Athens, Adriatic & Italy: Cote D'azur

Welcome to the ancient city of Athens, the 'Cradle of Western Civilisation'. If your schedule is tight, savor traditional Greek coffee at a café with a view of the city's iconic ruins, soaking in the historic ambiance before your cruise departs. If you've got time to explore the Acropolis stands as a must-see, 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.

Piraeus is located about 12 km (7.5 miles) from the city center and it takes roughly 20-30 minutes to reach by taxi or train. A taxi ride from the airport to Piraeus port 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).

Combining a touch of Venetian beauty with Crete’s rugged landscape and dazzling beaches, Chania is an enchanting welcome to this legendary Greek island. Inhabited since the Neolithic era, Chania is a modern city built over the ruins of the ancient city of Kydonia.

Start your day exploring the old town's labyrinthine alleys, filled with charming shops, cafes, and the 16th-century Venetian harbor. Afterward, visit the Archaeological Museum housed in a former Venetian monastery, showcasing artifacts from the Minoan to the Roman periods. For a more relaxed experience, head to the Municipal Market, a bustling hub of local life where you can taste Cretan delicacies, or relax seaside at Nea Chora beach, a short walk from the old town, perfect for a leisurely afternoon by the sea.

Souda Bay’s huge natural harbour is a spectacular entrance to Greece's largest island, Crete. Packed with beautiful beaches and rich maritime history, Crete is also a treasure trove of well-stocked museums, rich archaeological sites and charming Venetian fishing towns. Ships will dock at the Port of Souda.

Top Things to Do in Souda Bay:

• admire the Arkadi Monastery
• stroll through the Old Town of Chania
• visit a Cretan winery and taste the local wine
• explore Rethymnon and its Fortezza
• visit the Agia Tradia Monastery

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.

The 60 km long Dardanelles Strait divides the continents of Europe and Asia, and is the sole waterway between the Aegean and Marmara seas. Along the strait, you will be able to admire hilly landscapes and arid lowlands brightened by fields and groves of olive trees.

Australians, New Zealanders and history buffs will take the most interest in the Gallipoli Peninsula on the northern shore at the mouth of the Dardanelles. It was on this peninsula during the brutal Gallipoli Campaign, fought for eight months in 1915, that the legend of the Anzac spirit of courage, loyalty and friendship was born.

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

The 60 km long Dardanelles Strait divides the continents of Europe and Asia, and is the sole waterway between the Aegean and Marmara seas. Along the strait, you will be able to admire hilly landscapes and arid lowlands brightened by fields and groves of olive trees.

Australians, New Zealanders and history buffs will take the most interest in the Gallipoli Peninsula on the northern shore at the mouth of the Dardanelles. It was on this peninsula during the brutal Gallipoli Campaign, fought for eight months in 1915, that the legend of the Anzac spirit of courage, loyalty and friendship was born.

Olympia is the birthplace of the Olympic Game and a treasure trove of ancient history and culture. Begin your visit at the Archaeological Site of Olympia, home to the ancient stadium where the first games were held in 776 BC. Marvel at the Temple of Zeus, once housing one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and explore the ruins of other significant structures like the Temple of Hera.

The Archaeological Museum of Olympia is a must-see, displaying a vast collection of artifacts, including the famous Hermes of Praxiteles statue. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the lush surroundings of the site, reflecting on the history and heritage of this iconic location.

This quaint little seaside town on the Ionian Sea is your gateway to Ancient Olympia, where Greek mythology was born and the first Olympiad was held. Excavation of the ruins of Olympia began in 1875, and Olympia was declared a National Park in 1976. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Katakolon:

• relax on Kourouta Beach
• tour the ruins of Olympia
• visit the Archaeological Museum of Olympia
• taste some local wine at Mercouri Estate
• visit a traditional Greek olive farm

The lush and verdant island of Corfu lies in the Ionian Sea, midway between Greece and Italy. It is an island of sparkling beaches, mountains splashed with wildflowers, and historical, perched fortresses. Ships will dock at the town of Corfu.

Top Things to Do on Corfu:

• visit the village of Palaiokastritsa
• marvel at the Achilleion Palace
• stroll through the UNESCO listed Old Town
• taste the local liqueur made from kumquats
• explore the Old Fortress
• sail the waters of Corfu

The city of Korcula is decorated with beautiful medieval fortifications, time stands still as you stroll its narrow paths that cut between stone facades of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Said to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, the city is home to the Marco Polo Museum and Marco Polo Tower.

Top Things to Do in Korcula:

• stroll the cobbled streets of Old Town
• taste some wine at a local winery
• enjoy a scenic drive to the town of Ston
• take a water taxi to Badija Island
• visit the small fishing village of Lumbarda

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Your ship will dock at the Trieste Cruise Terminal, located right in the heart of the city. This makes it easy to explore Trieste’s rich history and charming architecture. Key attractions like Piazza Unità d'Italia, the Roman Theatre, and Miramare Castle are easily accessible by foot or a short bus ride. For a scenic adventure, consider a tram ride up to the hilltop village of Opicina, offering stunning views of the city and Adriatic Sea.

Venice is approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) away, a journey that takes about 2 hours by train. To visit Venice, take a train from Trieste Centrale to Venice Santa Lucia for a scenic and efficient route.

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Kotor is a beautiful walled medieval city of twisting, pink-paved streets, markets and architecture reflecting Byzantine to Venetian influences. Nestled between the Adriatic Sea to the west and the limestone-covered mountain range of Mt. Lovćen to the east, this historic city boasts a magnificent natural setting. Ships will dock or anchor offshore at this port.

Top Things to Do in Kotor:

• take in the view from St John's fortress
• explore Old Town
• hike at Lovćen National Park
• spend the day in Budva

Words cannot do justice to the immense beauty of the Bay of Kotor, also known as Boka Bay. Cypress-dappled cliffs plummet to the shimmering Adriatic, a backdrop punctuated by the terracotta rooftops of Venetian-style villages. Worthy of any glossy magazine cover, Montenegro and the Bay of Kotor somehow remain relatively untouched by tourists.

You will spot two storied islands while scenic cruising through the bay. These were not made by Mother Nature. Legend has it that fishermen saw a picture of the Virgin Mary in a rock, and the locals began dropping stones in the same area. After many years, the islands emerged, and the residents built Our Lady of the Rocks, a church dedicated to the protection of fishermen. Other scenic cruising views may include Lovćen mountain, which inspired the name, Montenegro, and Kotor’s 14th-century fortifications.

The lush and verdant island of Corfu lies in the Ionian Sea, midway between Greece and Italy. It is an island of sparkling beaches, mountains splashed with wildflowers, and historical, perched fortresses. Ships will dock at the town of Corfu.

Top Things to Do on Corfu:

• visit the village of Palaiokastritsa
• marvel at the Achilleion Palace
• stroll through the UNESCO listed Old Town
• taste the local liqueur made from kumquats
• explore the Old Fortress
• sail the waters of Corfu

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Taormina, perched on a hillside in Sicily, offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. Begin your visit with a leisurely walk along Corso Umberto, the main street lined with charming shops, cafes, and historic buildings. The ancient Greek Theatre is a must-see, providing a spectacular backdrop for photos and a glimpse into the town's rich history.

Venture to the beautiful public gardens of Villa Comunale for a relaxing stroll among exotic plants and stunning vistas. For a taste of local culture, visit the Piazza IX Aprile, a lively square perfect for people-watching and enjoying a gelato.

The Strait of Messina is the narrow waterway between Sicily and Calabria, the southernmost region on the Italian peninsula. Despite its relatively short length, the Strait of Messina is endowed with many unique qualities, making it one of the more dramatic passages in the Mediterranean.

Its narrowest point - less than three kilometers (two miles) - creates a natural bottleneck and a distinct sheltered marine ecosystem; it is also a significant migration point for numerous species of birds.

One of eight Lipari Islands off the north coast of Sicily, tiny Stromboli is the most active - in that it is home to the second-most-active volcano on Earth, one that's been erupting continuously for more than 2,000 years. Most visitors who cruise around the island have a singular focus: the volcano. It perfectly matches one’s image of the legendary geographical feature - cone-shaped, topped by a fiery crater that spews fountains of glowing red lava, and best seen at night. One side of Stromboli remains forever burned and blackened by perpetual eruptions.

Occasionally - every two to 10 years - major flow events occur, sending a river of molten rock down the mountainside to the sea through a gorge called the Sciara del Fuoco (or Stream of Fire). Smaller eruptions happen more frequently, however, usually every 30 minutes to an hour, with blasts of lava shooting from the mouth of the caldera. Despite being an active-volcanic island, Stromboli has two settlements: Stromboli Town in the island’s northeastern corner and smaller Ginostra on its west coast. The former features black-sand beaches, several hotels and most of the tourist services.

The lively seaport of Salerno is a thriving modern metropolis with ancient origins. Its elegant lungomare, a shoreside promenade, offers far-reaching views of the sea and the mountains beyond. The city boasts an ideal location with both the ruins of Roman cities and the stunning Amalfi Coast in easy reach. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Salerno:

• explore the ruins of Pompeii
• enjoy a scenic drive to Ravello
• visit the post-card worthy Positano
• cruise the Amalfi Coast in a boat

The ancient capital of the Western World and the centre of Christianity for nearly 2,000 years, Rome provides an inexhaustible feast of historical and cultural landmarks to explore. Visit the ruins of the Forum and the Colosseum, view the splendours of the Sistine Chapel, throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain or climb the Spanish Steps, once the heart of Rome's Bohemian Quarter.

Don't forget to treat your taste buds to the delights of authentic Roman cuisine, which is as captivating as the city's ancient wonders. Indulge in creamy gelato, savour the perfection of al dente pasta, and relish the thin, crispy crust of Roman-style pizza. Buon Appetito!

Serving as Rome’s seaport since the 13th century, Civitavecchia is located about an hour (80km/50mi) from the centre of Rome. For guests arriving and departing from the airport in Rome, a transfer to Civitavecchia port should be organised ahead of time with your cruise line. Details will be provided in your travel documentation after booking. The port area itself offers diverse dining options, and inside, facilities include accessible bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and a spacious waiting area. The port also offers complimentary shuttle buses to transfer guests between the ship and the port terminal.

Marvel at masterpieces in Florence's Uffizi Gallery and stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio. Visit the awe-inspiring Florence Cathedral with its magnificent dome designed by Brunelleschi. The city's rich history is reflected in its stunning architecture and vibrant street life, making it a treasure trove for art and history enthusiasts.

A short trip away, Pisa beckons with its world-famous Leaning Tower. Climb the tower for a breathtaking view of the Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the beautiful Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery. Explore the quaint streets of Pisa, enjoying its delightful cafes and shops. This city offers a perfect blend of history, art, and Italian charm.

Cinque Terre, on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline, comprises five charming villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Each village offers breathtaking views, colorful houses, and narrow winding streets. Monterosso features a lovely beach and the Church of San Giovanni Battista, while Vernazza captivates with its picturesque harbor and ancient Doria Castle. Indulge in local seafood delicacies and savor the region's renowned Sciacchetrà wine. 

The gateway to the Tuscany region and one of Italy's oldest port cities, Livorno is a small but historically rich city. Best known for its red-hued Fortezza Nuova and the surrounding area known as 'New Venice' where you can take a boat ride through its charming canals. While in Livorno, don't miss the Terrazza Mascagni, a picturesque promenade offering stunning views of the Ligurian Sea.

Cruise ships docking in Livorno typically use the Porto di Livorno, which is located approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) from the historic city center of Pisa, and about 95 kilometers (59 miles) from Florence, requiring a 1.5-hour journey by coach.

A glitzy, glamorous coastal resort, Saint Tropez is the French Riviera hotspot of choice for A-listers and flotillas of gleaming yachts. While spectacular white sand beaches line the Gulf de Saint-Tropez, the Provencal countryside rises up behind the town with medieval villages, vineyards and lavender fields. Ships will anchor offshore and tender guests to shore.

Top Things to Do in Saint-Tropez:

• explore the medieval village of Grimaud
• relax on the famous Tahiti Beach
• enjoy a scenic drive of the peninsula
• shop the elegant boutiques

A day cruising at sea offers you the perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Start your morning on the top-level decks with a game of pickleball, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and expansive ocean views. Or, head to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon® to rejuvenate with a therapeutic spa treatment. The Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained with a variety of fun events and activities, while you can unwind by the pool or enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center.

In the evening, delight in a tantalizing meal at one of the ship's restaurants, and afterward, enjoy a world-class performance at the stunning World Stage, adding a touch of culture to your night. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, a day at sea will be full of unforgettable experiences.

Your cruise finishes today in Barcelona, a captivating city on Spain's northeastern coast. If you're extending your stay in the city, start with a visit to La Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí's masterpiece, then wander through the narrow, historic streets of the Gothic Quarter.

The bustling La Boqueria Market offers a sensory overload with its colorful stalls and local delicacies. Stroll down Las Ramblas for street performances and shopping, and don't miss the stunning views from Park Güell. For art lovers, the Picasso Museum showcases an impressive collection of the artist's early works.