Splendours of Sicily, Italy and the French Riviera Cruise

One of Europe’s smallest capitals, Valetta offers so much for its size. The Maltese capital was crowned the European Capital of Culture in 2018 by the European Union for its brilliant mix of history and modernity. Amidst the cobblestone streets and ancient walls of this World Heritage-listed city, you’ll find lively art, culinary and nightlife scenes.

Step on board Your Discovery Yacht this afternoon. Enjoy a warm greeting from the Captain and the crew, meet your butler and settle into your spacious suite. Join your fellow guests at the Sky Bar to toast the start of an unforgettable voyage.

Scenic transfers are only available for flights arriving into Valletta prior to 02:00 PM.

Docked: 18:00

Malta's capital, the minicity of Valletta, has ornate palaces and museums protected by massive fortifications of honey-color limestone. Houses along the narrow streets have overhanging wooden balconies for people-watching from indoors. Generations ago they gave housebound women a window on the world of the street. The main entrance to town is through the City Gate (where all bus routes end), which leads onto Triq Repubblika (Republic Street), the spine of the grid-pattern city and the main shopping street. Triq Mercante (Merchant Street) parallels Repubblika to the east and is also good for strolling. From these two streets, cross streets descend toward the water; some are stepped. Valletta's compactness makes it ideal to explore on foot. City Gate and the upper part of Valletta are experiencing vast redevelopment that includes a new Parliament Building and open-air performance venue. The complex, completed mid-2013, has numerous pedestrian detours in place along with building noise and dust. Before setting out along Republic Street, stop at the tourist information office on Merchant Street for maps and brochures.

Known as the Jewel of Sicily, Taormina is one of the island’s most popular resorts. Once a stop on the famed Grand Tour of the 19th century, today it is packed with luxury hotels, exceptional restaurants and designer boutiques. It’s also the gateway to Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe, which dominates the picturesque backdrop. This charming small town set high above the Ionian Sea is known for its stunning ancient theatre, beautifully resorted medieval buildings, astonishing vistas and exclusive atmosphere.

Scenic Freechoice:
Walking Tour of Taormina: Enjoy a scenic drive to Taormina to explore the Greek Theatre and Cathedral, then free time to shop or stroll the medieval streets. 

Etna & Wine Experience: Traverse winding mountain roads to explore Europe's largest active volcano, Mt. Etna, Crater Silvestri, before visiting a local winery. 

Cucina del Sole Cooking Class: Journey to a charming village on Mount Etna for a hands-on Sicilian cooking class in a traditional home. Prepare and enjoy local dishes, then return to Giardini Naxos. 

Hike to Madonna della Rocca: Travel to Taormina, then hike to Madonna della Rocca sanctuary at 400m altitude, for stunning views of the sea, mountains and Mount Etna. Enjoy a refreshment before returning to the pier. 

Anchored: 8:00 – 15:00

The medieval cliff-hanging town of Taormina is overrun with tourists, yet its natural beauty is still hard to dispute. The view of the sea and Mt. Etna from its jagged cactus-covered cliffs is as close to perfection as a panorama can get—especially on clear days, when the snowcapped volcano's white puffs of smoke rise against the blue sky. Writers have extolled Taormina's beauty almost since it was founded in the 6th century BC by Greeks from nearby Naxos; Goethe and D. H. Lawrence were among its well-known enthusiasts. The town's boutique-lined main streets get old pretty quickly, but the many hiking paths that wind through the beautiful hills surrounding Taormina promise a timeless alternative. A trip up to stunning Castelmola (whether on foot or by car) should also be on your itinerary.

A small resort town with a huge reputation, Sorrento is known as the land of lemons and orange groves. It’s the birthplace of limoncello liqueur and the gateway to the spectacular Amalfi Coast. Perched on cliffs that plunge into the deep blue of the Mediterranean, it’s a place of peaceful alleyways, pastel-coloured buildings, grand villas and luxury hotels.

Scenic Freechoice:
Guided Tour of Pompeii: Step back in time with a guided exploration of Pompeii, remarkably preserved beneath volcanic ash after Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D. Discover ancient streets, villas, frescoes and mosaics while learning about Roman life. Conclude with a refreshing drink and a slice of authentic Neapolitan pizza before returning to Sorrento. 

Hike on the Path of Gods & Positano: Travel to Agerola for a scenic hike high above the Amalfi Coast, enjoying breathtaking views of coastal villages and Mount Pertuso. Continue to picturesque Positano, where pastel-coloured houses, boutiques and seaside cafés await. Enjoy free time to explore before returning to Sorrento.  

Walking tour of Sorrento: Explore Sorrento on foot, discovering the Valley of the Mills, Sant’Antonino Church, San Francesco Cloister, historic fishing harbor and charming old town. Admire Sorrento Bay’s views while learning about local history and heritage. Conclude your stroll with a refreshing taste of authentic Italian gelato or lemon granita. 

Taste of Sorrento: Visit a local farm near Sorrento and discover the traditional art of mozzarella making. Stroll through lemon and olive groves while sampling freshly baked bread, cheeses and salami. Meet your gracious host, learn about authentic Italian food production and enjoy a peaceful taste of the countryside. 

Anchored: 7:30 – 18:00 

Sorrento may have become a jumping-off point for visitors to Pompeii, Capri, and Amalfi, but you can find countless reasons to love it for itself. The Sorrentine people are fair-minded and hardworking, bubbling with life and warmth. The tuff cliff on which the town rests is spread over the bay, absorbing sunlight, while orange and lemon trees waft their perfume in spring. Winding along a cliff above a small beach and two harbors, the town is split in two by a narrow ravine formed by a former mountain stream. To the east, dozens of hotels line busy Via Correale along the cliff—many have "grand" included in their names, and some indeed still are. To the west, however, is the historic sector, which still enchants. It's a relatively flat area, with winding, stone-paved lanes bordered by balconied buildings, some joined by medieval stone arches. The central piazza is named after the poet Torquato Tasso, born here in 1544. This part of town is a delightful place to walk through. Craftspeople are often at work in their stalls and shops and are happy to let you watch; in fact, that's the point. Music spots and bars cluster in the side streets near Piazza Tasso.

As your Discovery Yacht arrives in Civitavecchia, the gateway to Rome, the grandeur of Forte Michelangelo stands as a testament to the region’s rich maritime history. Today is your opportunity to immerse yourself in the Eternal City, just a short journey away. Choose from Scenic Freechoice excursions, from uncovering ancient wonders at the Colosseum and Vatican to strolling through Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain, indulging in authentic Italian espresso or gelato along the way. After a day of discovery, return to your Discovery Yacht, where relaxation and world-class dining await.

Scenic Freechoice:
Rome City Tour with Colosseum & Lunch: Discover Rome’s remarkable history on a guided city exploration, including a visit to the iconic Colosseum. See some of the capital’s most celebrated landmarks before enjoying a relaxing lunch. 

Gourmet Walking Tour of Rome: Explore Rome on foot while sampling a selection of local specialities along the way. Discover the city’s culinary traditions, atmospheric streets and vibrant neighbourhoods through their distinctive flavours. 

Rome by Vintage Fiat: Experience the Eternal City from the passenger seat of a classic vintage Fiat. Travel through Rome’s characterful streets and admire iconic landmarks from a memorable and distinctly Italian perspective. 

Vatican City: Discover the artistic and spiritual treasures of Vatican City on a guided visit. Admire its extraordinary architecture, celebrated masterpieces and centuries of fascinating history. 

Docked: 7:30 – 20:00

Italy's vibrant capital lives in the present, but no other city on earth evokes its past so powerfully. For over 2,500 years, emperors, popes, artists, and common citizens have left their mark here. Archaeological remains from ancient Rome, art-stuffed churches, and the treasures of Vatican City vie for your attention, but Rome is also a wonderful place to practice the Italian-perfected il dolce far niente, the sweet art of idleness. Your most memorable experiences may include sitting at a caffè in the Campo de' Fiori or strolling in a beguiling piazza.

One of the busiest cruise ports in the Mediterranean, Bastia is the gateway to the island of Corsica.

The name Bastia comes from the word ‘bastion’, which is tied to the Genoese fortress that was built here in the 14th century. It now houses the interesting Musee de Bastia, which traces the town’s history from early Roman times. The old town is split into two parts; Terra Vecchia around the harbour and Terra Nova in the high-walled citadel above. Place Saint-Nicolas is at the heart of the town, a charming square lined with outdoor cafes.

Scenic Freechoice:
Nebio, Patrimonio & Wine Tasting: Enjoy a scenic drive along Corsica’s coast to the charming town of St. Florent, passing vineyards, hilltop villages and stunning sea views. Stroll through the town at your leisure before savouring local wines in the famed Patrimonio region. 

Cap Corse: Explore Cap Corse’s wild beauty, visiting Genoese towers, authentic marinas, Nonza’s cliffside views and Patrimonio’s renowned vineyards. Enjoy a scenic drive over Teghime Pass, immersing in Corsica’s heritage and landscapes. 

Highlights of Bastia: Enjoy a guided walk through Bastia’s historic quarters, from lively squares to baroque churches and the hilltop citadel. After exploring key landmarks, take time to soak in the city’s authentic Corsican charm at your own pace. 

Hike in Bastia: Visit Bastia’s Oratoire de Monserato, home to the rare Scala Santa, one of only seven holy staircases worldwide, modelled after Rome’s famous steps. 

Docked: 8:00 – 19:00 

Corsica's northern capital, Bastia, is the centre of commerce and industry and a thriving freight and passenger port. Commerce, more than tourism, is its main focus, providing employment for many Corsicans. Bastia's industrial sprawl, however, is offset by its aged charm. The presence of an overwhelming Italian atmosphere adds to the city's attraction. Two distinct areas comprise the city: Terra Vecchia, the old quarter, consisting of haphazard streets, flamboyant Baroque churches and lofty tenements, with their crumbling golden-grey walls set against a backdrop of fire-darkened hills; and the more orderly Terra Nova, the historic district favoured by prominent doctors, lawyers and architects. The city dates from Roman times, when a base was set up at Biguglia to the south. Under the Genoese, Bastia was the island's capital for four centuries and of major importance for the export of wine to the Italian mainland. They built a fortress (bastiglia), which gave the town its name. The Genoese also were responsible for laying the foundation for the area's prosperity by planting vines, olives, chestnut trees and other experimental crops. This resulted in an energetic and enterprising region, still a characteristic of today's northern Corsica. Although Napoleon had appointed Ajaccio the capital of the island in 1811- initiating a rivalry that still exists - Bastia established a stronger trading position with mainland France. As a result, the Nouveau Port was created in 1862 to cope with the increasing traffic with France and Italy. Bastia's economic prominence and a German division based here during World War II accounted for severe bombing attacks. Many buildings were destroyed, including much of the old governor's palace. Of the two largest towns on the island, Ajaccio and Bastia, the latter boasts a more genuine Corsican character. Visitors can experience an authentic feel of island life by wandering through the maze of narrow streets of Bastia's old quarter and by exploring its fortifications. Don't miss the vast Place Saint-Nicolas just north of the old quarter; it is the focal point of the city. Open to the sea and lined with shady trees and sidewalk cafes, it is a perfect place for people watching and for taking in the local ambiance. Pier Information The ship is scheduled to dock at the port of Bastia. The city's focal point, Place Saint-Nicolas, is a distance of 650 feet (200 metres) to walk. Taxis are generally available at the pier but it is highly recommended to book in advance if you want to be sure to get one. It is recommended to establish the fare before leaving the port. Shopping The main shopping streets, Boulevard Paoli and Rue Cesar Campinchi, are less than one half miles (500 metres) from the port terminal. Handicrafts and the area's specialties such as honey, wine and liqueurs may be of interest. Most shops are open from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Shops are closed for the day on Sundays and some shops may also close Monday mornings (some souvenirs shops may open Sundays during the high season of July-August). The local currency is the euro. Cuisine A variety of restaurants offer a good choice of eating possibilities. Some of the best restaurants are found around the Vieux Port and on the Quai des Martyrs. French cuisine and seafood feature prominently on menus as well as such Corsican specialties as wild boar, charcuterie and aziminu, a local version of bouillabaisse. Evidence of Bastia's strong Italian influence is apparent in the numerous pizza and pasta places in the Nouveau Port area. For outdoor dining and people watching, cafes around lively Place Saint-Nicolas are a perfect place. Other Sites Oratoire de Saint-Roch Located in the Terra Vecchia quarter, the chapel is a Genoese Baroque extravaganza built in 1604. The walls are covered with finely carved wooden panelling and the organ is magnificent with its decoration of gilt and wooden sculpture. Oratoire de L'Immaculee Conception Although its exterior is rather austere, the flamboyant interior of this 17th-century church with gilt and marble ceiling, frescoes and crystal chandeliers creates an ambiance of an opera house. Vieux Port Site of the original Porto Prado, the area around the Vieux Port is the most appealing part of town. Its soaring houses seem to bend inwards towards the water. Once busy with Genoese traders, the building of the ferry terminal and commercial docks have reduced much of the action at Vieux Port. Terra Nova As the administrative core of old Bastia, Terra Nova displays a distinct air of affluence. Its most impressive building is the 14th-century Governor's Palace. During the Genoese heyday the governor and the bishop lived here, entertaining foreign dignitaries and hosting massive parties. Private arrangements for independent sightseeing may be requested through the Tour Office on board, subject to the availability of English-speaking guides.

Portofino, with its postcard-perfect scenery and undeniable Mediterranean charm, invites you to embrace la dolce vita. Vibrant, colourful buildings line the shores of crystal-clear waters, framed by lush, pine-covered hills. Thanks to another late departure, you’ll have ample time to explore luxury boutiques, take a dip in the turquoise bay, savour impeccably fresh seafood, and spot celebrities at the exclusive bars scattered around the iconic Piazzetta.

Scenic Freechoice:
Portofino Walking Tour & Gelato: Stroll through picturesque Portofino, visit the Church of St. George and enjoy artisanal gelato in the Piazzetta. Then, take time to explore this charming village at your leisure. 

Santa Margherita Walking Tour: Explore Santa Margherita Ligure’s vibrant seafront and picturesque harbour. Visit the Baroque Basilica di Santa Margherita d’Antiochia and elegant Villa Durazzo-Centurione gardens, then enjoy artisanal gelato and free exploration. 

Portofino & Brown Castle: Discover Portofino on a guided walk through its colourful harbour, historic Castello Brown and scenic lighthouse. Visit the Church of St. George, then enjoy free time to explore the charming Piazzetta. 

Culinary Experience in Rapallo: Sail along the Ligurian coast to Rapallo for a hands-on cooking experience with local chef Guido. Explore the market, prepare traditional pesto and pandolce, and enjoy tastings paired with regional drinks. Then continue to picturesque Portofino, with free time to explore its charming waterfront and streets. 

Anchored: 8:00 – 22:00

One of the most photographed villages along the coast, with a decidedly romantic and affluent aura, Portofino has long been a popular destination for the rich and famous. Once an ancient Roman colony and taken by the Republic of Genoa in 1229, it’s also been ruled by the French, English, Spanish, and Austrians, as well as by marauding bands of 16th-century pirates. Elite British tourists first flocked to the lush harbor in the mid-1800s. Some of Europe's wealthiest drop anchor in Portofino in summer, but they stay out of sight by day, appearing in the evening after buses and boats have carried off the day-trippers.There's not actually much to do in Portofino other than stroll around the wee harbor, see the castle, walk to Punta del Capo, browse at the pricey boutiques, and sip a coffee while people-watching. However, weaving through picture-perfect cliffside gardens and gazing at yachts framed by the sapphire Ligurian Sea and the cliffs of Santa Margherita can make for quite a relaxing afternoon. There are also several tame, photo-friendly hikes into the hills to nearby villages.Unless you're traveling on a deluxe budget, you may want to stay in Camogli or Santa Margherita Ligure rather than at one of Portofino's few very expensive hotels. Restaurants and cafés are good but also pricey (don't expect to have a beer here for much under €10).

Step into the world of luxury and prestige in Monte Carlo, where sleek superyachts, haute couture boutiques, and Michelin-starred dining create an atmosphere of effortless elegance. Wander through Monaco’s Old Town, visit the opulent Prince’s Palace, or try your luck at the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo, an architectural masterpiece by Charles Garnier. From the glamorous marinas to the panoramic coastal views, every moment in Monaco is an invitation to indulge in the extraordinary.

Scenic Freechoice:
Old City of Monaco & Monte Carlo City: Explore Monte-Carlo and Monaco Old Town on foot and by bus on this guided tour. Admire Prince’s Palace Square and the legendary Monte-Carlo Casino.   

Saint Paul de Vence: Embark on an unforgettable journey as you explore the breathtaking beauty and captivating galleries of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, one of the French Riviera’s oldest towns. 

Eze & Villa Rothschild: After a scenic drive, discover the hilltop village of Eze and its Exotic Garden, then explore the elegant Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat before returning along the beautiful Lower Corniche. 

Perfume Workshop in Grasse: Visit a classic Grasse perfume factory, discover the art of fragrance making and create your own unique scent to keep and cherish. 

Docked or Anchored: 8:00 – 23:00 

On one of the best stretches of the Mediterranean, this classic luxury destination is one of the most sought-after addresses in the world. With all the high-rise towers you have to look hard to find the Belle Époque grace of yesteryear. But if you head to the town's great 1864 landmark Hôtel de Paris—still a veritable crossroads of the buffed and befurred Euro-gentry—or enjoy a grand bouffe at its famous Louis XV restaurant, or attend the opera, or visit the ballrooms of the casino, you may still be able to conjure up Monaco's elegant past. Prince Albert II, a political science graduate from Amherst College, traces his ancestry to Otto Canella, who was born in 1070. The Grimaldi dynasty began with Otto's great-great-great-grandson, Francesco Grimaldi, also known as Frank the Rogue. Expelled from Genoa, Frank and his cronies disguised themselves as monks and in 1297 seized the fortified medieval town known today as Le Rocher (the Rock). Except for a short break under Napoléon, the Grimaldis have been here ever since, which makes them the oldest reigning family in Europe. In the 1850s a Grimaldi named Charles III made a decision that turned the Rock into a giant blue chip. Needing revenue but not wanting to impose additional taxes on his subjects, he contracted with a company to open a gambling facility. The first spin of the roulette wheel was on December 14, 1856. There was no easy way to reach Monaco then—no carriage roads or railroads—so no one came. Between March 15 and March 20, 1857, one person entered the casino—and won two francs. In 1868, however, the railroad reached Monaco, and it was filled with Englishmen who came to escape the London fog. The effects were immediate. Profits were so great that Charles eventually abolished all direct taxes. Almost overnight, a threadbare principality became an elegant watering hole for European society. Dukes (and their mistresses) and duchesses (and their gigolos) danced and dined their way through a world of spinning roulette wheels and bubbling champagne—preening themselves for nights at the opera, where such artists as Vaslav Nijinsky, Sarah Bernhardt, and Enrico Caruso came to perform. Along with the tax system, its sensational position on a broad, steep peninsula that bulges into the Mediterranean—its harbor sparkling with luxury cruisers, its posh mansions angling awnings toward the nearly perpetual sun—continues to draw the rich and famous. One of the latest French celebrities to declare himself "Monégasque," thus giving up his French passport, is superchef Alain Ducasse, who said that he made the choice out of affection for Monaco rather than tax reasons. Pleasure boats vie with luxury cruisers in their brash beauty and Titanic scale, and teams of handsome young men—themselves dyed blond and tanned to match—scour and polish every gleaming surface. As you might expect, all this glitz doesn't come cheap. Eating is expensive, and even the most modest hotels cost more here than in nearby Nice or Menton. As for taxis, they don't even have meters so you are completely at the driver's mercy (with prices skyrocketing during events such as the Grand Prix). For the frugal, Monaco is the ultimate day-trip, although parking is as coveted as a room with a view. At the very least you can afford a coffee at Starbucks. The harbor district, known as La Condamine, connects the new quarter, officially known as Monte Carlo with Monaco-Ville (or Le Rocher), a medieval town on the Rock, topped by the palace, the cathedral, and the Oceanography Museum. Have no fear that you'll need to climb countless steps to get to Monaco-Ville, as there are plenty of elevators and escalators climbing the steep cliffs. But shuttling between the lovely casino grounds of Monte Carlo and Old Monaco, separated by a vast port, is a daunting proposition for ordinary mortals without wings, so hop on the No. 1 bus from Saint Roman, or No. 2 from the Jardin Exotique - Both stop at Place du Casino and come up to Monaco Ville.

A city synonymous with glamour and prestige, Cannes invites you to stroll along the legendary Boulevard de la Croisette, lined with designer boutiques, luxury hotels, and sun-drenched beaches. Explore the charming Le Suquet district, where cobbled streets lead to breathtaking views over the French Riviera. Visit the Palais des Festivals, home to the world-famous Cannes Film Festival.

Scenic Freechoice:
Cannes by Foot: Embark on a guided walking tour of Cannes’ glamorous streets, passing luxury yachts and Le Suquet’s historic church for panoramic bay views. Explore lively Marché Forville, then stroll the iconic Promenade de la Croisette, soaking in Riviera elegance.  

Perfume Factory Visit & Picnic Lunch: Visit Grasse, the Capital of Perfume. Enjoy an exclusive tour of a perfume factory, then savour a picnic at a nearby country house.   

Delights of Cannes: Explore the Old Town of Cannes. Taste local favourites like socca (a savoury chickpea pancake) and rosé while exploring Cannes’ apéritif culture, then enjoy a hands-on moment making tapenade, aioli and a refreshing soft drink. 

Wine Tasting at Chateau St Martin: Escape to Château St Martin in Provence for a guided cellar tour, exploring its Roman and monastic heritage. Savour a tasting of exceptional rosé and other wines, enjoying a serene countryside retreat. 

Anchored: 8:00 – 23:00 

Cannes is pampered with the luxurious year-round climate that has made it one of the most popular resorts in Europe. Cannes was an important sentinel site for the monks who established themselves on Île St-Honorat in the Middle Ages. Its bay served as nothing more than a fishing port until in 1834 an English aristocrat, Lord Brougham, fell in love with the site during an emergency stopover with a sick daughter. He had a home built here and returned every winter for a sun cure—a ritual quickly picked up by his peers. Between the popularity of Le Train Blue transporting wealthy passengers from Calais, and the introduction in 1936 of France's first paid holidays, Cannes became the destination, a tasteful and expensive breeding ground for the upper-upscale.Cannes has been further glamorized by the ongoing success of its annual film festival, as famous as Hollywood's Academy Awards. About the closest many of us will get to feeling like a film star is a stroll here along La Croisette, the iconic promenade that gracefully curves the wave-washed sand coastline, peppered with chic restaurants and prestigious private beaches. This is precisely the sort of place for which the French invented the verb flâner (to dawdle, saunter): strewn with palm trees and poseurs, its fancy boutiques and status-symbol grand hotels—including the Carlton, the legendary backdrop to Grace Kelly in To Catch a Thief —all vying for the custom of the Louis Vuitton set. This legend is, to many, the heart and soul of the Côte d'Azur. 

Your Signature Yacht Cruise ends in Nice, one of the most famous port cities of the Côte d’Azur. After a final delicious breakfast, you will disembark and be transferred to the airport for your onward journey or return flight home, taking wonderful memories with you.

Scenic transfers are only available for flights departing out of Nice after 12:00 PM.

Docked: 8:00

#Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits.  Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board. ^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions.

Helicopter not operational in France. Submersible not operational in Europe.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

United with France only since 1860, Nice has its own history and atmosphere, which dates back 230,000 years. It was on Colline du Château (now château-less) and at the Plage des Ponchettes, in front of the Old Town, that the Greeks established a market-port in 350 BC and named it Nikaia, which would become Marseilles' chief coastal rival. The Romans established themselves a little later on the hills of Cimiez (Cemenelum), already previously occupied by Ligurians and Celts, and quickly overshadowed the waterfront port. After falling to the Saracen invasions, Nice regained power as an independent state, becoming an important port in the early Middle Ages.So cocksure did it become that in 1388, Nice, along with the hill towns behind, effectively seceded from the county of Provence, under Louis d'Anjou, and allied itself with Savoie. Thus began its liaison with the House of Savoy, and through it with Piedmont and Sardinia, it was the Comté de Nice (Nice County). This relationship lasted some 500 years, tinting the culture, architecture, and dialect in rich Italian hues.By the 19th century Nice was flourishing commercially, locked in rivalry with the neighboring shipping port of Genoa. Another source of income: the dawning of tourism, as first the English, then the Russian nobility, discovered its extraordinary climate and superb waterfront position. A parade of fine stone mansions and hotels closed into a nearly solid wall of masonry, separated from the smooth-round rocks of the beach by what was originally named Camin deis Anglés (the English Way), which of course is now the famous Promenade des Anglais. This magnificent crescent, which is seeking UNESCO recognition, is one of the noblest in France. Many of Nice's most delightful attractions—the Cours Saleya market, the Old Town streets, the Hotel Negresco, and the Palais Masséna—are on or close to this 10-km (6-mile) waterfront, making it the first stop for most visitors, while the redevelopment of Nice's port, around the other side of the Colline du Château, makes it easier for amblers who want to take in the Genoese architecture or peruse the antiques at the Puces de Nice, now part of the Promenade des 100 Antiquaires, along Quai Papacino. Nice also has the distinction of the "Family Plus" label, with free strollers, play areas, and restaurants with child-friendly activities.