Costa Cruises Mediterranean: 16 nights from Athens with Costa Pacifica
Oct 29, 2027

Istanbul

An incredible city, huge, vibrant like few others in the world. Where two continents meet, culture and diversity thrive in a unique architectural setting. Istanbul is hot,and we aren’t talking about the weather. These days there are more restaurants,bars,galleries and clubs around the city than Ottoman mosques(which is not a small feat).

The international fashion and design press has talked about Istanbul to the point of exhaustion; the sense of age that fell over the city once the Ottoman empire disappeared, has been replaced by a sense of energy and innovation not seen since the times of Suleiman the Magnificent.

Izmir

The second most important port in Turkey after Istanbul, Izmir is located on the Aegean Sea near the Gulf of Izmir. It is a large city and a famous culture center, situated along the coastal strip, it is surrounded on all sides by high mountains covered with ancient forests. The city has many points of interest, with museums and theaters, so visitors, in addition to relaxing on the beach, will have the opportunity to engage in cultural activities.

The most valuable archaeological discovery is the Temple of Athena Barakly, located in the region. Within the temple, fortified walls surrounding an ancient Ionian town were also found The buildings date back to the 9th-7th Century BC, and all the priceless artifacts from the excavations in the area have been transferred to the archaeological museum, where examples of ceramics and jewelry can be seen.

History lovers should visit Kadifekale Mountain, where the ruins of a castle built during the time of Alexander the Great are located. In front of the castle there is a large courtyard, which offers a scenic view  of the mountains and the Blue Gulf. Another build from the time of Alexander the Great is the market known as the Agora. It was severely damaged by an earthquake, but it was rebuilt and has been perfectly preserved to this day. The architectural monuments, remnants of the Roman Empire, include the water pipes of Elshiedere Shiriner. 

Among the religious buildings, we must mention the Church of St. Polycarp, built in the 14th Century and rebuilt in 1620. It is the oldest building of its kind. In the central square, you can see the Izmir Clock Tower. It was built in 1901 by order of Sheik Abdul Hamid and, more than a hundred years later, remains the undisputed symbol of the city.

Volos

Volos is a town located in the center of mainland Greece, about 326 km north of Athens and 215 km south of Thessaloniki, the second most important city. Built at the deepest point of the Pagasean Gulf and at the foot of Mount Pelion, Volos is a large port city that enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with rather humid summers and mild winters.

Built at the deepest point of the Gulf of Pagaseo and at the foot of Mount Pelion, Volos is located on the Pelion peninsula in central Greece.
The etymology of the name " Volos ", according to a historical version, is the result of the distortion of the name of the Mycenaean city of Iolkos, where Jason set off with his Argonauts and his ship Argo in search of the Golden Fleece.
Volos is one of the oldest port cities in Greece. Capital of the province of Magnesia, the city belongs to the central region of Thessaly, its only outlet to the sea. It is located on the inner part of the mouth of the Gulf of Pagaseo, at the foot of the mythical Mount Pelion, the legendary country of the centaurs, as mythology tells.
Volos represents the ideal base to discover not only the picturesque mountain villages but also the Sporades islands of Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos, connected by ferries. The city owes its current economic boom and its development to maritime trade, to the industries established in the area, and to the increase in tourism.
Volos is a relatively new city, it began to develop in the mid-19th century in the place where a small Turkish village previously resided. After its annexation to Greece from the Ottoman Empire, in 1881, it grew very rapidly in the following 40 years. In the 1920s there was a large influx of refugees. Merchants, entrepreneurs, artisans, and sailors went to live in Volos and the surrounding areas.
The development of the city has been closely linked to the creation of industrial areas, the restructuring of the port and the increase in tourism thanks to its geographical position, near Mount Pelion, and the fabulous beaches of Magnesia, especially those located in the Sporades.
The city is also known for its variety of " mezedes ", mixed appetizer dishes based on fish or seafood, served with a traditional alcoholic beverage called "Tsipouro".

Santorini

Santorini is a small circular archipelago of volcanic islands located in the southern Aegean Sea, about 200 km southeast of mainland Greece.

Santorini is located in the southern part of the Cyclades.Its special geological configuration gives a spectacular, wild and unique beauty, becoming one of the main tourist destinations in Europe.
The current crescent shape of Santorini is a consequence of the enormous volcanic explosion that destroyed much of the island causing the formation of the caldera present on the territory, inside which form a series of wonderful small islands.
The island is a sanctuary of peace and calm, an idyllic corner where tourists from all over the world enjoy a few moments of pleasant relaxation. However, the quiet Santorini is, at the same time, one of the most suggestive and festive places in Greece. The square in the center of Fira and the beaches of Kamari, Perivolos and Perissa are the most lively and fashionable places.
The volcanic beaches of Santorini are not the best known in Greece, but they stand out for their diversity, their unique charm and the unique colors of the sand and stones. Santorini offers a spectacular view of the city, eclectic cuisine, enchanting art galleries, a very fun nightlife and excellent wines.

Nauplion

Gracious Greek city of the Peloponnese, Nauplia is a historic and tourist resort.
This small port has had numerous influences, in particular for the Italian ones. Rich in charisma, in fact, it hides a fascinating past, in particular, it was the first capital of the country after the end of Turkish domination in 1822. Athens then took over. Subsequently occupied by the Byzantines, Franks, Venetians, and Turks, the village preserves a cosmopolitan and multicultural dimension.
The climate of the region is frugal and allows you to experience mild temperatures throughout the year. Sunny days make it a destination accessible in every season.
The Venetian occupation has left numerous traces, such as the citadel of Palamidi which majestically dominates the city. Surrounded by long stone walls and houses with small courtyards, the notable chapel designed by the French architect Lasalle emerges in this place. The influence of this occupation is also found in the cobbled and flowered streets, where beautiful Venetian houses nest. Syntagma Square is especially remembered for its archaeological museum built in the early 18th century.
Nauplia also has several places of worship to visit. Discover the cathedral of Agios Georgios dating back to the 16th century, or its Catholic church of Frangoklissia which was originally a mosque.
Thanks to its privileged location, Nauplia is a good starting point for visiting the villages and archaeological sites such as Epidaurus, Tiryns, Mycenae, or Corinth. Discover the temples and ruins of ancient cities and appointments in archaeological museums that are often present next to these sites.

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.

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.

Tunis

Arab hospitality awaits you in exotic Tunis, on the coast of North Africa; a unique city, rich in historical-archaeological finds recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site.

Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, actually consists of three cities: the modern capital of the Tunisian Republic, with its wide streets, skyscrapers, and bustling cafes; the Arab Medina (Old City), dating back to the Middle Ages, an exciting labyrinth full of secrets, narrow streets, small shops, large mosques, and palaces, and finally Carthage, the ancient Phoenician-Roman center located 18 km from the city. Visit the Baths of Antonius and the Bardo Museum, which is not only the most important museum in Tunisia but also one of the oldest in the Arab world, where you can admire ancient artifacts, statues, and the richest collection of Roman mosaics in the world. A day at the fishing village of Sidi Bou Said includes the opportunity to look around a typical house converted into a museum. A holiday in Tunis is not complete without trying the Medina - the typical market. Bargain well and you will be sure to take home a nice souvenir of your vacation here.

Palermo

Cruises from Palermo all year round, set sail from the Sicialian capital to discover the Mediterranean Sea at the best price with Taoticket's offers. Cruises that embark from Palermo will surprise you!

Palermo is a thousand-year-old city with an important artistic and architectural heritage. Once Palermo was a prestigious center in the Mediterranean and still today it shows the charm and grandeur of its past grandeur combined with the natural beauty that surrounds it.

Sicily's capital offers excellent gastronomy to its visitors, beautiful landscapes, monuments and much more. If you are walking along its streets and you want to have a snack, you will discover that Palermo is renowned for its delicious street food: try the Martorana marzipan fruit or try a panelle sandwich, you will not be disappointed!

Theatre lovers should not miss a performance by the Pupi Siciliani, puppets that perform Carolingian-style pieces and that have been considered a Unesco Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity since 2008. The main characters are Charlemagne and all his paladins and adversaries.

Characteristic is the fixed market of Ballarò, where you will find fresh, seasonal foodstuffs and be immersed in the city's noisy and truest atmosphere. The inhabitants of Palermo frequent this market daily, either for shopping or for a lunch break with ready-made regional dishes. We recommend visiting the city especially in autumn or spring when the heat is not excessive and walking through the sunny streets is a real pleasure! Set sail on a cruise from Palermo on board the best ships for a fun and carefree cruise with our offers!

Set sail from Palermo, Sicily's captivating capital, a city rich in history, art, and vibrant street life. With its stunning Norman cathedrals, bustling markets, and unique blend of architectural styles, Palermo offers a truly immersive cultural experience before your cruise. Before stepping aboard, explore the Ballarò market, admire the Palermo Cathedral, and savor delicious Sicilian street food. Palermo provides a fascinating and lively starting point for your Mediterranean adventure.

Cruises departing from Palermo open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean. Whether you dream of discovering the ancient ruins of Greece, the sun-drenched coasts of mainland Italy, the charming ports of the French Riviera, or the exotic allure of North Africa, Palermo serves as an ideal launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the vibrant Sicilian capital to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days filled with relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments. Each voyage from Palermo promises breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion, leaving you with cherished memories.

Naples

Set sail from Naples for a holiday in Mediterranean with a cruise from Naples. The port of Naples offers cruises that depart from April to November at extremely convenient prices. Discover all the itineraries and companies sailing from Naples.
A jewel set between a dormant volcano and the steaming Campi Flegrei, Naples is an eclectic metropolitan city, always active and full of contradictions. The romantic Naples, distant two hours in the south of Rome, is one of the largest and most beautiful art cities in the Mediterranean. In addition to its beautiful scenery, the city owes its well-deserved fame to the beautiful historic centre, which was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1995.
Naples is rich in monuments and squares, for example the large and famous Piazza del Plebiscito. Do not miss the residential district of Posillipo or the characteristic small streets of the historic center. Naples is an ideal starting point for many excursions to discover Amalfi coast: visit Sorrento, Capri and Ischia, and you will be faschinated by the beauty of these lands! If you are history and archaeology lover you should visit Pompeii and Herculaneum, two great archaeological sites of worldwide importance preserved thanks to the ancient and devastating eruption of Vesuvius, the volcano on whose slopes the city of Campania was founded.

Not to be missed is a visit to the Reggia di Caserta, just a few kilometres away from Naples, where you will find yourself immersed in a magical atmosphere full of luxury, opulence and wealth. Handicrafts typical of the city are nativity scenes, which are very important all year round. The main street full of specialised workshops is Via San Gregorio Armeno, which can be reached by walking along the famous Spaccanapoli to an open space full of characteristic nativity scenes.

Before embarking on a cruise from Naples, soak up the city atmosphere without missing the Porta Nolana Market, where you will find fresh fish, seasonal fruit and vegetables, as well as all kinds of clothing, bags and furnishings. For art lovers there is the Capodimonte Museum and the unmissable Cloister of Santa Chiara, while for the more daring we recommend a visit to the Catacombs of San Gennaro and Underground Naples, a parallel city carved out of the tuff and full of mystery.

Set sail from Naples, Italy's vibrant and historic city, nestled against the stunning backdrop of Mount Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Naples offers a rich tapestry of art, history, and culinary delights. Before embarking, explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, savor authentic Neapolitan pizza, or wander through the charming Spaccanapoli district. Naples provides a captivating and culturally immersive starting point for your Mediterranean cruise.

Cruises departing from Naples open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean. Whether you dream of discovering the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast, the picturesque Greek Islands, the historical richness of Sicily, or the charming ports of the French Riviera, Naples serves as an ideal launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the lively streets of Southern Italy to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days filled with relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments. Each voyage from Naples promises breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion, leaving you with cherished memories.

Barcelona

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is a jewel enclosed between sea and mountains, an en plein air museum to be discovered. Catalonia is an autonomous region whose indipendence has long been a subject of debate and is still a topic that divides opinion in the country. The region has its own language, culture and history, most visible in its Roman ruins, Gothic cathedral and modernist buildings. The city of Barcelona is the emblem of this unique culture. Barcelona is the most cosmopolitan city in Spain and one of the most busiest port in the Mediterranean. In summer, the beautiful beaches of this city are a magnet for beach lovers. Beautiful beaches are not the only the reason why Barcelon is one of the most loved destionations for tourists. 

The city is a symbol of the the artistic, culinary and cultural avant-garde: visit the Sagrada Familia and the other visionary architectural works of Antoni Gaudi, La Pedrera, Casa Batlllò or Park Guell. For sports lovers, a visit to Camp Nou is not to be missed, while for art lovers here is the Picasso Museum, the Caixa Forum, the MNAC or the Miró Museum. If you want to taste the local cuisine, restaurants and bars are the right choice. They are always crowded as the sea in summer. An holiday aboard a cruise offers the opportunity to visit this beautiful city and immerse yourself in this unique atmosphere.

Marseille

The oldest and largest French city after Paris, Marseille is infused with a sensitive and irrepressible energy.
Prepare yourself for a seduction of heart and soul that you will not be able to resist. Free of mass tourism but always lively, this is a port city with the right balance of tradition and modernity, nature and culture. Its unique location, exuberant mood and multicultural diversity make it one of the most delightful cities in France.

Marseille is the largest city in southern France and the country's first port. For this reason throughout the year cruise companies such as MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises offer various itineraries that depart from Marseille. The port is located 2.5 km from city center, so you can even admire the luxury of visiting the Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde Basilica, walking along the Canebière to admire restaurants and shops, admiring the If Caste on the homonimous islet, the Saint-Jean fortress and its breathtaking view on the
sea. In short, a cruise that sets sail from Marseille is the best choice that you can make and doing it online gives you a series of guarantees you can't give up: first of all the best price, secure payment, availability seven days a week and above all quality. On the website, after choosing your itinerary, departure date and cabin, you just need to click the bottom to receive the recapitulation of your trip and be able to directly book your cruise. If you want to departure with a group, booking online is undoubtedly
the best solution. The only worry for you and your group of friends or relatives will be to choose between the multiple offers that will be proposed to you.

Embark on a captivating cruise from Marseille, France's oldest city and its largest port, a vibrant melting pot of cultures and history. From the bustling Vieux Port to the stunning Notre-Dame de la Garde, Marseille offers a rich tapestry of experiences before you even set sail. Explore its winding streets, savor fresh seafood, and immerse yourself in the city's unique Provençal charm. Marseille provides a dynamic and historically significant starting point for your Mediterranean adventure.

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

Savona

The port of Savona has a considerable influx of passengers that embark and disembark from this city in Liguria for cruises in the Mediterranean cruises and beyond. Discover all the cruise itineraries that depart
from Savona on Taoticket. The small coastal city of just over 60,000 inhabitants, located on the western shore of the Ligurian Riviera and the capital of the homonymous province, Savona is nowadays one of the main toutist ports for cruises in the Mediterranean. In addition to excellent possibilities to reach nearby localitions, this small city is an interesting cultural, seaside and gastronomic destination.

Numerous cruise ships depart from Savona all year round, discover the Western Mediterranean with stops in France, Spain or set sail for the fascinating Canary Islands! The port of Savona can be easily reached and it offers services that will make your cruise more relaxing at all times. Savona is also a port of embarkation for cruise ships bound for Northern Europe: sail across the Mediterranean to the Strait of Gibraltar, and then skirt Portugal and Galicia to Northern European ports.
For those who want to visit the city we suggest not to miss the Priamar fortress that often hosts exhibitions by local and international artists. Savona is famous for a very characteristic effervescent drink: Chinotto. Stop by and sips this ice-cold drink, recently included in the Slow Food presidia, perhaps accompanying it with a delicious farinata bianca, prepared with traditional Savona wheat flour before leaving for your cruise holiday.

Set sail from Savona, a picturesque port city on the Italian Riviera, offering a delightful and convenient departure point for your Mediterranean cruise. With its charming Old Town, the impressive Priamar Fortress, and a lively waterfront, Savona provides a perfect blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty. Before stepping aboard, explore its narrow streets, savor fresh Ligurian cuisine, and immerse yourself in the relaxed Italian atmosphere. Savona promises a serene and authentic beginning to your unforgettable voyage.

Cruises departing from Savona 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, Savona serves as an ideal launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the charming Ligurian coast to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days filled with relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments. Each voyage from Savona promises breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion, leaving you with cherished memories.