Costa Cruises Greek islands: 7 nights from Taranto with Costa Fascinosa
Aug 10, 2025

Argostoli

Argostoli is the capital and main port of the Greek island of Kefalonia. It is located 100 km west of Patras and has a population of about 13,000 inhabitants. The island is part of the archipelago of the Ionian Islands or Eptaneso.
This small city has been the capital of the island from 1757 to today and is located in the center of the southern part of the territory, surrounded by mountains and green forests.
Argostoli has monuments of great historical interest, such as the Archaeological Museum, which preserves archaeological finds from the Mycenaean to the Hellenistic and Roman periods. The Korgialenios Museum, a historical and ethnographic museum of the island, which contains a detailed reconstruction of the uses, customs and traditions of the place. The lighthouse of San Teodoro, located a couple of kilometers from Argostoli, built by the English under the command of Governor Napier and consisting of a small circular building with white Doric columns.

From the walk in Lithostrotos avenue, the most commercial street in the capital, you will find the beautiful Orthodox Church of San Spiridione and the interesting clock tower and its splendid bell.
The stone bridge, composed of 650 meters in length and called Drapano Bridge, is located at the entrance to the capital flanked by a small pyramid in the center and dedicated to Charles de Bosset, builder of the bridge.
The modern and cosmopolitan city of Argostoli is constantly moving with interesting activities to offer. It has an elegant maritime promenade lined with palm trees and beautifully paved with colored stones.

The road ends at the small ferry pier where boats leave for the city of Lixouri and where small fishing boats dock.
The central square of the city, called "Plateia Valianou", is a large site full of numerous restaurants, clubs and bars. During the summer evenings, the square becomes really crowded.
In Argostoli you will find a place of extraordinary beauty with splendid mountains and wonderful beaches.

Mykonos

Mykonos is an extremely fun and fascinating place, where the frenetic mix of vacationers, fashionistas and celebrities is magically subdued to the cubist charm of the old town.

Mykonos is famous for being a cosmopolitan destination among the Greek islands and widely recognized as one of the meccas of great tourism. It is one of the most touristy islands in the Aegean Sea. Mykonos tends to be extremely crowded with visitors in July and August. The best time to visit Mykonos is mid-May through June (early in the season, accommodation is much cheaper and it's not that hot), or from September to mid-October.

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.

Valletta

Malta is one the smallest States in the Mediterranean. Few European countries have such a concentration of history, architecture and, beautiful beaches in such a small area. Malta is one of the most concentrated areas of historical interest anywhere in the world, for this reason it was called La Valletta when Unesco awarded it the title of World Heritage Site. The city is therefore the ideal city for art lovers and it is renowned for its massive fortifications and architectural excellence.

One of the most concentrated areas of historical interest elements in the world, so La Valletta was described when Unesco awarded it the title of world heritage site, the city is therefore a guarantee for art lovers and certainly renowned for its massive fortifications and architectural excellence.

Catania

Set sail from Catania for your Mediterranean Cruise Holiday. Discover on our website all departures with embarkation from Catania and visit Barcelona, Marseille and Naples on board the best cruise ships. The city's Baroque historic centre has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002.
Catania is a beautiful city on the east coast of Sicily, the second largest after Palermo, located at the foot of Europe's largest volcanic site: Mount Etna. Besides being really beautiful and full of tourist attractions, Catania is also a very important and complete city.
The hub of the city is the port, the main economic center of the region, and one of the busiest in Italy, it is bustling both day and night. An ideal city to enjoy the pleasures of life and savour true Mediterranean
gastronomy Catania will offer you magical moments. Visit the city's various markets, the colourful and lively Pescheria, where you will find the best fresh fish in town, or stop at the market in Piazza Carlo Alberto, also known as Fera'o Luni, where a characteristic flea market is also held on Sundays.
If you want a snack, don't miss the typical Sicilian cannoli with ricotta cheese or have breakfast with a Sicilian brioche and almond granita, a real treat for your palate before arriving at the port and embarking on your Mediterranean cruise from Catania.

Catania: A Sicilian Symphony for Your Cruise

Set sail from Catania, the vibrant baroque city at the foot of Mount Etna, on Sicily's eastern coast. This bustling port offers a dramatic backdrop for your cruise departure, blending ancient history with a dynamic modern spirit. Before embarking, explore the city's UNESCO-listed architecture, taste its famous street food, and gaze upon the majestic volcano. Catania provides a unique and culturally rich starting point for an unforgettable journey across the Mediterranean.

Mediterranean Wonders from the Heart of Sicily

Cruises departing from Catania offer diverse itineraries that span the enchanting Mediterranean. Whether you dream of exploring the Greek Isles, the historical cities of mainland Italy, or the sun-kissed coasts of North Africa, Catania serves as an excellent launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the lively streets of Sicily to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion. Each voyage from Catania promises breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences on the open water.

Taranto

Taranto is located in Apulia in southern Italy. The city lies at the base of the Salento peninsula and north of the Gulf of Taranto. The old part of the city occupies a small island that lies between the Mare Grande and the inner port (Mare Piccolo). The newer sections of the city are located on the adjacent mainland.

An important naval base, Taranto is also home to a large steelworks. Other industries include the canning and processing of products from the surrounding fertile plain and the production of chemicals, textiles and cement. There are oyster and mussel farming in the Mare Piccolo and fishing with the ebb of the tide.

An important naval base, Taranto is also home to a large steel mill. Other industries include the canning and processing of products from the fertile surrounding plain and the production of chemicals, textiles and cement.
There is the cultivation of oysters and mussels in the Mare Piccolo and fishing with the ebb and flow of the tide.