Azamara Greek islands: 7 nights from Civitavecchia with Azamara Onward
Dec 5, 2026

Salerno

Salerno is an Italian municipality with 133,693 inhabitants, capital of the province of the same name in Campania, the second municipality in the region by number of inhabitants and the thirtieth at national level. The city of Salerno occupies a spectacular position overlooking the Gulf, where the splendid Amalfi Coast is located, a famous tourist destination in Italian Campania. It has a rich history and a deep-rooted tradition.

During the Middle Ages the city was the capital of the homonymous Lombard principality and then of the Norman duchy of Puglia and Calabria which included a large part of the continental South and was the original nucleus of the future Kingdom of Naples and the Two Sicilies.

Salerno was home to the School of Medicine, which was the first and most important medical institution in Europe at the beginning of the Middle Ages and as such is considered by many a forerunner of modern universities. Ideal heir to the famous medical school is the University of Salerno, located since 1988, in the form of a campus, in the neighboring municipalities of Fisciano and Baronissi.

From February to August 1944 Salerno was the seat of the Italian government,[10] hosting the governments Badoglio I, Badoglio II and Bonomi II which led to the Turn of Salerno.

Starting from the second half of the nineties, the city began a series of policies aimed at improving livability, urban decor and projecting, especially as regards tourism, Salerno at national and international level. The city is therefore a candidate to become one of the poles of cruise tourism and contemporary architecture, hosting works by the greatest architects of the 21st century, such as Fuksas, Zaha Hadid, Bohigas, Chipperfield, Calatrava and Bofill.

Salerno

Salerno is an Italian municipality with 133,693 inhabitants, capital of the province of the same name in Campania, the second municipality in the region by number of inhabitants and the thirtieth at national level. The city of Salerno occupies a spectacular position overlooking the Gulf, where the splendid Amalfi Coast is located, a famous tourist destination in Italian Campania. It has a rich history and a deep-rooted tradition.

During the Middle Ages the city was the capital of the homonymous Lombard principality and then of the Norman duchy of Puglia and Calabria which included a large part of the continental South and was the original nucleus of the future Kingdom of Naples and the Two Sicilies.

Salerno was home to the School of Medicine, which was the first and most important medical institution in Europe at the beginning of the Middle Ages and as such is considered by many a forerunner of modern universities. Ideal heir to the famous medical school is the University of Salerno, located since 1988, in the form of a campus, in the neighboring municipalities of Fisciano and Baronissi.

From February to August 1944 Salerno was the seat of the Italian government,[10] hosting the governments Badoglio I, Badoglio II and Bonomi II which led to the Turn of Salerno.

Starting from the second half of the nineties, the city began a series of policies aimed at improving livability, urban decor and projecting, especially as regards tourism, Salerno at national and international level. The city is therefore a candidate to become one of the poles of cruise tourism and contemporary architecture, hosting works by the greatest architects of the 21st century, such as Fuksas, Zaha Hadid, Bohigas, Chipperfield, Calatrava and Bofill.

Syracuse

Syracuse is an ancient city in the Mediterranean and Europe.
Its vast archaeological site, on the edge of the modern city, is a rare treasure of temples, amphitheaters and an ancient castle.
The island of Ortigia, a labyrinth of fascinating ancient and medieval streets, allows a holiday of sightseeing and shopping.

Syracuse was a center of Greek, Byzantine and Jewish civilization. Testimonies of these three cultures can still be seen today,
making Ortygia a fascinating place to visit for anyone curious about the historical heritage we have inherited from classical mythology,
ancient Christianity and medieval Judaism.
Located near the southeastern corner of Sicily on the Ionian coast, Syracuse is built on an ancient Greek settlement founded by the Corinthians in 734 BC.
More than any other modern city in Sicily, Syracuse manifests a visible continuity from its ancient Greek past, both historical and mythological.

Katakolon

Katakolon is known as the 'gateway to Olympia' in fact it is located just east of the ancient city of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games.

Katakolon is a seaside town in the municipality of Pyrgos in western Greece. It is located on a picturesque promontory overlooking the Ionian Sea and separating the Gulf of Kyparissia from the rest of the Ionian Sea. It is 11 km west of the center of Pyrgos. The small village of Agios Andreas is located north-west of Katakolon. The port of Katakolon is a very popular stop for cruise ships, offering passengers the opportunity to visit the site of ancient Olympia. Low hills with forests surround Katakolo. In 1865 the Katakolon lighthouse was built. One of the most important sites in Katakolon is the Museum of Ancient Greek technology.

Chania

Chania, the second largest city in Crete, is a jewel overlooking the Aegean Sea, rich in history and natural beauty. Here's what to do during your stop in this city:

1. Walk in the Venetian Port: Start your visit with a walk along the picturesque Venetian port. Admire the Lighthouse, one of the symbols of the city, and visit the Janissaries Mosque.

2. Explore the Historic Quarter: Get lost in the narrow streets of the old quarter, where you can discover craft shops, traditional taverns and colorful houses. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Archaeological Museum of Chania.

3. Municipal Market: Take a jump to the covered market of Chania, where you can buy local products such as olives, cheeses and spices.

4. Stop in a Local Tavern: Savor Cretan cuisine in one of the taverns on the waterfront or in the alleys of the historic center. Try typical dishes such as dakos, moussaka and oven-baked lamb.

Embark on an unforgettable Mediterranean journey from Chania, Crete's most picturesque city. With its charming Venetian harbor, lighthouse, and labyrinthine Old Town, Chania offers a captivating and romantic setting for your cruise departure. Before setting sail, wander through its narrow alleys, discover ancient ruins, and savor the authentic Cretan cuisine. Chania provides a vibrant blend of history, culture, and stunning coastal beauty, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the Aegean and beyond.

Cruises departing from Chania open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling Aegean and Mediterranean seas. Imagine discovering the ancient wonders of mainland Greece, the volcanic landscapes of Santorini, or the historical richness of Turkey. Whether you seek vibrant island life, serene beaches, or profound historical sites, Chania serves as an excellent launchpad for diverse itineraries. Enjoy the seamless transition from Crete's charming city to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days of relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments on the open water, promising a truly enriching voyage.

Athens

For many, Athens is a city lived two thousand five hundred years ago. Symbol is the mighty Acropolis which dominates almost every view and itinerary of every visitor, crowned by the iconic Parthenon, stands above the city, watching the sprawling modern metropolis in evolution.

Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city where antiquity and modernity, history and contemporary culture blend in a unique way. Everyone knows that the name of the city derives from the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom and justice. However, few people actually know the legend behind this event. According to myth, Athena and Poseidon, the God of the seas, vied for the right to name the city. Poseidon, to impress the inhabitants, gave them water, while Athena gave them an olive branch.

At first the choice fell on Poseidon, since the citizens considered water the most precious gift. When, once they tasted the water, they discovered that it was salty and not drinkable, they changed their minds and recognized Athena as their patron. One of the most famous historical sites in the city is the Acropolis, a majestic hill topped by ancient Doric temples, including the Parthenon, built in 477 BC. and the Erechtheion, built between 421 and 406 BC. Climbing the Acropolis, tourists can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and the Aegean Sea. However, Athens is not only history, but also a lively cultural capital. In the Plaka district, located at the foot of the Acropolis, it is possible to stroll through the welcoming streets, visit the traditional Greek taverns and enjoy the authentic atmosphere.

Then there are the numerous cultural activities offered by the numerous museums, galleries and theaters present in the city. Athens is an important port for cruise ships that offer trips to the Mediterranean and beyond. Cruises from Athens allow guests to explore the rich cultural heritage of Greece, including the islands of Crete, Santorini and Mykonos, where you can admire the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea and a coast of white houses.

In addition to the Greek islands, cruises from Athens also offer the opportunity to visit other exciting Mediterranean destinations, including historic cities in Italy, Croatia and Turkey. Athens is therefore not only the historical and cultural center of Greece, but also an important starting point for cruises in the Mediterranean, which offers guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the great history and splendid landscapes of this unique region.

Many still think of Athens as an ancient city that thrived two and a half thousand years ago. Its symbol is the mighty Acropolis, which dominates almost every view and the itinerary of every visitor, and it is crowned by the iconic Parthenon, which rises above the city, overlooking the sprawling and evolving modern metropolis.

Perhaps the most significant change is in the historical centre, which is almost unrecognisable since cars have been banned. This has liberated the area with the most significant archaeological sites, creating the longest, and undoubtedly one of the most splendid, pedestrianised zones in Europe. This huge archaeological park has brought past and present together, returning the cultural and social life of the city to the area around the ancient monuments and surrounding neighbourhoods.

Athens remains a city of contradictions; it is both frustrating and seductive. It is the oldest city in Europe, yet still in a state of transition. It is one of the safest and most vibrant European cities - an intoxicating mix of grunge and grace with an undeniably urban soul.

Athens

For many, Athens is a city lived two thousand five hundred years ago. Symbol is the mighty Acropolis which dominates almost every view and itinerary of every visitor, crowned by the iconic Parthenon, stands above the city, watching the sprawling modern metropolis in evolution.

Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city where antiquity and modernity, history and contemporary culture blend in a unique way. Everyone knows that the name of the city derives from the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom and justice. However, few people actually know the legend behind this event. According to myth, Athena and Poseidon, the God of the seas, vied for the right to name the city. Poseidon, to impress the inhabitants, gave them water, while Athena gave them an olive branch.

At first the choice fell on Poseidon, since the citizens considered water the most precious gift. When, once they tasted the water, they discovered that it was salty and not drinkable, they changed their minds and recognized Athena as their patron. One of the most famous historical sites in the city is the Acropolis, a majestic hill topped by ancient Doric temples, including the Parthenon, built in 477 BC. and the Erechtheion, built between 421 and 406 BC. Climbing the Acropolis, tourists can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and the Aegean Sea. However, Athens is not only history, but also a lively cultural capital. In the Plaka district, located at the foot of the Acropolis, it is possible to stroll through the welcoming streets, visit the traditional Greek taverns and enjoy the authentic atmosphere.

Then there are the numerous cultural activities offered by the numerous museums, galleries and theaters present in the city. Athens is an important port for cruise ships that offer trips to the Mediterranean and beyond. Cruises from Athens allow guests to explore the rich cultural heritage of Greece, including the islands of Crete, Santorini and Mykonos, where you can admire the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea and a coast of white houses.

In addition to the Greek islands, cruises from Athens also offer the opportunity to visit other exciting Mediterranean destinations, including historic cities in Italy, Croatia and Turkey. Athens is therefore not only the historical and cultural center of Greece, but also an important starting point for cruises in the Mediterranean, which offers guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the great history and splendid landscapes of this unique region.

Many still think of Athens as an ancient city that thrived two and a half thousand years ago. Its symbol is the mighty Acropolis, which dominates almost every view and the itinerary of every visitor, and it is crowned by the iconic Parthenon, which rises above the city, overlooking the sprawling and evolving modern metropolis.

Perhaps the most significant change is in the historical centre, which is almost unrecognisable since cars have been banned. This has liberated the area with the most significant archaeological sites, creating the longest, and undoubtedly one of the most splendid, pedestrianised zones in Europe. This huge archaeological park has brought past and present together, returning the cultural and social life of the city to the area around the ancient monuments and surrounding neighbourhoods.

Athens remains a city of contradictions; it is both frustrating and seductive. It is the oldest city in Europe, yet still in a state of transition. It is one of the safest and most vibrant European cities - an intoxicating mix of grunge and grace with an undeniably urban soul.