: The White Continent

Send Your Student on the Experience of a Lifetime

At a time when quality and trust in travel is more important than ever, Smithsonian Student Travel is excited to offer a new selection of immersive experiences for students completing 8th through 12th grades.

Drawing on Smithsonian’s vast knowledge and resources built over 175 years, our Student Travel programs have been crafted to allow students to explore a new interest or to dig deeper into one that is already a passion. Each program focuses on a unique theme that Smithsonian has covered over the years in its museums, research, and media, ranging from climate change or wildlife conservation to aerospace, cultural heritage, or design. A Smithsonian Student Travel Expert joins each trip to share their insights, knowledge, and passion about the destination and themes.

Don crampons for a glacier hike in Iceland; collaborate with shark and reef researchers on conservation projects in Belize; or meet NASA scientists who are at the forefront of space exploration. Fun and engaging learning opportunities await!

Look Where We Are Heading in Summer 2023!

∙ Australia

∙ Belize

∙ Costa Rica

∙ Ecuador & the Galápagos

∙ France

∙ Greece & Italy

∙ Iceland

∙ Japan

∙ New York & Denmark

∙ Scotland

∙ Portugal & Spain

∙ Washington, D.C. & Houston

Our daughter told us it was the best two weeks of her life. Thank you for giving her an experience that we could not!

– Cristine T., Smithsonian Student Travel parent

Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journeys

with Audley Travel

Your Trip, Your Way

If you prefer to travel with just those close to you— your spouse or your extended family, a favorite travel partner, or a group of close friends—we invite you to discover a place you’ve always dreamed about on a trip designed just for you and the traveling companions you choose.

You’ll be paired with a country specialist with firsthand knowledge of the region you’d like to visit. Simply share your travel aspirations and we’ll curate a day-by-day itinerary that matches your interests, your pace, and your budget. We’ll hand select every route, hotel, and guide; choose accommodations based on your style; and arrange activities and excursions that will be meaningful to you. A few sample itineraries are listed at right, but you can customize any of these to truly reflect your interests.

Our tailor-made trip to Australia was a fantastic experience! The guidance from our country specialist throughout the planning process was great and very thorough.

– Richard S., Highlights of Australia

Naples, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast

Suggested Itinerary: 8 days from $6,420

Encounter stunning scenery and vivid history from Naples to the Amalfi Coast, discovering legendary sites like Pompeii and the Roman villas of Capri and staying in the seaside gems of Sorrento and Positano.

Ireland Traditional Irish Culture and Country Life

Suggested Itinerary: 8 days from $7,995

Stay in historic country manors and experience Irish traditions from falconry to whiskey distilling on a journey that begins in the lively streets of Dublin and ends among the geological wonders of County Clare.

Portugal and Spain: From Lisbon to Andalusia

Suggested Itinerary: 12 days from $11,815

Embark on a journey from the hills of lovely Lisbon to the whitewashed towns of Andalusia. Explore Granada’s incomparable Alhambra with your own private guide, and delve into age-old traditions from cuisine to flamenco.

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 important sites of Normandy and Brittany, to the châteaux of the Loire Valley.

Morocco from Sea to Sahara

Suggested Itinerary: 15 days from $5,995

Discover Morocco from its Atlantic shores to the Sahara Desert. Explore the imperial cities of Marrakech, Meknes, Rabat, and Fez; and venture to ancient kasbahs and everyday villages in the Atlas Mountains.

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.

Treasures of Vietnam

Suggested Itinerary: 14 days from $5,995

Experience Vietnam on a journey that takes you from cosmopolitan Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to enchanting Hoi An and Hué, from the timeless Mekong Delta and Ha Long Bay to the tropical island of Phu Quoc.

Along the Alaska Railroad

Suggested Itinerary: 8 days from $4,375

Get acquainted with the culture and character of Alaska— and its magnificent landscapes—on a journey from Fairbanks to Anchorage along the Alaska Railroad that includes three days in Denali National Park and Preserve.

Highlights of Australia

Suggested Itinerary: 12 days from $5,875

Discover the highlights of Australia on a tailor-made 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. Call 855.215.8690

to speak with a country specialist.