Fusina (Venice) to Piraeus (Athens)

Venice, a city built on a network of canals, offers a mesmerizing blend of art, architecture, and history. Glide through the Grand Canal to see iconic landmarks like the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's Basilica. Wander through narrow alleys to discover hidden gems such as the enchanting Piazza San Marco, bustling with cafes and shops. The Doge’s Palace, with its opulent rooms and secret passages, provides a glimpse into Venice’s storied past. Don't miss the colorful markets, where you can sample local delicacies like cicchetti and fresh seafood.

In 2019, UNESCO warned the Italian government that Venice risked being added to the “World Heritage Sites in Danger” list due to the continuous damage caused by large ships to the city’s fragile architecture and ecosystem. In response, the government designated Venice’s waterways as national monuments—a status typically reserved for artworks and historical buildings—granting the lagoon enhanced state protection. The new regulations require ships longer than 590 feet to find alternative berthing locations. Fusina, a nearby industrial port adhering to maritime safety and environmental laws, emerged as the solution. Although the port is not as picturesque as Venice’s Grand Canal, a scenic 30-minute boat ride from Fusina brings visitors to a central city pier, offering a perfect starting point to explore all of Venice’s romantic, watery attractions.

Ancona in Le Marche is often overlooked as a mere jumping-off point for more glamorous European destinations. But there’s an undeniable charm to this harborfront city, which was founded by ancient Greek settlers from Syracuse and maintains an identity characterized by a rich, layered history. Just meters from the port, you’ll find lively piazzas, ancient architecture, and bustling trattorias serving up bowls of hearty brodetto, the city’s famous fish stew. Journey through time, from the Paleolithic Period to the Middle Ages, at the fascinating Museo Archeologico Nazionale delle Marche, housed in the elaborately frescoed 16th-century Palazzo Feretti. From the old town, a stroll up Guasco Hill leads to the majestic Cattedrale di San Ciriaco, a Roman-Gothic basilica built atop the remains of an ancient temple dedicated to Aphrodite, where sweeping views stretch across the city and out over the riviera.

Embark on a cultural journey to the picturesque island of Korcula, a Croatian treasure surrounded by shimmering turquoise waters. As one of the oldest settlements in Croatia, the island dates back to ancient Greece and was once a hub for medieval trade. Stroll through the well-preserved medieval town, with its narrow cobbled streets, and uncover remnants of Roman rule and Illyrian settlements. Marvel at the grand Gothic-Renaissance architecture of St. Mark's Cathedral and the 15th-century walls that once guarded the city, and soak the vibrant cultural pulse, from traditional folk music and dance, to savory seafood cuisine and lively festivals.

From its origins as a Messapian settlement to its role as a strategic center of Roman naval power, and later as a passageway for pilgrims journeying to the Holy Land, the ancient Puglian city of Brindisi has always been a pivotal portal to other places. But this under-the-radar coastal treasure has plenty to offer of its own. Wander along its palm-lined seafront and weave your way through narrow streets to discover the quiet charm of a city steeped in history. Roman and medieval ruins pepper the center: look out for the Roman Columns, so significant to the city that they appear on its coat of arms; the Area Archeologica di San Pietro degli Schiavoni, which showcases remains of ancient houses, mosaic floors, and thermal baths; and the 12th-century Tempio di San Giovanni al Sepolcro, with its fantastic frescoes and lush gardens.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

Syros may lack the glitz of Mykonos and the Instagram appeal of Santorini, but this unsung Cyclades gem stands proudly apart from its neighbors with an identity all its own. Steeped in a rich Venetian heritage, the island offers a lesson in architectural diversity: its bougainvillea-lined streets showcase a mélange of grand neoclassical mansions, traditional whitewashed houses, Greek Orthodox churches, and Roman Catholic cathedrals. The pace is unhurried and easy-going: tavernas and bars are buzzy but never overrun – so you can linger over your meal and order another ouzo – and there’s plenty of space on the sandy shores to spread your towel, even in peak season.

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).