Athens to Athens

Welcome to the ancient city of Athens, the 'Cradle of Western Civilisation'. If your schedule is tight, savor traditional Greek coffee at a café with a view of the city's iconic ruins, soaking in the historic ambiance before your cruise departs. If you've got time to explore the Acropolis stands as a must-see, 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.

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.

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

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.

Located on the northeast coast of the Black Sea, Sochi is Russia's only subtropical resort city and the gateway to the 'Russian Riviera'. Most famous for hosting the 2014 Winter Olympics, its fresh air, majestic mountain scenery, mineral springs, long beaches, warm sunny days, and bustling nightlife, are also a big draw. Ships will dock at the Port of Sochi.

Top Things to Do in Sochi:

• stroll through the Dendrary Botanical Garden
• hike through the beautiful Alek Mountains
• tour the Olympic Park
• try a Russian tea at Dagomys Tea Plantation
  

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.

Although this 'Pearl of the Black Sea' is now a bustling port of over a million inhabitants, Odessa still retains an old fashioned charm. Stretching along a semi-circle bay, it is known for its beaches and 19th-century architecture, including the Odessa Opera and Ballet Theatre. Ships will dock at the Port of Odessa.

Top Things to Do in Odessa:

• climb the Potemkin Steps
• visit the Palace of Count Tolstoy
• stroll along Primorsky Boulevard
• explore Gagarin's Palace
• visit the Akkerman Fortress

The Romanian city of Constanta is more than just the entry point to the Black Sea coast and Bucharest. It is a place with a long and interesting past, attested by its many Roman vestiges, historic buildings, facades and mosques that colour the Old City Centre. Ships will dock at Port Constanta.

Top Things to Do in Constanta:

• visit the Museum of Ethnography
• take a river boat down the Danube Delta
• explore the archaeological site of Histria
• spend the day in Bucharest
• relax on the beaches of Mamaia resort

Healing pink lakes, secluded pirate islands and famous Byzantine battlegrounds. It sounds like a place straight out of a fable, but it’s actually the beautiful port city of Bourgas. Sitting perched along the Black Sea coast, it is one of the largest cities in often overlooked Bulgaria.

At its heart, the Church of Saint Cyril and Methodius is known for striking stained-glass windows over its main entrance, nearby, the Ethnographic Museum explores Bulgarian folk culture and along Bourgas Bay is the Sea Garden, with exotic plants, a sculpture garden, fountains and a viewing platform on its pier.

A natural, strategic waterway, the Bosphorus Strait connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara, and on through the Aegean to the Mediterranean. As such it is the only sea link between the eastern European countries of the Black Sea and the rest of the world.

One of the busiest straits in the world with around 50,000 passing through it annually, it divides Istanbul and separates the European and Asian parts of Turkey.

Along its entire course is a profusion of palaces, fortresses, old wooden houses, gardens, and seaside cafes.

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.

If you've got time to explore the rich heritage of Athens, begin at the Acropolis, where the Parthenon offers breathtaking views of the city. Nearby, the Plaka district's narrow streets are filled with charming shops and tavernas, perfect for leisurely exploring. Visit the Ancient Agora to walk in the footsteps of Socrates. For a modern twist, the National Archaeological Museum houses treasures spanning millennia. Wrap up your day with a sunset stroll up Lycabettus Hill, providing panoramic vistas of this timeless city.