Fusina (Venice) to Athens (Piraeus)

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.

Fusina Terminal is located about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from the heart of Venice. The journey to the city center typically takes around 20-30 minutes by shuttle bus or water taxi.

Your ship will dock at the Trieste Cruise Terminal, located right in the heart of the city. This makes it easy to explore Trieste’s rich history and charming architecture. Key attractions like Piazza Unità d'Italia, the Roman Theatre, and Miramare Castle are easily accessible by foot or a short bus ride. For a scenic adventure, consider a tram ride up to the hilltop village of Opicina, offering stunning views of the city and Adriatic Sea.

Venice is approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) away, a journey that takes about 2 hours by train. To visit Venice, take a train from Trieste Centrale to Venice Santa Lucia for a scenic and efficient route.

Start your visit by exploring the city's medieval towers, particularly the iconic Asinelli and Garisenda towers, which offer stunning views of the red-roofed cityscape. Stroll through the historic Piazza Maggiore, home to the impressive Basilica di San Petronio.

Food lovers will be in paradise here. Bologna is the birthplace of Bolognese sauce and offers a variety of mouthwatering dishes. Visit the bustling Quadrilatero district to sample local specialties and fresh produce. Don’t miss a chance to indulge in handmade tortellini or a slice of mortadella, perfectly paired with a glass of local Lambrusco.

Ravenna, “The Mosaic City”, is best known for its churches, which date back 1,500 years and are decorated with stunning Byzantine mosaics. Ravenna's port, also known as Porto Corsini, is situated about 85 kilometers (53 miles) from Bologna and about 150 kilometers (93 miles) from Venice.

If you're looking to visit Bologna to explore its rich history, vibrant food scene, and it's architectural marvels like the Piazza Maggiore and it's famous two towers, Garisenda and Asinelli, your best option is to organise a pre-arranged excursion on board.

Lying on the Adriatic Sea's eastern shore, Split is known for its terracotta roofs, whitewashed buildings, palm-tree-lined promenade and azure waters. A city of romantic beauty, it was built around the historic Diocletian’s Palace. Ships will dock or anchor at this port.

Top Things to Do in Split:

• explore Krka National Park
• visit the city-island of Trogir
• admire the Diocletian's Palace
• swim in the warm water at Bačvice Beach
• go white water rafting on Cetina River
• explore Vranjaca Cave

The famous medieval city of Dubrovnik, known as 'the pearl of the Adriatic', is found behind massive stonewalls that protect winding streets, charming squares, and red-roofed buildings dating back to the 7th century. Larger ships will dock at Gruz Harbour, while some smaller ships will anchor offshore and tender guests to the Old Harbour.

Top Things to Do in Dubrovnik:

• drive along the Dalmatian coast
• take a cruise along the Dubrovnik Riviera
• stroll the streets of the UNESCO Old City
• visit the traditional village of Ljuta

Brindisi, with its huge natural harbour and characterful ancient centre, is your gateway to the Puglia region. Located on the 'heel' of the Italian boot, the region is a well-kept secret offering a landscape of orchards and forests of olive trees. Ships will dock at the Porto di Brindisi.

Top Things to Do in Brindisi:

• admire the stunning architecture in Lecce
• discover the Apulian Coast by boat
• explore Ostuni, 'the white city'
• see the conical houses of Alberobello
• visit the Church of Santa Maria del Casale
  

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Olympia is the birthplace of the Olympic Game and a treasure trove of ancient history and culture. Begin your visit at the Archaeological Site of Olympia, home to the ancient stadium where the first games were held in 776 BC. Marvel at the Temple of Zeus, once housing one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and explore the ruins of other significant structures like the Temple of Hera.

The Archaeological Museum of Olympia is a must-see, displaying a vast collection of artifacts, including the famous Hermes of Praxiteles statue. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the lush surroundings of the site, reflecting on the history and heritage of this iconic location.

This quaint little seaside town on the Ionian Sea is your gateway to Ancient Olympia, where Greek mythology was born and the first Olympiad was held. Excavation of the ruins of Olympia began in 1875, and Olympia was declared a National Park in 1976. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Katakolon:

• relax on Kourouta Beach
• tour the ruins of Olympia
• visit the Archaeological Museum of Olympia
• taste some local wine at Mercouri Estate
• visit a traditional Greek olive farm

With perfect beaches, crystal clear waters, and evocative fortress-capped mountains, Nafplion is a sun-soaked Greek beauty. The beautiful town is staggered up green hillsides and filled with old mansions, paved paths and a Neoclassical feel. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the pier.

Top Things to Do in Nafplion:

• visit the ancient sites of Epidaurus and Mycenae
• take in the views from the Paladimi Fortress
• visit Corinth and cross the canal by boat
• sample some local wine or ouzo

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).