There are certain trips that don’t just take you somewhere new — they change how you see the world. Our Mediterranean journey aboard Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas was one of those unforgettable experiences.

Over ten incredible days, we explored Italy and Greece, blending ancient history, breathtaking coastlines, incredible cuisine, and all the magic that comes from waking up to a new view each morning. From Rome’s timeless treasures to Santorini’s blue domes, Mykonos’ island charm, and the lemon-scented streets of Sorrento, every stop had its own story.

Here’s a day-by-day look inside our Mediterranean adventure.

⸻

Day 1 – Arriving in Rome: Gelato & First Impressions

After a long flight, we finally arrived in Rome — the Eternal City. We checked into Hotel Trevi, a charming boutique property perfectly located near the iconic Trevi Fountain. Within minutes of dropping off our bags, we were standing in front of that magnificent fountain and making wishes like countless travelers before us.

Dinner that evening was at Pizza in Trevi, just steps from the fountain. The pizza and pasta were exactly what you dream of when you think of Italy — simple, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. We couldn’t resist grabbing gelato on the walk back to the hotel, enjoying our first taste of la dolce vita under the glow of Rome’s evening lights.

⸻

Day 2 – Ancient Wonders & Vespa Adventures

We began our morning with a walk to the Colosseum, where our guided tour also included Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. Standing inside the Colosseum, imagining gladiators and roaring crowds, was surreal. The views from Palatine Hill were stunning — a panorama of ancient ruins set against the modern city.

Lunch was classic Roman fare: pizza, pesto pasta, and Aperol Spritz at Birreria Martini, a cozy spot with perfect people-watching.

Next, we spent the afternoon at the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. Seeing Michelangelo’s masterpiece in person is one of those moments you never forget — breathtaking doesn’t even begin to cover it.

But our day wasn’t done yet. We met our guide for an evening Vespa tour, zipping through neighborhoods and viewpoints few tourists ever see. As the sun set over St. Peter’s Basilica, and we cruised through St. John’s Square, we realized this was the best way to see Rome — up close, unhurried, and full of energy.

Dinner was at Osteria Pasquino, where we enjoyed Tuscan wine, truffle pasta, and the warmest service. On our walk back to our hotel, we passed by the Pantheon glowing under the night sky — the perfect ending to a perfect Roman day.

⸻

Day 3 – Embarkation Day: Setting Sail on the Odyssey

After breakfast, our private driver whisked us away to Civitavecchia, where we boarded Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas. The embarkation process was smooth, and within minutes we were settling into our Junior Suite — complete with two bathrooms, a spacious sitting area, and our very own espresso maker.

We spent the afternoon exploring the ship — discovering favorite spots, testing the coffee, and taking in the sail away from our balcony. Dinner that night was at Coastal Kitchen, an exclusive venue for suite guests that quickly became our favorite. We ended the evening with “The Book” in the Two 70 theater — a visually stunning show that set the tone for the week ahead.

⸻

Day 4 – Sicily: From Volcanoes to Views

Our first port brought us to Messina, Sicily. We joined a small group tour up to Mt. Etna, where we marveled at the vast volcanic craters and unique landscape. On the way back down, we stopped at a café for espresso and cannoli — the best we’ve ever had, with crisp shells and creamy ricotta filling.

Next, we headed to Taormina, a picture-perfect hilltop town with cobblestone streets, sea views, and plenty of charm. We toured the ancient Greek theater, browsed local boutiques, and enjoyed carbonara and pizza at Granduca, overlooking the Ionian Sea. Of course, we couldn’t resist finishing with gelato before heading back to the ship.

Dinner once again at Coastal Kitchen — which became our nightly tradition — was flawless as always.

⸻

Day 5 – A Day at Sea: Rest & Recharge

After several busy days on land, our first sea day was bliss. We booked 75-minute massages at the spa and spent the afternoon lounging in the Solarium, Odyssey’s serene adults-only retreat.

That night was formal night, and we loved dressing up for an elegant evening onboard — dinner, cocktails, and plenty of celebration. Sometimes the best part of travel is simply slowing down and soaking it all in.

⸻

Day 6 – Santorini: Blue Domes & Endless Views

Our day in Santorini started early to beat the crowds. We headed straight to Oia, where the island’s famous blue-domed churches gleamed against the Aegean. We walked down to the castle ruins, enjoying sweeping views of the caldera before grabbing Greek donuts and strong Greek coffee.

Later, we made our way to Fira, exploring its winding lanes and whitewashed terraces overlooking the sea. Lunch at Nectar Lounge was a highlight — lamb skewers, a wine tasting, and a local charcuterie platter with volcano views.

Before heading back to the ship, we stumbled upon a small bakery serving fresh baklava, then made the trek down the long, scenic staircase to the tender port. Every moment in Santorini felt cinematic — as if the island was made for wonder.

⸻

Day 7 – Mykonos: Windmills, Waterfronts & Ancient Delos

Mykonos welcomed us with sunny skies and sparkling water. We took the sea bus from the new port to the old port and began our day wandering the maze-like streets of Mykonos Town — all whitewashed walls and bright blue doors.

We grabbed Greek coffee from Doppio, strolled through Little Venice, visited the famous windmills, and then stopped for drinks on the overwater balcony at Katarina’s Bar. From there, we took a short boat to the island of Delos, the mythical birthplace of Apollo, where ancient ruins and sacred temples offered a fascinating glimpse into Greece’s past.

Back in Mykonos, we enjoyed a late lunch at Kastro’s, a seaside restaurant known for its pan-fried sea bass — easily one of the best meals of the trip.

⸻

Day 8 – Sea Day Fun: Games, Shows & Relaxation

Our second sea day was all about fun. We started with breakfast and joined a few rounds of trivia, followed by a little time in the casino. Lunch at Café Two70 hit the spot before we relaxed on the pool deck with a cocktail in hand.

That evening was the second formal night, and we once again dined at Coastal Kitchen, followed by the Showgirls production in the main theater and the hilarious Love & Marriage game show in the Music Hall. It was one of those nights full of laughter and energy — the perfect sendoff before our final port.

⸻

Day 9 – Naples: Positano, Sorrento & Pompeii

Our last full day may have been the best of all. We met our driver, Bruno from Taxi Mister Cab Driver, for a private tour of the Amalfi Coast.

The drive along the Sorrento coast was nothing short of breathtaking — cliffs dropping into turquoise waters, terraced vineyards, and lemon groves at every turn. In Positano, we wandered through colorful alleys lined with boutiques and stopped for one last cannoli at Collina, enjoying postcard-perfect views.

Next was Sorrento, famous for its Italian leather and Limoncello. We shopped for souvenirs (and a new handbag at Antonella Ferrante) before cooling off with a lemon sorbet and a Limoncello spritz— a must! We even grabbed a bottle of Limoncello to bring home.

Before heading to Pompeii, we stopped for authentic Neapolitan pizza — thin, soft, and bubbling with flavor. It might have been the best pizza of the entire trip.

Walking through Pompeii’s ancient ruins, with Mount Vesuvius looming in the background, was awe-inspiring. The preserved streets, villas, and mosaics brought history to life.

We returned to the ship for one final dinner at Coastal Kitchen, sharing laughs and memories with our favorite staff — a perfect ending to an unforgettable journey.

⸻

Day 10 – Farewell, Rome & Reflections

We disembarked in Civitavecchia and made our way back to Rome to catch our flight home — tired but completely fulfilled. This trip was everything we’d hoped it would be and more.

⸻

Final Thoughts

Our Junior Suite was absolutely worth the upgrade — the extra space, two bathrooms, espresso maker, and access to Coastal Kitchen made the experience seamless and special. The food and service there were so exceptional we never felt the need to pay extra for specialty dining.

From Rome’s ancient wonders to the volcanic slopes of Sicily, the whitewashed beauty of Santorini, and the lemon-scented shores of Sorrento, this itinerary was the perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and coastlines.

This journey reminded us why we travel — to explore, to connect, and to be reminded that there’s still so much beauty waiting to unfold.