Greek Isles Cruise ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
Rome (Civitavecchia) , Italy | Sicily (Messina) , Italy | Chania (Souda) , Crete | Mykonos , Greece | Ephesus (Kusadasi) , Turkey | Santorini , Greece | Athens (Piraeus) , Greece | Naples/Capri , Italy | Rome (Civitavecchia) , Italy
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Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
BORN TO ROME
The Eternal City endures with endless adventures. Sip a cappuccino in an al fresco café and watch the city wake. Peruse ancient artefacts in National Roman Museum and Italian masterworks in Villa Borghese. Or learn about the ancestors of the Romans at the National Etruscan Museum.
The Eternal City endures with endless adventures. Sip a cappuccino in an al fresco café and watch the city wake. Peruse ancient artefacts in National Roman Museum and Italian masterworks in Villa Borghese. Or learn about the ancestors of the Romans at the National Etruscan Museum.
in Rome (Civitavecchia)
ANCIENT AND AMAZING
Walk through the heart of Ancient Rome. Start at the Colosseum, an enormous arena where gladiators once battled. Then meander around the Roman Forum’s timeworn ruins, past crumbling temples and basilicas. See where emperors lived on Palatine Hill – and enjoy an up-close view of the 2,000-year-old, well-preserved Pantheon church.
ADVENTURE SQUARED
Roam around Rome’s piazzas, as each offers a unique perspective. Dine al fresco in Piazza Navona and climb The Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna. Wander cobbled alleys in bustling Trastevere and browse Campo de’ Fiori’s artisanal stalls. Be sure to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain for good measure.
SACRED SPACES
Explore the Vatican Museums’ extraordinary collection of tapestries and classical statues. Step inside the Sistine Chapel and be awed by Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes. Then enter St Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s largest churches, to stand under its enormous sky-piercing dome.
LOCAL CUISINE
Romans live to eat, whether it’s family-style or in a pavement café. For an authentic taste of Cucina Romana, try carciofi alla Romana (braised artichokes) or spaghetti alla carbonara. Enjoy panino (stuffed sandwiches) or thin-crusted Roman pizza. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of gelato. Then finish the night with a glass of white wine from the surrounding Lazio region.
SHOPPING
Street stalls throughout the city are your best bet for souvenirs. Via Condotti offers a string of couture Italian designers. Browse artist studios along Via Margutta, or the indie artisan retailers of the Monti neighbourhood. Porta Portese is the city’s largest flea market – and La Rinascente, the first department store.
INSIDER TIP
The train ride between Civitavecchia and Rome is approximately 80 minutes each way.
Sicily (Messina), Italy
BOOTS OFF
Messina is the coastal jewel of northern Sicily. Let yourself get a little lost in the city, as you wander the streets taking note the of the history embedded in its architecture. See the famous Messina Cathedral – its dome has stood since 1551. Stroll among neoclassical and Art Nouveau sculptures at the Camposanto. And check out the Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, a 12th-century church that offers a unique example of Norman architecture, blending Arab, Byzantine and Roman elements.
Messina is the coastal jewel of northern Sicily. Let yourself get a little lost in the city, as you wander the streets taking note the of the history embedded in its architecture. See the famous Messina Cathedral – its dome has stood since 1551. Stroll among neoclassical and Art Nouveau sculptures at the Camposanto. And check out the Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, a 12th-century church that offers a unique example of Norman architecture, blending Arab, Byzantine and Roman elements.
in Sicily (Messina)
Photographer's Playground
Messina's panoramic views and patchwork of architectural styles are an invitation for the creative photographer. The Neptune and Orione fountains created by Michelangelo's collaborator, Montorsoli are renaissance masterpieces.
Dawn of the Duomo
Head to the Astronomical Clock at noon to catch the tower's daily spectacle, starring its bronze statue carousel. The 12th-century Santissima Annunziata Church, Gothic-style Messina Cathedral and the 19th-century Galleria V. Emanuele III span through centuries of architectural diversity.
A Piazza with a View
Once you reach the Sacrario di Cristo Re, you'll discover a panoramic view of the strait and most of Messina. Visit the beautiful temple and the tomb of the unknown soldier during your Sicily cruise. Afterwards, walk back down to Piazza Cairoli to Viale San Martino where you can enjoy a refreshing granita, a sorbet-like Sicilian treat.
Local Cuisine
The cuisine here is one of the most antique in Sicily, with influences from Greek and Arabic cultures. Try Messina specialty la ghiotta di pesce stocco, filets of cod or swordfish baked in tomato sauce with potatoes, capers and herbs. Sample Sicilian bucatini, which combines pasta with local sardines and North African-inspired flavours like saffron, pine nuts and raisins. Or hit up the street vendors for arancini, the cheesy balls of fried rice that are the ultimate Sicilian comfort food.
Shopping
Shop in local markets for the typical products, such as cheese, figs and marzipan. Visit the Galleria V. Emanuele – the world's oldest active shopping centre, dating back to the 1800s – for artisanal crafts such as coral jewellery, hand-painted glazed ceramics and fine crocheted items. Stop in the small shops off the main roads to see artisans at work during your Sicily cruise.
INSIDER TIP
Messina is a great place to discover by foot; within 10 minutes you can be at the Cathedral.
CRUISING
CAN'T MISS FAVORITES
Things to Do
NOW BOARDING FOR ADVENTURE
Grab your board and get ready for 100,000 litres of rushing amazingness headed your way. The surf’s always up on the 12-metre-long FlowRider® surf simulator.
A BOLDER BOULDER
Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 12 metres (40 feet) above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
Chania (Souda), Crete
GREEK HERITAGE
Dating back to Mycenaean times, Chania places you in its deep cultural roots and longstanding traditions. The ancient buildings bear marks of many battles fought here throughout the centuries. Today, you'll be hard-pressed to find a more peaceful spot — pick a shaded spot beside the beach and dip your feet into the Greek sun-kissed waters.
Dating back to Mycenaean times, Chania places you in its deep cultural roots and longstanding traditions. The ancient buildings bear marks of many battles fought here throughout the centuries. Today, you'll be hard-pressed to find a more peaceful spot — pick a shaded spot beside the beach and dip your feet into the Greek sun-kissed waters.
in Chania
Active Archaeology
One of ancient Crete's most important city-states, Aptera sits on a hill just south of the bay, with two seaports at the entrance to Souda Bay. Check out this active archaeological site to learn about new discoveries that shed light on the most powerful city of western Crete during Minoan times.
Mountain Monasteries
Stroll the sandy beach at Stavros Bay, where Anthony Quinn danced in 1964's 'Zorba the Greek'. Explore the three monasteries – Agias Triada, Gouverneto and Katholika – set on this rocky peninsula. Discover Bear Cave on the footpath leading to Katholiko built into the cliff.
Hike to the Gorge
At 18 kilometres, Samaria is the longest of the many deep gorges that cut into Crete's mountains. The entrance is 42 kilometres south of Chania, and you can hike independently or with a guide. On the way, you might run into some kri kri, the wild goats found only on Crete. The gorge opens out to the black-sand beach at Ayia Roumeli.
Local Cuisine
Restaurants with fresh seafood abound at the Chania waterfront. Local signatures of savoury lamb, mini cheese pies and fresh vegetables also bring something special to the plate. And don't miss the dacos, a traditional Cretan bread served with tomato, mizithra cheese and rivers of virgin Cretan olive oil.
Shopping
Chania's Old Town is packed with unique shops selling handmade ceramic kitchenware and decorations with classic geometric designs, one-of-a-kind jewellery made from pearl and coral – and of course, the local extra virgin olive oil, which is typically cold-pressed and retains distinctive flavours of green apple and freshly cut grass. Take the time to explore the narrow, less-travelled streets to find both bargains and unique items during your Crete cruise.
INSIDER TIP
Known as the "temple of gastronomy," the architecturally distinctive Chania Municipal Market is the place to discover local delicacies.Known as the "temple of gastronomy," the architecturally distinctive Chania Municipal Market is the place to discover local delicacies.
Mykonos, Greece
ADVENTURE
Powder white houses, sparkling blue waters and red-hot nightlife – the Island of the Winds carries you away with colourful upmarket adventures. Explore Hora’s bougainvillea-laced pathways and see the Folklore Museum’s Mykonian ship models. Join the raucous party on the shimmering sands of Super Paradise beach. Or watch the sunset from an open-air taverna – all nestled in the heart of Greece’s Cyclades islands.
Powder white houses, sparkling blue waters and red-hot nightlife – the Island of the Winds carries you away with colourful upmarket adventures. Explore Hora’s bougainvillea-laced pathways and see the Folklore Museum’s Mykonian ship models. Join the raucous party on the shimmering sands of Super Paradise beach. Or watch the sunset from an open-air taverna – all nestled in the heart of Greece’s Cyclades islands.
in Mykonos
COASTAL COSMOPOLITAN
Mykonos’ main town of Hora is a mixture of classic Cycladic architecture and buzzing street culture. Admire the stark-white Panagia Paraportiani chapel and meet the town’s famous pelican Pétros. See the island’s trademark 16th-century windmills spinning high above the port. Then explore the strip of medieval houses and waterfront cafés in Little Venice.
INTO THE BLUE
The multi-hued waters surrounding Mykonos are perfect for surfing and scuba diving, while prevailing winds invite sailing and windsurfing. Get your fill of aquatic thrills, then hit the beach – Psaroú for family fun, Agrari for seaside serenity, Paradise for epic beach parties or Elia for a blend of all three.
DIG UP THE PAST
Enjoy a short boat trip to the island of Delos, a sacred Greek archaeological site and the mythological birthplace of twin gods Apollo and Artemis. Comb the crumbling ruins of its ancient theatre, Doric temples, markets and mosaic-laced houses – plus the Terrace of Lions statues and amphitheatre.
LOCAL CUISINE
Some of the Mediterranean’s most delectable restaurants are found on Mykonos. Its trademark kopanisti (peppered cheese) is a must-try, while you can’t go wrong with classic kremmydopita (onion pie). Enjoy fresh seafood by the sea – or a glass of sweet Heliophilos wine in a beach bar. Then for dessert go for amygdalota (almond cookies) or melopita (honey cake).
SHOPPING
Hora is a hub for top designer fashions, including the world-famous Soho-Soho clothing boutique. Family-owned and operated Greek Light sells handmade jewellery with Greece’s traditional maiandros symbol. And don’t leave Mykonos without buying a pair of house-designed sandals or hand-loomed weavings – scarves, rugs or tablecloths.
INSIDER TIP
Hop on one of the many seawater-taxi services around the island for transport to the beaches.
Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey
A TASTE OF TURKEY
Head straight to the ancient city of Ephesus, a 20-minute drive from the port. Plan your visit based on how much you want to walk and how many sites you want to check out. The House of the Virgin Mary and the Basilica of St. John hold historical import as well as the traditional brick and stone architecture of the ancient near east. And of course, you can see the one remaining column of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Head straight to the ancient city of Ephesus, a 20-minute drive from the port. Plan your visit based on how much you want to walk and how many sites you want to check out. The House of the Virgin Mary and the Basilica of St. John hold historical import as well as the traditional brick and stone architecture of the ancient near east. And of course, you can see the one remaining column of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
in Ephesus (Kusadasi)
Window Into Ancient Life
Don't miss the Library of Celsus or the Scholastica Baths — their dozen ancient marble toilets are a unique sight from antiquity. Consider buying the extra ticket to see Ephesus' Terraced Houses. Not only are they shaded, but you get a sense of what ancient life was like and can see the restoration work in progress.
Set Your Sights on Selcuk
Walk from Ephesus' Lower Gate to the village of Selcuk, where you can visit what's said to be the burial site of John the Apostle at the Basilica of St. John. You'll also find the remains of the Temple of Artemis. About five miles from here lies the House of the Virgin Mary, which traditions holds as the last place she lived.
Haggle for a Turkish Carpet
Stroll the seaside promenade in Kusadasi to catch a cooling breeze. Shop for souvenirs like carpets and spices in the bazaar near the port. Vendors will encourage you to sample their wares and will offer tea to serious carpet buyers. You can also visit Pigeon Island for views from the Byzantine castle once used by pirates during your Turkey cruise.
Local Cuisine
Most visitors will have tried sis kebab (grilled meat on a skewer) and doner kebab (meat shaved from a vertical skewer) before arriving in Turkey. Lamb is popular for both. Be sure to try kofte, spiced lamb or beef meatballs served with yogurt dipping sauce. Have a few meze (appetizers) to get your vegetable fix — great options include grilled eggplant salad and cicek dolmasi, fried squash flowers stuffed with raisins and rice.
Shopping
The Kusadasi bazaar is naturally the place to go for shopping. A Turkish blue eye, meant to ward off the evil eye, makes a great souvenir. Also consider a traditional Turkish kilim (a woven carpet) or a more luxurious knotted carpet. Cruise to Ephesus and look for handmade tiles and pottery in the Iznik design, with floral-inspired geometric patterns. Prices are negotiable, and the first offer by the vendor will be at least double what you should pay.
INSIDER TIP
Ephesus' excavated section is in a 1.5-square-mile area; you'll need good walking shoes.
Santorini, Greece
BEAUTY
Santorini is one of the world’s most popular islands, where adventure bubbles above the Aegean Sea in breathtaking ways. Take a cable car to see Fira’s old cathedrals and enthralling museums. Swim in deep blue waters that lap black pebbled beaches. And peel back layers of history in excavated Akrotiri – all while relishing the dramatic scenery of this Cyclades isle.
Santorini is one of the world’s most popular islands, where adventure bubbles above the Aegean Sea in breathtaking ways. Take a cable car to see Fira’s old cathedrals and enthralling museums. Swim in deep blue waters that lap black pebbled beaches. And peel back layers of history in excavated Akrotiri – all while relishing the dramatic scenery of this Cyclades isle.
in Santorini
IT TAKES A VILLAGE
Considered the island’s most picturesque village, Oia radiates authentic Cyclades charm. Meander along tiny paths squeezed between stark-white villas. Snap selfies with the blue-domed St Gerasimos Church, and view Byzantine castle ruins. Or dine on Greek seafood in a waterfront taverna – also the perfect perch for watching Oia’s fabulous sunsets.
THE GLASS HALF FULL
Indulge your taste buds in a delectable tasting journey amongst the island’s traditional wine cellars. Vineyards dapple Santorini’s countryside, and many are amongst some of Europe’s oldest. White Assyrtiko and red Mantilaria are both popular varietals – and be sure to sample Santorini’s beloved dessert wine, Vinsanto.
LOCAL CUISINE
Thanks to Santorini’s rich volcanic soil, the island has a solid reputation for producing fantastic wines and vegetables – fresh cherry tomatoes, fava beans and white aubergine included. Try egg-based sfougato and fried tomatokeftedes fritters, two Santorini specialities. Pick up melitinia cookies from a local bakery. And for an after-dinner drink, sip unsweetened, anise-flavoured raki.
SHOPPING
Ypapantis Street in Fira is known for its dozens of jewellery stores selling pieces inspired by ancient Greek and Byzantine designs. You’ll find local artwork in the galleries of Oia and books about the Cyclades in Atlantis Books. A bottle of Santorini wine or Canava ouzo makes for a tasty souvenir.
INSIDER TIP
Wear hiking boots or comfortable trainers and plenty of sunscreen when hiking the caldera.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
ACROPOLIS NOW
Explore the harbors of Piraeus, which showcase the Golden Age of Greek history. Visit the Hellenic Maritime Museum and the ship sheds — here, you can see how ancient ships were crafted. In the charming Castella district, you'll find some small, quaint shops and cafes amid the elegant neoclassical buildings. Head to Sotiros Street to find brand name stores, alongside smaller local shops.
Explore the harbors of Piraeus, which showcase the Golden Age of Greek history. Visit the Hellenic Maritime Museum and the ship sheds — here, you can see how ancient ships were crafted. In the charming Castella district, you'll find some small, quaint shops and cafes amid the elegant neoclassical buildings. Head to Sotiros Street to find brand name stores, alongside smaller local shops.
in Athens (Piraeus)
Take Me to Church
The Agia Triada is one of the finest examples of Byzantine-style churches in Greece. The Church of St. Nicholas, which overlooks the port, has a magnificent interior filled with orthodox icons, frescoes and sculptures.
Mediterranean Romance
Part of the Castella district, Mikrolimano is the smallest and most picturesque port of Athens, making it perfect for a romantic afternoon. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade to take in the amazing views, then settle in a cafe or taverna for some fresh seafood or a refreshing drink with your cruise to Athens.
Boats and the Bronze Age
The Naval Museum has exhibits that present ship building from ancient times to the present day. You will be fascinated by the Neosoikoi, the archaeological remains of the ship sheds where local craftsmen maintained and repaired the boats. Art lovers will have plenty to see at the Piraeus Archaeological Museum, from Bronze Age sculptures to classical Hellenistic pottery.
Local Cuisine
Try the local dishes prepared with sun-ripened tomatoes, eggplant, bell peppers and fresh seafood like mussels and grilled octopus. Look for trovolia, a typical fresh cheese to savor with marinated olives. Ask for recommendations on local wines — the most common white is lively, floral and aromatic Moschofilero, while the red of choice is Xinomavro, an indigenous grape with a bold, complex flavor.
Shopping
You may want to bring back home some of the typical liquors such as the anise-flavored Ouzo or the strong Tsipouro. Greek olives, spices and capers can be vacuumed-packed, making for convenient souvenirs. Look for locally made leather sandals, pottery and hand-painted ceramics. You'll find most shops in the Psyri district, not far from the Acropolis during your Athens cruise.
INSIDER TIP
The yellow trolley bus (number 20) will take you from the port to Passalimani, going through Castella and ending at the Metro station.
CRUISING
FOR FOODIES
Things to Do
FAMOUSLY FANTASTIC ITALIAN
At Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver, you’ll enjoy Tuscan-inspired dishes like the crowd-pleasing Famous Plank and pastas made in-house – all crafted by one of Britain’s most famous chefs.
A FAR EAST FEAST
Say “Konnichiwa” to a reimagined favorite. Sushi, sashimi and more, all made-to-order with intense flavors, the best ingredients and impeccable presentation.
Naples/Capri, Italy
The third-largest Italian city and one of the oldest in Europe, Naples combines deep history and modern verve. Check out the extravagant Royal Palace of Naples, the former home of the royal family, with its beautiful tapestries and frescoes. People-watch from a streetside cafe in the Sanita district with a glass of wine and slice of classic margherita pizza. Then, head to Herculaneum to see the ruins left in Vesuvius wake after its historic eruption in 79 AD.
The third-largest Italian city and one of the oldest in Europe, Naples combines deep history and modern verve. Check out the extravagant Royal Palace of Naples, the former home of the royal family, with its beautiful tapestries and frescoes. People-watch from a streetside cafe in the Sanita district with a glass of wine and slice of classic margherita pizza. Then, head to Herculaneum to see the ruins left in Vesuvius wake after its historic eruption in 79 AD.
in Naples/Capri
Go Underground
Interested in getting up close and personal with Naples' past residents? Head underground to visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro. These historic burial places are the oldest in the city and the largest in all of Southern Italy. Spend some time wandering around the different rooms to see how the rooms where the wealthy and poor were buried.
Church Bells Ring
Naples' churches are a great way to tour its architectural treasures, and most of them are concentrated in the old town centre. Check out San Domenico Maggiore, with its impressive gold-gilded ceiling and interior. Inside Sansevero Chapel, you'll find a number of impressive Baroque statues and classical art. And don't miss the beautiful frescoes and peaceful vibe of Gesu Nuovo Church during your Capri cruise.
Local Cuisine
Neopolitan-style pizza is Naples culinary gem. Grab a seat at L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele, which has been serving up pizza since 1870, and order a slice of simple, classic margherita, topped with fresh basil, tomato sauce and local mozzarella di fiore. Cruise to Naples and head to Friggitoria Vomero for the town's best arancini – gooey, fried spheres of rice and cheese – or panzarotti, a mini-calzone stuffed with mozzarella, tomato and other ingredients like spinach or ham.
Shopping
Head to Via Toledo, the longest shopping street in Naples, which offers small boutiques and a huge department store. Continue down the road to Galleria Umberto I, a beautiful shopping gallery for some high-end souvenirs such as silk scarves and leather shoes to take back home.
INSIDER TIP
You won't be able to visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro without a guided tour, so be sure to book yours well in advanced.
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
ETERNAL ADVENTURE
Spend the afternoon combing Ancient Rome’s ruins or the spiritual treasures of Vatican City. Sip pre-dinner aperitivo – or better yet, hop in the home kitchen of a local chef for a hands-on lesson in La Cucina Romana. Evenings in this romantic city are perhaps best spent at the Teatro dell’Opera or wandering its many buzzing piazzas.
Spend the afternoon combing Ancient Rome’s ruins or the spiritual treasures of Vatican City. Sip pre-dinner aperitivo – or better yet, hop in the home kitchen of a local chef for a hands-on lesson in La Cucina Romana. Evenings in this romantic city are perhaps best spent at the Teatro dell’Opera or wandering its many buzzing piazzas.
in Rome (Civitavecchia)
ANCIENT AND AMAZING
Walk through the heart of Ancient Rome. Start at the Colosseum, an enormous arena where gladiators once battled. Then meander around the Roman Forum’s timeworn ruins, past crumbling temples and basilicas. See where emperors lived on Palatine Hill – and enjoy an up-close view of the 2,000-year-old, well-preserved Pantheon church.
ADVENTURE SQUARED
Roam around Rome’s piazzas, as each offers a unique perspective. Dine al fresco in Piazza Navona and climb The Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna. Wander cobbled alleys in bustling Trastevere and browse Campo de’ Fiori’s artisanal stalls. Be sure to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain for good measure.
SACRED SPACES
Explore the Vatican Museums’ extraordinary collection of tapestries and classical statues. Step inside the Sistine Chapel and be awed by Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes. Then enter St Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s largest churches, to stand under its enormous sky-piercing dome.
LOCAL CUISINE
Romans live to eat, whether it’s family-style or in a pavement café. For an authentic taste of Cucina Romana, try carciofi alla Romana (braised artichokes) or spaghetti alla carbonara. Enjoy panino (stuffed sandwiches) or thin-crusted Roman pizza. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of gelato. Then finish the night with a glass of white wine from the surrounding Lazio region.
SHOPPING
Street stalls throughout the city are your best bet for souvenirs. Via Condotti offers a string of couture Italian designers. Browse artist studios along Via Margutta, or the indie artisan retailers of the Monti neighbourhood. Porta Portese is the city’s largest flea market – and La Rinascente, the first department store.
INSIDER TIP
Conservative attire (no vest tops or shorts) is required when visiting Rome’s religious sites.
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INSIDER TIP