Greece, Italy, Croatia & Malta 7 Nights • Ravenna (Venice), Italy to Barcelona, Spain • Mariner of the Seas

Once you arrive in picturesque Ravenna on an Italy cruise, you have some options: Head north to Venice, west to Bologna, or explore the history and beauty of Ravenna itself. Ravenna is famous for its spectacular mosaics from the 5th and 6th century that are found in cathedrals, palaces, and public buildings everywhere.

In Venice, you’ll find a canal-filled city that is equal parts gritty and romantic, known as a fishermen’s town turned cultural hub. Venice is popular for honeymooners and international tourists alike, filling the elaborate, sinuous system of canals with the buzz of activity. Like Rome and Florence, there’s a magic to the city’s energy that sweeps you up in it, whether you’re exploring St. Mark’s Square on foot or enjoying a gondola ride along the Grand Canal before sailing on one of our cruises from Ravenna.

Bologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, is considered the gastronomic center of Italy. It’s here that you’ll find some of the world’s best wines, prosciutto, cheese, and balsamic vinegar. Stroll the medieval town’s many photogenic porticoes until you arrive at Piazza Maggiore, the huge and charming public square where you can stop for a gelato or an espresso and people watch.

Your ship departs promptly at 5:00 pm, so plan to arrive at least 2-3 hours early to account for checking in and boarding protocols. During this time, many of the ship's amenities are open and operating, so feel free to start your vacation early.

Thick 16th-century stone walls encase the entire Old Town of Dubrovnik. But you’ll find boundless adventures among its orange-roofed ramparts. Explore the perfectly preserved Rector’s Palace and enter beloved St. Blaise’s Church. Browse Croatian art and history museums— or kayak crystal blue waters, with the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ shimmering in the distance.

Old Town — which is filled with cafes, shops, restaurants and the Old Fortress — is a must. Close by you'll find the Asian Art Museum, as well as the medieval church Antivouniotissa Basilica. Once you've had your fill of history and culture, take a transfer bus to Paleokastritsa for swimming, pedal boating, kayaking, parasailing and even diving at one of its stunning beaches.

On the Greek island of Cephalonia—the largest of the Ionian islands—is this archipelago’s largest town. Travelers on a Europe cruise quickly fall for its traditional Greek lifestyle, friendly locals, and spectacular natural attractions, like the Koutavos Lagoon’s nature preserve. Stroll along De Bosset Bridge, where endangered sea turtles swim out to sea. Admire Vallianos Square’s grand bell tower and taste Robola wine in a local vineyard. Rumble in a Jeep to the summit of Mount Ainos. The cobbled street, Lithostroto is lined with shops and tavernas. Meanwhile, those who enjoy natural wonders will appreciate the Drogati cave, the underground Melissani Lake, and the island’s beautiful beaches and bays where clear, shallow waters are rimmed with white-pebble sands.

Begin your Malta adventure by wandering Valletta's Grand Harbor, with its 16th-century fortifications and sweeping ocean views. Then, learn more about this island nation at the Malta Experience Museum — here, an audio-visual show guides you through 7,000 years of the island's history. Savor Malta's eclectic mix of Mediterranean, Arabic and European flavors through dishes like aljotta, a hearty fish stew with tomatoes and garlic, thickened with rice.

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.

Formerly a sleepy Spanish city, Barcelona has recently been reborn as an eclectic fusion of the modern and medieval. This coastal city exudes European charm and welcomes multitudes of travelers every year. It’s a major destination with must-see architectural gems that date back some 2,000 years. You’ll encounter fascinating examples from the Roman Empire, the Middle Ages, the Modern masters like Gaudî, and many Cataluñian greats. Outstanding art museums can be found throughout the city, proudly displaying the works of world-renowned artists and countrymen, including Goya, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalî, and Joan Miró. For a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city center, venture to the awaiting Mediterranean Sea and all the seaside has to offer. Maybe a brisk hike in the nearby forest covered Collserola Hills or the hilltop in Montjuïc with its botanical gardens is the perfect recharge for a rollicking evening in one of the premier party capitals of the world. Round out your cruise to Barcelona dining at a tapas bar and savor a variety of delicious small dishes to share—from traditional Spanish to the more innovative.

The cruise might have ended, but there are still some great activities to enjoy in the area. If you flew into this port, be mindful of your departure flight time and plan accordingly.