An Extended Journey Of Whispered Secrets & Coastal Treasures

Delve into ancient palaces, century-old galleries, and modern-day exhibits as you whirl through Venice. Walk through masterpieces, catch an opera, gaze at medieval buildings, blow Murano glass and drift down the Grand Canal by gondola to visit churches, convents and campi “squares” that vary in spirit and scale. Cross hump-backed bridges, reach teeming Piazza San Marco's Basilica and Doge's Palace, or duck down passages to escape reality. From palazzos to perfumeries and the must-see Bridge of Sighs, you're only moments from a place of beauty in this liquid-gold city of treasures.

Squeezed onto a tiny yin-yang island of terracotta roofs and green gardens, pretty little Rovinj is the belle of Croatia. Pastel-coloured houses teeter over the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic and climb up the hillside to the iconic bell tower of St. Euphemia Church, a permanent reminder of the city's Venetian roots. Delve into the maze of narrow streets lost in time, galleries and museums overhung with wooden balconies and Italianate shutters. Circle the city in a flat-bottomed batana fishing boat or kayak around the pine-forested shores of outlying islands, forage for local wines and honey in timeless markets and taste the flavours of the Istrian Peninsula in waterfront cafes.

Head back in time through impressive walls and city gates to a treasure trove of architecture and natural beauty. Hike, ride or climb through an enchanting heartland of national parks; cruise up pine-cloaked rivers, swim under a crescent of cascades and spot sapphire dragonflies over emerald pools.

Dance across the Monument to the Sun, follow whispers to remote turquoise shallows and hear the rhythm of the ocean from an underwater Sea Organ. Visit the Venetian towers, atmospheric wells and a superbly carved Romanesque Cathedral or climb a bell tower with far-reaching views. Infused in sunshine, Venetian charm and (according to Hitchcock) the world's best sunset - intriguing Zadar is a cultural gem resplendent.

Marvel at this chic walled city paved with a wealth of aristocratic palazzi, ancient forts and epic Adriatic views. Enter grand Pile Gate to lose yourself in intricate alleys, stage-set squares, museums and baroque churches. Ease out of town to kayak around sturdy ramparts, taste Dalmatian wines in the Konavle countryside, and visit archaic Cavtat and history-packed Mostar. Escape the crowds to cacti-clad Lokrum for a spot of yoga and botanical walking, or join in to graze at trendy restaurants on the rocks. It's no wonder the glitterati flock to the strength of this charming and inspiring medieval Dalmatian marvel.

Brindisi's historic heart is rich in multi-layered monuments and finds from the days of Spartacus. Farther afield, the gleaming white villages of Ostuni or the slightly smaller and possibly even quainter, Cisternino. Head east to the Baroque Town of Lecce or west to witness the traditional conical huts (trulli) in and around World Heritage Site, Alberobello. Lecce, or 'Florence of the South', is rife with art, history and culture. If peace and quiet appeal, waft through rural Torre Guaceto's nature reserve and empty beaches or take a jaunt on the Adriatic to Polignano's sea caves. Puglia's 'little ear' pasta and squid's ink gnocchi are must-try delicacies, and with 60 million olive trees, they are rich in liquid gold. Brindisi serves up the best of Puglia.

With more time to reflect, rejuvenate, and embrace the Ocean State of Mind, days at sea with Explora Journeys invite moments of unhurried exploration. Against a backdrop of endless blue, indulge in a varied programme of wellness, dining and entertainment, enriching the mind and indulging the senses, designed to satisfy even the most curious of minds. These moments at sea offer a rare chance to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones. With so many onboard experiences, each day at sea is unique and memorable.

This horseshoe-shaped island at the outer edge of the Cyclades is where Venus de Milo was unearthed in 1820 – the unexpected bounty of a local farmer that now sits in the Louvre and remains one of the world's greatest antiquities. Visitors here might find the ruins of the Hellenistic marble amphitheatre and 1st-century catacombs just as compelling, whilst others will be drawn to the island's wild and colourful landscape, from hot springs, mines and volcanoes to rocky hillsides coloured russet, pink and orange. Of the 78 beaches, Sarakiniko's white rocks sculpted by wind and waves lend it a lunar quality, whilst others proffer volcanic sands, sea caves and rock arches, each home to crystalline waters. Climb to the castle ruins in the hilltop capital Plaka for sunset views.

Athenians don't live in the past. Ahead of its time, Athens exudes glamour and a sense of possibility - housing galleries, gelaterias, bijoux boutiques alongside a plethora of museums. And you can't help but marvel at the archaeological wonders of the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Stroll through vibrant streets and markets, dance at buzzing bouzoukia, sing along in tavernas. At night, head to the harbour, where dimly lit bars serve the local ice cold beer. And, as you inhale the salty air and watch Greek fishing boats peacefully depart for their catch, reflect on this ancient city's progressive attitude.

If you start early, you'll have Mykonos to yourself. Stroll narrow streets famous for Cycladic architecture and getting lost; white-washed cubed buildings, alluring boutiques, orthodox churches and traditional windmills. Join glitterati guests at elegant events on iconic beaches, sink into saltwater pools, tour vineyards and dance at bars where beats evolve in tempo (and volume). When the heat of the day dies down, drop into the sacred isle of Delos to explore remarkable ruins; amphitheatres, temples, public squares, marketplaces and shrines to Greek Gods. Take a table in central Chora for perfectly-cooked, local dishes with generous views; mounds of flaky filo, Greek salads, halloumi and sea urchin, washed down with freddo. When the sun sets, head for a signature sundowner with views across the ocean. After dark, follow the fun to legendary bars and clubs. Progressive and profoundly beautiful.

With more time to reflect, rejuvenate, and embrace the Ocean State of Mind, days at sea with Explora Journeys invite moments of unhurried exploration. Against a backdrop of endless blue, indulge in a varied programme of wellness, dining and entertainment, enriching the mind and indulging the senses, designed to satisfy even the most curious of minds. These moments at sea offer a rare chance to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones. With so many onboard experiences, each day at sea is unique and memorable.

Embark on a European and Asian adventure packed with a wealth of charm and cultural diversity. Roam the ‘blue' mosque of Sultan Ahmet, the Grand Bazaar, opulent Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia or sink into a serene Turkish Bath experience. Embrace the city's vine-shaded homely district where ladies shop for butter-soaked baklava and freshly picked olives. Explore further to haggle for gold jewellery, linen and oriental antiques.

Dine in the atmospheric old city or take a ferry to Asia for street-served food. Feast over rich platters of meze, moist grilled bluefish and succulent kebabs. Heighten your senses even further in the spice bazaar with enticing aromas and vibrant, colourful displays. After such a sensorial feast, indulge in a restorative raki, whichever continent you're in. By night parties don't start until late, but expect to dance till dawn.

Join the late crowd spilling into the streets overlooking the Bosphorus. Sway at European rooftop bars, shimmer by ferry over to the Asian suburbs or remain ensconced in old-fashioned folk venues. An eclectic fusion of east and west, this city is conservative at heart with a truly modern soul.

Prepare for an exclusive explosion of history, culture and carpets. Walk in Cleopatra's steps and pay homage to the Roman ruins of Ephesus. Journey through fields bursting with cotton, olives and peaches until the hills broaden and Ephesus arises. Dedicated to Artemis, visit monuments, shrines, columns and ruins. The place where Popes pray and pilgrims drink (holy water).

Fully immerse yourself within this ancient spot of worship; wish for good health and meditate in the sacred thermal pools of Pamukkale. Travel out to Orthodox villages combining Turkish-Greek culture and feast on organic filo, feta and spinach. Learn about Turkish weavings, natural dyes and different materials; see looms in action, knotting carpets and kilims. Steeped in history and with terrain as diverse as the culture, it won't just be the traditional Turkish coffee that will make you sit up straight.

A tiny island with a big reputation. Voyage to this discreet island where few go. Famed for being the discerning guests' paradise; sun-kissed beaches, clear waters shielded by protective coves and undeniably warm local hospitality. Classically Greek with beautiful, mountainous views of perfectly positioned white houses dotted high into the hills. Known as the Land of Legends, St John was said to have written his Book of Revelations here. Quiet but with a powerful energy, you'll understand why this island was named "Letois", after the goddess and huntress of deer, Artemis, daughter of Leto. It was believed that Patmos came into existence thanks to her divine intervention.

Athenians don't live in the past. Ahead of its time, Athens exudes glamour and a sense of possibility - housing galleries, gelaterias, bijoux boutiques alongside a plethora of museums. And you can't help but marvel at the archaeological wonders of the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Stroll through vibrant streets and markets, dance at buzzing bouzoukia, sing along in tavernas. At night, head to the harbour, where dimly lit bars serve the local ice cold beer. And, as you inhale the salty air and watch Greek fishing boats peacefully depart for their catch, reflect on this ancient city's progressive attitude.