Jet-Set Isles and Eternal Echoes 
from Portofino to Rome

Tucked away in a serene bay along Italy’s Ligurian coast, Portofino is a jewel of timeless beauty. This picturesque village, with its colorful facades and tranquil harbor, has long been a retreat. In the 1950s and '60s, it became a beloved hideaway for Hollywood icons and European aristocracy. The Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Lauren Bacall, Humphrey Bogart, and Clark Gable all found solace here, adding to the allure of this enchanting spot.

Strolling through Portofino, you’ll find yourself drawn to Castello Brown, where the hanging gardens offer sweeping views of the Gulf of Tigullio. Visit the charming San Giorgio Church or relax in the Piazzetta, the village square, where time seems to slow to a gentle pace. In Portofino, glamour meets tranquility, allowing you to savor the beauty of each moment.

Portoferraio, the capital and main port of Elba, is steeped in history and myth. In ancient times, it was called Porto Argo. Today, it owes its name and the moniker "Island of a Thousand Fires" to its rich iron deposits, which have shaped both its landscape and heritage.

Approaching Portoferraio by sea is spectacular. The Martello Tower rises from the fortified walls, while pastel-hued buildings cascade toward the sparkling harbor. Explore the Roman legacy in the Villas delle Grotte and della Linguella, or visit the Palazzina dei Mulini, where Napoleon resided during his exile. Surrounded by golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and lush gardens, Portoferraio blends natural beauty with historical intrigue, inviting you to linger and explore.

Once a modest fishing village nestled among Sardinia’s rugged northern coastline, Porto Cervo was transformed in the 1960s by Prince Karim Aga Khan IV. Enchanted by the breathtaking beaches and crystal-clear waters of Costa Smeralda, he set out to create an exclusive luxury haven that would captivate the world’s elite. His vision succeeded brilliantly.

Today, Porto Cervo is synonymous with glamour. Its marina gleams with some of the most magnificent yachts, owned by football stars, celebrities, and captains of industry who make Porto Cervo their Mediterranean playground. The town itself offers an array of high-end boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, seamlessly blending luxury and laid-back Mediterranean charm.

Docking in Civitavecchia, you’ll be just an hour and a half away from Rome—a city of legends, where history and myth intertwine. Rome shaped the world, and in turn, the world remains captivated by its grandeur.

Every street corner reveals a story: the Colosseum’s ancient grandeur, the Pantheon’s awe-inspiring dome, the elegance of the Trevi Fountain, and the quiet splendor of Villa Borghese. Rome’s timeless monuments—from St. Peter’s Basilica to the Sistine Chapel—speak of emperors, philosophers, and artists who left their mark on the Eternal City.

A city of cinema, la dolce vita, and endless discoveries, Rome is far more than a destination; it’s an experience. They say every stone there tells a story. Yours is waiting to be written.

Extend your Roman experience with a stay at Orient Express La Minerva, an elegant retreat in a historic palace.