A Jourmey Of Anciant Wonders & Mysteries Along The Silk Road

Delve into ancient palaces, century-old galleries, and modern-day exhibits as you whirl through Venice. Walk through masterpieces, catch an opera, gaze at medieval buildings, blow Murano glass and drift down the Grand Canal by gondola to visit churches, convents and campi “squares” that vary in spirit and scale. Cross hump-backed bridges, reach teeming Piazza San Marco’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, or duck down passages to escape reality. From palazzos to perfumeries and the must-see Bridge of Sighs, you’re only moments from a place of beauty in this liquid-gold city of treasures.

Fusina Terminal is located about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from the heart of Venice. The journey to the city center typically takes around 20-30 minutes by shuttle bus or water taxi.

A hidden gem of the Adriatic, Zadar is rich with thousands of years of history. The city offers beautiful beaches, charming promenades, preserved ancient architecture and fascinating historical monuments. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Zadar:

• explore Plitvice Lakes National Park
• wander the streets of Zadar's Old Town
• visit the Zadar Archaeological Museum
• relax on Saharun Beach
• listen to the music of the Sea Organ
• visit the Museum of Ancient Glass

The famous medieval city of Dubrovnik, known as 'the pearl of the Adriatic', is found behind massive stonewalls that protect winding streets, charming squares, and red-roofed buildings dating back to the 7th century. Larger ships will dock at Gruz Harbour, while some smaller ships will anchor offshore and tender guests to the Old Harbour.

Top Things to Do in Dubrovnik:

• drive along the Dalmatian coast
• take a cruise along the Dubrovnik Riviera
• stroll the streets of the UNESCO Old City
• visit the traditional village of Ljuta

Perched on the Adriatic Sea, the city of Bari has long served as an important port city for both ancient and modern Italy. The city's Old Town beckons visitors to explore with its medieval churches, pedestrian-friendly plazas, and its labyrinth of crooked streets and passageways. Ships will dock at the Port of Bari.

Top Things to Do in Bari:

• visit the Castel del Monte
• explore the nearby town of Trani
• descend into the Grotte di Castellana caves
• admire the cone buildings of Alberobello
• see the Matera Sassi cave dwellings

A day at sea with Explora Journeys blends luxury, relaxation, and vibrant cosmopolitan life. Enjoy a morning Sundial Salutation to invigorate your body, followed by breakfast at the Emporium Marketplace. Hone your photography skills in the Explora Lounge, or indulge in a luxurious spa treatment as part of the Ocean Wellness program. Savor lunch at the Med Yacht Club, with dishes paired with regional wines.

Spend the afternoon at the adults-only Helios Pool & Bar or join a mixology class at the Malt Whisky Bar. As evening approaches, enjoy a Sunset Aperitivo with drinks and bites inspired by your destinations. End your day with an intimate candlelight performance, a Decadence experience, or enjoy a relaxing nightcap with panoramic ocean views.

Mykonos, a jewel in the Aegean Sea, is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and iconic white-washed buildings. Begin your day in Mykonos Town, or Chora, where the maze-like streets are filled with boutique shops, charming cafes, and art galleries. The town's famous windmills, a symbol of the island, offer a perfect photo opportunity and a glimpse into the island's history.

In the afternoon, relax on one of the island's beautiful beaches, such as Platis Gialos or Paradise Beach, known for their golden sands and clear waters. For a unique cultural experience, visit the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos, showcasing artifacts from the island's rich past. End your visit with a meal at a waterfront taverna, enjoying local dishes like moussaka and fresh seafood.

A day at sea with Explora Journeys blends luxury, relaxation, and vibrant cosmopolitan life. Enjoy a morning Sundial Salutation to invigorate your body, followed by breakfast at the Emporium Marketplace. Hone your photography skills in the Explora Lounge, or indulge in a luxurious spa treatment as part of the Ocean Wellness program. Savor lunch at the Med Yacht Club, with dishes paired with regional wines.

Spend the afternoon at the adults-only Helios Pool & Bar or join a mixology class at the Malt Whisky Bar. As evening approaches, enjoy a Sunset Aperitivo with drinks and bites inspired by your destinations. End your day with an intimate candlelight performance, a Decadence experience, or enjoy a relaxing nightcap with panoramic ocean views.

Once the seat of two massive empires, Istanbul has been shaped by its colourful history. From massive Byzantine churches, to towering Ottoman mosques, history can be found in each building no matter what part of the city you wander through. Ships will dock at the Galataport cruise ship terminal which is a 40 minute drive from the Istanbul Airport.

Top Things to Do in Istanbul:

• marvel at the Blue Mosque
• haggle at the Grand Bazaar
• explore the Underground Cistern
• visit the Hagia Sofia

Cruise into Cesme, a charming coastal town on the Aegean Sea. The port is conveniently located near the city's centre, and within walking distance, cruisers will find a range of amenities, including shops, cafes, and local markets.

The historic Cesme Castle is worth a visit, offering panoramic views of the town and the Aegean coastline. Dating back to the Ottoman era, the castle provides a glimpse into Cesme's rich history.

Ilica Beach is a must-visit, with its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. It provides the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy the Turkish sunshine.

Cesme is also famous for its thermal baths, said to possess healing properties. Visitors can experience the rejuvenating effects of the thermal waters, creating a unique and relaxing excursion.

Syros, the capital of the Cyclades, is a gem in the Aegean Sea, captivating visitors with its blend of traditional Greek culture and neoclassical beauty. The island's capital, Ermoupoli, is a visual feast, with its striking town hall and Apollo Theater, often likened to a miniature La Scala.

Venturing beyond Ermoupoli, travelers find tranquil beaches like Galissas and Finikas, perfect for unwinding after a morning of exploration. The island's culinary scene is a delight, with local specialties such as loukoumi - small cubes made of a mixture of sugar, water and starch that are offered in a number of scents and flavours and the famous halvadopita (nougat pie), offering a taste of Syros' rich cultural tapestry.

Welcome to the ancient city of Athens, the 'Cradle of Western Civilisation' and a historian’s delight. Uncover the awe-inspiring Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adorned with iconic structures like the Parthenon and nearby Temple of Olympian Zeus. The nearby Acropolis Museum showcases stunning artifacts from ancient Greece, providing deeper insight into the city's heritage.

Afterward, wander through Plaka, Athens' oldest neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, neoclassical architecture, and charming tavernas. For lunch, indulge in traditional Greek cuisine like moussaka or souvlaki. Head to the National Garden for a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll amid lush greenery and historical statues.

Athen's city center is located about 12 km (7.5 miles) from Piraeus and it takes roughly 20-30 minutes to reach by taxi or train. A taxi ride to the airport from Piraeus will take approximately 40-60 minutes, depending on the traffic. The taxi fare (indicative only) is around 45 euros in the daytime and 64 euros at night (24:00-05:00).