Start Date: April 12, 2025
(Sailing April 20, 2025)

**Please note that this itinerary is subject to change at anytime, including port of call changes. Please call a Personal Vacation Manager with any questions.

Interested in the land program without the cruise? Call us for a quote.

Land Program

Day 1 – Arrive in Delhi

Upon arrival at the airport you will be transferred to the hotel where assistance will be provided for check-in. You’ll have time to get settled in and relax before joining your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. (D)

Note: if you wish to spend more time in Delhi, ask your Personal Vacation Manager about the optional hotel extension, which will add one night to your Delhi hotel stay.

Day 2 – Delhi

Qutb Minar, Delhi

After breakfast, you will have a full-day tour of Old and New Delhi. Modern Delhi is a chaotic  tapestry of medieval fortifications, Mughal mausoleums, crowded bazaars, and colonial-era town planning. Start our tour of Old and New Delhi with a drive past the Kotla Firoze Shah, ruins of an old fort of the 14th century, the 17th-century Jama Masjid Mosque, and the magnificent Red Fort. Visit Raj Ghat, where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated in 1948. Then see New Delhi as you drive past the Presidential Palace, the Rashtrapati Bhavan, through the impressive Rajpath to the World War I Memorial Arch and the India Gate. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Qutb Minar with its 72-meter-high minaret. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and the remainder of your afternoon at your leisure. Rejoin the group again this evening for dinner at the hotel. (B, L, D)

Day 3 – Delhi to Agra

Taj Mahal

After breakfast at your hotel, depart by motor coach for Agra where you will have lunch upon arrival. We will then make our way to the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and undoubtedly one of the world’s most iconic structures. The soft hues of white marble against a dusty blue sky reflect on the water, creating a breathtaking image. There is no doubt that this special moment will be one of the highlights of your trip! The Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan as a memorial for his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died giving birth to their 14th child in 1631. Construction of the Taj began the following year and, although the main building is thought to have been built in eight years, the whole complex was not completed until 1653. After our visit to the Taj Mahal is complete, return to the hotel for dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 4 – Agra to Jaipur

Agra Fort

This morning we will visit the Agra Fort. With the Taj Mahal overshadowing it, one can easily forget that Agra has one of the finest Mughal forts in India. Construction of the massive red-sandstone fort, on the bank of the Yamuna River, began by Emperor Akbar in 1565. Further additions were made using white marble. The fort was built primarily as a military structure, but Shah Jahan transformed it into a palace, and later it became his gilded prison for eight years after his son Aurangzeb seized power in 1658.

Agra Fort

After visiting the Agra Fort, board our coach for the drive to Jaipur. Enroute, a visit will be made at Fatehpur Sikri, a magnificent fortified ancient city that was the short-lived capital of the Mughal Empire between 1571 and 1585, during the reign of Emperor Akbar. Akbar visited the village of Sikri to consult the Sufi saint Shaikh Salim Chishti, who predicted the birth of an heir to the Mughal throne. When the prophecy came true, Akbar built his new capital here, including a stunning mosque—still in use today—and three palaces for each of his favorite wives, one a Hindu, one a Muslim and one a Christian (though Hindu villagers in Sikri dispute these claims). The city was an Indo-Islamic masterpiece and is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A stop for lunch will be made in Bharatpur before continuing to Jaipur. Check-in and have a leisurely dinner at the hotel. (B, L, D)

Day 5 – Jaipur

Beautiful gardens in Amer Fort

This morning we travel seven miles north of Jaipur to visit Amer Fort (also known as the Amber Fort), a honey-colored fortress, in the Aravalli hills. The somber exterior belies the richness of the royal apartments, which open on to striking views of the gorge. It also possesses a Chamber of Mirrors. The Hall of Victory presents a galaxy of decorative art—panels of alabaster with fine inlay work. After working up an appetite, indulge in a delicious lunch. Then, enjoy some free time to peruse the stalls at the local bazaar. Return to your hotel, a former palace, for an evening at leisure. Built in 1727, the Raj Palace Hotel is a former Maharaja’s palace which has been meticulously restored. Filled with antiques and, Oriental rugs and rich fabrics throughout the rooms and courtyards, it offers a luxury experience full of history and charm. Return to your hotel for dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 6 – Jaipur

Hawa Mahal Palace of Winds, Jaipur, India

After breakfast, you will have a half-day tour of the city of Jaipur. Visit the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), an elaborate building encrusted with delicate honeycomb screens and carved balconies from which the royal ladies, confined to their quarters, could view the world outside. Visit Jai Singh’s Observatory, Jantar Mantar, built in the 17th century by the founder of Jaipur who, besides being the prince was also a soldier, astronomer and builder. Then visit the City Palace—part of which is a museum displaying Rajput and Mughal paintings, rare manuscripts and Royal costumes. After exploring Jaipur, return to the hotel via an exciting common mode of transportation in India, a TukTuk ride (an auto rickshaw) with time to prepare for a celebration of the senses.

Indian folk dances

This evening you will enjoy a special Gala Dinner at the Samode Palace. Assemble outside the palace where we will join a procession of camels and soldiers all dressed up for this special welcome. Walking towards the Palace steps, adorned with a red carpet and floral decorations, the fort will become illuminated as musicians play alongside. You will then move into the second courtyard, where a Bhopa (musician playing a one stringed instrument) welcomes you inside. Then, in the third courtyard, delight in a local puppet show before continuing into the Sheesh Mahal, where you will be served a welcome drink and light snacks. Finally, sit down to an elegant dinner on the terrace, complete with a performance of music and folk dances. The evening ends with fireworks, resembling those of India’s festival of lights, Diwali.

Please Note: The Gala Dinner requires a minimum of 10 guests. In the event of a smaller group size, it may be replaced with an alternative cultural dinner experience. (B, L, D)

Day 7 – Jaipur to Mumbai

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Mumbai. Experience true grandeur at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, the iconic sea-facing landmark in Colaba, South Mumbai. This flagship 5-star Taj hotel offers you splendid views of the Arabian Sea and Gateway of India, the most famous monument in Mumbai. After checking in to the hotel, join your fellow travelers for a delicious dinner at the hotel restaurant. (B, D)

Day 8 – Mumbai

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Mumbai, India

During this full-day tour of Mumbai, you will see all the “must see” sites of Mumbai, and more! Departing the hotel, you will set off on a walking tour of some of Mumbai’s best-preserved Colonial buildings from the days of British rule. Sites include the Asiatic Library (Old Town Hall); St. Thomas Cathedral, the city’s first Anglican Church and the oldest British-era building standing in Mumbai; Flora Fountain, which was built in 1864 and depicts the Roman goddess Flora; High Court, one of the most distinguished High Courts in the country and housed in a beautiful Gothic building; and Mumbai University. Continue walking towards the David Sassoon Library, then board the coach for a drive to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (formally Victoria Terminus Station), an outstanding example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture blended with themes deriving from Indian traditional architecture. The first train in India departed from this station in 1853. After lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy a scenic drive past the Dhobi Ghat, the world’s largest outdoor laundromat, and the Mani Bhawan residence, where Mahatma Gandhi lived between 1917 and 1934. The leader formulated his philosophy of satyagraha (nonviolent protest) and launched the 1932 Civil Disobedience campaign from this house. Return to the hotel where you will enjoy some time to relax before dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 9 – Mumbai Embarkation

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to the port, where you will board the Azamara Onward for an 18-night cruise to Egypt, Jordan, Israel and more. (B)

Day 10–26 – Cruising onboard the Azamara Onward (see below for cruise highlights)

Day 27 – Athens Disembarkation

Enjoy breakfast onboard, then disembark the Azamara Onward and transfer to the airport for your return flight home. Optional 2-night Athens extension available, see “special offers” section for details.

Note: guests who book a cruise extension will not disembark in Athens. Instead, you will remain on the ship and continue your cruise to Rome.

For meals not included in your land programs, all hotels chosen include a restaurant on property where you may relax and enjoy a meal. In addition, your guide is available to make suggestions on nearby dining, shopping or sightseeing.

Port Highlights

Salalah, Oman

Salalah, Oman: Salalah is famed for its monsoon season that transforms this subtropical city into an oasis, but there are many other sights to behold like Wadi Darbat, Mughsail Bay, and some of the best beaches in Oman.

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: Discover ancient-meets-cosmopolitan Jeddah. This coastal metropolis is known as the “Mermaid of the Red Sea,” welcoming visitors with 7th-century UNESCO-listed historic districts, a buzzing waterfront promenade, luxury shopping, state-of-the-art architecture, and fine dining.

Aqaba, Jordan

Aqaba, Jordan: The warm, tranquil waters of the Red Sea make Aqaba a prime attraction for snorkelers and divers, but even more awe-inspiring is the ancient city of Petra, carved into dusky pink rock more than 2,000 years ago.

Safaga, Egypt

Safaga, Egypt: Egypt’s Safaga is a gateway to the fabulous ancient temples of Luxor, with their massive columns and statues and intriguing hieroglyphics, as well as the Pharonic tombs in the Valleys of Kings and Queens.

Sokhna, Egypt

Sokhna, Egypt: This state-of-the-art port is a striking contrast to the wonders of antiquity you will find in Cairo, where the city of Suez unfolds in layers, beginning with the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum.

Suez Canal (Passage), Egypt

Suez Canal (Passage), Egypt: Experience the breathtaking illusion of sailing through oceans of desert sand as you cruise the 100-mile Suez Canal, the engineering marvel completed in 1869 and connecting the Mediterranean and Red Seas.

Jerusalem, Israel

Jerusalem (Ashdod), Israel: Regardless of your faith, philosophy or grasp of ancient history, you cannot fail to be awed by the holy city of Jerusalem and its many shrines, including the Western Wall, the Temple Mount and Via Dolorosa.

Haifa, Isreal

Haifa, Israel: Haifa is a modern city and seaport on the slopes of Mount Carmel and an excellent base for visiting biblical and archaeological sites like the Galilee, Nazareth, the River Jordan and the city of Safed.

Limassol, Cyprus

Limassol, Cyprus: A fascinating intersection of cultural influences and an intriguing history have shaped Limassol, a vibrant city located in the shadow of the Troodos mountains, on Akrotiri Bay on the southern coast of Cyprus.

Start Date: April 12, 2025
(Sailing April 20, 2025)

**Please note that this itinerary is subject to change at anytime, including port of call changes. Please call a Personal Vacation Manager with any questions.

Interested in the land program without the cruise? Call us for a quote.

Land Program

Day 1 – Arrive in Delhi, India

Upon arrival at the airport you will be transferred to the hotel where assistance will be provided for check-in. You’ll have time to get settled in and relax before joining your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. (D)

Note: if you wish to spend more time in Delhi, ask your Personal Vacation Manager about the optional hotel extension, which will add one night to your Delhi hotel stay.

Day 2 – Delhi

Qutb Minar, Delhi

After breakfast, you will have a full-day tour of Old and New Delhi. Modern Delhi is a chaotic  tapestry of medieval fortifications, Mughal mausoleums, crowded bazaars, and colonial-era town planning. Start our tour of Old and New Delhi with a drive past the Kotla Firoze Shah, ruins of an old fort of the 14th century, the 17th-century Jama Masjid Mosque, and the magnificent Red Fort. Visit Raj Ghat, where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated in 1948. Then see New Delhi as you drive past the Presidential Palace, the Rashtrapati Bhavan, through the impressive Rajpath to the World War I Memorial Arch and the India Gate. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Qutb Minar with its 72-meter-high minaret. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and the remainder of your afternoon at your leisure. Rejoin the group again this evening for dinner at the hotel. (B, L, D)

Day 3 – Delhi to Agra

Taj Mahal

After breakfast at your hotel, depart by motor coach for Agra where you will have lunch upon arrival. We will then make our way to the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and undoubtedly one of the world’s most iconic structures. The soft hues of white marble against a dusty blue sky reflect on the water, creating a breathtaking image. There is no doubt that this special moment will be one of the highlights of your trip! The Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan as a memorial for his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died giving birth to their 14th child in 1631. Construction of the Taj began the following year and, although the main building is thought to have been built in eight years, the whole complex was not completed until 1653. After our visit to the Taj Mahal is complete, return to the hotel for dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 4 – Agra to Jaipur

Agra Fort

This morning we will visit the Agra Fort. With the Taj Mahal overshadowing it, one can easily forget that Agra has one of the finest Mughal forts in India. Construction of the massive red-sandstone fort, on the bank of the Yamuna River, began by Emperor Akbar in 1565. Further additions were made using white marble. The fort was built primarily as a military structure, but Shah Jahan transformed it into a palace, and later it became his gilded prison for eight years after his son Aurangzeb seized power in 1658.

Agra Fort

After visiting the Agra Fort, board our coach for the drive to Jaipur. Enroute, a visit will be made at Fatehpur Sikri, a magnificent fortified ancient city that was the short-lived capital of the Mughal Empire between 1571 and 1585, during the reign of Emperor Akbar. Akbar visited the village of Sikri to consult the Sufi saint Shaikh Salim Chishti, who predicted the birth of an heir to the Mughal throne. When the prophecy came true, Akbar built his new capital here, including a stunning mosque—still in use today—and three palaces for each of his favorite wives, one a Hindu, one a Muslim and one a Christian (though Hindu villagers in Sikri dispute these claims). The city was an Indo-Islamic masterpiece and is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A stop for lunch will be made in Bharatpur before continuing to Jaipur. Check-in and have a leisurely dinner at the hotel. (B, L, D)

Day 5 – Jaipur

Beautiful gardens in Amer Fort

This morning we travel seven miles north of Jaipur to visit Amer Fort (also known as the Amber Fort), a honey-colored fortress, in the Aravalli hills. The somber exterior belies the richness of the royal apartments, which open on to striking views of the gorge. It also possesses a Chamber of Mirrors. The Hall of Victory presents a galaxy of decorative art—panels of alabaster with fine inlay work. After working up an appetite, indulge in a delicious lunch. Then, enjoy some free time to peruse the stalls at the local bazaar. Return to your hotel, a former palace, for an evening at leisure. Built in 1727, the Raj Palace Hotel is a former Maharaja’s palace which has been meticulously restored. Filled with antiques and, Oriental rugs and rich fabrics throughout the rooms and courtyards, it offers a luxury experience full of history and charm. Return to your hotel for dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 6 – Jaipur

Hawa Mahal Palace of Winds, Jaipur, India

After breakfast, you will have a half-day tour of the city of Jaipur. Visit the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), an elaborate building encrusted with delicate honeycomb screens and carved balconies from which the royal ladies, confined to their quarters, could view the world outside. Visit Jai Singh’s Observatory, Jantar Mantar, built in the 17th century by the founder of Jaipur who, besides being the prince was also a soldier, astronomer and builder. Then visit the City Palace—part of which is a museum displaying Rajput and Mughal paintings, rare manuscripts and Royal costumes. After exploring Jaipur, return to the hotel via an exciting common mode of transportation in India, a TukTuk ride (an auto rickshaw) with time to prepare for a celebration of the senses.

Indian folk dances

This evening you will enjoy a special Gala Dinner at the Samode Palace. Assemble outside the palace where we will join a procession of camels and soldiers all dressed up for this special welcome. Walking towards the Palace steps, adorned with a red carpet and floral decorations, the fort will become illuminated as musicians play alongside. You will then move into the second courtyard, where a Bhopa (musician playing a one stringed instrument) welcomes you inside. Then, in the third courtyard, delight in a local puppet show before continuing into the Sheesh Mahal, where you will be served a welcome drink and light snacks. Finally, sit down to an elegant dinner on the terrace, complete with a performance of music and folk dances. The evening ends with fireworks, resembling those of India’s festival of lights, Diwali.

Please Note: The Gala Dinner requires a minimum of 10 guests. In the event of a smaller group size, it may be replaced with an alternative cultural dinner experience.(B, L, D)

Day 7 – Jaipur to Mumbai

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Mumbai. Experience true grandeur at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, the iconic sea-facing landmark in Colaba, South Mumbai. This flagship 5-star Taj hotel offers you splendid views of the Arabian Sea and Gateway of India, the most famous monument in Mumbai. After checking in to the hotel, join your fellow travelers for a delicious dinner at the hotel restaurant. (B, D)

Day 8 – Mumbai

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Mumbai, India

During this full-day tour of Mumbai, you will see all the “must see” sites of Mumbai, and more! Departing the hotel, you will set off on a walking tour of some of Mumbai’s best-preserved Colonial buildings from the days of British rule. Sites include the Asiatic Library (Old Town Hall); St. Thomas Cathedral, the city’s first Anglican Church and the oldest British-era building standing in Mumbai; Flora Fountain, which was built in 1864 and depicts the Roman goddess Flora; High Court, one of the most distinguished High Courts in the country and housed in a beautiful Gothic building; and Mumbai University. Continue walking towards the David Sassoon Library, then board the coach for a drive to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (formally Victoria Terminus Station), an outstanding example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture blended with themes deriving from Indian traditional architecture. The first train in India departed from this station in 1853. After lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy a scenic drive past the Dhobi Ghat, the world’s largest outdoor laundromat, and the Mani Bhawan residence, where Mahatma Gandhi lived between 1917 and 1934. The leader formulated his philosophy of satyagraha (nonviolent protest) and launched the 1932 Civil Disobedience campaign from this house. Return to the hotel where you will enjoy some time to relax before dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 9 – Mumbai Embarkation

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to the port, where you will board the Azamara Onward for an 18-night cruise to Egypt, Jordan, Israel and more. (B)

Day 10–40 – Cruising onboard the Azamara Onward (see below for cruise highlights)

Day 41 – Rome Disembarkation- Transfer to Airport

Enjoy breakfast onboard, then disembark the Azamara Onward and transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

For meals not included in your land programs, all hotels chosen include a restaurant on property where you may relax and enjoy a meal. In addition, your guide is available to make suggestions on nearby dining, shopping or sightseeing.

Port Highlights

Salalah, Oman

Salalah, Oman: Salalah is famed for its monsoon season that transforms this subtropical city into an oasis, but there are many other sights to behold like Wadi Darbat, Mughsail Bay, and some of the best beaches in Oman.

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: Discover ancient-meets-cosmopolitan Jeddah. This coastal metropolis is known as the “Mermaid of the Red Sea,” welcoming visitors with 7th-century UNESCO-listed historic districts, a buzzing waterfront promenade, luxury shopping, state-of-the-art architecture, and fine dining.

Aqaba, Jordan

Aqaba, Jordan: The warm, tranquil waters of the Red Sea make Aqaba a prime attraction for snorkelers and divers, but even more awe-inspiring is the ancient city of Petra, carved into dusky pink rock more than 2,000 years ago.

Safaga, Egypt

Safaga, Egypt: Egypt’s Safaga is a gateway to the fabulous ancient temples of Luxor, with their massive columns and statues and intriguing hieroglyphics, as well as the Pharonic tombs in the Valleys of Kings and Queens.

Sokhna, Egypt

Sokhna, Egypt: This state-of-the-art port is a striking contrast to the wonders of antiquity you will find in Cairo, where the city of Suez unfolds in layers, beginning with the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum.

Suez Canal (Passage), Egypt

Suez Canal (Passage), Egypt: Experience the breathtaking illusion of sailing through oceans of desert sand as you cruise the 100-mile Suez Canal, the engineering marvel completed in 1869 and connecting the Mediterranean and Red Seas.

Jerusalem, Israel

Jerusalem (Ashdod), Israel: Regardless of your faith, philosophy or grasp of ancient history, you cannot fail to be awed by the holy city of Jerusalem and its many shrines, including the Western Wall, the Temple Mount and Via Dolorosa.

Haifa, Israel

Haifa, Israel: Haifa is a modern city and seaport on the slopes of Mount Carmel and an excellent base for visiting biblical and archaeological sites like the Galilee, Nazareth, the River Jordan and the city of Safed.

Limassol, Cyprus

Limassol, Cyprus: A fascinating intersection of cultural influences and an intriguing history have shaped Limassol, a vibrant city located in the shadow of the Troodos mountains, on Akrotiri Bay on the southern coast of Cyprus.

Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece: Home to the Acropolis, Athens has quite a reputation to live up to: Named for Athena, Goddess of Wisdom, the city is credited with being the cradle of European civilization and birthplace of democracy.

Syros, Greece

Syros, Greece: Perfectly blending the traditional with the modern, Syros offers visitors an authentic snapshot of Greek life in the beautiful Cyclades. Come for the laid-back pace, stay for the buzzing gastronomy scene. Opa!

Santorini, Greece

Santorini, Greece: Your daydream of a Greek island meets reality in Santorini—so beautiful with its whitewashed villages and blue roofs reflecting the sea, you can almost believe the myths claiming it as the birthplace of gods.

Monemvasia, Greece

Monemvasia, Greece: One look at Monemvasia as you pull in to port and it’s easy to understand why locals nicknamed it The Rock. Shrouded by precipitous cliffs along the brilliant teal waters of the Myrtoan Sea, Monemvasia is a castle town suspended in history.

Argostoli, Greece

Argostoli, Greece: The capital and “heart” of the Greek Island of Kefalonia, Argostoli is a modern town with a traditional soul, with the famous Drogati Cave and underground Melissani Lake routinely topping must-see lists.

Venice, Italy

Venice, Italy: An independent city-state and major power during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, Venice consists of more than 100 small islands connected by arched bridges and is one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

Koper, Slovenia

Koper, Slovenia: Koper is the gateway to an array of intercontinental adventures. Only 30 minutes away from Koper, Trek through the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Skocjan Caves, which features the largest underground canyon in the world. Or stay local and enjoy the charms of Koper itself, with historic sites like the 12th century St. Mary’s of the Assumption Cathedral, the Praetorian Palace.

Split, Croatia

Split, Croatia: Its Adriatic seaside lined with palm trees, Split is the largest city in Dalmatia, and custodian of the riches of culture and history found within and around the walls of the Roman emperor Diocletian’s palace.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia: To visit Dubrovnik is to step back in time to the Middle Ages, as the town is one massive museum of fountains, palaces and churches, with thick walls that date back to the 13th century and encircle the city.

Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor, Montenegro: One of Europe’s best-preserved cities of medieval or Renaissance vintage, Kotor’s walls were constructed right into the slopes of the mountain behind it, making it an amazing sight on approach from the sea.

Sorrento, Italy

Sorrento, Italy: A warming sun and gentle sea breezes have been attracting visitors to Sorrento for two millennia, and its reputation as a playground of the ancient rich and famous have resulted in lavish villas and palaces.