All-Inclusive Mediterranean Luxury Classic Cruise from Barcelona to Athens

DAY 1 – BARCELONA, SPAIN

One of Europe’s most visually stunning cities, Barcelona balances the medieval intimacy of its Gothic Quarter with the grace and distinction of the wide boulevards in the Moderniste Eixample. It was the home of architect Antoni Gaudí, whose Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Park Güell and Casa Milà are the most profound statements of Modernisme. View the splendid works at the Picasso Museum and the Miro Foundation, or discover Barcelona’s passionate ambiance at a flamenco show.

Depart at 7:00 pm

DAY 2 – CRUISING THE MEDITERRANEAN SEA

DAY 3 – ROME (CIVITAVECCHIA), ITALY

Arrive at 7:00 am
Depart at 7:00 pm

Whether enjoying the street performers at the Spanish Steps and people-watching over a fine glass of wine in colorful Trastevere, or taking in the historical and architectural glory that is Rome, visitors are spoiled for choice in this truly Eternal City. St. Peter’s Basilica is a full-day outing, featuring the Sistine Chapel and panoramic city vistas for those willing to climb to the top of the dome. Other landmarks not to miss include the renowned Trevi Fountain, the Coliseum, and Aventine Hill, which provides you with a grand view of the imposing remains of the Imperial Palaces and the Circus Maximus, of Ben Hur fame.

DAY 4 – SORRENTO/CAPRI, ITALY

Arrive at 7:30 am
Depart at 5:30 pm

Sorrento is surely one of the world’s most beautiful towns, built on a coast with breathtaking views and landscapes. Yet it is far from a frivolous vacation destination. The houses, people and the entire region are filled with a history and culture so deep that it can be traced back to the 11th century BC. Overlooking the bay of Naples, the town is the key point on the Sorrentine Peninsula and is one of the most popular destinations of the entire Campania region. Make sure to plan a day trip to Capri, one of the most celebrated Italian islands, noted for its natural beauty.

DAY 5 – CRUISING THE IONIAN SEA

DAY 6 – SANTORINI, GREECE

Arrive at 10:30 am
Depart at 7:00 pm

With dramatic views of classic whitewashed houses clinging perilously to the side of the caldera and stunning beaches of white and red sand or black pebbles, it’s no wonder this may be the most photographed scenery in the world. Visit Ancient Akrotiri, the archeological site of a town frozen in time by ash from an eruption 3,600 years ago. Also worth a day trip is the Volcano of Santorini Palea (old) Kameni and Nea (new) Kameni , two small islands of black lava positioned in the centre of the basin of Santorini.

DAY 7 – IZMIR, TURKEY

Curled around a cerulean bay, Izmir buzzes with a remarkably cosmopolitan vibe considering its estimated 4,000 years of history. Soak up sublime Mediterranean atmosphere along a café-laden waterfront, noshing on boyoz, kumru, kokoreç and lokma (‘king of desserts’) over kahve, Turkey’s thick, strong coffee. Snap photos roaming the archways and columns of Izmir’s Roman agora before visiting the intricately patterned clock tower in Konak Square. Haggle at 500-year-old Kemeralti Bazaar, visit Izmir’s archaeological museum and ride a teleferic (cable car) for panoramic views of the ‘Pearl of the Aegean’.

Arrive at 9:00 am
Depart at 6:00 pm

DAYS 8 & 9 – ISTANBUL, TURKEY

Once serving as the capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires, Istanbul today offers impressive architecture, historic sites, dining, shopping, nightlife and exotic atmosphere. Spend time in the Old City to explore renowned places, like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.

DAY 10 – MYKONOS, GREECE

Arrive at 12:30 pm
Depart at 10:00 pm

Steeped in Greek mythological history, Mykonos was named after Apollo’s grandson, Mykons, and was the location of the grand battle between Zeus and the Gigantes. Today, this island is one of Greece’s most adored destinations due to its picture- postcard setting and growing nightlife. Mykonos is a superb example of Cycladic architecture, and by law even new buildings have to be built in the same style of whitewashed, organic, cube-like buildings. Be sure to plan a day trip to take in picturesque Little Venice, the unique Paraportiani church, and the archeological dig at Delos.

DAY 11 – ATHENS (PIRAEUS), GREECE

Depart at: 6:00 am

Piraeus is the gateway to the ancient city of Athens, known as the “Cradle of Western Civilization” because of its immense impact on cultural and political achievements throughout the world. Due mainly to tourism and the 2004 Olympics, Greece has redeveloped many sites in Athens. A historian’s delight, Athens is home to such magnificent wonders as: the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the atmospheric winding streets of the Plaka, Temple of Olympian Zeus and Temple of Athena Nike, and the Archaeological Museum with the world’s finest collection of ancient artifacts.