Azure & Aegean Odyssey

Welcome to Barcelona! Renowned for its unique architecture and vibrant culture. If you have time before your cruise departs today, take a stroll down Las Ramblas, a lively street filled with street performers, shops, and cafes, leading to the historic Gothic Quarter. Or for a taste of local life, explore the bustling La Boqueria market, offering a variety of fresh produce and local delicacies.

The port town of Sete hugs the tiny Mont St. Clair, and is caught between the Mediterranean Sea and Thau Lake. This understated town has been nicknamed 'Little Venice' due to its canals, bridges and buildings with their beautiful colourful facades. Ships will dock at Port de Sete.

Top Things to Do in Sete:

• hike Mont Saint-Clair
• tour the medieval city of Carcassonne
• kayak the canals of Sete
• enjoy a wine tasting in Montpellier
• explore the Roman ruins in Arles

Marseille, France's oldest city, boasts a vibrant blend of cultures, history, and stunning Mediterranean scenery. Start your visit at the Vieux-Port (Old Port), where you can enjoy the bustling atmosphere and watch fishermen bring in their daily catch. Nearby, the iconic Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde offers panoramic views of the city and sea.

Stroll through the historic Le Panier district, with its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and artisan shops. Dive into the city's maritime history at the MuCEM, the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations. Don’t miss tasting bouillabaisse, Marseille’s famous seafood stew, in one of the local restaurants.

Tiny, but packed with fun, Monte Carlo offers a wonderful combination of history, beauty, entertainment and leisure. The wealthiest spot in Monaco, Monte Carlo is an enchanting place, known as the international capital of luxury and for its celebrity-sightings, casinos and nightlife. Ships may dock or anchor offshore at this port.

Top Things to Do in Monte Carlo:

• explore the charming lanes of Old Monaco
• visit the palace of the Grimaldi’s
• try your luck at the Casino de Monte-Carlo
• enjoy a scenic drive along the French Riviera
• spend the day in Nice, Eze or Cannes

Marvel at masterpieces in Florence's Uffizi Gallery and stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio. Visit the awe-inspiring Florence Cathedral with its magnificent dome designed by Brunelleschi. The city's rich history is reflected in its stunning architecture and vibrant street life, making it a treasure trove for art and history enthusiasts.

A short trip away, Pisa beckons with its world-famous Leaning Tower. Climb the tower for a breathtaking view of the Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the beautiful Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery. Explore the quaint streets of Pisa, enjoying its delightful cafes and shops. This city offers a perfect blend of history, art, and Italian charm.

Cinque Terre, on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline, comprises five charming villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Each village offers breathtaking views, colorful houses, and narrow winding streets. Monterosso features a lovely beach and the Church of San Giovanni Battista, while Vernazza captivates with its picturesque harbor and ancient Doria Castle. Indulge in local seafood delicacies and savor the region's renowned Sciacchetrà wine. 

The gateway to the Tuscany region and one of Italy's oldest port cities, Livorno is a small but historically rich city. Best known for its red-hued Fortezza Nuova and the surrounding area known as 'New Venice' where you can take a boat ride through its charming canals. While in Livorno, don't miss the Terrazza Mascagni, a picturesque promenade offering stunning views of the Ligurian Sea.

Cruise ships docking in Livorno typically use the Porto di Livorno, which is located approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) from the historic city center of Pisa, and about 95 kilometers (59 miles) from Florence, requiring a 1.5-hour journey by coach.

The ancient capital of the Western World and the centre of Christianity for nearly 2,000 years, Rome provides an inexhaustible feast of historical and cultural landmarks to explore. Visit the ruins of the Forum and the Colosseum, view the splendours of the Sistine Chapel, throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain or climb the Spanish Steps, once the heart of Rome's Bohemian Quarter.

Don't forget to treat your taste buds to the delights of authentic Roman cuisine, which is as captivating as the city's ancient wonders. Indulge in creamy gelato, savour the perfection of al dente pasta, and relish the thin, crispy crust of Roman-style pizza. Buon Appetito!

Serving as Rome’s seaport since the 13th century, Civitavecchia is located about an hour (80km/50mi) from the centre of Rome. For guests arriving and departing from the airport in Rome, a transfer to Civitavecchia port should be organised ahead of time with your cruise line. Details will be provided in your travel documentation after booking. The port area itself offers diverse dining options, and inside, facilities include accessible bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and a spacious waiting area. The port also offers complimentary shuttle buses to transfer guests between the ship and the port terminal.

Sorrento's colourful, sun-faded facades cascade down from green hills and cliffs to the Bay of Naples. Looking out from Sorrento, in the Gulf of Naples, is the isle of Capri. Well known for its sparkling Blue Grotto and as the playground of the rich and famous. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the marina.

Top Things to Do in Sorrento and Capri:

• stroll the alleyways of Sorrento's Old Quarter
• drive along the scenic Sorrentine Peninsula
• spend the day exploring the isle of Capri
• explore the ancient city of Pompeii
• take the scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast

Honey-coloured Siracusa is a staggering UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an extraordinary Sicilian city of immense ancient history. It is one of the oldest cities in the Mediterranean, with a wonderful collection of historical sites from both the ancient Greek and Roman time periods. 

Top Things to Do in Siracusa:

• explore the Neapolis Archaeological Park
• stroll through Ortigia, the historic centre
• visit the baroque town of Noto
• explore Catania and Mt. Etna
• sample some wine at Pupillo Winery

Santorini, a jewel of the Aegean Sea, is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets and distinctive white-washed buildings with blue domes. Begin your exploration in Fira, the island's bustling capital, where narrow streets are lined with charming shops, cafes, and stunning views of the caldera. Don't miss the Archaeological Museum of Thera to glimpse into the island's ancient past.

A short journey from Fira, the village of Oia awaits with its iconic sunset views and picturesque architecture. Wander through its winding alleys, and discover unique art galleries and boutiques. For a taste of local flavors, indulge in fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes at a cliffside taverna. End your visit with a relaxing afternoon on one of Santorini's famous black sand beaches.

Ephesus, a marvel of ancient architecture, invites visitors to explore its well-preserved ruins and relive the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Key highlights include the Library of Celsus, a stunning facade that once housed over 12,000 scrolls, and the Great Theatre, which could seat 25,000 spectators for dramatic performances.

Travellers can also wander the streets of this historic city to uncover the Temple of Artemis—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Although only foundations and a single column remain, the site's past significance as a major religious and commercial center is palpable. A morning visit is recommended to avoid the crowds and heat.

Kusadasi's main cruise terminal is Ege Port, conveniently located just 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) from the city center, a quick 5-minute walk. Its proximity to the ancient city of Ephesus makes it a prime spot for history enthusiasts.

In the town itself, explore the bustling bazaar, where you can find traditional Turkish crafts and spices. Take a leisurely stroll along the seafront promenade, enjoying views of the azure waters and vibrant marina. For a taste of local cuisine, try a traditional Turkish breakfast or fresh seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants.

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).