Seabourn : 30 nights from Barcelona with Seabourn Ovation
Jul 15, 2027

Valencia

Welcome to Valencia, it’s the Mediterranean gem where history, culture and nature merge into stunning beauty and harmony. This magnificent city is located on Spain’s eastern coast, captivating with its vibrant streets, amazing festivals and rich historical heritage, making you want to buy a vacation house.

Valencia is renowned for its magnificent architectural landmarks, with the iconic Cathedral of the Holy Spirit standing out as a symbol of the city. One of Valencia's most famous symbols is "La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias" (The City of Arts and Sciences) - a modern complex of architectural masterpieces designed by the great architect Santiago Calatrava. This complex includes museums, an aquarium, cinemas, an opera house and much more.

Valencia is a true paradise for food lovers. As the birthplace of paella, here you can savor the best examples of Spanish cuisine, fresh seafood and flavorful tapas. You should also try horchata, a traditional drink made from almonds, sugar and water.

Additionally, the city is famous for its celebrations and festivals, such as the renowned Las Fallas Festival. During this event, enormous cardboard and wooden figures are erected throughout the city and then burned in a festive bonfire. This festival attracts thousands of tourists from around the world.

Valencia is also a perfect starting point for Mediterranean cruises. Aboard a cruise liner, you can enjoy luxurious amenities and entertainment while traveling to the most beautiful places in the Mediterranean.

 

Valencia: Spain's Vibrant Gateway to the Mediterranean

Set sail from Valencia, Spain's third-largest city, a dynamic port where ancient traditions meet futuristic marvels. With its stunning City of Arts and Sciences, historic Old Town, and beautiful urban beaches, Valencia offers a captivating and diverse starting point for your Mediterranean cruise. Before embarking, savor its world-famous paella, explore the central market, and immerse yourself in its vibrant street life. Valencia provides a perfect blend of culture, innovation, and sun-drenched charm, making it an ideal gateway for your Spanish and Mediterranean adventures.

Mediterranean Dreams Set Sail from Valencia

Cruises departing from Valencia open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean. Whether you dream of discovering the sun-kissed coasts of the Balearic Islands, the historical richness of Italy, the romantic allure of France, or the exotic shores of North Africa, Valencia serves as an excellent launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the lively streets of Spain to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days filled with relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments. Each voyage from Valencia promises breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion, leaving you with cherished memories.

Port Mahon

Mahon is the capital of Menorca, an island of pristine beaches, coves and inlets around the 216km coastline which allows the most adventurous to experience a satisfying sense of discovery.

Menorca must be one of the few places in the Mediterranean where it is possible to have a beautiful semi-deserted beach in the summer; also thanks to the fact that in 1993 UNESCO declared the island a biosphere reserve, with the aim of preserving its uncontaminated environmental areas, such as the s'Albufera d'es Grau natural park and the archaeological sites of the island. The second largest and northernmost of the Balearic Islands, Menorca also has a more humid climate and is usually a couple of degrees colder than the other islands.

Palamos

Port Vendres

Sete

Sanary Sur Mer

Sanary-sur-Mer, located on the Mediterranean coast of France, is a delightful destination for cruise passengers wishing to discover the charm of Provence. Here are some of the main attractions that this charming seaside village has to offer:

1. The Old Port: The beating heart of Sanary-sur-Mer is its picturesque harbor, where you can admire colorful boats and luxurious yachts. A walk along the harbor offers spectacular views and the opportunity to savor the relaxed atmosphere of the place.

2. Open-air market: Sanary-sur-Mer hosts one of the most lively open-air markets in the region, famous for its fresh local products, including fruit, vegetables, cheeses and flowers. The market is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the colors and flavors of Provence.

3. Church of Saint Nazaire: This Gothic church, located near the port, is known for its magnificent stained glass windows and imposing architecture. It is a place of peace that reflects the deep religious history of the region.

4. Island tours: Several boat tours depart from Sanary-sur-Mer to explore the surrounding islands, such as the Embiez and Bendor islands. These excursions offer splendid opportunities for swimming in crystal clear waters and discovering preserved natural environments.

5. Beaches: The beaches around Sanary-sur-Mer are known for their beauty and tranquility. Beaches like Plage de Portissol offer a perfect retreat to relax, sunbathe and take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean.

6. Diving Museum: For maritime history enthusiasts, the Diving Museum in Sanary-sur-Mer offers a fascinating insight into the evolution of diving equipment with a unique collection of historical artifacts.

 

Montecarlo

Monte Carlo (in French Monte-Carlo, in Monegasque Monte-Carlu), sometimes referred to as Montecarlo, is the central part of the city-state of the Principality of Monaco, and constitutes one of its four traditional districts. Monte Carlo is known for its casino, beaches, skyscrapers, fashion, and for being the chosen residence of several famous personalities.

The Monte-Carlo district is bordered to the northeast by the Larvotto and La Rousse / Saint Romain districts, to the northwest by the La Condamine and Saint Michel districts, and to the north by France, now forming a single urban agglomeration with the French commune of Beausoleil.

Montecarlo is known for its casino, beaches, skyscrapers, fashion and for being elected as a place of residence by several famous people.

The Monte-Carlo district borders the Larvotto and La Rousse / Saint Romain districts to the north-east, the La Condamine and Saint Michel districts to the north-west and France to the north, now constituting a single urban agglomeration with the French municipality of Beausoleil.

Genoa

Genoa is one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean and it welcomes a large numbers of commercial ships and cruise ships. Discover on Taoticket all cruises that depart from Genoa, there are departures all year round, with itineraries from 3 up to 100 nights! You will surely find the cruise that suits you best, discover our departures from Genoa.

Located between sea and land and with a lively port, Genoa powerfully and humbly displays its glorious past, the many palaces in its extensive medieval old town and the ancient terraced hills. The best way to visit Genoa is by walking. All attractions are near the port: the historic city center, via Balbi near railway station in Piazza Principe or Acquarium, the most famous in Italy and the largest one in Europe. Lose your way in the characteristic Caruggi (the alleyways of the old part of the city) and let yourself be carried away by exotic scents, stalls and craft shops, until you reach the majestic Piazza de Ferrari. From here you can do shopping in the central via XX Settembre (20th September Street) or discover the hidden corners of the city, ready to reveal surprises at any step.

We suggest to have an aperitif or eat an ice cream in Piazza delle Erbe, near Piazza Matteotti. If your stop in the city is long enough, you can admire exhibitions and art expositioins in Palazzo Ducale, one of
the most impressive buildings in Genoa. Do not loose the opportunity to visit the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, where is kept an unexploded bomb from War World II. Genoese cuisine is very rich and tasty, try the Farinata di Ceci (chickpea flatbread) or a piece of the tasty
and renowned Genoese Focaccia! You can choose to stop at one of the many trattorias in the historic center that offer fixed-price menus to try a plate of Trofiette al Pesto, Pansoti al Sugo di Noci and much more, or enjoy your sandwich in the sun on the benches of the Porto Antico admiring the Lantern in all its splendour.

Genoa: The Historical Heart of Mediterranean Cruises

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Genoa, a majestic port city nestled on the Ligurian coast, renowned for its rich maritime history and architectural splendor. As the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, Genoa offers a captivating blend of ancient alleys, grand palaces, and a vibrant contemporary scene. Before setting sail, explore the Aquarium of Genoa, wander through the UNESCO-listed Strade Nuove, and savor the local pesto. Genoa provides a truly authentic Italian experience as your gateway to the Mediterranean's most captivating destinations.

Mediterranean Wonders Await from Genoa

Cruises departing from Genoa open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean. Whether you dream of discovering the romantic coasts of France, the historical richness of Spain, the sun-drenched islands of Greece, or the exotic allure of North Africa, Genoa serves as an ideal launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the bustling Ligurian capital to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days filled with relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments. Each voyage from Genoa promises breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion, leaving you with cherished memories.

Calvi

Ajaccio

The largest city in Corsica has all the attractions of a typical French Mediterranean resort, with beaches, palm trees, street cafés and a picturesque mountain range in the background.

If you didn't already know that Napoleon Bonaparte was born in Ajaccio, you will find out after just a few minutes of being here. With a glitzy marina, designer boutiques and trendy restaurants, Corsica's cosmopolitan capital honours its famous 'son' with street names, statues and various excellent museums.

Ajaccio is located in the most protected part of the Gulf of Ajaccio, an inlet of the Corsican Sea at the mouth of the Gravona and Prunelli rivers.

Its name comes from the Greek word 'Agation' (good port), due to its privileged position on the coast. The city has been occupied by the Romans, Pisans, and Genoese who built a fortifed citadel in 1492, and was populated by the Lunigiana families, including the Bonapartes. In 1769, one year after French occupation began, the city's most illustrious citizen was born: Napoleon.

Bonifacio

Olbia

Olbia is a municipality in the province of Sassari and it is one of Sardinia's main cities in terms of industrial and economic development. The city is a very important tourist resort: many tourists choose Olbia as a destination for their summer holidays, thanks to its dreamy beaches and resorts such as Porto Rotondo and Portisco. In Olbia, you can visit the Romanesque-style church of San Simplicio and the Baroque-style church of San Paolo.

Olbia offers some of the most beautiful beaches of the island, for example Cugnana and Rena Bianca, where the crystal-clear water and white beaches make them one of the most sought after destinations in the summer.

The city has a port important both for cruise passengers and ferry boat ones: for this reason is linked to the ports of Civitavecchia, Genoa, Livorno and Piombino.

Olbia offers a cozy atmosphere and in the summer it fills up of young peoploe strolling around the streets or drinking with friends in many clubs in the center of the city. In the center of the city, live music or markets that offer typical products or handmade objects can be easily found.

The city is a very important port for both cruise tourism and ferry traffic: it is in fact connected to the port of Civitavecchia, Genoa, Livorno and Piombino.
Olbia offers a welcoming atmosphere and in summer it is populated by young people who walk along the street or drink something in company in the many clubs that are in the center. In the center it is easy to find live music or markets that offer typical products or handmade objects.

Civitavecchia

The port town of Civitavecchia is about an hour away from the Italian capital and is where ships will dock before bringing lucky holidaymakers into the city of Rome. It is an important port for cruise ships and ferries, connecting to Corsica, Sardinia and Barcelona. Civitavecchia is a town in the heart of Lazio. It is a small, sleepy town that overlooks the sea from behind the busy and chaotic commercial port.

Spreading out along the coast, the town is situated between the Mignon river to the north and the Marangone river to the south.
Civitavecchia is a port town in the heart of Italy, in the province of Rome, 80 kilometres northwest of the capital.

It is shrouded in art and history, and is rich in bays and coves with sandy and rocky beaches. Today the town is the departure point for many cruises and journeys around the Mediterranean. It is an excellent tourist destination where you can simply enjoy 'la dolce vita' or visit the amazing historical monuments. On a level with the majestic ancient capital, in terms of its monuments, gardens, villas and works of art, it also gives you easy access to the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Terme della Ficoncella, and the Etruscan ruins.

Civitavecchia will guarantee you an original and enchanting experience.

Amalfi

Terraced cliffs with fragrant lemon groves mirrored down in shimmering seas; whitewashed villas precariously clinging to the harsh slopes while sea and sky merge into a vast blue horizon.

Terraced cliffs with fragrant lemon groves mirrored down in shimmering seas; whitewashed villas precariously clinging to the harsh slopes while sea and sky merge into a vast blue horizon.

Giardini-Naxos

Giardini-Naxos (Giaddini or Giaddina in Sicilian) is an Italian municipality in the province of Messina in Sicily. Formerly called Nasso, it is 40 km from Messina and 39 km from Catania. In 1978, "Naxos" was added to the old name of the town ("Giardini").

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.

Saranda

Located in the extreme south-west of Albania along the Ionian Sea, opposite the Greek island of Corfu, Saranda is a popular Albanian city, one of the most important tourist cities on the Ionian coast.

The most welcoming and tourist city in Albania, draped along a curved bay with a thin strip of beach. The city developed in antiquity, from the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, archaeological excavations have revealed the remains in the center of the metropolis.
Despite its lack of popularity, it has a fascinating heritage: a promenade decorated with palm and eucalyptus trees, surrounded by numerous clubs.
The beaches also offer the opportunity to practice numerous water activities.

One of the most beautiful beaches is Kakome Bay north of Seranda: The beach is huge, absolutely stunning.
Blue Eye is a lagoon, so called thanks to its turquoise shades similar to the color of the iris of an eye. At 45 meters deep, the water is incredibly transparent.
Ksamil is a small village near Saranda (15 km) and also has a beautiful beach surrounded by small islands accessible by swimming.

Castle Lekures dating back to the 16th century is located on the hills of Saranda and offers panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. The dominant position of the castle was a strategic point for protecting the city from invasions: on one side the sea and on the other a large tray suitable for cultivation and breeding. The castle has a splendid terrace and a restaurant. It is reachable by car or on foot.
The Butrint National Heritage Park World Heritage by UNESCO, is a natural park, rich in wildlife such as foxes, reptiles, martens, seals, turtles and various birds. The climate is mild and sunny for most of the year. The economy of the city of Saranda is mainly based on agricultural products from the Valtos valley, on the cultivation of mussels from the salt lake of Vouthrotos (Butrint).
In addition to the slow and constant growth of tourism, fishing is another source of wealth.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is definitely special. A magnificent curtain wall surrounds marble streets and Baroque buildings exude a pearly light in the Adriatic sun.

Picturesque and artistic, Dubrovnik is a tourist hotspot and port in southern Dalmatia, at the foot of the Srđ mountain. From a historical and cultural point of view, it has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Thanks to its beauty and everything it has on offer for tourists, Dubrovnik is one of the most attractive destinations in the Mediterranean, so much so that the city can be visited all year round. In addition to its world-famous architectural heritage, this place has beautiful rocky beaches, pebble beaches and sandy beaches, enjoys a Mediterranean climate and also has lush vegetation. The main pedestrian street, Placa, is a melange of cafes and shops with monuments at each end.

Churches, monasteries and museums adorned with finely carved stone, recall an eventful history and a rich artistic tradition. Beyond the city there is a paradise of beaches, wooded peninsulas and a crystal-clear sea dotted with lush islands.

The city is also known for its delicious cuisine and its infrastructure of hotels for tourists. The city offers a wide selection of first-class restaurants, numerous sport and leisure activities, as well as cultural and entertainment events

Korcula

The island of Korcula is known for its vineyards and berry fruits, but the most interesting part is certainly its city. Although less known than other municipalities in Dalmatia, it is certainly one of the most beautiful places in Croatia. Located on a peninsula, between stone buildings and defensive towers, Korcula has maintained its original appearance. The metropolis was created in a very ingenious way, the plan of its streets is arranged in a herringbone pattern, the spine is the main road that passes in front of the cathedral, then these lanes of the road meet the sea on both sides. Entering the oldest district, through a magnificent staircase, you will reach the great Revelin tower. Passing through the door, you arrive on the main road that leads to the Basilica of San Marco. You will notice on the facade the superb rose window carved with fantastic motifs, such as dragons and mermaids. The ball clock, with its colored shades, indicates the different phases of the moon. The city has many other monuments to visit. Most are located around Piazza San Marco, dominated by the cathedral of the same name. Korcula boasts of being the birthplace of the famous Marco Polo. Legend or reality? Hard to say. In any case, it is possible to visit his alleged home... Otherwise, you can admire the Church of All Saints of the XIV century, or the Church of San Michele of the XVIII century. Its beaches are considered the most beautiful in Croatia, but don't expect kilometers of sandy beaches, because they are small pebbles of secluded and rocky beaches, but still perfect for swimming or sunbathing in total relaxation.

Kotor

The Adriatic Sea penetrates the jagged coast of Montenegro and winds between high mountains until it meets the exquisite and walled medieval city of Kotor.

Along the Adriatic coast of the former Yugoslavia, we find one of the most unique and fascinating European coastal areas, the city hidden in Montenegro, Kotor.
Located at the bottom of a bay, the beautiful medieval city of Kotor is considered a Mediterranean location surrounded by cliffs and an interesting historic wall. The tourist attractions of Kotor are easily reached with a pleasant walk. This small walled city, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has compact dimensions that make it comfortable and easy to visit.

The central part of Kotor was built between the XII and XIV centuries. A historic center surrounded by a rather thick wall, four and a half kilometers long and fifteen meters high. This immense fortified wall reaches the bastion of Sveti Ivan (San Giovanni).
Inside the walls, it preserves an urban network cut into the stone. Its most emblematic work is the Cathedral of San Trifone, built in the 12th century. Inside the church it contains objects and frescoes sculpted during the 14th century. Furthermore, The Orthodox Church of San Nicolas, built between 1902 and 1909 in neo-Byzantine style and that of San Luca (13th century) built in Romanesque and Byzantine style.

Together with the churches, the city includes many palaces that tell its history: the Maritime Museum, located in the Grgurina Palace, a splendid baroque building located in the historic center of the country. The Drago house, with its beautiful Gothic windows, the Prima building, where Renaissance and Baroque lines are combined, the Ducal Palace and the Bizanti, both from the 17th century and the Napoleonic theater in the 19th century.
In Kotor, it is very common to see locals located along the rocky coast in the lower part of the city. In the old part of the area you will find many shops and restaurants that will delight your eyes. This location is the classic ideal city to spend quiet days or for a romantic getaway.

Brindisi

Many cruise ships, whose destination are Greek Islands, Croatia and Venice, set sail from Bari. On Taoticket you will find all departures on offer from Brindisi for a fairytale cruise in the Adriatic Sea.
Located in Salento plain along the Adriatic Sea, Brindisi has a magnificent natural port. The province of Brindisi stretches from the coast to the Adriatic Sea and includes areas of great historical interest. For instance, Via Traiana, the eastern part of the Itria Valley or the Roman road of Via Appia, the oldest road of the Roman Empire. In addition, Greece, Turkey and Albania can be easily reached from Brindisi by sea. The main trade traffic concerns coal, fuel oil, natural gas and chemicals.

If your cruise ship sets sail from Brindisi, do not miss the opportunity to visit this beautiful city in Puglia. We recommend you to visit the church of San Benedetto with its bell tower in Apulian Romanesque style, built around 1090 for the Benedictine nuns of Salento.

Do not a performance of the traditional dance of these lands: the pizzica. Its origins date back to the the cult of tarantismo, the belief that some women suffering from hysteria had been bitten by a tarantula. The only way to recover was to dance the pizzica continuously for days accompanied by the rhythm of tambourines, violins and mandolins. Nowadays pizzica is often still danced by young and old locals. There are many shows and artistic events you can attend, especially in the summer months. The traditional cuisine of Brindisi is made up of peasant elements such as barley flour and rich in blue fish, once undervalued but very nutritious. Stop here and try the famous fish soup with a glass of Negroamaro and your cruise will be tastier.

Brindisi: A Historical Gateway to the East

Set sail from Brindisi, a city in Puglia, Italy, steeped in history and serving as an ancient gateway to the East. With its Roman columns, charming waterfront, and historical churches, Brindisi offers a captivating starting point for your cruise. Explore its rich past, enjoy fresh seafood, and soak in the laid-back Southern Italian atmosphere before embarking on a journey across the Adriatic and Ionian seas. This vibrant port is your perfect introduction to a world of maritime adventure and cultural discovery.

Unveiling New Horizons from Brindisi

Cruises departing from Brindisi invite you to explore diverse and enchanting destinations, from the sun-kissed islands of Greece to the picturesque coasts of Albania and Montenegro. Whether you seek ancient historical sites, bustling markets, or tranquil beaches, Brindisi provides excellent access to a variety of compelling itineraries. Enjoy the convenience of a well-located port and the anticipation of new discoveries as you leave the heel of Italy behind for unforgettable experiences on the open water, promising relaxation and endless exploration.

Korfu

Corfù is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea, located off the northwestern coast of Greece and south of Albania. The Greek island is a natural paradise. It is the second largest island of Greece, with 220 km of coastline. Its geography is dominated by mountain ranges and reaching 1000 meters above sea level, you will find Mont Pantokrator.

This mountain divides the island into three different areas. The northern area, abundant in olive groves, features green valleys and coastlines that form both small and large bays. The central part, the most populous and important, is covered by dense vegetation and lush hills.

 

 

The southern area consists of a large plain with less vegetation than the other regions but is decidedly more fertile. The most lively part of the city is found at Liston, similar to Paris’ Rue de Rivoli- a grand avenue lined with beautiful cafes and excellent restaurants. On the other hand, the island also has beautiful beaches washed by the Ionian Sea.

One of the most beautiful walks in the capital is along the harbor promenade, next to the city walls, where you can contemplate the view of the city. Corfù was the first Greek Island to open its doors to tourism, becoming an important international tourist centre that attracts many visitors every year. Even if tourism is evident in the coastal areas, the island has managed to preserve its authenticity.

Itea

Gytheio

Located south of the Peloponnese, the city of Gytheio (or Gythion) is located north of the Gulf of Lakonia. The cosmopolitan atmosphere, the landscape of a unique island, and the variety of choices are the first impressions of visitors arriving in this paradise, formerly known as the land of the Gods. Gytheio was the port of the ancient city of Sparta and soon developed as the main export center of Laconia. On the hill, north of the village, the ruins of the citadel reside. At the foot of the hill is the ancient theater which still hosts numerous cultural events. Ornamented by various Roman constructions, associated with the mountains and the sea, it gives a prestigious natural landscape. All this wonder is combined with neoclassical buildings, with the addition of the small and charming fishing port. The beaches here are fantastic (many awarded with blue flags), especially those of Mavrovouni and Selinitsa, where you can swim and try different water sports such as windsurfing. Many cultural events take place during the summer, with music festivals, theatrical performances, and attractions for young people. The summer ends with the start of the traditional fair on September 14th which lasts for a week and, subsequently, on September 30th near the port. 10 km from Gytheio, on the road to Areopolis, there are the ruins of Passava castle, built in the early years of the conquest of the Peloponnese by the Franks, constituting the base of their barony. Don't forget to visit Trinissa, a wonderful complex of islands that provide a secluded, relaxing, and natural place.

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.