Holy Land Hallmarks

Once the seat of two massive empires, Istanbul has been shaped by its colourful history. From massive Byzantine churches, to towering Ottoman mosques, history can be found in each building no matter what part of the city you wander through. Ships will dock at the Galataport cruise ship terminal which is a 40 minute drive from the Istanbul Airport.

Top Things to Do in Istanbul:

• marvel at the Blue Mosque
• haggle at the Grand Bazaar
• explore the Underground Cistern
• visit the Hagia Sofia

Once the seat of two massive empires, Istanbul has been shaped by its colourful history. From massive Byzantine churches, to towering Ottoman mosques, history can be found in each building no matter what part of the city you wander through. Ships will dock at the Galataport cruise ship terminal which is a 40 minute drive from the Istanbul Airport.

Top Things to Do in Istanbul:

• marvel at the Blue Mosque
• haggle at the Grand Bazaar
• explore the Underground Cistern
• visit the Hagia Sofia

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.

In Izmir, cruise ships typically dock at the Alsancak Port, just about 5 kilometers from the city center, making it a quick 10-minute drive.

However, the historical site of Ephesus, a must-visit for its ancient ruins and biblical history, is approximately 80 kilometers away - a drive of around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

If you're lookin gto explore Izmir, consider a leisurely stroll along the Kordon promenade for scenic sea views, or explore the historic Kemeraltı Market for unique souvenirs and local cuisine. Izmir’s rich history and bustling markets make it a memorable stop.

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.

Rhodes, the largest of Greece's Dodecanese islands, offers a blend of medieval history and sun-kissed beaches. Start your exploration at the Palace of the Grand Master, a stunning medieval fortress in the heart of the Old Town. Wander through the cobbled streets, where the mix of Byzantine, Gothic, and Ottoman architecture tells tales of the island's storied past.

For a relaxing afternoon, head to Elli Beach, just a short walk from the port. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and perhaps try some water sports. Don’t miss the Acropolis of Rhodes, offering panoramic views of the island and the Aegean Sea. Savor local delicacies like fresh seafood at a seaside taverna to complete your day.

The vibrant city of Limassol is located on Akrotiri Bay in the shadow of the Troodos mountains. Its the jumping off point to explore the ancient riches of Cyprus. See ruins, majestic mountains and scenery, stunning beaches, and vast groves of lemons, oranges and olives. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Limassol:

• visit Limassol Castle
• explore the Kourion archaeological site
• journey to the UNESCO listed city of Paphos
• walk around Pissouri Village
• visit the Kolossi Medieval Castle

Visit the land of miracles - Galilee, the Jordan River, the Mount of the Beautitudes and Tabgha. Venture to Nazareth, home of the young Jesus. See the largest hanging gardens in the world at the Bahai Gardens of Haifa. Or visit the Nahalal Moshav, a commune established in 1921 by Jewish immigrants.

Begin your exploration in the Old City, where the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock stand as powerful symbols of the world's major religions. The maze-like alleys, vibrant markets, and ancient architecture create an atmosphere rich in history and spirituality.

Beyond the Old City, discover the vibrant cultural life of modern Jerusalem. The bustling Mahane Yehuda Market, with its array of spices, fresh produce, and local delicacies, is a sensory delight. For a more relaxed experience, visit the serene Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial and the beautifully landscaped Israel Museum, home to the famous Dead Sea Scrolls.

Ashdod is the largest port in Israel and the gateway to the Holy Land. Located about 64 kilometers (40 miles) away, approximately a 1-hour drive.

If you're looking to explore Ashdod itself, start at the Ashdod Yam Fortress, an ancient site with panoramic views of the sea. The Corinne Mamane Museum of Philistine Culture provides a fascinating look into the region's ancient inhabitants .For a more relaxed experience, stroll along the city's pristine beaches or visit the bustling Ashdod Marina, filled with cafes and restaurants. The Ad Halom Park, a beautiful green space, is perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Don't miss the Eye of the Sun, an impressive sculpture and a popular spot for photos.

Combining a touch of Venetian beauty with Crete’s rugged landscape and dazzling beaches, Chania is an enchanting welcome to this legendary Greek island. Inhabited since the Neolithic era, Chania is a modern city built over the ruins of the ancient city of Kydonia.

Start your day exploring the old town's labyrinthine alleys, filled with charming shops, cafes, and the 16th-century Venetian harbor. Afterward, visit the Archaeological Museum housed in a former Venetian monastery, showcasing artifacts from the Minoan to the Roman periods. For a more relaxed experience, head to the Municipal Market, a bustling hub of local life where you can taste Cretan delicacies, or relax seaside at Nea Chora beach, a short walk from the old town, perfect for a leisurely afternoon by the sea.

Cephalonia, the largest of Greece's Ionian Islands, offers stunning landscapes and rich history. The island is famous for its crystal-clear waters, particularly at Myrtos Beach, known for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise sea. Visitors can explore the captivating Melissani Cave, where a boat tour reveals a mesmerizing underground lake illuminated by sunlight streaming through a hole in the cave’s roof. History enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the ancient ruins of Sami, a testament to the island's rich past. The island also had its part in the Battle of Greece during World War II, which later inspired Louis de Bernières' novel "Captain Corelli's Mandolin".

The modern and cosmopolitan town of Argostoli, stands on the far end of a natural bay surrounded by mountains and verdant forests. It’s a slower life here, especially since the town had to rebuild itself from the ground up following a 1953 earthquake that devastated the area. Ships will dock or anchor at this port.

Top Things to Do in Argostoli:

• explore the dramatic Drogarati Cave
• glide across subterranean Melissani Lake
• ascend Mount Ainos
• relax on the famous Myrtos beach
• taste some local wine at Robola Winery

Taormina, perched on a hillside in Sicily, offers breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and Mount Etna. Begin your visit with a leisurely walk along Corso Umberto, the main street lined with charming shops, cafes, and historic buildings. The ancient Greek Theatre is a must-see, providing a spectacular backdrop for photos and a glimpse into the town's rich history.

Venture to the beautiful public gardens of Villa Comunale for a relaxing stroll among exotic plants and stunning vistas. For a taste of local culture, visit the Piazza IX Aprile, a lively square perfect for people-watching and enjoying a gelato.

The lively seaport of Salerno is a thriving modern metropolis with ancient origins. Its elegant lungomare, a shoreside promenade, offers far-reaching views of the sea and the mountains beyond. The city boasts an ideal location with both the ruins of Roman cities and the stunning Amalfi Coast in easy reach. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Salerno:

• explore the ruins of Pompeii
• enjoy a scenic drive to Ravello
• visit the post-card worthy Positano
• cruise the Amalfi Coast in a boat

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.