Eastern Mediterranean Discovery

London, a vibrant metropolis brimming with history and culture, is a must-visit destination for cruise travellers. Explore the historic Tower of London, witness the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, and stroll across the majestic Tower Bridge. Art enthusiasts will relish the treasures housed in the British Museum and Tate Modern.

Explore London's culinary diversity at Borough Market, where a variety of international flavors await. Be sure to visit the lively Covent Garden, renowned for its street performers and charming boutiques. From the tranquil Royal Parks to the vibrant West End theatres, London provides a captivating blend of British heritage and modern vitality.

Your cruise is about to begin! It's time to make your way to Southampton, if you haven't already. To reach Southampton from London, you can take a train from London Waterloo to Southampton Central, with the journey taking around 1.5 hours - that's approximately 128 km's (80 miles). Alternatively if you're travelling by coach or have arranged a private transfer, please allow around 2 hours for the journey. Once in Southampton, the cruise terminals are within a short taxi ride from the station.

You'll never be bored on board with P&O! With all-inclusive shows, live music, comedy, and SO much more, there's something for everyone aboard a P&O Cruises holiday. Fill your sea days with exciting cruise ship entertainment - from dazzling productions, sensational vocalists, and awe-inspiring performances. From exhilarating dances to breathtaking aerial acrobatics, each show promises an unforgettable experience that will live long in the memory well after the curtains close.

Nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada is a mesmerising Spanish city renowned for the stunning Alhambra, an exquisite Moorish palace complex.

Walk through the fragrant Generalife gardens and admire the intricacies of Nasrid Palaces. Wander in the winding streets of Albaicín, the old Moorish quarter, known for its whitewashed houses and panoramic views. Delve into Flamenco culture in the Sacromonte caves and enjoy traditional tapas, an integral part of Granada's culinary scene. This captivating Andalusian city is a harmonious blend of history, art, and gastronomy, offering a sensory feast to every traveller.

In Motril you'll dock at the Puerto de Motril, about 65 kilometers (40 miles) from Granada - a journey of around an hour. Known for its sugar cane heritage, the city is home to the unique Sugar Cane Museum, showcasing the region's sweet history. The bustling market, Mercado Municipal, is perfect for tasting local produce and delicacies, offering an authentic Spanish experience.

You'll never be bored on board with P&O! With all-inclusive shows, live music, comedy, and SO much more, there's something for everyone aboard a P&O Cruises holiday. Fill your sea days with exciting cruise ship entertainment - from dazzling productions, sensational vocalists, and awe-inspiring performances. From exhilarating dances to breathtaking aerial acrobatics, each show promises an unforgettable experience that will live long in the memory well after the curtains close.

Palermo is a cultural feast, a fascinating combination of East and West, Arab and Norman that is quite unlike any other European city on the Mediterranean. Stacked markets spill out onto souk-like streets, while grand piazzas host elaborate fountains and sculptures, below the watch of baroque church domes.

Top Things to Do in Palermo:

• take a scenic drive up Mt. Pellegrino
• visit the Capuchin Catacombs
• explore the ruins of Segesta
• wander through the busy Mercato del Capo
• visit the medieval town of Erice

You'll never be bored on board with P&O! With all-inclusive shows, live music, comedy, and SO much more, there's something for everyone aboard a P&O Cruises holiday. Fill your sea days with exciting cruise ship entertainment - from dazzling productions, sensational vocalists, and awe-inspiring performances. From exhilarating dances to breathtaking aerial acrobatics, each show promises an unforgettable experience that will live long in the memory well after the curtains close.

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.

Piraeus, the primary port for Athens, is located about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) southwest of the city center. Cruise ships dock at the Piraeus Cruise Terminal, from where it takes roughly 20-30 minutes to reach Athens by taxi or train. The metro station is within walking distance of the port, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to get to the city.

There are taxi queues outside all gates of the airport. A taxi ride from the airport to Piraeus port will take approximately 40-60 minutes, depending on the traffic. The taxi fare (indicative) from Athens airport to the port of Piraeus is 45 euros in the daytime and 64 euros at night (24:00-05:00). Ferries from Piraeus offer connections to all islands of the Aegean, including the Cyclades, the Dodecanese, the Saronic, the North Aegean islands and Crete.

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.

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.

Heraklion, also known as Iraklion, is adorned with a rich collection of quality museums, ancient ruins from antiquity, and a lively culture. The city is built on a hillside overlooking its port and is encircled by impressive Venetian walls. Ships will dock in the port of Heraklion.

Top Things to Do in Heraklion:

• explore the ancient Palace of Knossos
• visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum
• tour the Plateau of Lassithi
• visit the ancient Minoan Palace of Phaistos
• shop for pottery in Thrapsano Village
• explore Spinalonga Island

You'll never be bored on board with P&O! With all-inclusive shows, live music, comedy, and SO much more, there's something for everyone aboard a P&O Cruises holiday. Fill your sea days with exciting cruise ship entertainment - from dazzling productions, sensational vocalists, and awe-inspiring performances. From exhilarating dances to breathtaking aerial acrobatics, each show promises an unforgettable experience that will live long in the memory well after the curtains close.

Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, is known for its strategic significance and natural beauty. Start your visit with a trip to the Rock of Gibraltar, where you can take a cable car to the top for stunning views of the Mediterranean and Atlantic. While there, explore the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, home to the famous Barbary macaques and the impressive St. Michael's Cave.

In the afternoon, visit the Great Siege Tunnels, a fascinating network of passages dug during the 18th century. Stroll through Casemates Square, the lively hub of Gibraltar, filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Don’t forget to see the iconic Europa Point Lighthouse, marking the gateway between the Atlantic and Mediterranean.

You'll never be bored on board with P&O! With all-inclusive shows, live music, comedy, and SO much more, there's something for everyone aboard a P&O Cruises holiday. Fill your sea days with exciting cruise ship entertainment - from dazzling productions, sensational vocalists, and awe-inspiring performances. From exhilarating dances to breathtaking aerial acrobatics, each show promises an unforgettable experience that will live long in the memory well after the curtains close.

London, a vibrant metropolis brimming with history and culture, is a must-visit destination for cruise travellers. Explore the historic Tower of London, witness the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, and stroll across the majestic Tower Bridge. Art enthusiasts will relish the treasures housed in the British Museum and Tate Modern.

Explore London's culinary diversity at Borough Market, where a variety of international flavors await. Be sure to visit the lively Covent Garden, renowned for its street performers and charming boutiques. From the tranquil Royal Parks to the vibrant West End theatres, London provides a captivating blend of British heritage and modern vitality.

To reach London from Southampton, you can take a train from Southampton Central (the station is within a short taxi ride from the cruise terminals) to London Waterloo, with the journey taking around 1.5 hours - that's approximately 128 km's (80 miles). Alternatively if you're travelling by coach or have arranged a private transfer, please allow around 2 hours for the journey.